If you haven’t heard of Potato Chip Rock yet, then allow me to give you a little introduction. Located in Poway, California at the peak of Mount Woodson there is this little sliver of stone that hovers 2,800 feet over the ridge at the summit. Due to its rather funky shape, it gained recognition on social media as hikers posted creative, sometimes daring, poses atop the rock.
If you follow me on Instagram, then you probably have seen my classic “arms up in the air, are you freaking kidding me I’m here, I love my life” pose. You know the one I’m talking about. It looks a little something like this!
I met up with fellow blogger, traveler and fitness enthusiast Susan Shain to take on Mount Woodson and ascend up to Potato Chip Rock. Many of you probably already know the incredibly talented Susan Shain. I first connected with Susan about a year ago when I first started this whole travel blogging extravaganza. Susan was one of the many bloggers whom I looked up to and greatly admired not only for her bravery as a solo female traveler but also for her talent as a writer.
The hike begins down by the lake. You can park in the parking lot. (We didn’t pay but I heard you’re supposed to…oops!) Considering this was mid-week, the wasn’t too much going on at the lake. The paddle boats were all lined up and unused. Lake Poway has a lot of activities available. You can go horseback riding around the lake, bring a picnic, etc. We were there to hike!
With some other hikers in tow, we started our hike. The beginning of the hike wraps around the lake as you make a small inclined ascent. It’s approximately four miles to the summit. Keep following the path and you will eventually come to a sign that tells you the direction of Mt. Woodson summit.
High Heat Advisory!
Luckily, I had packed plenty of water and snacks. Be sure to bring snacks! You will need a little something, something once you get to the top.
The first half of the Mt. Woodson trail is pretty much a steep hill climb. You feel as if you are doing a stairmaster at the gym.
To maximize this workout, stop along the way from some push ups! You will already be getting a great glutes workout in so why not give you arms a workout as well.
The views are incredible. You will encounter one panoramic view after the next. As you climb to the top via short switchbacks, you will come upon countless panoramic views that just seem to get better and better. And then… you see the rock!
If you are going during the week, you won’t have to wait long to take your pictures. However, if you’re doing this hike on the weekend, be prepared to wait. Have fun and take lots of photos!
And, in case you were wondering… Yes, you do have cell service at the top. It just took me a while to get a signal. 🙂
