We woke up at 3:00am and drove from Reno to the trailhead, arriving at 6:44 just as the sun was beginning to light the skies. As we climbed to the ridge overlooking Fallen Leaf Lake, the sunrise colored the lake and the mountains behind us. It was breathtaking! I admit we stopped a lot to enjoy the views and snap pics. Then the serious uphill began. Thankfully, we had a nice breeze and cool early morning temps as we climbed to the summit. Views at the top were spectacular as expected. The views make every step worth it! The descent, on the other hand, made me rethink everything. It’s rocky and unstable almost all the way down—killer on the knees, ankles and toes. A quick dip in Cathedral Lake and we were back on our way down. We arrived at the trailhead tired and happy, talking about doing it again next year. Besides the rocky descent, the crowds were the only other downside. Though hikers are pleasant enough, it is exhausting to constantly move aside for hikers ascending and descending while passing others along the way. Just expect it. This is a beautiful hike and everyone wants to enjoy it.