September 11 Skyline

[Hikin_Jim]

Is there some reason more people are encouraged to try the trail when it's too hot out and/or when they are not in shape to do it?

In a word: notoriety. The more well known Skyline becomes, the more people are going to try it. Why are there so many more summits of San Gorgonio than any of the surrounding peaks? Because San G is the biggest. Why is Mt. Whitney so inordinately popular? Because Whitney's the biggest. Skyline is the biggest, baddest hike in So Cal and that fact alone attracts people.

HJ

[Florian]

Is there some reason more people are encouraged to try the trail when it's too hot out and/or when they are not in shape to do it?

As the population grows there are just more people looking for things to do. Also i think more extreme types of outdoor activities are becoming popular with people. And the trail is quite well know now being mentioned in various guidebooks, blogs, meetup sites, etc. When i first started hiking the trail in the 70s it was rare for me to ever see anyone on the trail or to even see footprints.

-Florian