See all
650 photos

Cowles Mountain Summit

Hiking Trail and Mountain

Lake Murray, San Diego

Save

8.9^/10

ratings

Ranked #8 for trails in San Diego
"Awesome view of SD County and Mexico!"(2 Tips)
"Took the Barker Trail to the crossing and had it all to myself!"(2 Tips)

24 Tips and reviews

Filter:

scenic views
hiking
trails
fresh air
city
County
dog-friendly
tires
short
mountains
(5 more)

Sort:

Popular
Recent

La Broi WaltonDecember 27, 2012
3 miles round trip. Perfect to tire out the dogs and short enough to take most ages to a gorgeous view in mid-day.
Keysha TJanuary 5, 2014
If you want a challenge try the Barker trail in the back of Cowles Mountain. It's a steep hike, but it leads to the same summit area as the main trail.
Alisa LeFebruary 5, 2013
Make sure to go down the same way you came up. There are at least 2 entrances on opposite ends of the mountain.
Jokie TolentinoMay 3, 2019
Took the Barker Trail to the crossing and had it all to myself! Will take this route again.
JoeJuly 13, 2015
Nice view of the city as the sun sets. Or go early and watch the sun rise.
Roger MaAugust 7, 2014
Been here 10+ times
The hike was never done unless you tap the sign!
PetZoneTropicalFishApril 11, 2012
Awesome trail close to the city! Dogs are allowed as well! :)
Eric GroenbergDecember 5, 2011
Pick up a Camel Pak to stay hydrated with while hiking. It helps to keep your arms free and allows them to be used for good forward motion.
Nikki VongnavanhSeptember 16, 2016
Climbed this 4 times. And made it up there only twice out of four. Lmao. Other two times, I gave up and made it only halfway.
PetZoneTropicalFishApril 11, 2012
Bring plenty of water. Dogs are allowed as well! :)
Crystalina KettermanOctober 25, 2015
The view is amazing!
Alfred AvilaJanuary 16, 2017
Lovely view!
Chris AndersonJune 15, 2012
Very easy hike and dog friendly.
Cesar ZepedaMarch 26, 2012
Love the view, gonna build my house up there someday :D
Brian KorhummelAugust 15, 2013
First you must touch the marker at the top to be official. Then get the hell out of the way.
DJ RebirthSeptember 16, 2012
You have reached THE SUMMIT!!!! YOU ARE THE CHAMPION!!!!
Chris RosatoApril 20, 2014
Cool panoramic view of sd!
Leonard BerryApril 30, 2014
Good views of everything SD
PetZoneTropicalFishApril 11, 2012
Awesome view of SD County and Mexico!
Steffanie RushinAugust 25, 2012
Actually pronounced coals mountain
Marco BerroyaMay 19, 2012
Touch the sign at the top for good luck!
Michael MartinDecember 15, 2013
Great view
Kyle DApril 16, 2013
Fire road is still open!
Lorianne DavisNovember 17, 2011
Been here 10+ times
Don't forget your water.

650 Photos

Planning a trip to San Diego?

Foursquare can help you find the best places to go to.

Cowles Mountain Summit

Related Searches

Places inside Cowles Mountain Summit

You might also like

Places people like to go after Cowles Mountain Summit

Appears on 40 lists

Top places in the area

Is this your business? Claim it now.