Came here to escape the heat. And while it was 15-20 degrees cooler than the city, you'll feel just as hot once you start that incline and aren't shaded! This one is a great workout. I was annoyed at how many "breathers" I had to take for such a short trip, but will return for the workout. If you're in fantastic shape, my post might be laughable. Great views once you reach the junction with north loop. Went 0.5 miles further to the cave springs. Sat on a rock to enjoy the little trickle and some snacks, smelled poop, and realized a camper had pooped, put toilet paper on top of it, and placed a rock that didn't completely cover it on it. (You can tell ppl like to camp here). At least bury your freaking poop so visitors don't have to gag when they rest on a nice large rock only to smell your napkin covered feces chillen' next to them.
Sry, I digress. The descent was kind of annoying as I felt like I was constantly trying not to slip. Either way, I'll be back! Oh, and not a whole lot of tagging and litter (except for poop) like some of the more popular hikes (Mary Jane Falls) so that was nice!