Snow much mud

1st hike of the year after a 6 week break. Start was pretty steep, rocky and narrow; took 43 min to finish 1st mile (ouch). Once we got on the fire road it was nice and wide and easy to maneuver. Legs were burning with the steep incline. Hit snow and some icy condition. The views were gorgeous all the way. Summited in 4.5 hours but absolutely worth it. Could see the ocean and Palomar Observatory. Made it down in 2.5 hours. Fantastic day with perfect weather.