Long drive to the Hot Springs.  The security guard was very friendly.  Trailhead is easy to find.  There are three Port-a-pots to the far right of the trailhead, next to the locked bathrooms.  As others reported, the first two miles are the most difficult.  The sand is soft, 0.8 mils up, then a very short flat section, then another mile up.  Follow the trail to the Lookout tower.  There is the option to take the 0.9mi Quiet Loop rather than hiking straight.  The temperature was perfect, I started at 10:30Am with a very nice breeze most of the way.  Bugs were annoying in the areas where the breeze was blocked.  I only ate two bugs.  It was very happy to see the old tower, follow the sign to the right for the narrow trail to the boulder.  Leave your backpack on the ground, carefully climb the ladder and use the straps to pull yourself up to the top. I took 5hrs 30min for the day.  I should have stopped in Julian for a drink for a reward.  Overall, I was impressed with this location.  Next time, I think I'll plan to camp and hike.  Camping is $25, hiking is $10 per person.