Wow! I am loving this challenge. This was peak number two for us. We motored up the peak thanks to my husband and our friend Veronica! They are awesome motivators. Parking at Vincent Gap was perfect at 6:30 am. We had no problem getting a spot in the lot. We got on our way and realized quickly that there is no warm up…lol. The ascent begins right away and the first little bit of any workout always seems tough until you settle into it. We settled in and reached the peak in two hours. We took small 30 second breaks several times on our way up and we feel like we made good time (It certainly isn't all about the time, but we like the physical challenge of a brisk hike and we always take time to enjoy along the way, at the top, and on the way back down).  I really enjoyed the steady climb. This was the highest altitude I have ever hiked. I loved the shady pine tree trail. I felt a world away from the desert. It was nice chatting with some PCT thru hikers. You can see the difference between the day hikers and the backpackers for sure. Every outing makes me love hiking, the outdoors, and learning all about the sport more and more. I am so glad I have taken on this challenge.