This was supposed to be an overnight with a fellow challenger however with a schedule conflict it turned into a solo day hike. In hindsight, the solo overnight would have been fine, in fact probably enjoyable! It was brutal as a day hike as everyone says. I started at 5:30am and finished at 5pm. The trail is so beautiful and despite my barking feet, I’m really glad I stuck it out. I foolishly found myself off trail in mile 7.5/8 so my trek was slightly longer. It was predicted to be 30 degrees at the top but it was warmer there than the whole way up! I’m still glad I had layers because the start in the darkness was quite cold. Really beautiful day. Would love to try South Fork sometime.