I chose this hike because it sounded like Mt Wilson tends to be pretty crowded and is about twice the distance. This hike definitely earns its “hard” designation from all trails but it’s worth it. I started at about 4 in the afternoon, which worked great because this trail is shaded for approximately 90% of the trial. True to form there were very few people and parking was plentiful. It may have been because it was a holiday but was worth it. It took me a little over 3 hours to reach the peak. The last mile really makes you work and I definitely felt the thin air but knowing there’s less than a mile to go is definitely motivating. There was a 30 degree difference between the parking lot and the summit. I was glad I brought a flannel and a wind breaker. The peak is breath taking with 360 degree views and the American flag at the top made the 4th of July hike even better! It may have been the tiredness and lack of oxygen but pausing at Wally Waldron’s pine that is estimated at 1500 years old will definitely give you some existential thoughts. Overall this hike is great. It took me a little over an hour to get down and I got to watch the sunset through the trees the whole way down. This hike is well worth it!