Camp Muir — Friday, Aug. 25, 2017

Parked at Paradise parking lot at 6:40 am. Just a handful of cars there. It was 34 degrees out since the sun was still rising. Visitor center w/bathrooms was closed at that time but bathrooms by the lodge were open. Started at the stairs and went straight on the Skyline Trail. Continued to follow the signs and Trail to Camp Muir. (No one else was out on the Trail at this time.) Wildflowers were in full bloom and beautiful. Got to Pebble Creek where the Skyline Trail ends. Crossed the creek and hiked along a small rocky ridge to the snow fields. Used trekking poles at this point for the duration of the climb. Did not bring microspikes upon recommendation but should have. It would have made the hike just a little easier and faster. Followed boot tracks up the snow field. You basically climb straight up for two miles. Got lucky with a beautiful sunny day. Pealed off the layers as we continued to climb and as the day got warmer. Views were amazing at any given point and time. Made it to Muir in 4:20. We took our time from the start and made sure to keep our heart rate down. Ate lunch at Muir and watched climbers come back from the summit and groups coming up to summit. There are bathrooms (composting toilets) there to use. I was also able to get cell service. Tried to glissade down as much as possible. It's the quickest, easiest, and funnest way down. I did hear some rumble on the way down. Looked back and watched a huge rock slide. Once we got back to the Skyline Trail it was very busy. Overall it was a terrific hike! Recommend: Layers, sunglasses, sunscreen, poles, microspikes, and plenty of water.