My friends and I did this hike 2 years ago from Manker Flats but because of some recent health challenges and the desire to have some play time (zip line!) we decided to take the ski lift and start at the Notch this time. We of course thought this would make for an easier summit but that wasn't quite the case, this is a tough one! Nothing like starting the hike and going straight up that black diamond ski run!! (You get a much better warm up starting at Manker Flats!) We proceeded up the devils back bone to the seriously steep final ascent! My body was not really happy with any of this so we proceeded very slowly, but slow and steady can still get you there! Can't say I was enjoying much of this hike, in comparison to the Cucamonga peak we did last month which turned out to be one of my new favorites! Sorry Baldy! The descent, however, was much more enjoyable. Except for the initial descent which can by a little scary and slow going, I finally started appreciating the amazing scenery and beauty surrounding me. Also was a little surprised at that narrow paths on devils backbone, I was so busy trying to breathe on the way up I barely noticed the dangerous drops on both sides! We were able to descend in less than half of the time up and got back in time for a ride on the zip line! Not my favorite day of hiking but another of the six checked off!!