I'm an avid flat or small hill hiker. I love being in nature and thought this challenge would be good for me right now.

I started about 11:00am from Lake Poway. I usually don't mind the heat too much, but I realized for my next hikes I will probably start a few hours earlier. I have never done this hike before and did it solo. I know that is a heavily trafficked trail so that is why I felt comfortable doing it solo. I brought 2 liters of cold water and I was so glad I did. I drank one and a half on the way up and the last half on the way down. Once you pass the slight uphill trails you start the rock steps and they seem to never stop for awhile. The only way I was able to finish this hike is because I was in no hurry and took a million breaks. The weather was nice probably 75 or so and sunny so it felt like warmer. I didn't listen to music and just loved how quiet the hike was. I encountered many friendly people along the way but mostly it was just me and my thoughts walking uphill. Butterflies followed me pretty much the whole way to the top it seemed and I saw tons of lizards. At the top there was a bunch of hawks circling. Even though the downhill was much better, I was so glad to be done with the steps. Great workout and great hike!