Wish my first blog post had posted, but since it didn't, here it goes – again!

My husband and I and another couple from San Diego hiked this trail on the last Saturday in October after camping in Los Coyotes. We don't camp often, but loved the quiet. No critters, just some boisterous woodpeckers and an owl or two. The stars were amazing!

We were fortunate to be in such a secluded spot, with access to clean portapotties and free firewood. The roaring fire was perfect on such a chilly night.

We didn't start our hike until almost noon, and it took 5 hours or so to do the 10-plus miles. My husband and I went to the summit, climbed the ladder, and left a Gnarly hydration sample in the metal box. I opted out of  climbing the red rope.

The Lookout Tower is far enough for most hikers. If you make it there, great! It's a steady climb the first few miles on the road. I enjoyed the pine canopy more. Not too many other hikers even though it was Saturday.