Today is my birthday and I decided to do a 13+ mile hike as my first peak. Everywhere I read said this hike is difficult but I took on the challenge. Difficult was an understatement lol. I commend those who can summit with 4-5 hours. I took me 8 hours to summit and an additional 3 to return down to my car. After reaching “The Bench” the trail is covered in snow until you summit which is around 1.5-2 miles. When you reach Mt. Wilson Toll Road there are multiple huge trees that were knocked down during the recent storms. I had to climb over/under/walk around many trees in the snow. It was definitely challenging. Snow is about ankle deep but I misstepped a few times and sunk in to almost knee deep. Challengers be careful when hiking here and stay safe!

P.S. I saw bear paw prints while walking through the snow.