Hike in French - June 21

PARKING: 

We have a fantastic, brand-new option to meet up safely. Previously, hikers had to park dangerously on the narrow dirt shoulder of the highway. However, the county opened a formal parking lot right at the trailhead. It has around 200 paved parking spaces, portable restrooms, and trash cans. It is open from sunrise to sunset. The Mt. Woodson Gateway County Preserve parking lot charges a $5 daily parking fee per vehicle. DO NOT PARK IN THE FIRE STATION'S DRIVEWAY OR BLOCK THEIR EMERGENCY VEHICLES. 

Payment Options:                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                

• By Phone: You can scan a QR code at the lot or visit the county's parking portal on your smartphone to pay.
• Pay Kiosk: There is a physical pay kiosk located at the lot for day passes.
• Annual Pass: If you hike in San Diego County frequently, they accept the $50 County Parks Annual Pass

MEETING POINT - By the Portable Restrooms 

HIKE INFO: Approximately 4-mile round-trip route. The elevation gain is 1,227 ft. The route follows the paved and steep Mt. Woodson Road to the summit, offering fantastic views along the way. It is generally considered moderately challenging.

NOTE: Feel free to wait in line to get your photo standing on Potato Chip Rock, people sometimes wait over an hour. Please keep in mind that people get hurt or even die every year trying risky poses for the picture. It’s best to have someone with you to help you climb onto the rock, as it can be quite challenging.

HYDRATION & ELECTROLYTE BREAKDOWN

• Water Amount: Pack 2 to 3 liters (about 68 to 100 ounces) per person. A hydration bladder (like a CamelBak) or a couple of large insulated bottles are perfect.
  
• Electrolytes: Because you will be sweating heavily on the steep climb, pure water isn't always enough to prevent cramping or heat exhaustion. It is highly recommended to bring at least one electrolyte drink (Gatorade, Powerade) or add an electrolyte packet  to one of your water bottles.
  
• The "Halfway" Rule: If you have drunk half of your water supply and you haven't reached the top yet, it is time to turn around.
  

LATE POLICY: To respect everyone’s time, we start hiking exactly at the scheduled time. If you miss the start, feel free to hike up and find us on the trail.