My hiking partner and I decided to hike this trial counter clockwise and boy was that a challenge but it was actually a good recommendation given the trial condition with lots of rocks and the elevation gain didn't help but it was so rewarding. The views at the top on a clear cool day made the trip work it as the cool weather was welcomed as we made our way up to the summit. The trail down was smooth sailing down mainly an access road. Definitely go after this one in cool weather. Overall the trail was passable and conditions were perfect, and with hiking poles you should be fine if you go the route we took counter clockwise.