16.53 miles. 5692 elevation gain. 5:44mins.
Parked at Lizzies Trail Inn Museum which is in a residential neighborhood. Started at 7am. Still fairly cool. The little park has a toilet and water fountain.
Used poles the whole way. Wore a Nathan running vest. Ran into several people coming down but very few going up.
By 1/2 way up, it was clear it was going to get hot. Near the top, I was very happy to have poles since there were a few sketchy areas.
Once at the top, I noodled around for 45mins. So much to check out: Bathrooms with cold water, drinking fountain, Solar Telescope, Museum, main Telescope viewing room, Chara Array Visitor Center, endless views!
I did look around for an official “MT WILSON” sign to hold up to get a pic but did not see one anywhere.
Cafe is closed.
On the way down, I tried to run as much as possible.
I did decide to take a side trip to Jones Peak. I took a right hand turn UP Switchback Attack!, hit Jones Peak, then descended Bastard Ridge. Just like the name says, it was a bastard! I do not recommend. It was very slippery, washed out, and downright steep. I slid on my butt for a few yards here and there. And it got very hot.
Once I joined up with main Mt. Wilson Trail, I cruised down to the bottom. I used my neck gaiter and tshirt to rinse and cool off using the water fountain.
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