After 3 attempts, I finally conquered Cactus-to-Clouds. The 1st two attempts, I just completed Skyline Trail.

The 1st half of C2C is Skyline Trail, which climbs about 8,000’ in 10-miles to Long Valley; the last half is the 11-mile round-trip from Long Valley Ranger Station to San Jacinto.

Started @ 2:00a and finally made the summit @ 2:00p.

The weather was awesome making the long, steep trek up very pleasant. Hiking 4.5 miles in the dark was surreal, serene and was met with a pack of deer crossing the trail.

I was at the 8-mile mark during sunrise @ 6:51a.

The last 11-miles to/from the summit was trekked on mixed snow conditions from slushy to icy. Micro-spikes were highly recommended by the Ranger Station.

I wore mine but boy my feet suffered after hiking 10-miles on the Skyline Trail.

If you plan on going up in the next couple of weeks, it is best to bring micro-spikes, a good pair of water-proof footwear, gaiters and poles with snow baskets.

Here is a good link with great information on Cactus-to-Clouds – https://hikingguy.com/hiking-trails/best-la-hikes/cactus-to-clouds-hike/