Park
Stonewall Peak Trailhead
13 locals recommend
Location
Stonewall Peak Trail
Julian, CA
Tips from locals
Marc
August 14, 2021
Highly recommended trail in the area
Lissa
December 16, 2019
Location: 10 miles south of Julian’s downtown Difficulty: 3 Best for: Late night stargazing, via ferrata feels, short hikes followed by warm apple pie If you want to feel like you’re getting into the backcountry but don’t have the time (or hiking abilities) to take on Corte Madera or El Cajon Mountain, give Stonewall Peak a go. The out-and-back trail is under four miles roundtrip and just cracks 800 feet of vertical gain, meaning hikers of any skill level can take it on. Plus, with tons of shade granted by the lush vegetation around the trail in Cuyamaca Rancho State Park, you won’t have to worry about overheating on it. The hike summits via a fairly exposed stairway that is protected by a metal railing, giving hikers a chance to replicate the wonderful feeling of hanging off the side of a mountain on a via ferrata with no danger. Then, it finishes on a wide open granite plateau that gives tantalizing 360-degree views of Lake Cuyamaca and makes for an awesome stargazing locale. Follow up the easy hike with a slice of apple pie from one of the famous shops in Julian for a sweet, easy day on the trail.
Location: 10 miles south of Julian’s downtown Difficulty: 3 Best for: Late night stargazing, via ferrata feels, short hikes followed by warm apple pie If you want to feel like you’re getting into the backcountry but don’t have the time (or hiking abilities) to take on Corte Madera or El Cajon Mount…
Cameron
July 13, 2022
great lookout at the top, you can see Salton Sea to the ocean to Mexico on a clear day. Take cash for parking.
Fern Marie
January 14, 2020
This is highly recommended. Takes about 20 minutes to drive to the trailhead. Park across the way for $6.00 for all day. The view is awesome - 360 degrees. Round trip - 1.5 hour approx.
Dana
January 19, 2021
This hike is one of our favorites! You can park at the Paso Picacho state park directly across the street from the trailhead. Parking is $6 for the day and you can picnic there as well. The hike has several switchbacks heading to the top which gives you a little reprieve from a straight up climb. Once you get to the top there are stairs leading you to a look out and when we we're there it was swarming of butterflies. Just beautiful!
This hike is one of our favorites! You can park at the Paso Picacho state park directly across the street from the trailhead. Parking is $6 for the day and you can picnic there as well. The hike has several switchbacks heading to the top which gives you a little reprieve from a straight up climb.…