Would have given it 5 stars except for having to park at Grassy Hollow campground which added 6 miles and having to go 900 ft. straight up for the last mile which made this into a bit of a slog.
I followed the PCT from the campground to the trailhead which was a really nice section through the trees and a pretty easy 3.8 miles. Baden Powell was it’s usual switchback fest until the last mile when you hit the snow and start following the boot prints pretty much straight up. I put on my exospikes cause I had them with me, but would have been fine going up with just my trekking poles. Going down there were a couple 10-15ft sections that were a little steep, but not run out, so not dangerous. You just have to take your time. I saw about a dozen PCT hikers. It’s always fun to hear stories from the trail.
I was running a little behind schedule so I decided to walk the road back to my car because I figured it would be shorter and flatter. I was right about the shorter part at 2.5 miles but it was 750 ft of constant uphill that I was not prepared for. That section took the most out of me. The road itself is in perfect condition with no work being done to it so I am not sure why they have it closed. Hopefully it will open soon.
Overall a beautiful day with great views and wildflowers blooming.