Pyles Peak Summit at Mission Trails Regional Park

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Definitely overshadowed by the popularity of Cowles Mountain, Pyles Peak at Mission Trails Regional Park can only be accessed once you summit Cowles. In-between the Cowles Summit marker and the radio towers, there is an unassuming trail marker to Pyles.



After summiting Cowles, you really need to brace yourself for the down-up-down-up-down-up-up-up trail to Pyles. It's definitely not easy on the knees. However, leaving Cowles to Pyles also means leaving the crowd to a peaceful hike. We literally saw less than 10 people total in this hike. 



Once you get to Pyles Peak, look to the radio towers at Cowles Summit.  Then, pat yourself on the back for venturing further than a mere photo-op at Cowles.  


Cowles Summit view from Pyles Peak


I still can't believe we did two hikes in one day - Cowles and Pyles.  But since these two were the last of the 5-Peak Challenge for us, we just had to... and show-off our badge of honor the next days as we rest. 


Heading back and as you get close to Cowles Summit again, you can already hear people's voices.  It was definitely challenging keeping a social distance as we head back to the trailhead.


Cowles Mountain Trailhead Address: 7001 Golfcrest Dr, San Diego, CA 92119