This hike marked my first hike towards the 6 peak challenge and it was awesome. I wasn't planning on starting with one of the longer hikes with more elevation gain, but when I saw that teachers that trek were going out- I thought why not? And I'm so glad I did. It was a great group to hike with and a solid hike. We started at 5 am and the hike up was shaded for the majority of the trail the way up. For the first couple of miles on the trail, there are some beautiful creeks and falls running as well. On the way down the sun's heat was present but everyone was in good spirits. On the descent there was a pretty large Buck that ran out on the trail in front of the group and then down a chute. Incredible to see. Also heard a handful of rattles from the tall grasses in sections, but didn't see any snakes. Overall, it was a great first hike.