The trail conditions were really well maintained for the most part, on my hike actually a couple of park rangers were doing a project on of the bends to add more space to the narrowing trail. Some parts of the trail going up were a little worrisome because they got really narrow with a slight slope so it was easy to possibly slip. I say this to be aware if you’re not focused or legs are tired it can be an issue. The waterfall at stutervant was really nice and a great cool down for the muscles before going on the ensuing incline.

The weather was great, got a little colder at the top with the elevation gain and my sweat starting to cool off on my skin but it didn’t stop me and it was a nice breeze on occasion.

I mistakenly did the first 4 hours of the trail after working since 5:30- 10:30 am and without having any food in my system. Let me tell you about 3 miles left to go on the ascent I was drained and moving at my slowest pace ever and took a lot of mental self promoting to get through it. The sights towards the top over the cities were also another form of confidence boosting which helped tremendously