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Iron Mountain Trailhead
4.8 ★★★★★ 1,712 Google reviews · Running trail in Poway, California · Open 24 hours
Runner's snapshot
- Surface
- Natural surface
- Distance
- 1 mi
- Shape
- Not reported
- Shade
- Tree cover
- Access
- Open 24 hours
Confirmed from Iron Mountain Trailhead's own listing, the park or land manager's website, and runner reviews. Blank cells mean we could not verify that fact — we would rather say "not reported" than invent one. There is no Easy / Moderate / Hard rating on this page on purpose: a one-word difficulty score tells you nothing about whether a trail suits your run. Surface, distance, shade and hours do.
Popular and dog-friendly trail leading to a summit featuring picnic tables and a telescope with scenic views.
What runners say about Iron Mountain Trailhead
“Is a beautiful one, be prepared for rocks, it takes around an hour to go up and another to get down, the view is amazing, try to avoid the sun cause it will hit you at mornings”
“If you bring a dog, use caution—there is very little shade, temperatures can climb quickly, and plenty of water is essential for both you and your pet.”
“The views along the way are really nice, and it’s dog-friendly if you want to bring your pup.”
The trail is 2.5 hours (moderate speed) out-and-back one with a perfect view at the peak. Walking through the gate and a tree-shadow rest area, the first half would be very gentle.
We have did this hike during Memorial Day weekend. We Started early in the morning around 7 and it was perfect weather for that day to do this hike. There was not much people on train on early morning and there were plenty of parking space available in parking lot.
Iron Mountain Trail offers spectacular views from the summit. There are ample parking spaces along Highway 67, and you can begin your trek at the trailhead marked by the Iron Mountain sign. Route & Distance The trail is approximately 2.9 miles from the entrance to the peak.
Such a nice hike! One of my favorites in San Diego. A lot of rocks closer to the top of the mountain but definitely worth it and you have such a nice view. Also nice to go to sunset but super dark if you go back too late
Trail conditions & character
“Is a beautiful one, be prepared for rocks, it takes around an hour to go up and another to get down, the view is amazing, try to avoid the sun cause it will hit you at mornings”
“If you want to truly climb a mountain, this is the trail.”
“There are ample parking spaces along Highway 67, and you can begin your trek at the trailhead marked by the Iron Mountain sign.”
“Trail Conditions & Features * Terrain: The trail is well-maintained but features several sections with rocky steps.”
“If you bring a dog, use caution—there is very little shade, temperatures can climb quickly, and plenty of water is essential for both you and your pet.”
“If you bring a dog, use caution—there is very little shade, temperatures can climb quickly, and plenty of water is essential for both you and your pet.”
“Expect roughly 1½ hours of steady uphill hiking to reach the summit, depending on your pace and fitness level.”
“There’s also a nice parking lot with a restroom, which is super convenient.”
Plan your run at Iron Mountain Trailhead
The practical stuff
- AccessOpen 24 hours — no gate to beat, so a 5am or a 10pm run both work
- SurfaceNatural surface — easiest on the joints and the most fun, but expect roots, rocks and mud after rain
- Distance1 mi as reported — check whether that is one way or a round trip before you commit
- ShadeRunners describe real tree cover here — it makes a summer afternoon workable
- At the trailheadparking, restrooms — reported by runners
- DogsWelcome, per reviewers. Leash rules vary by park — the trailhead sign is the authority.
Hours
| Monday | Open 24 hours |
| Tuesday | Open 24 hours |
| Wednesday | Open 24 hours |
| Thursday | Open 24 hours |
| Friday | Open 24 hours |
| Saturday | Open 24 hours |
| Sunday | Open 24 hours |
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