Join us for this early morning social-paced hike in Poway. The Mount Ellie Loop offers a quiet, less-traveled backcountry vibe without the heavy foot traffic of the main Iron Mountain trails. We’ll head counterclockwise in a lollipop-loop around the base of Ellie Peak, where we’ll encounter chaparral, coastal sage, and striking granite boulders.
The trail begins as a flat, wide dirt path that heads east, directly tracing the property lines of several local ranches. After the first major trail intersection the gentle dirt road disappears, replaced by a narrow, rugged single-track that climbs up the hillside, twisting through switchbacks with stone and timber steps carved into the chaparral.
The trail levels out as we crest the shoulder of Ellie Peak and opens up onto a massive, flat expanse of exposed granite; this is Table Rock. By the time our boots hit this flat rock, we’ll have gained a total of ~500 feet of vertical elevation from where we parked our cars.
At Table Rock we’ll take a short break to soak in the view, enjoy some snacks, talk about the 10 essentials and Leave No Trace principles, and capture a group photo. We’ll then follow the trail around the shoulder of the ridge, keeping the peak on our right as we head steeply downhill towards a shady grove of tall eucalyptus trees.
We’ll head west at the grove junction and follow the trail down a peaceful canyon valley as it veers to the northwest (right), contouring around the base of Ellie Peak before passing a quiet, scenic pond on the left and eventually retracing our steps for the final flat stretch back to the parking lot.
Trail Conditions:
- Most of the trail is exposed, and there is no potable water along the route.
- While the trail is well-maintained it’s rocky with loose gravel and steep sections. It crosses several drainages so, depending on the weather, there may be water crossings.
- The trail starts at a dirt parking lot that does not have any restroom facilities, the nearest are ~ 1/2 mile away, so be sure to come prepared.
Contact leader for more information (meeting location/parking details).Space is limited, RSVP by Nov 8th.
Level: Moderate (M4B (4mi/700' elev gain/loss))
Signup Instructions: Contact leader Jenn Dier at 413-687-4533 after registering online for meeting location/parking details.Space is limited, signup before 11/8.
Recommended Items: 2 liters of water, snacks, sun protection (sunscreen, sunglasses, sun hat, etc), sturdy/hiking shoes, and trekking poles.
Signup Restrictions: The hike is limited to 10 participants, and no children, pets, or unregistered guests are allowed.Participants approved based on fitness (good physical condition) and prior experience (trails of a similar difficulty).
Cancellation Policy: Red flag warning, fire, extreme high temperature, or heavy rain cancels.