First Peak Completed - Iron Mountain
Iron Mountain
Elevation: 2,696′
Miles: 5.8
Trailhead
Agency: City of Poway
Dates Hiked: 06/24/2009, 03/26/2011, 10/01/2015, 10/21/2017
Peakbagger.com page
For those interested, here is a list of my gear that I have found works well for me. This is, of course, an affiliate link and your enjoyment of these may vary:
Oaks lining the Iron Mountain Trail
June 24, 2009
I got off to a late start, as will happen from time to time. The Iron Mountain trail is great and easy to follow, but the heavy use has caused some side trails and switchback cutting. I ran into families, dogs, and horses.
Pretty busy in the middle of a weekday. Weekends are busier. Don't forget to bring some water, since it can get pretty hot, especially in the summer. I tend to take Scripps Poway Parkway to the 67, so I can easily park on the east side of the road, near where you can see the line of trees.
Update March 2010: I have heard that there is a new parking lot. I will need to swing by and check it out.
Update March 26, 2011: Ran this mountain as part of the King of the Hill Race Series. I did better than I had expected, even ending with a smile after the final burpee pushups. I am searching for pics that I took this morning.
Basically park in the parking lot and follow the trail through the trees, past the turnoff to the north, and continue until you see the switchbacks, making a right at the junction at the saddle. You can't really miss it. There is a picnic bench and a mailbox summit register and a commanding view of the area.
Update 06/17/2011: Added trail map.
Iron Mountain Map Trail Master
