Stonewall Peak

Stonewall Peak is one of the most popular hikes in San Diego County, and for good reason. The summit delivers stunning 360-degree views of Cuyamaca Rancho State Park and the surrounding countryside.

Parking is available at the day use section of Paso Picacho Picnic Area and Campground, and the trailhead is located directly across the street. The trail immediately begins to ascend and continues to follow a series of switchbacks for the entirety of the trek. Interspersed amid the chaparral are groves of oak trees which provide intermittent shade. The trail passes by several areas affected by the 2003 Cedar Fire, the largest wildfire in California’s recorded history. It scorched 90% of Cuyamaca Rancho. The last section of the hike ascends a steep staircase carved into the white granite of the mountain. At the peak, hikers are rewarded with impressive views of the Cuyamaca Mountains, Lake Cuyamaca, and the grasslands below.