Elevation: 2,696′
Miles: 5.8
Trail head
Agency: City of Poway

I got off to a late start, as will happen from time to time. The trail is great and easy to follow, but the heavy use has caused some side trails and switchback cutting. I ran into families, dogs, and horses.

Pretty busy in the middle of a a weekday. Weekends are busier. Don’t forget to bring some water, since it can get pretty hot, especially in the summer. I tend to take Scripps Poway Parkway to the 67, so I can easily park on the east side of the road, near where you can see the line of trees.

The oaks lining the trail head

Update March 2010: I have heard that there is a new parking lot. I will need to swing by and check it out.

Update March 26, 2011: Ran this mountain as part of the King of the Hill Race Series. I did better than I had expected, even ending with a smile after the final burpee pushups. I am searching for pics that I took this morning.

Basically park in the parking lot and follow the trail through the trees, past the turnoff to the north, and continue until you see the switchbacks, making a right at the junction at the saddle. You can’t really miss it. There is a picnic bench and a mailbox summit register and a commanding view of the area.

Update 06/17/2011: Added trail map.

Iron Mountain Trail Map (Click to Enlarge)