It was a truly beautiful hike. Although this is one of the alternative peaks and one of the higher peaks, I jumped on this hike that some friends had already planned. Absolutely loved it. Still will be working on the original 6 (checking the status of Santiago each day).

Yes it was the end of May. Yes, there was snow on the hill. Yes. The road had ice on it. But, where is the adventure if you do not attempt it. We grabbed the backpacks, grabbed the poles, grabbed the microspikes and onward and upward we went.

The first part of the trail had some intermittent snow drifts. Nothing too much. However as we went further, at around mile 3, the actual hiking trail was covered with snow from the previous evenings snow shower thus some early previous hikers had made a path straight up. This “detour” did cut off 1 mile of the hike and here is where proper equipment was a blessing. Met many PCT adventurers as we went along. They are AMAZING!

The view from the top was gorgeous. Was able to see over the Antelope Valley all the way to the Tehachapi Mountains. There was some clouds below us to the south and west, but the view over the clouds was spectacular. Mt. San Antonio was breathtaking and we could see Mt. Gorgonio out there to the south, it too, was spectacular. There was some wind at the top, but it made for great pictures with the flag and it being Memorial Day, No Words. Thank you to all who have served their country and have fallen either in their tour or after. Thank you to their families who are left behind. I will remember, without their sacrifice, there is that chance that I would not have the freedom to do what I do. #FreedomIsNotFree

The path down was chilly during the first third of the descent. Kept the jacket on during the entire descent. Even though it was late in the day, met many hikers just beginning their ascent.

Would I do it again? YES!

I am not a seasoned hiker. I read and have a group of friends that are wonderful mentors. However, I do run and try to stay in shape. Just keep one foot in front of the other. Stay on the trail (when you can see it) And I welcome any suggestions as whether we made the best decision to continue on the paths that were made straight up or should we have navigated the trail that is suggested in All Trails etc.