Mt Diablo Summit via Mitchell Canyon Rd & Back Creek Trail

This was a solo hike I took Sunday, 10 March 2013. Two weeks ago a buddy mentioned this loop to me. He said it was a super hard hike...so I was immediately intrigued. I looked it up, and "Sho Nuff," it was categorized as a very strenuous hike - one of the hardest (if not THE hardest) in the San Francisco Bay Area. An approximate 12.5-mile loop of monster inclines and declines. So I mapped everything out, set a date, and loaded a 35-pound pack. (Quite a bit different than going bare-back). After conquering this lil beast, I can look back and say it was a solid "heavy-moderate/light-strenuous climb". Be fit, do it during the cooler season, and bring plenty of water and Cliff Bars. It was an enjoyable hike. It will let you know where you stand with your cardio, and remind you to work on your rhythm going uphill for miles and miles with a backpack. I sprouted 3 new hairs on my chest. The views were spectacular. And if you forget to bring your camera...umm...DUMMY! Excellent hike. I enjoyed it. Next longer hike will be a 2 (or three) day hike of the "Mississippi Lake Trail" at the Henry W. Coe State Park. Looks like a strenuous 27-miler. smiles