Great hike and definitely a bit challenging. My brother and I chose to warm up to the first 1/4 of a mile with a steady walking pace then actually trail ran the remainder of the ascent which was grueling but satisfying. This ascent almost involves mini switchbacks with plenty of cacti to avoid-be careful here. The views are spectacular, panoramic and at times breathtaking! We stopped multiple times on the descent to snap a few pics and take in the views. Took us a total of 1.5 hours for the round trip but that was with a moderate trail run to the top.
Finally, we went on a Tuesday afternoon in January which was perfect. Plenty of parking and few hikers.