Wow, those first 8 miles up to San Gorgonio were pretty tough!!  After the 25 miles yesterday, this was not the simplest way to start another 25+, but in truth, other than being tiring, it was fine.  I started around 5:40 and made it up there by 9:00 which seemed like decent time.  I know some people get up there quite a bit quicker but I was happy after the deprivation from yesterday.  On the way up I took a little time to talk to others on the trail and heard a couple of fun stories.  I was shocked at how many people there were out there.  Some people had started before 4 am.  I suppose I should have known given what I had read about the trail's popularity.  I did love the hike, from several standpoints including the beautiful stream beds, ever expanding views and open space about the trees. It was all so pretty.

After summiting San Gorgonio I got my peace and quiet very quickly heading across the divide trail for Jepson and a bunch of other peaks I don't remember the names of on the way to San Bernardino Peak.  I only ran across a couple of parties (one a scout group where the leader's ability to get through the hike looked in serious doubt – the kids all looked fresh as can be).  The other was a solo hiker moving quick the opposite direction.  I enjoyed the quiet but did suffer some from fatigue.  In truth, I was glad when I got to San Bernardino and could start on the downhill.  By then a knee I had tweaked yesterday was at its climbing limit and needed some rest from stepping up over things.

Going down the 8 miles I was struck by two things.  How far 8 miles really is on trails, even if it is downhill, and how beautiful the trail was, especially in the meadows about mid way down.  I was really glad to have the opportunity to see those heading downhill where I could truly appreciate them.  It was a fantastic capper for the day.  Finished early enough to hike up to Big Falls with the family later in the afternoon before a nice dinner.