Everyone was telling me that El Cajon is brutal. The earlier the better, they all said, so I went a little out of order and did El Cajon as my 4th hike in the challenge. I met a friend at the trailhead, and we had an early start on the trail. I expected to encounter intense sun but instead had intense fog on the trail. It made for a pleasant hike, and the wildflowers popped against the misty fog. The one downside was that I didn't get to experience the amazing views I'd read and heard about. We made good time and did the trail in just over 5 hours, including a quick snack break at the peak. The trail was easy to follow and not horrible elevation-wise. Some very steep parts were actually easier to go up than down. I was also surprised but the constant up and down along the trail. Overall, it was a good hike, and I hope to do it again for better views when the weather is a little more cooperative.