We started off at the wrong trailhead so added about a mile to our trip…make sure you go to the left of the restrooms to the Hot Springs Mountain Trail, not to the other sign that says Trailhead Entrance to the right.

We met a couple of friendly dogs running around who accompanied us to the summit. Bugs were a bit annoying around mile 3 but not for a very long stretch. Near the top where the trail is not clearly defined (after the lookout  tower) there are pink flags tied to the trees to help you find your way, the dogs knew the way, too!

At the top, there is a ladder and ropes for you to pull yourself up to the very top. We would prefer to do that when we had more people to help get everyone up safely.