We did the suggested hike in reverse which wasn't a good idea.  I'm blaming it on trail markers, and lack thereof, but understand lots of people have navigated it successfully so ultimately, it's on me…. While we did enjoy the amazing views and beautiful trail up, the very steep, rocky, single track down the other side took down all three in my group.  The conditions and eventual exhaustion led to many bruises, cuts and ruined a perfectly good pair of pants.  There was a rescue helicopter flying overhead but thankfully it wasn't for us. Unfortunately, there was another woman who had to be airlifted out, although I have no reason to believe Mt. Diablo is to blame.

It wasn't the clearest day and yet we could still see San Francisco, the snow-covered Sierra's and every other landmark that far out.  It was extremely windy about 11am, 52mph according to the ranger at the top.  The facilities were amazing throughout this hike and the visitor center at the top is worth a peek. Even though this hike took us much longer than it should have, and we registered over 4100 feet of elevation, I would do it again…. in the right direction of course.