Cuyamaca Peak, Descanso CA

• 5-star hikes
• 5 to 7 mile options
• Moderate | Gain 1,630 to 1,820 feet
• Descanso, CA | San Diego Region
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The image is a stunning panoramic view from the summit of Cuyamaca Peak, which stands at 6,512 feet. It captures rugged terrain with large boulders and sparse vegetation. In the foreground, there's a wooden sign reading 'CUYAMACA PEAK 6,512 FT' alongside a metal box adorned with various stickers. A small orange generator with a solar panel on its top, a dead tree, rolling hills, and a vast sky with scattered clouds complete the scenery.

Artistry and a summit register on the mountain's peak.

Cuyamaca Peak's recognizable 6,512 foot high summit is the second highest point in San Diego County and offers a challenging but rewarding hiking experience. The peak is accessible via a couple of service roads, but the route up the mountain's northern flanks is the hiking journey that shines.

This journey starts on Azalea Glen Trail, which winds through open meadowland and mixed woodland areas showing signs of ecological recovery from the 2003 Cedar Fire. The recovering landscape features young pine trees and oak saplings gradually reclaiming the terrain. Wildlife is active along this section, with California quail frequently scattering from the trail as hikers approach. Woodpeckers can be observed and heard working on trees throughout this area.

Trail Options Expand KML · Google Earth ·

⬤ 5★ Loop Trail 7.4 mi loop, moderate, gain 1,820 ft
GPX File · AllTrails · Directions GPX?

⬤ 3★ Lookout Road 5.4 mi out & back, moderate, gain 1,630 ft
GPX File · AllTrails · Directions

$ State Park fee

As the trail gains elevation, hikers begin to access distant views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. The Cleveland National Forest stretches to the east, while the Laguna Mountains rise to the south. On particularly clear days, visibility may extend to the Pacific Ocean to the west.

The route continues onto Conejos Trail, which continues the climb on a narrow trail with loose rocks, traversing a shaded gully alongside a seasonal creek that may contain water after rainfall or snowmelt. The cooler microclimate in this section supports different vegetation than the more exposed areas of the hike.

The image showcases a serene hiking scene: a person wearing a red jacket and a black backpack is strolling along a dirt trail through a grassy field. The area is encircled by trees and bushes, under a bright, clear blue sky.

Meadowland on the Azalea Glen Trail.

Conejos Trail eventually connects with the paved Lookout Road, which leads to the summit. This wide fire road provides a straightforward and gradual climb to the peak. The summit area offers two distinct points of interest. The wide lower viewpoint provides panoramic vistas of the surrounding landscape, including views toward the Anza-Borrego Desert to the east, the coastal areas to the west, and on exceptionally clear days, parts of Mexico to the south. The true summit, marked by communications equipment, houses a summit register where hikers can document their achievement.

The return journey down Lookout Road is a pavement pounding experience and a moderate grade. Views are wide and consistent across the mountain's open fire-ravaged eastern flanks, with Stonewall Peak rising prominently out of the landscape, tempting hikers towards another adventure. An out-and-back route to Cuyamaca's summit utilizing only Lookout Road is also possible, but that option pales in comparison to our recommended looping route.

The image portrays a beautiful and diverse natural landscape. In the foreground, a striking dead tree with intricate bare branches contrasts against the vibrant greenery of other leafy trees and shrubs. The middle ground is a mix of lush vegetation and dry, golden grass, creating a patchwork of textures. Rolling hills and majestic mountains stretch into the background under a vast, clear blue sky.

Granite Mt views with a distant Salton Sea to the right.

Weather conditions can vary significantly between the campground and summit, with temperature differences of 10-15 degrees possible. The peak often experiences strong winds, even on otherwise calm days in the valley below. During winter months, snow and ice may be present on the upper sections of the trail, particularly on the north-facing slopes.

Paid parking is available at the Paso Picacho Campground, part of the Cuyamaca Rancho State Park. There's a credit-card ticket vending machine available for times when the entrance booth is unoccupied. This parking lot also serves the trailhead for Stonewall Peak, the adjacent peak with a hike that we highly recommend. Check out the link below in the 'Trailspotting Nearby' section for more details.

⚠ Heat Safety Tips: Shade is extremely limited on this trail. Please stay safe in hot weather by knowing the forecast and planning to avoid the hottest parts of the day. Recognize danger signs and turn back when necessary. Wear lightweight non-cotton clothing and head coverings. Use sunblock and UV lip balm. Bring more water than you think you need, coupled with salt & electrolyte tablets.

This image shows a person standing on a rocky mountain trail, gazing out over a sweeping landscape of hills and valleys. They are dressed in a black cap, black t-shirt, gray pants, and a black backpack. The terrain is rugged, and the backdrop stretches into distant mountain ranges under a mostly clear sky with a few scattered clouds.

Trailspotting author enjoys dramatic summit views.

The image depicts a person walking on a paved path, surrounded by lush greenery and trees on both sides. The path appears to wind through a hilly or mountainous landscape. In the background, there is a stunning view of a valley and distant mountain ranges. The individual is dressed in a black t-shirt, dark pants, and a black cap, and is carrying a backpack.

Heading back down the paved Lookout Road.

The image presents a picturesque mountainous landscape. A striking central peak dominates the scene, surrounded by green forested areas in the foreground. Beyond the foreground, rolling hills and distant mountain ranges stretch into the background under a vivid blue sky. It highlights the beauty and vastness of nature with its mix of rugged terrain and lush greenery.

Stonewall Peak to the east offers another memorable hike.

The image captures a landscape with a clear blue sky and a visible moon, adding a celestial touch to the scene. In the foreground, there's a hillside covered with low vegetation, along with tall, charred tree trunks—likely remnants of a past forest fire. The stark contrast between the burnt trees and the vibrant sky creates a compelling visual, emphasizing both the destruction and resilience of nature.

Graveyard of trunks from the 2003 Cedar Fire.

Tangents:
• Official: Cucamaca Rancho State Park
• AllTrails Public: Loop Trail, Lookout Rd
• Facebook Group: Comment, Follow Us

Trailspotting Nearby
5★ Stonewall Peak (4-5 mi) · 4★ Volcan Mountain (5 mi) · 5★ Anzo Borrego Slot Canyon (1-2 mi) · Show Map

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