ABsolutely beautiful hike.  Diversity in terrain from lush/stream/wetland up through groves of conifers up into high alpine.  Really good work out moving fast.  Summit views beautiful – looking over to Lassen and Shasta beyond.  Was about 2/3 down about to cross the stream and looked up to see a mama bear staring me dead in the eye.  She was maybe 50 yards away but that didnt feel nearly far enough.  After I froze she turned and started walking the other way….and then one cub two cub emerge.  I have seen plenty of bears but not in their native habitat with no other human anywhere arround.  It was majestic, exhilrating and scary at the same time.  SO COOL!  Loved this hike!!!!!