Started this hike at the Stanford Ave trailhead around 6:30AM and there's already parking being filled up. We hiked up using the more strenuous and narrower trail rather than the main route. This was pretty enjoyable as it felt like we're in a rural trail. There was a lot of cows that we got to be up close, which is nice as well. We got to the top and then I begrudgingly stood in line to take a picture of us with the pole. Afterwards, we hiked down the main route; and like always, bombarded with people.

I've hiked up Mission Peak probably well over 10 or 15 times at this point; each time always questioning why this hike is so popular. Here's a list of things that is why Mission Peak is so bad.

• 6 miles round trip means it's too short for an avid hiker to enjoy.
• Constant uphill with steep grade makes it too hard for beginners hikers to complete.
• Absolutely no shade.
• The scenery/views can be easily found through easier hikes/trails around the bay area.
• At the peak it's just a pole, views isn't as good compare to the ones you get hiking up.
• Way too populated, hard to find parking and trails are always overcrowded with people.

A while back, some hooligan cut off and stole the pole at the top. The park eventually reinstalled the pole back on, but I sort of wished that they didn't. That way people can stop hiking this trail just for a photo of them standing on the pole.

The popularity of Mission Peak makes no logical sense. It's like people hike Mission Peak because it's the closest mountain in South Bay and they don't know any other trails to go. I have no clue why people bring their kids/family here; all you are doing is making them miserable.

This is probably one of the worst hike you can do in the Bay Area. 1/5 stars rating.