We started on the trail at 6:23am to avoid the high temperatures. We made it less than a mile before stripping off the layers. The first two miles are very challenging on a tight single person trail with rough conditions. As challenging as the first two miles are heading up, it was far more challenging descending after 5 hours of hiking. Once you finish the first two miles you transition to an access road that  takes you to the top. You will definitely work the rest of the way with some portions of vertical climb, but it goes by quick and you get rewarded with some spectacular views. The summit makes the effort worth it. They have a couple picnic tables at the top so we had lunch, rested, and rehydrated for about 30 minutes.

The decent went quickly until the last two miles I mentioned earlier. Our legs were fatigued slowing the pace to ensure your footing on the tight rough trail was solid. The temperature on the way up was about 60 degrees and very enjoyable with large sections in the shade. By the time we started the last two miles around 11:30 am, the sun was baking and when we got to the car it was 94 and most of that last section was hot.

Bring at least 3 liters of water, per person. Hiking stick were very helpful. Worth the effort but expect 6-7 hours.