El Cajon Mountain trail

This lived up to its reputation as the hardest hike in San Diego county as well as the description of being uphill in both directions. Very glad Jim Mills and I did this hike on a 70° day and nothing warmer. This is my second favorite hike among the six peak challenge. (Corte Madre being the most scenic) The rock formations all along the trail are spectacular. Sweeping views from many different viewpoints along the trail and of course at the top. I did do the diversion up to the top of El Capitan which is an easy detour. Same as the caves on the way down. Just a steep hill to get there but it's short and they're cool to see even though they don't really go anywhere. I can't recommend strongly enough that you bring more water than you think you will need. I would pack a couple of bottles of Gatorade or mix in some liquid IV as well.