Rattlesnake Ledge, East Peak — Friday, Aug. 1, 2025

First day of Hikeathon!! This was our chosen hike since last year all we got was the no view viewpoints and it was raining. This was a new hike for me and I know it is very popular, but at least I did it once. Go to the 2nd and 3rd ledges, we saw no one there. There is some Indian Pipe between the first and 2nd ledges and some just after the 3rd ledge on the way up to East Peak. East Peak was a bit of a let down, chugged up that wooded trail in granny gear only to be rewarded by...a radio tower and a tiny view. At least we had a nice bench to sit on for lunch. The trail is in great shape tho and we had it almost to ourselves once we passed the first ledge. Unless you want to hike just to hike, I recommend stopping at the 3rd ledge. The worst part was coming down from the first ledge on the hard stony trail that was crowded. Considering how close this is to major metropolitan areas, of course it was going to be crowded. It was fun, but I wouldn't do it again. You can help raise money for WTA by donating to my (or Diana's) hikeathon. give.wta.org/muledeer2025 or if that doesn't work, give.wta.org/6438240   Thanks !