Mt Woodson (East Approach)

Mt Woodson East Approach.

The trail head for this hike is located along Highway 67. There are usually a few cars parked along the side of the road near the Mt Woodson dr. If you pass Archie Moore Road you have gone too far.

This is the trailhead though there is another access path to the trail near a call box on Hwy 67.

A couple of things to note about this trail. There are no bathrooms at the trail head so make sure you have gone before you start. This is a somewhat strenuous climb on this approach but well worth the views. Besure to bring plenty of water and the trail is dog friendly but kindly remember to clean up after your dog.



 This is from the main trail just after where the call box trail joins the main trail. The trail is well travelled, well maintained, and attracts lots of hikers.



The dirt trail leads to an old fire road which is the main path for your ascent. The ascent is somewhat steep as there are fewer switchbacks for vehicles but managable and proves expansive panoramic view of the area.

As you ascend the boulders get larger but of course that is apart of the charm of this trail











The fire road winds its way up providing expansive views.











Panoramic View from Mt Woodson trail east side





As you reach the top you will see lots of cell and radio antennas. Optionally if the ascent has you worn you can always take the fire road back down.

The road splits to go to each set of towers. Keep to the trail on the righ and as you begin your descent on the back side you will come to Potato Chip Rock. Its a very popular place on Mt Woodson.

As you descend you will see even more panoramic view. The fire road ends with the descent and a more winding trail with lots of switchbacks awaits you. The descent also offers plenty of panoramic views of the western side of the mountain.

On your descent you will see a branch of the Old Fry Kogel trail which you can optionally take to the Fry Koegel Tral or you can continue to the new Fry Kogel trail. The trail also continues to Lake Poway. Each of these is well marked and well maintained.

One of my favorite sections of the trail were some of the very forested sections of the Fry Koegel trail as yo head back east. Looking forward to hiking this area again in the fall.

The trail runs along a small residential area and wraps around the Mt Woodson golf course ending on Archie Moore Rd not too far from where you parked. Hwy 67 is pretty wide here on the shoulder giving yo plenty of space to walk. Overall this wa about 5.5 miles in length and has a 1500' elevation gain/loss. A good work out.