Pets allowed
Not Allowed
Elevation Gain
900.00 ft (274.32 m)
Trail type
There-and-back
Distance
4.00 mi (6.44 km)
Please respect the outdoors by practicing Leave No Trace. Learn more about how to apply the principles of Leave No Trace on your next outdoor adventure here.

Stonewall Peak is one of the most popular hikes in San Diego County, and for good reason. The summit delivers stunning 360-degree views of Cuyamaca Rancho State Park and the surrounding countryside.

Parking is available at the day use section of Paso Picacho Picnic Area and Campground, and the trailhead is located directly across the street. The trail immediately begins to ascend and continues to follow a series of switchbacks for the entirety of the trek. Interspersed amid the chaparral are groves of oak trees which provide intermittent shade. The trail passes by several areas affected by the 2003 Cedar Fire, the largest wildfire in California’s recorded history. It scorched 90% of Cuyamaca Rancho. The last section of the hike ascends a steep staircase carved into the white granite of the mountain. At the peak, hikers are rewarded with impressive views of the Cuyamaca Mountains, Lake Cuyamaca, and the grasslands below.

Logistics + Planning

Preferable season(s)

Winter
Spring
Summer
Fall

Congestion

High

Parking Pass

General Day Use Fee

Open Year-round

Yes

Pros

Panoramic Views. Wildlife. Wildflowers.

Cons

None.

Trailhead Elevation

4,850.00 ft (1,478.28 m)

Highest point

5,750.00 ft (1,752.60 m)

Features

Wildlife
Big vistas
Wildflowers
Bird watching
Near lake or river
Family friendly

Typically multi-day

No

Permit required

No

Location

Nearby Lodging + Camping

Comments

Have updates, photos, alerts, or just want to leave a comment?
Sign In and share them.