Early start of 6:30am to avoid the heat and we succeeded for the most part.  Cool morning breezes the majority of the way up.  We did encounter a few of those aggressive yellow jackets as mentioned by someone on All Trails.  One of our friends was stung twice.  Looks like it’s somewhere between mile 2-3 and the swarm is hidden under a giant boulder on the ground.  Otherwise no real obstacles, just the normal rocky terrain.  Seems like a lot more rocks than last time I did this hike.

A bit of a slug as always coming down – relentless rocks.  We had the peak to ourselves and took time to enjoy some food and savor the accomplishment.  Clear day allowed for some great views.

Worth doing despite the rocky terrain.  Saw maybe 10 people all day – most stayed at the saddle and didn’t continue to the peak.