Finished my first peak this morning for the 2024 San Diego Six Pack of Peaks Challenge. I've done this challenge every year since it became a challenge in 2020. In fact, I was doing this challenge while it was a part of the Southern California Six (Eighteen) Pack of Peaks Challenge.
I have always saved this one for last since it is “technically” the hardest peak of the San Diego Six Pack. This year, I thought what the hell, I'll do the hard one first this time. 
I finished with 11.25 miles and 3,833 feet in total elevation gain in 4 hours and 57 minutes. The two biggest things to keep in mind for this hike are 1) the trail temperature is normally about 10 to 15 degrees higher than the air temperature; and 2) it's about 2,982 feet in elevation gain in 5.6 miles to get to the summit and it's about 851 feet in elevation gain on the descent back to the trailhead.
Temps today were in the low 40's at about 0700 and likely upper 60's when I finished at about noon. It was busy! There were dozens of cars park at the trailhead, and I literally ran into a few dozen hikers. Trail was in great condition although there was a sign stating the trail was “washed out ahead, proceed with caution”. However, I did not see any part of the trail that was washed out.
Anyway, great day! Peak 1 of 6 for the 2024 San Diego Six Pack of Peaks done! 
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