It hadn’t rained in California for 2-3 days so we were not expecting multiple water crossings, especially larger ones. From parking lot to trailhead it is approximately 3 miles so you need to plan accordingly as this is not an 8 mile hike, closer to 13. Definitely need to hike with a group as some of the water crossings were challenging with fast moving water. Due to rain damage the trail is not clearly marked just remember when hiking to the peak “to the left, to the left, to the left” and you should stay on track. I wouldn’t recommend scrambling to the top as again rain damage, take the longer route on the access road with beautiful views of the Channel Islands.