I did the hike counterclockwise as a loop. There are birds that sound like baby cougars calling for mom, so you can imagine me looking like Ichabod Crane in the Disney cartoon freaking out over little sounds. Then there are dried up cougar prints in the mud on the dirt road – paranoia obviously setting in. Because of the melting snow, there is a section of the hike where is feels like your hiking up a creek. Got to the paved road which is about 1/2 mile more straight upish and I slowly died ( I forgot to eat dinner the night before – ice cream doesn't count). I think I took a break every 10 steps. Made it to the top, finally, to experience someone boo hooing about some sign missing. Headed back down the paved road – worst decision. That s**t was steep, and super sucks when you forget to trim your toenails (that would be me). Plus due to the steepness, gravity pulls all those little pebbles in your boots straight to the front to bang around on your toes. The views heading down almost have a post apocalyptic feel. Next time, if I ever come back, I will do this clockwise.  Woke up next morning to sore butt cheeks. For those who want some butt plumping, this is the hike for you.