Iron Mountain

DISTANCE: 5.9 miles

ELEVATION: 2,696 FT

DIFFICULTY: MODERATE

TIME: 3 HOURS

32° 58' N; 116° 57' W

Iron Mountain is one of the most frequented hikes in North County. Located near the border of Ramona and Poway off Highway 67, it is the southernmost peak in the range of mountains dominated by Mount Woodson. Iron Mountain has a great peak that offers a good viewing point to the south to Mexico, west to the Pacific, and East to Cuyamaca Peak.

Parking for this hike on a Saturday morning can be a problem. Turn right where Poway Road T's with the 67, and you will see a long line of cars parked along the road. Not only is it a favorite among local hikers because of the view, but the trail is well worn, gradual in elevation gain with several switchbacks, and the distance is just about right for a good day hike. The wildflowers can also be beautiful in the spring. This hike tends to be preferred over the shorter hike up Mt. Woodson just to the north presumably because it is not as strenuous.

The trailhead starts right on the 67, and leads straight east for about a half mile before gaining any real elevation. At one point during that first half mile there is a fork to the left where the remains of an old mine can be found (to this day I still haven't done it so don't take my word for it; I've just seen it on several maps).

After about 1.5 miles, you come to what I consider the halfway point to the peak. You still haven't really begun to scale the mountain, which is just south of this T intersection. The sign gives you the option of going left .9 miles to the Ramona Overlook (I've done this a few times and believe it to be more than .9 miles) or right another 1.5 miles to the top of Iron Mountain.

The path to the top of Iron Mountain swings you around to the east side of the mountain where you began the ascent via several gradual switchbacks. There is no shade from this point on, so be prepared on a hot day. Soon you'll reach the summit, and chances are you won't be alone. There is a mailbox with a log book, and also a picnic table (I'm curious as to how that got up there). If it's a dry winter day, you'll get a good view of the ocean.

This mountain can also be climbed via a longer 9-mile route that starts at Ellie Lane north of Poway Rd. along the 67. I'll save that for another post . . .