The hike to Mount Sizer was definitely an experience. The “Short Cut” was indeed intense. Poverty Flat was probably the least excruciating of the trails. When I first looked up the reviews on the trail loop many people suggested to bring walking poles. I thought to myself I don't need those, I've hiked the trails throughout Henry Coe multiple times (except this loop). I was wrong. Dead wrong. Bring those poles! They are definite knee savers for sure. I went with GWH and although we were all experiencing pain one way or another, we had an awesome time. In all, we took about 8 1/2 hrs to complete the hike with about an hours worth of stops and a lunch. There were only a hand full of people on the same trail as us. The skies were clear, the sun was out, and there was a great breeze to combat our excessive (my) sweatiness. One thing I did find particularly odd was that there were really no animals in sight. I've seen plenty of deer, turkey, and even a mountain lion (from afar) traveling through these trails. The only animal life we encountered was a snake and quaiI. I recommend bringing 4 liters of water for sure since there really isn't anywhere to fill up on the trails, except at Frog Lake if you have a water purifier. Don't worry there's a restroom once you get to the intersection of Poverty Flat and China Hole. Also don't expect to find any water running through China Hole. There's none. Just don't forget to bring those poles!