Mount Woodson Trail in Poway climbs 1,461 feet over roughly six miles, so bring plenty of water for both you and your dog. The payoff is the view from the summit—you’ll see across San Diego County and out toward the coast on clear days. The trail itself moves through chaparral and oak woodland, which means shade is intermittent, so early morning or late afternoon hikes work best, especially in warmer months.

Dogs need to stay on-leash here, which is manageable on most of the trail but gets a bit rocky in sections near the top. The terrain is sandy and rocky rather than muddy, so your dog’s paws should handle it fine, though you might want to check them at the trailhead afterward. The main parking area fills up quickly on weekends—I’d recommend arriving before 9 a.m. if you want a decent spot.

The hike itself is steep enough that you’ll feel it in your legs, but it’s straightforward without confusing junctions. Bring a dog bowl or collapsible water dish because there aren’t water sources along the way. The summit has a wooden benchmark and some radio equipment, which isn’t the most scenic spot for photos, but the views in all directions make up for it. On the way down, your dog might appreciate the slower pace since the descent is easier on the joints than the climb up.

The trail connects to the broader Poway area, so you could combine this with a stop at a local park or restaurant with outdoor seating afterward. Just be prepared for a genuinely tough workout—this isn’t a casual stroll, and your dog will definitely sleep well that night.