I was heading to Beacon Rock Trail but got sidetracked and went on this trail instead.  Great trail, fun spots where it takes a little more than just stepping up.  Amazing waterfall- loved the Pool of the Winds (see picture).  Summit was a big bust, in the shrubs with bugs, no view. If I were to do this again, I would stop short of the summit and take a side trail to one of the overlooks (there are many after the waterfalls).  The signage was pretty good on the trail but the ones that have the trails showing with the "you are here" star were so worn by people touching them it was impossible to figure out where you were.

Clear and clean. Except at the top. Someone had used the area for a restroom. Toilet paper and poop were laying in the trail.

Late morning on Memorial Day, both the upper and lower parking lots were full. Managed to snag a spot as someone was leaving. Great weather, great hike, great wildflowers. The peak itself was overgrown and underwhelming, but continuing onto the Saddle offered big views in all directions, plus way fewer bugs. Thanks to another recent trip review, chose to descend via Don’s Cutoff Trail- pleasantly graded with lush foliage. Then down Hardy Creek Trail back to the parking lot. 

The trail was in good condition.

Bugs were horrible towards and at the top of Hamilton.

The crowds were brutal as expected today but really thinned out towards the top. There are a few places going up that aren’t really dog friendly so elected to carry the dog in the backpack for a portion of the ascent.

Came down the equestrian, dons cutoff, and hardy creek trails. Highly recommend Dons cutoff trail as no one uses it (probably because that’s not included on the loop on the AllTrails map or the 100 WA classic hike route). There is clean and stocked privy on the dons cutoff route and the hiker trail tread is soft pine needles which was much preferred to the rocky service road of the equestrian trail. Will continue to use dons trail in all future hikes.

Arrived at the trailhead at 11am and there were a couple spots available.  Park Rangers were checking for Discover Passes.  This was one of the most bizarre weather days I've had on a trail, it started off sunny, then a rain storm, then sunny, then another rain storm then more sun.  It made it pretty magical and I was extra happy when the sun did come out.  The wildflowers were blooming and the views were beautiful.  Great day overall, got back to the lot around 3pm and there were a few spots available although the lot full sign was out.