Near Cuyamaca Peak
The view north from Cuyamaca Peak was cloudy and beautiful on a day in January 2017.
Near Cuyamaca Peak
The view west from Cuyamaca Peak is simply stunning.
Near Cuyamaca Peak
Lake Cuyamaca looks utterly gorgeous from the flank of Cuyamaca Peak.
Near Cuyamaca Peak
View from Cuyamaca Peak
Near Cuyamaca Peak
Heading up the road.

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Driving Directions
Hike Route

Cuyamaca Peak

4.6 (14 Ratings)
This hike has the absolute best views of San Diego County, Mexico, and the Channel Islands!
5.6
mi
Distance
1,653
ft
Gain
moderate
Difficulty
BirdingViewsWildlife
Access Issues
The only trail that allows dogs on leash in the State Park.

Route Details

Flatter
Steeper
5.59mi
Distance
1,653ft
Elevation Gain
1,653ft
Elevation Loss
40%
Max Grade
6,491ft
High Point
4,875ft
Low Point
Path Type
There and Back
Description
The trail to the peak is not the greatest as the majority of it is deteriorating paved fire road on Lookout Fire Road, but the view from the peak is by far the best in all of San Diego County. On a clear day, you'll have views of most of San Diego County, including downtown, Mexico, and even the Channel islands. Also, bring water as this out-and-back hike is almost entirely exposed and hot.For a shorter but equally steep option, head across the road for the sister hike up Stonewall Peak Trail.

Route Conditions

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Nearby Hike Routes

Stonewall Peak Loop

Hike Route

Stonewall Peak Loop

Birding
moderate
5.15 mi
+1,092 ft
Stonewall Peak

Hike Route

Stonewall Peak

Lake
easy
1.92 mi
+901 ft
Minshall Trail to Stonewall Mine Loop

Hike Route

Minshall Trail to Stonewall Mine Loop

Lake
easy
3.31 mi
+192 ft
West Mesa Loop

Hike Route

West Mesa Loop

Views
moderate
6.59 mi
+1,141 ft
Airplane Monument Loop

Hike Route

Airplane Monument Loop

Views
moderate
4.63 mi
+892 ft
Cuyamaca State Park Loop

Hike Route

Cuyamaca State Park Loop

Less Crowded
extreme
23.88 mi
+3,088 ft
Contributors
Matt Sadowski