So happy to have finally achieved this summit!  The experience was just as described in all the readings I found within the Social Hiker community, AllTrails, and Google. I went into it feeling very prepared.

I live on the far north side Phoenix but it only took about 1:30:00 to get down to the trail. Departed house around 0430 and stepped on to the trail at about 0610. Round trip it took me 2:55:00. The weather was a perfect 60-70 degrees so going first thing in the morning was a great idea! Though I almost didn’t drag myself out of bed this morning 🙂 The trail itself is well marked, so well I was actually impressed. I read so much in advance because I was concerned about wandering off, but I’ve now come to realized all the details I read were great… just caused me to overthink. The hike is definitely strenuous. Quite the elevation gain over a short distance. Having gloves (per recommendation) made the cable portions more manageable.

I definitely recommend the hike to any advanced hiker, a moderate hiker ready to take on the next challenge, and a healthy/fit novice hiker that has an experienced hiking companion along side. Stunning views the entire hike! Use caution and remember 3 points of contact (truth be told there were times I may have had 5, booty dragging and crab walking). Have fun, be safe, and enjoy the view.