Cowles Mountain Trail is a 3 mile heavily trafficked out and back trail located near San Diego, California that features beautiful wild flowers and is rated as moderate. The trail offers a number of activity options and is accessible year-round. Dogs are also able to use this trail but must be kept on leash.
dogs on leash
kid friendly
birding
hiking
mountain biking
nature trips
trail running
walking
forest
views
wild flowers
no shade
This could get VERY busy so plan to go early. Esp if it's a summer month you'll want to beat the heat. This is super dog friendly but a few dogs have died on this hike do to heat exhaustion- everyone please be aware of the ability of your dog. If it is a bulldog breed, IT IS NOT A HIKING DOG. Hiking this mountain gives you a view of the highest point in San Diego, highly recommended!!! If it's not super crowded you can get this done very quickly and it's totally worth it. Grab an acai bowl across the street when you're done!
Fantastic view from the top of the highest point in SanDiego. Many hummingbirds to be seen. Can be heavily traveled depending on time of day. Watch your footing some areas have loose dirt. Heed the hot weather alert warnings. Trail is used by runners as well. Good family hike and has modern bathroom facilities at trailhead. Bear in mind this is an unshaded trail so a hat or head gear might be in order.