Columbus Day hike of the Marion Mountain Trail

[Vnthali]

I've been wanting to hike to the summit of San Jacinto via the Marion Mountain trail since reading about it for the first time almost two years ago. Yesterday, my hiking partner and I finally got the chance to tackle this trail in person. After reading about this trail on numerous hiking websites, I was concerned about whether or not I'd be able to successfully tackle whatis described as a very difficult trail. I live at sea level an don't get to hike at altitude nearly as often as I'd like. I do, however, try to tailor my regular physical training to compliment my hiking as much as possible.
We started from the trailhead at 0836 and began the steady climb up to Deer Springs. Our plan was to take short breaks of five minutes or less as needed. There are several points along the way that offer some really great views. On our way to Deer Springs we stopped twice to take pictures. By the time we hit the 10k countour line I was feeling the effects of altitude in the form of a dull pounding sensation on both sides of my head. I had been consuming fluids the whole way up, but began to be concerned that I wasn't drinking enough. Other than the headache, I felt pretty good. At 1240 we topped out on the summit in just over 4 hours. I attribute our success to sticking to our plan to take very short breaks.
We stayed at the summit for about an hour. My headache started to subside with the help of some motrin and fluid intake. We ate a hot lunch; We took the obligatory summit photos; I changed my socks, and we started our way down to the trailhead. We kept a really good pace on the way down. This was mostly to reduce the amount of time I'd have to deal with sore knees and an irritated left achilles. 2 hours and 51 minutes later we were standing on pavement in the Marion Mountain campground. We walked back to our car and drove to Hemet for the obligatory #2 off the McDonalds menu.

[Hikin_Jim]

Based on your times, I'd say you did pretty ding dang good!

HJ

(#2 at McDonalds? And it's obligatory? Dang, I've been missing out)

[Vnthali]

Jim, here on the board the McDonalds #2 has received less than stellar reviews as a post-hike meal. However, what it lacks in class, imagination, and presentation, it more than makes up for in its ability to provide consistant gratification.

[Andy]

it more than makes up for in its ability to provide consistant gratification.

I'll second that!

[Hikin_Jim]

Three cheers for gratification!

I'm more of a root beer float at the A&W in Mentone kind of guy, but I know exactly what you're talking about.

HJ

[Vnthali]

Jim, ice cold root beer is definitely up there on the gratification scale.

[MWD]

As for post-hike gratification, as a former resident of Chicago, I strongly, strongly recommend Portillo's in Moreno Valley. Order an Italian Beef sandwich with hot peppers, small fries and a chocolate cake shake. AMAZING...