Great for:
Trail Running, Hiking
Difficulty Level: Moderate to difficult
Distance:
8.1 miles
Where:
The trail starts on Ellie Lane off Highway 67 in Poway. There’s a small lot on Highway 67 about 0.7 miles north of Poway Road. Follow the trail from the lot past a few houses to a split at 0.5 miles. Go left, and at 1.5 miles, you’ll come to another split at the Wild Horse Trail, where you should go left again. At 3.2 miles you’ll join the Iron Mountain Trail, which takes you up to Iron Mountain’s summit. Then follow the Iron Mountain Trail back down toward the lot at Poway Road, but turn off on the Wild Horse Trail at 7 miles to get back to where you parked on Ellie Lane.
Why We Love it:
Avoid the crowds on Iron Mountain Trail and add a challenge by extending your hiking distance. This long loop gets you to the top of the mountain, but also adds extra views along the way.
Where to Refuel Afterwards:
Head to Champagne French Bakery & Café (11925 Carmel Mountain Road) for panini, crêpes, pastries, and other breakfast and lunch fare, or get brunch and burgers at The Beach Grass Café (12845 Poway Road).
Iron Mountain Via Ellie Lane Trail
