Mount Diablo was amazing, as usual.  A friend asked to go on a challenging hike and I decided Diablo would be a good one.

We took a motorcycle to the trailhead as well and got to watch the sun rise on the road.  It was pretty amazing and quite cold. We arrived at the parking lot right before it opened and got started on our hike.

It was a little cold but I was definitely happier that it wasn't hot.  We started out of Mitchell Creek and made our way clockwise on the loop.  Mile three was the highest elevation gain at 702 ft so I was glad for an early start and a colder day.

I ended up taking a side trail that I hadn't before so it was a nice change.

We made our way up to the peak and got plenty of sunshine up there.  It helped with the cooler winds.  We chatted it up with other hikers and cyclist who were also enjoying the views.  I even met another woman who completed the John Muir Trail!  I love striking up convo's with other adventures.

After checking out the Visitors Center/Museum and standing on the peak inside, we made our way back down. We took the road because it was shorter but the grade was super steep, and at times it was better to run down.  This was definitely rough on the feet and I even lost a corner of a toenail.

It was super fun running around the mountains trails while overlooking epic views. I hiked this hike in spring last year and can't imagine going on a hot summer day.

Eight hours later, we got back to the trailhead and called it a day.  Another epic adventure in the books and my friend wants to join more challenging hikes. Sweet!