Today I completed hike #4 in the SD County Six Peak Challenge…Hot Springs Mountain. This is one of my favorite hikes in SD County and my third year in a row completing this one. The hike up begins with a two mile climb in the open before you get into the forested area which is beautiful. The first mile is a 550’ elevation gain and mile two you’ll add another 700’ gain, so be ready. The trail mellows out after this pretty much to the peak. The trail is in good condition with only traces of snow remaining and a couple muddy areas and downed trees which are easy to navigate around. This is the first time I experienced bugs flying around on the trail, which I attribute to all the rain this season, but not a huge issue. As a reminder, the trail is located on the Los Coyotes Indian Reservation so there is a $10 fee to enter. This is a very scenic trail with many opportunities for pictures along the way…Enjoy.