My first time hiking Rose Peak, and oh what a perfect peak to choose for my 6th and Grand Finale for the 2024 Challenge.

I arrived and started at Dawn, hitting the trail before Sunrise. Great weather for this hike today, not too warm and never cold. Minimal wind too!

Not crowded at all. I was alone for awhile, until passing up a large group of backpackers that camped. And then sporadically passed up the occasional duo or small group.

Once at the summit, there were only about 7 of us, but it dwindled down to myself and a small group. Finally I left before they did, after giving myself a good 30+ minutes off my legs & enjoying the views.

I'd say, the first 5 miles are the most strenuous of this trip. The remaining 5 to the peak are forgiving. But, what gets you is the overall mileage and total elevation gain by the time its all said and done.

My legs were feeling super aches at around mile 16.

Got back to my car after 430pm. Which was a better time than I gave myself to complete, so I'll take it!

Rose Peak definitely is a gorgeous AND strenuous Hike. I think next time I'd much prefer doing it at a Sleepover trip.