We started our hike at first light in light rain and a beautiful rainbow was visible through an opening between the trees. It rained as we traversed up the switchbacks under the pine trees.  The trail was almost entirely rock free as we made our way steadily up the tree lined path with glimpses of the cloud covered sky and land below us.  Eventually we were at the saddle with a path leading straight up  with gorgeous old pines here and there and amazing views. At some point the rain had ceased and we had a beautiful blue sky with lovely clouds above us.  When we reached the peak there were a few hikers that arrived at the trailhead within minutes of us.  One of them took our photo and we took in the beauty of the place before heading back down.  On the way down, we saw birds and a couple of squirrels. I recognized a few bluebirds and other small birds.  We saw very small patches of brilliant red California fuchsia and as we approached the trailhead some patches of yellow flowers but that was about it for flowers.   It was a little bit of breather after Gorgonio two days ago!  The weather was perfect as the early morning start with light rain made for a pleasant trek up on what I imagine can be quite warm this time of year.

One note regarding the road is that it should have been closed.  The gate was open when we came through but on traveling back we noticed people scaling the sides above the road and rocks scattered on the road.  They were purposely making rocks fall on the road so that later when the road was reopened they wouldn’t fall on cars.  We got out at the first encounter of this and removed rocks on one side of the road so we could leave.  At the second spot, a guy came down and removed rocks on one side so we could get by.  Then, upon arrival a the closed, locked gate, we had to wait for one of their  vehicles to come and unlock the gate for us.  Goggle maps directed us on an alternate forest road but I have my doubts that we would have arrived at the trailhead that way as the road beyond the trailhead parking area was closed and we saw no other roads in.  Be sure to check the road conditions before attempting to drive to the trailhead!