This day was super hot and kind of miserable. There’s not a ton of shade on this hike, but much of what was there before us now gone due to the wildfires. Manzanita Flat was so lush and green the last time we were here, but now it is desolate and bleak. Hopefully the foliage can recover from the fire and begin to thrive again.

There was a HUGE group of about 30 people hiking together this day. It was a little frustrating to work around- made it difficult to get into a groove and set a good pace. We eventually just took a long break to give space between us and the large group. It also allowed us to summit as they were coming down, although it was still quite crowded at the top.

We did have to climb over a large snow bank right at the very top, but it was beautiful and clear otherwise.