We arrived at the gate around 5:45am and there were about 10 cars in front of us. Got a spot in the lower parking area, by the time we got our gear out, the bottom lot was full and people were starting to fill up the upper lot. It was a gorgeous morning. We set out on the downhill asphalt at 6:30 and by the time we got to “nature”, the crowds dispersed. The hike up was incredible. We have already hiked San G and San J (last year…gotta hustle for 2018!) and we were admiring how different everything looked. This was a new hike for all of us in the group, which made it that much more exciting. The Sturtevant Camp was a nice place to rest and snack. We pressed on and summitted around 11. We took our time at the top, went to the astronomical museum, walked around the telescopes and settled in for a lunch at the benches at the cafe, which was closed. Since the previous night saw some rain, the views were insane. We were able to clearly see Catalina Island and beyond. We always hike with a pie (we share too!) so we devoured our sweet potato pie as our parting act with the summit. We hiked down the Upper Winter Trail (we missed the turn for the lower creek…don't know how!). At that point, it was pretty discouraging to see so may up hills but we did it. Got back to the car at 3:52pm (we had running bets on who would nail the time!)

All in all, it was a wonderful hike with friends. The people we met on the trail were awesome. Can't wait to plan the next hike!