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Hike Stonewall Peak

Julian, California

4.7/5
based on 12 reviews

Details

Distance

3.82 miles

Elevation Gain

820 ft

Route Type

Out-and-Back

Description

Added by Grant

Take in a 360 degree view over the other peaks and meadow below, and a birds-eye view of Lake Cuyamaca. Only hikers are allowed on the trail.

This hike is one of the most popular in the Cuyamaca Rancho State Park. When you reach Stonewall Peak's summit, enjoy the view of the surrounding park and nearby Lake Cuyamaca. The hike up the east side is a popular and relatively easy trail. Although you'll be gaining 800 feet, the hike is relatively easy as you'll be heading up switchbacks until the last stretch to the summit. Just before the top, climb the stairs (there's a railing in place for stability) and take in the breathtaking view. When you get your fill, you can go back down the way you came, or head down the "back" side, completes the loop for an additional mile and half. If there's snow, it will last the longest on the "back" side, so enjoy it as you hike back to the trailhead.

Beware of the poodle-dog bush on the hike, it had been known to cause an allergic reaction.

If you want to make this a great night hike, you can set up camp at Paso Picacho for a convenient base camp.

Photos:Kevin

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Features

Camping
Photography
Hiking
Easy Parking
Scenic
Wildflowers

Hike Stonewall Peak Reviews

Fun hike, it’s beat to go early to avoid any traffic

I was surprised at this loop! The views from the top are amazing and the hike itself isn't very challenging because the whole thing is switchbacks (zig zag up the mountain)! The peak might not be for those who are afraid of heights.. it's very safe and would be hard to slip unless you were trying or if you weren't making the best decisions and jumping on rocks. But all in all it's worth it! You can also take a back trail (which we did) so you don't go down the same way you came up. Probably added only an extra hour to our trip.

The 360 view at the top is amazing. The hike is relatively easy because of the switchbacks, except for the last part before the staircase where you have to scramble up some boulders. Parking at Paso Picacho is $10

We love this hike. It's totally worth a trip out to Julian. The rocks and trees and plants are ever changing. It feels like a few different hikes all wrapped in one. Grab a beer at nickel brewery after. Their spicy IPA is the best.

Easy hike. Stunning when there is snow on the trails

This trek is perhaps one of the best things for a beginner just looking to go outside, or for a family with young kids. The hike itself is not very strenuous but the reward... 360 degree views of beautiful Southern California. Protips: bring sunscreen during the summer, also 8 dollars for parking just across the trail head. And stay on the marked trail, life is just better that way. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=b7cilGEAzf0

Leave No Trace

Always practice Leave No Trace ethics on your adventures and follow local regulations. Please explore responsibly!

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