We stared just when the sun was rising so the weather and views were perfect. I honestly thought that it was going to be much colder but it was surprisingly pleasant at 6am. There was 7 of us and none of us have ever done this trail. We mainly just wanted to avoid the crowds and parking at Chantey Flat. I’ve never done the loop at Chantry but I heard it was shorter and less challenging. Of course I always want to push myself so that’s how we really ended up taking this route.

This peak may be the lowest of the 6POP but the elevation gain on this trail was such a butt kicker! From the trail head it was just an immediate gradual climb to the summit, no breaks. It just went up and up and up. Luckily we started early because by around 10am is was stating to get really hot. Which surprised all of us because it felt like a summer hike. So that was another challenge added to the mix, especially when we were descending.

The trail conditions were pretty good, except for a few mudslides from last weeks storm. One section of the trail got really narrow because of a mudslide and one of our group members almost slipped down the side of the trail. I’d say the trail is half shaded and half exposed. Of course hiking with a group always makes it more exciting and fun. We helped each other, inspired each other, pushed each other, and we finished together. We started excited and finished excited. I’d definitely take this route again.

Two thumbs up from me ????.