This hike was tough for me but it was also just so beautiful.  I've been training to hike Mt. Whitney this year and have been using some of the peaks in the challenge as tests of my progress. This has to be my favorite peak hike so far. There is so much to see and enjoy as you go up this trail, including a spooky old mine! I got a much later start than I wanted and really had to boogey to make it to the top and back before it got too dark. I always take a headlamp with me but there are sections of this trail I would not what to try and navigate without full sunlight. I really pushed my limits on this hike trying to keep a decent pace without breaking into an unstoppable pool of sweat (something I just tend to do). I figure the temps on Whitney won't do be any favors if I'm drenched. The temps on Cucamonga varied wildly and it was super windy and cold at the top. I usually hike solo and during this hike I was reminded why I love the outdoor community so much. I ran into a few other solo hikers and not only did they give me a head's up about trail and weather conditions further up, we also just talked about what a lovely hike this is. It was just a nice value added moment that I got to share with some fellow hikers. I hope to do this hike several more times in the future because I really feel in love with this trail.