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Potato Chip Rock
4.7 ★★★★★ 3,081 Google reviews · Running trail in Ramona, California · Dawn to dusk
Runner's snapshot
- Surface
- Paved
- Distance
- 3.6 mi
- Shape
- Not reported
- Shade
- Not reported
- Access
- Dawn to dusk
Confirmed from Potato Chip Rock'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.
Hikers flock to this unique, thin rock at the peak of the Mount Woodson for dramatic photographs.
What runners say about Potato Chip Rock
“The restrooms are Porta potties, fairly new and clean.”
“Here is a detailed breakdown of both routes based on my experiences in 2017: Route 1: Lake Poway (The Scenic Challenge) * Distance & Elevation: This is a 3.”
Hiking to Potato Chip Rock is a rewarding challenge with two distinct approaches. Here is a detailed breakdown of both routes based on my experiences in 2017: Route 1: Lake Poway (The Scenic Challenge) * Distance & Elevation: This is a 3.6-mile trek (one way) with a grueling, constant 2,000-foot elevation gain.
If you visit San Diego, definitely check out this hike! The view at the top of Mt Woodson alone is worth the effort, but potato chip rock is super unique + an awesome photo opportunity. We went up the back way (address is 16310 CA-67, Ramona, CA 92065).
Beautiful hike, and great place to watch the sunrise! I took the trail that begins off of highway 67, which is shorter (about 4mi total, going out and back) and pretty much fully paved. The actual Potato Chip rock is western facing, however the view climbing up the mountain and at the top is gorgeous during sunrise!
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.
Trail conditions & character
“Here is a detailed breakdown of both routes based on my experiences in 2017: Route 1: Lake Poway (The Scenic Challenge) * Distance & Elevation: This is a 3.”
“Here is a detailed breakdown of both routes based on my experiences in 2017: Route 1: Lake Poway (The Scenic Challenge) * Distance & Elevation: This is a 3.”
“It's an asphalt road paved, but only the first entry section is flat and it's all uphill, so I recommend you to take a break at least 4 to 5 times while getting enough water.”
“Since there is no official parking lot, you can park on the shoulder on the road and follow the signs to start the trail.”
“No bathrooms, dog friendly, and saw people of all ages so this should be suitable for pretty much anyone!”
“No bathrooms, dog friendly, and saw people of all ages so this should be suitable for pretty much anyone!”
Plan your run at Potato Chip Rock
The practical stuff
- AccessDawn to dusk — the gates close, so do not plan a run that finishes after dark
- SurfacePaved — asphalt or concrete. Fast and predictable, runnable year-round, and fine with a stroller
- Distance3.6 mi as reported — check whether that is one way or a round trip before you commit
- ShadeNot reported. Assume some of it is exposed and carry water in summer.
- At the trailheadparking, restrooms, water — reported by runners
- DogsWelcome, per reviewers. Leash rules vary by park — the trailhead sign is the authority.
- Websitepoway.org
- Phone(858) 668-4772
Hours
| Monday | 6 AM–5 PM |
| Tuesday | 6 AM–5 PM |
| Wednesday | 6 AM–5 PM |
| Thursday | 6 AM–5 PM |
| Friday | 6 AM–5 PM |
| Saturday | 6 AM–5 PM |
| Sunday | 6 AM–5 PM |
Running trails near Ramona
Other trails within easy driving distance — useful when this one is flooded, gated, or just not the run you had in mind today.
Ellie Lane Trailhead
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Iron Mountain Trailhead
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Popular and dog-friendly trail leading to a summit featuring picnic tables and a telescope with scenic views.
Lake Poway Park
4.7 ★★★★★ 421 reviews
Park offering boating, hiking and playgrounds, plus a store selling food, snacks and fishing supplies, and boat rentals.
Mount Woodson Trailhead
4.7 ★★★★★ 831 reviews
Challenging 6.4-mile roundtrip hike offers unusual rock formations & views of downtown & the ocean.