What an adventure! Many experiences I did not expect. It started with the drive up the mountain in the dark. The numerous forecast sites I checked last night said it would be clear skies, sunny by noon, and no snow with a low of 27 degrees F! Well, The drive to the trailhead parking lot was nonstop driving rain and patches of very heavy fog. Vehicle chains are highly recommended. I was the only vehicle in the parking lot. I sat in my car, contemplating whether or not I even wanted to attempt a hike while it was actively snowing. After waiting a bit to see if conditions improved (they did not), I decided I had to try so the 2 1/2 hour drive wasn't a waste. I told myself that if I lost the trail in the snow, I would just turn around. Not worth risking danger or my life. I wore Hoka One One Speedgoat 4s, Injinji toe socks, Hanes crew socks, leg gaiters, Kahtoola Microspikes, long underwear, 5.11 cargo pants, a long sleeve dry fit shirt, sweatshirt, windbreaker, gloves, a neck gaiter, and a beanie. I know that seems like overkill, but it felt perfect. The trail to Mt. Pinos was well compacted. Tracks from maintenance vehicles for the observation tower were visible. At Mt. Pinos, the trail split left (observation tower), and right (continuing trail). At this point, the trail became tougher and more demanding as the snow was only lightly compacted. The hill down the backside of Mt. Pinos was steep, and I knew coming back would not be fun. I pushed on, making it to Sawmill Mountain. The trail of footprints was clear and visible at all times. Several times I had to stop and look for it, but it was there. I never got lost, and AllTrails was clutch! The wind at Sawmill was howling pretty good (estimated at 25mph). I took shelter behind the monument to scarf down lunch. Then I did it all in reverse. The goal was the 3-2-1 Challenge, but the cold zapped my phone battery and I didn't want it to die on trail. I left my battery pack at home…UGH! The climb back to Mt. Pinos was brutal due to fatigue and incline. But once I got there, it was an easy fast walk back to the car. Despite not expecting the weather conditions, I enjoyed the cold, snow, and increased challenge! I'm glad I went for ti!