Reach New Heights at Cuyamaca Peak

Elevated hiking trail, breathtaking views, and the second highest peak in San Diego!

Free
122 Miles from you
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Description

Hike to elevated heights along the Cuyamaca trail here in San Diego. This 12.4 km loop trail is the penthouse of San Diego; being the second highest peak in the city! With a paved entrance to the mountains and gorgeous and sweeping San Diego views, it's literally no wonder this outdoor adventure is ranked at the top. Start at the south Azalea Glen Loop and admire the dense and beautiful forest hikes associated with that park. Admire the wildlife and nature around you. Follow the oak trees along the Conejos Trail until you reach the beautifully fire paved road that leads to the top of Cuyamaca Peak. The breathtaking views and serenity you experience at the top is what truly makes this hike one to remember!

Perfect for

For solo

For two

For groups

For parents and grownups

Outdoorsy

Challenging

TikTok videos

Itinerary

Arrive to trail early
Start hike on south Azalea Glen Loop
Connect with the forests and nature around you
Take loop Trail to Azalea Fire Road
Take pictures in the oak trees
Follow the Conejos Trail to the ridgeback of the Cuyamaca
Watch the oak trees transform into a granite and rock trail
The trail will merge with a paved road from the top of Cuyamaca Peak
Relish in the spectacular and breathtaking views!

Location

Cuyamaca Rancho State Park 12551 Hwy 79 Descanso, CA 91916

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Packing List

hiking shoes
water
layers of clothing
sunscreen
first aid kit
backpack
light snacks
camera for spectacular pictures
trekking poles

4.8 ● Google reviews

Great hike with a lot of great views. I took Lookout Road all the way to the top. It's a bit of an incline while going up, but it's worth it. Definitely recommend this place to everyone.

3/25/23 lots of snow at the halfway point up the maintenance road to the peak. Cold! Bring a shoe traction device. It's a good stepping stone hike in preparation for Mt Whitney.

Great views from the very top. I did it on a Sunday in July. It was overcast, about 84° but humid. The incline can get to you but overall it wasn't too bad. I'd recommend taking the longer route to the top since the short route is all paved and steep. Would definitely do it again.

Love this place. You can camp below too. They have cabin n spot for tent camping. This hike have a little incline but it a pave road to the peak so it kids n animals friendly. Cuyamaca Peak is best for sunset view. Stonewall Peak is good for sunrise view. It about 2.5 mile hike to the top. Camp ground have water for drinking n shower too.

Highest point in SD county at ~6500 ft. It is 2.8 miles up and ~1500 ft gain. Parking at the Paso Picacho Campground is $10. Hike through the campground to the south west towards campsite 69. There is a bathroom and water pump here too. Lookout trail is a paved service road to the peak. It is a little rough in a couple places but otherwise an easy walk up. Lower portions are a bit barren due to the Cedar fire in 2003. But you break through a into a wooded area about 2/3 of the way up which is really nice. Two large cell towers at peak are a little obtrusive ... but you still have an incredible 180 westerly views.

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