As to the old trail that starts up from the top of the day use area, if you have trouble finding it, you may have trouble staying on it.
If you have trouble finding it, look for the giant boulder - the trail is slightly to the left of it. Once you find it, however, it's quite easy to follow. On the way back, watch for the wooden sign marking the Wilderness Boundary - the old trail is slightly downhill from that sign (the lettering on the sign is visible on the uphill climb).
Am not certain how much time this shortcut actually saves, however, as you have to tend to your footing, especially on the descent. But, it
feels faster, perhaps because you
are watching your footing, and this may make the time seem to pass quicker!
