Agnes
Challenging hike to a potato chip-looking rock
There’s a lot of hype about this hike because of the potato chip-looking rock at the end, but it’s really much cooler in photographs than in person. Still, it’s a good hike for aficionados and anyone looking for a moderately strenuous hike. There are two trails leading to potato chip rock: one that’s about a four-mile round trip and one that’s between seven to eight miles round trip. The latter of these is longer but is easier because the incline is not as steep. (I only hiked the long trail but was told it is easier by someone who did both.) It’s probably a good idea to hike early because there’s limited shade throughout the trail and it gets ridiculously hot as the day progresses, which will likely prolong your hike time.
Also, by the middle of the day, there tends to be a line for the potato chip rock, so an early hike may save you 30 minutes or so. Plan for four to five hours for this hike. For the longer trail, parking is found in Lake Poway Park for $5. Highly recommend this hike! Just keep an open mind. Even though the rock isn’t as exciting in person, it’s still fun to take photos while on it.
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