Twin Peaks

DISTANCE: 2.5 MILES
ELEVATION: 1,270 FT
TIME: 1 HOUR
DIFFICULTY: MODERATE
N 32° 59.247 W 117° 02.620



Twin Peaks is a prominent hill located in the heart of Poway. At the top are two little bumps (the northernmost of which is the higher), and hence the name Twin Peaks. The best view to see the two peaks is from Community Road near the Wal-Mart in Poway. They are otherwise indistinguishable from other directions.

The climb begins at a trailhead near the Silverset Park parking lot off of Twin Peaks road. There is a network of broad unmarked fire roads in the area leading in several different directions, so I would recommend viewing the trail to the peak from Google Earth or Google Maps before gettings started so you can tell which path leads to the top. The network of roads may be part of the Del Poniente/Pomerado Trails.

Shoes with good traction are recommended as the roads are somewhat slippery from gravel and there are a few short steep climbs. Just before reaching a T intersection after about a mile of uphill climbing, there is a narrow single track trail that spurs off to the left and heads upward toward the peak. The hike is not too challenging up to this point but once you commence on the trail to the peak it becomes significantly steeper and rockier.

The boulders become larger as you near the peak. Upon reaching the top you will have a surprisingly rewarding view of Poway in all directions, and a good view to the West of other prominent San Diego peaks. I would recommend this hike to Poway residents- however, if you are not a resident of Poway you may find this hike ordinary and uneventful (unless you are geocaching - there are at least 4 along the way).