“They” say it is the toughest hike in San Diego and it was tough enough for this old fogie. But the views from the summit are worth it, especially on a clear day when you can see all the way out to the Coronado Islands.  I'm glad I did it in March when it was relatively cool. It is unrelievedly up and down on the ascent and on the descent, and some sections of the trail consist of fairly loose rock where slipping is a definite hazard. Several times I was very thankful for my hiking poles.  The trail is very well marked except for a short section right under the peak where you need to do some bushwacking through the brush until you reach the final stretch of trail markers. Little or no shade so bring plenty of water.  Budget enough time since there are many warnings along the trail that the parking lot gates are closed promptly.