We started our hike at 8:15 am in the morning.  Since the Stinson Parking lot was full, we parked off of Highway 1 and started our hike at the bottom of the Dipsea Trail. The steps up was a hard way to start the hike. The Mt. Tam did not disappoint in terms of the redwood trees, moss and rocks.  The views on the way up to the summit were great.  The stairs at the very end of the hike to get to the summit were a killer.  Taking a few breaks here and there was necessary for me in order to make it ip the steps – short legs are at a disadvantage on those steps!!  We spent a good 30 minutes up at the summit to enjoy the views and a snack/lunch. The company was great and we really enjoyed the hike.  It took us a total of 8.5 hours of hiking time.