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This hike has the absolute best views of San Diego County, Mexico, and the Channel Islands!


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Map Key

5.4

Miles

8.7

KM

Out and Back

6,441' 1,963 m

High

4,882' 1,488 m

Low

1,559' 475 m

Up

1,559' 475 m

Down

11%

Avg Grade (6°)

21%

Max Grade (12°)

Dogs Leashed

Features Birding · Views · Wildlife

The only trail that allows dogs on leash in the State Park.

Overview

Starting from the Paso Picacho campground, earn one of the best views in the area after climbing up this fire road for over 1,500' in under three miles.

Description

The trail to the peak is not the greatest as the majority of it is deteriorating paved fire road on Lookout Fire Road, but the view from the peak is by far the best in all of San Diego County.

On a clear day, you'll have views of most of San Diego County, including downtown, Mexico, and even the Channel islands. Also, bring water as this out-and-back hike is almost entirely exposed and hot.

For a shorter but equally steep option, head across the road for the sister hike up Stonewall Peak Trail.

Contacts

Shared By:

Matt Sadowski

Trail Ratings

  4.6 from 14 votes

#890

Overall
  4.6 from 14 votes
5 Star
57%
4 Star
43%
3 Star
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1 Star
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Recommended Route Rankings

#145

in California

#890

Overall
37 Views Last Month
7,292 Since Sep 28, 2016
Intermediate/Difficult Intermediate/Difficult

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Photos

The view north from Cuyamaca Peak was cloudy and beautiful on a day in January 2017.
Jan 15, 2017 near Descanso, CA
Lake Cuyamaca looks utterly gorgeous from the flank of Cuyamaca Peak.
Jan 15, 2017 near Descanso, CA
Heading up the road.
Oct 27, 2016 near Descanso, CA
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