Started early before the heat and got back at a reasonable time in the afternoon.

This one is a leg buster. The “shortcut” is probably the most challenging up hill battle I have ever had the pleasure [and displeasure] of ascending. Many times I paused and would verbally exclaim “Are you fucking kidding me?” It was pure un-enjoymeny and I hated the creator of this trail immediately. 😆

Overall this was a great experience though. The views are spectacular and the finish felt sweeter than your average day hike. 10/10, would not recommend, nor probably ever do this trek myself again.

Bring PLENTY of water. I packed my 3L camelbak and an extra canteen size bottle of water. And only had a little remaining by the end of my hike.