Potato Chip Rock Mount Woodson
Hike to a unique, thin rock formation atop Mount Woodson for iconic photos and breathtaking panoramic views.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Magical views above clouds
Potato Chip Rock Mount Woodson
Best Time
Magical views above clouds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Hike to a unique, thin rock formation atop Mount Woodson for iconic photos and breathtaking panoramic views.
"The thrill of standing on Potato Chip Rock is unforgettable, even if it's a bit scary!"
💧 Bring Plenty of Water
The paved trail is steep with little shade; hydration is key!
👟 Sturdy Hiking Shoes
The incline is consistent, good footwear is essential for comfort and grip.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Iconic Potato Chip Rock
Summit of Mount Woodson
The famous thin, protruding rock formation perfect for gravity-defying photos.
Sunrise Above the Clouds
Mount Woodson Summit
Witness breathtaking views as the sun rises, often above a sea of clouds .
Panoramic Summit Views
Mount Woodson Summit
Enjoy sweeping vistas of the surrounding landscape, especially beautiful at sunset .
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything for That Iconic Shot
while evenings offer stunning sunsets. Weekends are busy, so weekdays or very early mornings are best for fewer crowds.Prepare for a Steep, Paved Climb
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
💧 Bring Plenty of Water
The paved trail is steep with little shade; hydration is key!
👟 Sturdy Hiking Shoes
The incline is consistent, good footwear is essential for comfort and grip.
📸 Beat the Photo Line
Arrive very early, especially on weekends, for a chance at the Potato Chip Rock photo spot.
🔦 Don't Forget a Flashlight
If hiking near dusk, a flashlight is helpful for the descent.
Tips
from all over the internet
💧 Bring Plenty of Water
The paved trail is steep with little shade; hydration is key!
👟 Sturdy Hiking Shoes
The incline is consistent, good footwear is essential for comfort and grip.
📸 Beat the Photo Line
Arrive very early, especially on weekends, for a chance at the Potato Chip Rock photo spot.
🔦 Don't Forget a Flashlight
If hiking near dusk, a flashlight is helpful for the descent.
🐶 Dog-Friendly Trail
Leashed dogs are welcome on this hike.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the iconic Potato Chip Rock and the rewarding summit views, especially during sunrise and sunset. The paved, steep trail offers a challenging workout, and many find the experience thrilling despite the heights. Some note the potential for long lines for photos and the need for ample water due to limited shade.
"Took us 1 hour to get from the road at the trail head to the rock, which includes lots of breaks for photos and climbing on rocks. 45 min if you go direct (if you are a half decent hiker, I wouldn’t recommend for beginners). Shade is decent if you don’t go in the middle of the day (go either before 10:30a or after 2:30p.) It’s paved the whole way but it is a consistently steep incline."
JC Aranda
"This is easily my favorite hike. I would do it every day if I didn't have to drive for 45Minutes to get there... The potato chip pic was scary. The trail is nicely paved most of the way.If you are afraid of heights you might fall off. My whole body was shaking just looking down but I went up again 🤣..The thrill.Will do again and again!"
SabRina BaMba
"Went during the sunset! It wasn’t busy and the view was gorgeous! Started at Hwy 67. As a high BMI woman, the steepness had me winded! 😅My nephew didn’t sweat at all 🫣 still would recommend for all, just take your time.
Took me 1:20hr to arrive to the rock. If I moved faster and didn’t take tonsss of pics, along the way, could’ve been significantly faster.
Paved most of the way. Bring a flashlight just in case. It got dark while we were walking down. And I only had an iPhone light 😬"
Shanique L
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The most popular trailhead is at Lake Poway in Poway, California. Parking is available there and the trail is about 7.8 miles out-and-back with significant elevation gain. Another option is the shorter, paved trail starting from Highway 67, which is about 4 miles roundtrip.
Yes, parking is available at Lake Poway, but it can have a fee for non-residents. It's recommended to double-check the opening hours before you go, as the entrance typically opens around 6 a.m..
Yes, the trail from Highway 67 is a shorter, fully paved option, approximately 4 miles roundtrip. It's a good alternative if you're looking for a less strenuous hike or want to catch the sunrise.
Potato Chip Rock is located about 50 minutes northeast of downtown San Diego in Poway, California.
The trail from Lake Poway is paved for most of the way, but it is a consistently steep incline. The trail from Highway 67 is also fully paved.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, there are no tickets required to hike to Potato Chip Rock. However, parking at Lake Poway may have a fee for non-residents.
The trails are generally accessible during daylight hours. The parking entrance at Lake Poway typically opens at 6 a.m., but it's always best to verify current hours before your visit.
The hike itself is free. However, parking at Lake Poway may incur a fee, especially for non-residents.
There are no bathrooms directly on the hiking trail itself. Restrooms are available at Lake Poway before you begin your hike.
Yes, the trail is dog-friendly, so you can bring your leashed canine companions along for the adventure.
🎫 ⛰️ Onsite Experience
The hike from Lake Poway is approximately 7.8 miles roundtrip and can take around 4 to 4.5 hours, depending on your pace and how many breaks you take for photos.
It's considered a challenging hike due to the consistent steep incline and elevation gain. While paved, it requires good stamina and strong knees.
Yes, the trail is generally safe and quite populated, especially on weekends. Many people hike alone or in small groups.
For the best photos and fewer crowds, aim for sunrise or sunset.
The iconic formation is a thin slab of granite that broke off from a larger outcrop, resembling a potato chip. It's a popular spot for unique photographs.
📸 📸 Photography Tips
The main attraction is the Potato Chip Rock itself, offering a unique perch for photos.
Be prepared for a potential wait, especially on busy days. The rock is thin, so some find it a bit scary to stand on, but the thrill is part of the experience for many.
Absolutely! Many visitors report seeing incredible sunrises above the clouds, making the early wake-up call worthwhile.
A smartphone camera is sufficient for most visitors, but a wide-angle lens can help capture the scale of the rock and the surrounding landscape. Consider a tripod for low-light sunrise/sunset shots.
Yes, the entire trail offers scenic beauty. The summit provides expansive views, and the paved path itself can make for interesting shots with the dramatic incline.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Bring plenty of water and snacks, and consider starting early to avoid the midday heat and crowds. The trail is dog-friendly, so if you have a well-behaved dog, they can join the family outing.
💰 Budget Travelers
To save money, pack your own water and snacks instead of buying them. Carpooling with friends or using ride-sharing services can also help manage transportation costs. The experience of a challenging hike and iconic views offers significant value for the minimal expense.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
+1 The summit provides sweeping vistas that are particularly stunning during the golden hours.Consider bringing a wide-angle lens to capture the scale of the rock and the expansive landscapes. A tripod can be beneficial for low-light conditions during sunrise or sunset. Be prepared for crowds if you're aiming for the perfect shot on the rock itself, and explore different angles to make your photos stand out.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Hike: Lake Poway vs. Highway 67
While paved, the lack of shade means it can get hot, so water is crucial.An alternative is the trail starting from Highway 67. This route is significantly shorter, around 4 miles roundtrip, and is also fully paved.
Capturing the Perfect Potato Chip Rock Photo
Many visitors aim to capture the illusion of standing on the 'chip' or leaping from it. However, be prepared for potential queues to get your turn on the rock, especially during peak times like weekends and popular sunrise/sunset hours.Some visitors find the height intimidating, describing the experience as 'scary' but thrilling.
Beyond the Rock: The Mount Woodson Experience
+1For those who enjoy nature, the trail is also known for its scenic beauty and the opportunity to see local flora and fauna. Some even find unique bouldering spots along the main trail.
The area around Lake Poway, where one of the main trailheads begins, is also a pleasant spot for picnics and relaxation.
Social
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