From my “home” on Mt Tam – I look due east to Diablo on an almost daily basis.  Its such an impressive site the north and south peaks towering over what appears to me a vast expanse of flat.  Something I find a bit ironic is that Diablo – obviously Spanish for devil – was considered a very sacred peak for the native Miwok.  While the summit of  Mt Tamalpais – a native name – was considered off limits to natives because of the belief it was possessed by evil spirits.  Anyhow…

Once again, I had near perfect Bay Area winter weather.  Tons of sun, with mostly blue but also mixed cloud sky and ideal low 50's temps.  Absolutely perfect for tackling this beast.  It was the second time I have summited Diablo and the first time I wrapped further east mostly up fire road.  This time I took Back Creek Trail up, up, UP.  I think it was about 3.5 miles of straight ascent -a really solid workout.  Not much in the way of wildlife but the views throughout are absolutely stunning.  Looking back over to Tam to the west and “up valley” to Mt St Helena on the far horizon north.  The fall colors and intense sky make this hike a real standout.  It is a legitimate physical challenge – in fact taxed me harder than Sizer.  I suspect Rose may take the #1 slot in terms of a physical test…we will soon see.

Onward and UPward!