This hike is very steep like El Cajon without all the up and down. There was snow and ice in some areas and a great breeze, I was sleeveless and got some sun. It was 3 hours up and 2 hours down. We brought hiking poles and were glad we had them.

There is only one trail beyond the Ranger station. When you pass the campground sign you will see a stone tank on your right. Park here, trail is to your left. If you turn right, you end up doing a loop. If you go straight, there is a locked gate.

My Polar read 8.8 miles for this hike from the beginning to the tower then to the summit and back down. 3 hours to summit, 2 hours to parking.