UPCOMING HIKE
TOOTH ROCK VIA RATTLESNAKE CANYON
We have a hike coming up on Saturday morning October 24, 2026; here are the details:
When: Saturday October 24th at 9:00 am (when we will meet at the Rattlesnake Canyon trailhead, in a residential neighborhood).
About the hike: We will hike through Rattlesnake Canyon to Tooth Rock, a loop of something over 3 miles with an elevation gain of 600 feet. Tooth Rock is a large rock standing over 20 feet high at the top of the hill that will give us some nice cardio, and looks like, well, a huge tooth. Also along the trail there is a granite slab with a grinding hole used by the Kumeyaay to grind acorns into meal. While the name of this area is Rattlesnake Canyon, don’t let the name deter you; rattlesnakes are common in all of the non-urban areas that we visit, so we will be alert just as we are on all of our wilderness hikes. Dogs on leash are allowed. Most of the hike has no shade so don't forget your sunscreen and/or hat, along with water.
Where: On Google Maps, enter “14449 Range Park Rd, Poway, CA 92064”. From Eastlake Church, the trailhead is about a 40 minute drive (33 miles), though somewhat longer if you want to avoid the toll portion of the 125 toll road. The shorter route takes the 125 North to the I-8 East, and to Highway 67 North, while the other route uses the I15 North, getting off on Ted Williams Parkway. Use Google Maps to give you specific directions to the trailhead, or let me know if you want specific directions.
Carpooling from church is an option. As usual, please let me know if you plan to go so I will be looking for you, and of course let me know if you have any questions.
Photo: Tooth Rock, photo by Mike Teeples
IMPORTANT GENERAL INFORMATION
Hiking in natural areas can present a variety of potential hazards, starting with uneven terrain, loose gravel, and obstacles on trails that can result in slips/trips/falls. Conditions on hikes can also potentially lead to dermatitis from poison oak, heat illness, snake bites, and insect stings or bites. Always take appropriate precautions and come prepared for the hike. Wear solid footwear with good tread and clothing to fit the weather. Apply sunscreen as needed and bring plenty of water, a minimum of one quart. For cool weather, layer your clothing so you are warm enough but can take off outer layers if you get warm.
For bike rides, it's always a good idea to wear a helmet and follow traffic rules for bicycles.
Photo: Garapito Canyon Trail, Mulholland Gateway Park, Tarzana, CA
PREVIOUS HIKE
On September 26, 2026 we hiked both of the main trails at the Cabrillo National Monument.
Photo: Old Point Loma Lighthouse at Cabrillo National Monument.