Cowles Mountain Trailhead

There is a parking lot that fills up quickly, and there are two vending machines filled with waters, vitamin waters, and Gator Aide that you can purchase for 4.95.
Semi strenuous, uphill battle against switchbacks to the jagged summit.
Trails are well marked, wide, and filled with scenic views.
Weekday crowds, ziltch.

I totally enjoyed the hiking experience. I started at Goldcrest Dr ( popular point ) and reached the summit in 1.5 hours. On the way down took Barker way trail to go to the other side and eventually reached Big rock trail park. This was very challenging at few places ( up hill ) and I had decent hiking shoes so no slips. Since I am not from San Diego wanted to hike and cover as much as possible in one day.

I challenged myself to climb this hill. I did well hiking up the hills with the rest of the crowd. What made the climd exciting for me was the number of people climbing it with me. They were older folks and children, young and teenagers. The ambiance was perfect for me that day 😍

I used to be unable to hike halfway up this trail. Now, I can't stop hiking it. Thanks to this mountain, I can walk much farther than before, and I've lost a lot of weight. It is worth noting that this trail has many snakes and other awesome looking small animals, so be careful where you step.

Overview: The hike up cowles is an adventure that's not for the faint of heart. It's a challenging trek that rewards hikers with breathtaking views and opportunities for a bit of rock-climbing fun.

Demanding but Rewarding: Let's start with the physical aspect—the hike is no walk in the park. Covering 1.5 miles straight uphill, it demands both endurance and determination. But for those up to the challenge, the sense of accomplishment upon reaching the summit is unmatched.

Technical Thrills: What sets this hike apart is its technical nature. It's not your average trail; it requires a bit of skill and confidence, especially when navigating the rocky terrain. For those with some hiking experience, it adds an extra layer of excitement.

Spectacular Scenery: The effort put into the climb is handsomely rewarded with the most incredible views. From the summit, the vistas are nothing short of awe-inspiring. The surrounding landscapes stretch as far as the eye can see, making the strenuous ascent all the more worth it.

Conclusion: In conclusion, cowles hike is not your average stroll; it's a physically demanding and somewhat technical journey that promises exhilarating rewards. The stunning views and the chance to conquer its challenging terrain make it an adventure worth embarking on. Just be sure to bring your determination and a sense of adventure when you tackle this mountain.

Took the dog out for a walk. Thank you Rangers, for all of the rehab and improvements since last fall. Trail is in very good shape all the way up. It's a mile and a half up, and over 900 feet in elevation gained, so you're gonna work if you hike quick, but there are lots of places to rest if you need. Leashes are required for the doggo; bring a poo bag as sometimes they're out. Be nice and carry it out please.
The trail is usually busy after sunrise, so be patient. Plenty of street parking (the lot is often full); you might have to walk a little extra, but you're out for the exercise, so who cares? Heard snakes were out, but I didn't see any. Great views of lake Murray and downtown San Diego and Harbor on clear days. No shade, so sunscreen, hats, and ample water if it's not your first rodeo. See you out there!

Lovely and quick hike, just under 3 miles (5kms) round trip from trailhead to summit and back again. I went nice and slow this time around so it was only 1 hour 17 mins. Didn't take much time at the top.

There are several switchbacks leading up to the summit, technical terrain between jagged rock and sand so be sure to wear footwear with good grip. This is not a hard hike by any means, more moderate, but if you don't hike often bring water and good coverage. If it's not overcast you'll be in the sun the entire time.

Dogs are allowed on leash, but please be mindful and go when it's cooler. I see too many dogs with potential heat exhaustion while hiking and it breaks my heart. Use cooling vests, water bowls and check and make sure they aren't overheated.

Lots of hummingbirds in the bushes up to the summit and surrounding the summit as well.

Lots of runners on the mountain so always keep your eyes and ears peeled as well. But enjoy!

Excellent trail, well maintained, a little hilly but not too challenging. Nice breezes in summer keep you cool on the way up and down. View at top is breathtaking. Bathroom at bottom of trailhead.

It’s easy. Trail runners with weighted vests frequent this trail. There’s a couple steep rocky areas but overall this is a solid easy to intermediate level hike. About 1.5 miles to the peak, took me 26 minutes walking pace.

Difficult af - steep climbs and steep and rocky dirt path obscured by stone everywhere-watch your step. Literally.

Great trail with a rewarding view! If you’re bringing a dog make sure they’re trained not to pull- mine nearly pulled my down the hill!

I always enjoy hiking Cowles. It's good exercise for a weekday morning if you don't have a lot of time. Depending on your fitness level, it's only about 45 minutes up and even quicker down. It's really great having such a picturesque hike right in the city. 360 degree views from the summit.

I don't know the exact length of which I hiked up to. But I went as far as the rocks are stacked up as shown in my pictures. I was with a friend and she's the one that drove us there. So when she was ready to go, I had to follow suit

Great home for San Diego standards. The types of crowd you would expect this close to the city. The parking lot is small but there’s always street parking if you walk a little bit.

LOVE this trail, but I wish some dog owners wouldn't be so irresponsible. Tread carefully!

Good hike! Lots of steps and people. Bring water, can get very warm. Wear good shoes lots of rocks

Fun night hike. The bathrooms were gross.

This is an ideal early morning hiking spot. It’s got that good challenge as it’s a good elevation gain, but also one with a rewarding view at the top. Some tarantula spiders out there - most prolly snakes too but since there is heavy foot traffic, the latter is very infrequent.

Best short technical trail. hike, jog, run you will feel the workout. 🤙🏾

Moderate Trail. It was around 3 mile and took us little over one hour to complete it. It was heavily trafficked. The elevation was 1700+ ft, walking uphill was bit challenging. The trail is dog friendly. Nice maintained. You can complete the Pyles trail from Cowles too.