We arrived at the main parking lot a few minutes before 0800. It was already filling up and we got one of the last few spots. My girlfriend, my dog, and I, started up the trail beginning at Rattlesnake Lake. We only passed a few people coming down the mountain at that time in the morning. Some people hiking at a faster pace passed us and we passed a few slow-moving groups. For the most part, everyone was courteous. The trail was in excellent condition all the way up and even though the trail is only 2 miles (one way), it has a decent incline the entire way up. Rattlesnake Ledge was already crowded when we arrived. On the way down, we passed many more hikers on their way up, some in groups of more than 10. Everyone was respectful, but it was clear that many of them were not regular hikers and appeared unprepared for the steep trail. The parking lots were full when we got back to our car and people had started parking along the road with the main gate.
If you're considering hiking to Rattlesnake Ledge on a weekend, make sure to arrive early as possible and prepare for the fairly step incline. When you get to the top, please be safe on the rocks along the cliff! The view is awesome, but don't put yourself at risk by standing too close to the edge!
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