If you've been lamenting the lack of a perfect panorama of San Diego while you're visiting, then this is your chance! Cowles Mountain will take you to its summit, the highest point in all of San Diego and present breathtaking views. Don't let the scores of hikers turn you away because this is a satisfying climb of 1593 feet, with plenty of lovely sights like a (potentially dry) creek crossing and riparian plants. There are different ways to get to the summit, so make your pick. If you make the right choice, you just might spot a coyote in the distance, retreating into the bush. That is, via the trail past Big Rock Park.

Make your way up the switchbacks and the sky opens up wide, dotted with fluffy clouds on good days. It almost seems like you could touch it if you reached far enough. When you finally get to the summit, prepare your cameras for the sight before you are sure to leave you wide-eyed. Circling all around you are the sight of San Diego, crisscrossing patterns of buildings that form almost-perfect lines, with mountain peaks rising far in the background. You can even see the other peaks of Mission Trails, including Pyle’s Peak and North Fortuna. While you’re in San Diego, there’s no better way to capture the city in its entirety than at Cowles Mountain.