Cowles Mountain

We'll climb to the summit of Cowles Mountain from a secondary trailhead on Barker Way. (To borrow a saying from Yogi Berra, the main trailhead has become so crowded that nobody uses it anymore.)

The distance up is only about 1.5 miles, but there is about 825 feet of elevation gain. The ascent should take a little more than one hour. (I walk slowly uphill.) We will return via the service road, which is about 1.6 miles long.

The summit of Cowles Mountain is the highest point in the City of San Diego, and the views are well worth the climb. We'll stop for a while to enjoy the views.

Leashed dogs are allowed, but only the hardiest pooches should attempt this climb. Take water for your dog.

We've climbed this mountain a number of times before, from several trailheads. For more information about this hike, check the description and pictures for our most recent ascent on February 4, 2025 at www.meetup.com/sandiegodayhikers/events/305930385.

Meet at 9:30 AM at the entrance to the service road on Barker Way near Boulder Lake Ave. (N 32 48.602 W 117 1.258). Park on Barker Way, Boulder Lake Ave., or a nearby side street. There is a portable toilet on the service road near the entrance. We will step off at 9:45 AM.

The weather forecast is partly cloudy with a high of 73. Sounds good. I hope it is correct!

Wear good hiking shoes and layered clothing, take water and use some kind of sun protection. Hiking poles are recommended; the service road has some very steep sections. Take a camera if you wish. No lunch stop is planned, but you might want to take a snack to eat at the summit.

CONTACT: Philip Erdelsky, cell 619-866-8512 email *pje@efgh.com*.

P.S. "Cowles" is pronounced like "coals", not like "cowls".