We couldn't have picked a better day for this hike. Getting a permit for a Friday hike meant we had the trail/mountain to ourselves! The weather was perfect too.

We started at 7:45 AM from Vivian Creek trail head. After half a mile from the parking lot, there is a creek crossing which is very rocky and the trail is not well defined. After the creek crossing, there is a 1.5 miles of very steep climb over a rocky trail. The trail flattens near Vivian creek and is a pleasant walk-in-the-woods. I found the section between miles 2 and 6 the most pleasant.

Miles 6 to 9 (leading up to the summit) are steep and at high elevation. This was the most difficult section of the hike. After crossing the treeline at 10,000 ft, the trail is very exposed. The views from top are amazing. Be aware of the chipmunks who are very friendly and will demand food :).

Climbing down the mountain was brisk and the most enjoyable part of the hike. The last 1.5 miles were brutal because of rock trail at steep decline. I was back in the parking lot at 6:15 PM. Overall, it was 18.25 miles out and back.