I was excited to finally make it back down to SoCal for this hike (I’m in the Bay). I flew into OC airport for the day, rented a car, and drove out to the trail. Like others had said on AllTrails, the parking lot and bathrooms were closed, so I parked on the street. I was there on a Wednesday, but others had said this was the case even on a Saturday.

It was a very hot day with the high showing 90 F (though I don’t think it was quite that hot thankfully) and minimal clouds. I brought extra water with me and was glad I did. Parts of the trail have partial shade, but overall it’s a pretty sunny trail. It’s been a while since I’ve hiked in such hot weather, but it was still a really nice day. There was a nice cool breeze from the coast (which was totally socked in with clouds off in the distance) at the peak, so I spent some extra time there sittin’ on Sitton Peak’s rocks and enjoying the views. I could also see some snowy mountains out east.

Overall, this was a fun hike. Most of it is gradual, except for a steep section up to the peak that’s maybe ~0.3 miles each way or so. It was slippery on the way down and I did use my poles to steady myself, so I do recommend that (mine fold up, so I just took them out for that part). Also I did see a rattlesnake out on the trail, so watch out for them as they are out and about with the weather warming! It thankfully saw me first and moved off the trail quickly.