“Only those who risk going too far can possibly find out how far one can go.” T.S. Eliot  – Fantastic day and what folks say about this hike is all true. It’s 3648’ but hikes like 10,000+, 11-12 miles all up and down both ways (my iPhone said 264 floors). And for most of it, the trails are old mining roads, easy to follow, but steep, weathered covered with loose rock. I started around 8 with wonderful low cloud cover that burned off as I went. The rewards are many. While plants are diverse there is little shade, but the trade off is views the whole way in all directions. And butterflies at the summit.  Bring more water than you think you’ll need (I went through a full 3 liters (plus one before I started)) and food (I snacked along the way, very helpful) and take your time to enjoy it.  Also check out the old mines.  Just 0.1 miles off the trail.