Hot Springs Mountain
About this peak
At 6,533 feet, Hot Springs Mountain is the highest point in San Diego County, making it a must-do for high-pointers. It sits on the Los Coyotes Reservation, which charges a day-use entrance fee. The recommended Six-Pack route is the out-and-back Hot Springs Mountain trail, 10.2 miles with about 2,118 feet of gain. Confirm access and closures with the reservation before you drive out.
Know before you go
Hazards
The climb is long and sustained, and trekking poles help. Bring all your own water; the only facility is a portable toilet at the trailhead. The true summit takes a short, optional boulder scramble, the old lookout tower is closed and decaying, and the top fits only a few people at a time. Access depends on the reservation, which has closed roads and campgrounds and hosts private events, so confirm it is open before you go.
Join the Community to view parking and routes
Members get route details, parking and trail guides, and can log hikes toward badges.
Join the CommunityAlready a member? Log inHike logs from this peak
Log your hike
More peaks in this challenge
Sorted by elevation. Bars show summit elevation against the highest peak.
- Hot Springs Mountain (you are here) 6,533 ft
- Cuyamaca Peak 6,512 ft
- High Point 6,138 ft
- Volcan Mountain 5,353 ft
- Corte Madera 4,633 ft
- El Cajon Mountain 3,675 ft
- Mount Woodson 2,881 ft