Started the trail just before 8:30am. Beautiful views over Los Padres National Forest. Nice fields of wildflowers on the approach to Mt. Pinos. The turn-off to the summit for Sawmill Mountain is easy to miss, so keep an eye out. The trail is faint towards Grouse. Saw lots of cute little lodgepole chipmunks on the trail as well as a coyote on the drive to the trailhead. The distance and elevation gain aren't too crazy, but the starting elevation (around 8000 ft) is what makes this one difficult, especially for those of us who live close to sea level. Be prepared with lots of water and take it slow. Know the signs of altitude sickness.

Note: there were no bathrooms at the trailhead.