4.5 mi to summit
9.2 mi total
7,746 ft start
2,636 ft gain
2 hr 41 min to summit
4 hr 45 min total
Just one more big mountain before leaving town. Perfect weather conditions at the start of the hike. By the time I reached the top I was surrounded by thunder clouds. I took a picture of the lookout tower and then sat next to it. In just a moment later I heard a loud rumble in the sky right behind my shoulder. I didn’t want to be next to that metal lookout tower when the lightning started. So my stay at the summit lasted only about a minute as I fled the scene. I only witnessed one lightning bolt on the way down, but what stole the show was the hail storm that dumped on me for at least 15 minutes. I found a tree to hide under, which was difficult due to the fire damage along the trail. Just a little bit of excitement for the day. I did appreciate all the new undergrowth that has sprouted and is filling the burn areas. Very scenic with all the greenery.