No matter which way you hike this, it’s brutal! My legs are so sore! We went counterclockwise, so we started with a down hill then climbed up to the peak. Crossed a creek, but it was prior to rainy season so it was almost dry. Coming down the steepest trail was painful on the knees. This hike is literally just up and down! Tons of scat on the trail which made us nervous about 3:30-4pm in late fall when we were still on the trail! Saw nothing, luckily. But hiked with bear spray out. This was my last of the 6 peaks, I’m in pain but so happy that I did this! Saw some of the biggest manzanita trees I’ve ever seen! Would not do this hike again. The lark is lovely, but the elevation gain in such short mileage was painful! I may not be able to walk tomorrow!!!