A humbling experience.
I am an avid hiker, I can hike 2 hours in my sleep for sure, but this had a degree of difficulty I wasn't expecting. I had just watched a YouTube video of a Mom with a tot in a backpack carrier using a walking stick to climb to the top. This young lady did not have an athletic body type either. I thought, if she can make it...So can I.
Well, it took me 80 minutes and some determination to get to the top. I almost turned back.
The view is worth it. There is quite a party atmosphere at the top. The other hikers are totally friendly and helpful. They will take pics for you and share water with strangers who didn't bring enough.
45 minutes to get back down. It's tricky at times. Sheer and slippery in places. You must step lively and share the narrow trail.
Bring 2 lites of water. Wear stretchy clothing. Wear a hat. I HATE wearing? hats, but it really is necessary. Go before the high heat if the day. I left at 8:30am. It was getting too hot to touch the rocks by 10:30. There is some scrambling involved.
A park ranger ensures you don't park or drop off on site. Park on 64th and walk in about 10 minutes to the trail head.
There are zero bathrooms or facilities, so plan accordingly.
I'm glad I did it, but I probably won't do it again.
Today, I saw children as young as 7 climbing to the top. Many senior citizens and one visibly pregnant woman as well. There were also many adults turning back.
It's free!