Last year, we were starting to prepare for the long JMT section hike planned for July. Our first training hike with our backpacks were summitting Mt.Diablo from Mitchell Canyon visitor center. This is the AllTrails map for the hike. This is a hard hike without a backpack and was a good shock to the system with a pack on. Here is my Strava activity of the hike.

https://www.strava.com/activities/4632962944

Right from the start, the trail ascends quite rapidly.

This hike has everything. Steep climbs, rocky terrain, stunning vistas, and finally, exposure. Even in Bay Area winter, we felt the heat towards the summit of Mt. Diablo.

Recommended if you are a tough hiker and a must to do if you are going to attempt something like the JMT.