Distance
5.3 mi to summit
9.1 mi total
Elevation
4,395 ft start
Vertical
2,877 ft gain
Time
4 hr 25 min to summit
6 hr 14 min total
Russell -> Backus traverse. I'd recommend doing the ridge the other way. The climb up to Backus is over better ground; Russell has a lot of loose sand/scree sidehilling. Contrary to HPS guide, there is a well-ducked solid use trail the whole length of the ridge. Expect 1.5-2 hours to traverse, not the 3 hours they suggest. Backus has an awesome view of the Indian Wells Valley / Ridgecrest area.