Visitors to this nearly pristine wilderness area will experience San Diego’s backcountry as it was centuries ago.
Consisting primarily of dense chaparral, the Preserve showcases the vegetation community that evokes Southern California.
Peaceful oak woodlands, shaded streamside bowers, and seldom-visited meadows also await the visitor who has the energy and curiosity to explore the 1574-acre preserve.
Although hiking is the most typical way people experience Mt. Gower, the Preserve is also very popular with equestrians.
Several streams support woodlands of sycamore, willow, and oak (watch for poison oak!).
Mule deer, coyotes, raccoons, foxes, and bobcats are some of the more conspicuous mammals that live in the park. Rattlesnakes are residents here, as are coastal horned lizards and orange-throated whiptails.
Mt. Gower Preserve, located southeast of Ramona, has approximately eight miles of trails within its boundaries.
• There is water and vault toilets at the trailhead.
• Dog must be on leash
• Please clean up after your dog