If you are looking for a shorter hike, but don’t want to give up scenic views or miss out on elevation gains, give the West Loop hike at Lake Poway a try. It’s one of the most diverse and stunning one-mile loops Poway has to offer!
Starting from the north side of the Concessions shop, stroll past the big green chairs on the west side of the lake. Follow the Lake Poway trail as it heads uphill and take in the view of the lake with Mt. Woodson as its backdrop.
Keep to the left when you see the West Loop trail marker and as you follow the path you will be treated to a panoramic view of the Blue Sky Ecological Reserve. Wildflowers and plants in bloom dot the trail this time of year. There are elevation gains and drops as you wind your way around the hill (the highest point of the trail is about 1060 feet) and the views stretch across north Poway and east to Black Mountain. As you merge back to the Lake Poway trail, keep to your right to arrive back at the parking lot on the north side of the Lake office.
☀ Be on the lookout for rattlesnakes, as they are fond of the trail and enjoy sunbathing in the crevices along the way.
☀ In addition to water and your cellphone (for photos and in the event of an emergency), bring binoculars to take advantage of the sweeping views – you might see out to the coast if the weather is just right – or catch a glimpse of a bald eagle on the lookout for fish.
Left: The big green chairs overlooking the lake is your perfect first photo opp. Middle: The flat trail gives you a perfect view of the lake looking east and south. Right: Just before the path starts uphill, there's a monument honoring Harry Frame, an original board members with the Poway Municipal Water District.
Left: view of lake poway looking southeast with Mt. Woodson as the backdrop. Middle: Stay to the left at the West Look trail marker. Right: Panoramic views of Blue Sky Ecological Reserve.
Wildflowers and plants in bloom along the Lake Poway West Loop trail.