Eagle Peak Hike | Three Sisters Falls Trail

Distance: 4.2 miles | Hiking time: 3 hours | More trail info.

Eagle Peak is a frequently overlooked hike that shares a trailhead with Three Sisters Falls. It has an elevation of 3226’ and is currently ranked 69th on the Sierra Club’s 100 Peaks of San Diego County list.

Trailhead to Eagle Peak Trail

My friend Ian (@altitude_alchemist) and I began our hike to Eagle Peak from the trailhead at approximately 7:30 am on a Tuesday morning. The sky was overcast, and the air was cool, but not cold. Weather forecasts predicted temperatures in the low to mid-80s by late afternoon, so we knew it would warm up soon.

After researching the hike beforehand, I was aware of the potential for some light bushwhacking and rock scrambling. As it is early spring and I have already encountered one or two rattlesnakes on the trail, I went in prepared.

Eagle Peak hike — A large Red Diamond rattlesnake I encountered in Cleveland National Forest

The Hike to Eagle Peak

We were happy to find that there wasn’t much bushwhacking on this hike. Although the trail to Eagle Peak is narrow and surrounded by dense brush, it’s well-traveled and easy to follow.

The trail follows the contour of the mountain as it works its way toward the first of several false summits before eventually leading to Eagle Peak. There is some elevation gain, but it’s fairly minimal, which makes this hike one of the easiest I’ve done to date on the 100 Peaks list.

As we worked our way towards the summit, we found several south facing lookouts where we would stop to take in the views and assess our progress. A couple of the lookouts had large boulder structures on the ridge that gave you unobstructed views of the valley below.

After several stops we eventually reached the summit of Eagle Peak. There we found a couple of survey markers letting us know that we had made it. The summit itself is broad and unremarkable, but if you explore its perimeter you will find several spots where you can enjoy a clear view in any direction.

Ian enjoying the valley views from one of the lookouts along the trail to Eagle Peak

Despite the hazy and overcast weather, we could see landmarks in every direction from the summit. To the north, Palomar Mountain was clearly visible. To the east, we could identify North Peak, Middle Peak, and Cuyamaca Peak. Viejas Mountain was visible to the immediate south, with several other identifiable peaks behind it. And looking west beyond El Cajon Mountain, we could see Mount Woodson and Iron Mountain in the distance.

Cuyamaca Peak is clearly visible to the east from Eagle Peak

Conclusion

Eagle Peak offers a fun, moderately short hike with stunning views that won’t leave you exhausted for days. The trail is easy to follow and can be hiked on its own or as an add-on hike while hiking Three Sisters Falls. It’s a lesser-known destination than Three Sisters Falls, and many hikers aren’t aware of the trail’s existence, making it an ideal hike if you want to avoid crowds.

Eagle Peak is a great hike for kids and dogs alike, so pack up the family and head to Eagle Peak for a fun day of peakbagging.

Tips:

Wear long pants to protect your legs from the overhanging brush
There is no shade on the trail, so bring plenty of water
Hike with caution and keep your eyes open when snakes are out and about
Keep dogs on a leash if hiking during snake season

Additional Info & Resources:

Photos:

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Robb Keele

Robb is a native San Diegan and avid hiker, backpacker, and picture taker. He created Getgo Outdoors with the goal of giving back to the outdoor community and inspiring others to get outdoors.