First summit of 2018, and a return to a familiar spot I haven't climbed in years. Saussie and I hit the trail a little after 7:00 AM. Perfect day for the hike, with the sun topping out over the ridge after we had crossed the creek and headed into the trees. Usual slog from creek to the base of the peak, and I was surprised at how little snow there was on the trail. Not too busy on top. Returned to the car a little after 1:00 PM feeling about as old as I ever have coming off a mountain. Back and hip were killing me and knees felt like jelly. Striking it up to the fact that it was a challenging start to the year.