Reached the parking spot by 5.30, parked my car roadside and started my hike around 5.45 in the morning.

This was the first time, i even bagged a peak without a group, the morning was not so breezy. Headed up the road and started gaining elevation quickly.

The first switchback didnt seem that steep. Completed first 3 miles in around an 60mins. There was a water station after 2miles. Hope it get refilled everyday.

Recent rains had left the trail with long grooves in certain steepy parts of the trail and also rocky in few places.As known the uphill sections were pretty steep and i was highly aware of the downhill sections would be tough with bad conditions of the trail.

Morning hike was good and in the way did capture shots of bunny and also passed an old shell of a car.

After several more ups and down, i reached the foot of El Cajon Mountain, known locally as El Captain. From here it wasn't steep but mostly distorted trail,i had to put my hand on rock once or while to catch up the directions shown by greensticks on the trail.

I was on top and the views are incredible.To the east,i noticed Cuyamaca Peak, and its neighbouring mountains.

I met a group of 3 at the top and they captured pics for me and did the same for them. We chatted for sometime and i had my food. Afterwhile they left. I stayed there for almost 20mins. And then headed back around 9.15Am.

Legs already a little tired from way up were once again faced with steep inclines.Heart racing and lungs wheezing,i was suprised by the effort as the day warmed up, i didnt anticipate the heat while coming down. So stopped in some shades for mutliple times.

Due to heat, i felt coming down was more tiring for me then going up. Due to excessive heat, i completed my water earlier than expected.Couple of other hikers were checking me on their way,if i am doing okay. They as well offered me water/energy drinks. Refilled my water bottles at the water stations provided on the trail(water was warm). I did pour water on my face and head to beat the heat, nothing worked.

I had to push myslef saying that i can do it. And finally reached the last water station and by then the weather started getting cool( around 12.45Pm) and drizzles started and took a break for almost 20mins before heading down.

The remainig trail downwards felt easy and the weather( drizzles) helped alot. Once nearing the trailhead, my energy was drained and here i am able to chat with fellow hikers and had good conversations.

El Cajon Summit Trail being the hardest hike among the San diego hikes(6 peak).I have hiked it now,happy that i have done it successfully.