I am a twice a year Skyline hiker. My last two times were 5 hrs (spring and last fall) with no to little shortcuts. Today I just followed some mountain bike tracks and someone's Vibrams all the way to the top. They must have knew many of the shortcuts because I saw lots of new territory. With shortcuts, shaved 10 minutes off my time but definitely felt it above flatrock. Haven't decided if the shortcuts were worth the extra agony.
Saw a group of 5 before the picnic tables and I thank the family that gave me a ride back to museum. BUT MOST IMORTANTLY I am glad to finally know where the Enchanted Garden and Neverending Ridge begins. Along with many of the other landmarks I hear spoken of.
Dan