Second to last hike of the six pack and my personal favorite. Last year the snows had already arrived the week before leading to a more difficult hike than I encountered this year. With a dry October thus far, the day was a comfortable 55 degrees and sunny on the drive out. Keeping to my previous hikes food and sleep regimen kept me feeling ready to go during the drive and start of the hike. The drive up into the San Jacinto Mountains is always beautiful way to watch the sunrise. The warmer weather led to a easy start, and I quickly found my way past the Marion Mountain campground starting my ascent. The switchbacks that wind through the large boulders created great views out as I climbed up. Sticking to a few snack as I climbed kept my energy levels up as I proceeded up. Without the snow and ice, some of the landscaped looked different from 2022 and I quickly found myself on the final switchbacks leading up to the emergency snow hut. Surprised again by my stamina and overall energy levels I continued to the summit and was able to really enjoy the views, chat to a few other hikers, and grab a few nice pictures. Heading back down to the snow hut, I really took the time to soak in my favorite hike and look out over the mountain range. The hike down was a quick descent, with a sense of pride and excitement for the last hike.

I'm feeling a bit nervous for San Gorgonio because it beat my physically years ago and I haven't attempted a summit since then. Looking forward.