Walked the Mission Peak Loop from Stanford trailhead as described in AllTrails.
Ascended via the north trail which was very steep but fairly consistent with the grade and a very good and wide footpath (road actually). This route was extremely crowded this Sunday morning (started just before 8:00). As we approached the top the wind began to pick up and despite the temperatures in the 60's the wind chill made it feel like the 30's. Seriously cold and seriously strong wind on top. Needless to say, we didn't dally up there. The descent on the south trail was much less crowded but the trail was in worse shape. Very steep and ungraded in most sections. Were I to do this again I might come up the south trail and down the north.
Parking is at a premium and some people are walking close to a mile to get to the trailhead. Get there super early.
Responses
Congratulations and thanks for sharing the tips. I’m yet to do this peak. I’m glad you got to enjoy the sun even though it was a little windy.