This year we had only seven participants and we were trying to figure out the reason. When we've led this trip before it has always had a waiting list for the 15 spots on the permit. We decided that the reason was either the high cost of the tram ride (now $13.95) or the fact that the previous weekend had been Memorial Day. But those who did come had a great hike. After obtaining our wilderness permit, we were on our way. The day was perfect for a hike at this high altitude: the pines were fragrant and the sky was clear and blue. We took a short break at Round Valley and again at Wellman's Divide. Our next stop wasn't until we reached the top of San Jacinto for lunch. Afterwards we went cross country along the ridge to Folly and then traversed back around the slope of San Jacinto without having to do the peak again. We were back at the tram by 4:00PM for the ride down.
