Is it really worth it to drive 4 hours and bust your butt hiking up Dog Mountain? YES, ONE HUNDRED PERCENT YES.
PARKING
I arrived at noon on Wednesday to find the parking lot full but thankfully early hikers were starting to return to their cars and it didn't take long before a spot became available. Time your arrival to take advantage of this and go on a weekday to avoid the throngs of people. Don't forget your parking permits or bring $5 cash (no coins) for the paid parking at the trail head.
GEAR
There is an abundance of poison oak along the trail so wear pants to minimize your exposure. Some parts of the trail are quite steep and I did meet other hikers who fell. While plenty of people can do this hike without trekking poles, you may wish you had them when you start coming down the steep parts. If it's rained recently, those steep sections of the trail can be very slick and further increase your chance of an injury. I recommend packing your poles if you have them.
PACE YOURSELF
The struggle is real. Everyone who tells you it is a hard hike is correct; you will feel the burn in your bum and your lungs soon after hitting the trail. It's not just you. So take your time and learn to rest, not to give up. You will make it to the top and you will have zero regrets when you do.
AT THE TOP
Bring a jacket because the weather can change quickly. It was sunny when I started, rained on the way up, was sunny when I arrived at the meadow and then rained again when I left. The wind was also blowing and several people said they felt cold. Think of it this way: if you bring a jacket, you can enjoy the view a little longer.
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