9200 feet? That's getting close to two miles of elevation. The base is probably at 4000 ft. Nope, just hiked up an elevation of 2800 ft. up and then back down. The road took care of much of of the mountain's elevation challenges.
DF as a young woman used to climb sans pack the entire distance from that orchard, that I pointed out, to the top of Miller Peak, registering no problem and even under full moon light!
The trail is over grown down below. We, or just I, may spend some time this summer hanging out, trimming, and enjoying the place. There is supposed to be some flat area where a mine used to be and pretty dependable water. Maybe while there, a day hike up to the top. Three days to a week in the area. I've still got retirement adjustments to go. But then again, I deserve a break.
Desertification during the summer peak? Nah, there is often drought and excessive heat until the beginning of July and fire danger. Monsoon moister often gets there in mid-june. There is always ground cover, but the blooms were phenomenal after the monsoon season. There is ground cover, but probably less tall and thick. The mountains get frequent rain up that high, sky islands and no desert.
Jbee
