I hiked this to the top 4miles. 8 miles total. Its challenging but overall, a gratifying experience, The view is just wonderful. I dare you! You won't regret. Make sure to bring plenty of water and a snack to re energize you. To all those litter bugs, Shame on you😤 this is not a dump site.

We started from children's park where we parked our car. It's about a 5 minute walk from there. This hike has a climb with switchbacks similar to The Cowles Mountain with a greener nature and better view in my opinion. It even has a small water stream with a tiny bridge. As you approach the peak it splits where you can take an easier path back to the park.

One of the many good things about San Diego are the hikes. I highly recommend this one to hike up Cowles Mountain and all the way to Pyles Peak as well. It's fun but also a difficult hike for some.

Easy parking because there aren't very many people doing this more difficult trail. Everyone goes the the boring lame switchback side of Cowles. Great trail with a few options of direction along the way. My quads are still sore a couple days later. Picture is from the top looking back down at where my car is parked.

We actually spent our time at the playground area with our four year old grand daughter. She really loves this place. She loves the wood chips and the spongy material at the play areas... Great for kids under 8... There's basketball and tennis courts as well, with a library across the street. Great place to take younger children... 👍👍

Good 360 view of SanDiego county.There are a lot of people on this trail during the weekend. No solitude until you get past Cowles mountain and head towards Pyle Peak.

Loving these cool crisp mornings. The trail is fabulous 🤩 Come hike the mountain....Get your cardio going. See you there!😉 Weekends, park in the school lot, Mesa Road might be full. Plus the bathroom is in Big Rock Park.

If you can get a place to park...it's a wonderful trailhead & a wonderful mountain to climb. What a view!