Mt. San Antonio aka Mt. Baldy

Cappie’s Scoop: The first time I climbed this beast, I threw up my treats. So furiends, make sure you don’t eat too much on the way up to the peak! The second time, I did much better and made sure to have my victory treats at the 10,064 ft peak. There are only a few spots of shade on this trail so it’s better to go when it’s cooler so you can enjoy the warm sun on your face. When I reached what mom called the devil’s backbone, it was a bit scary because I already get nervous on bridges and it looked like a bridge in some spots. But mom said I could do it, we went very slow and I made it! The views are great on this hike because I can see above the trees! Plus at the peak, there are a lot of spots to sit and eat my treats. I liked that part a lot. Don’t hesitate to add YOUR scoop in the comments below!

Tips: If you have time and energy, there is another peak you can bag on your way to Mt. Baldy called Mt. Harwood. Check the weather at the peak before you go in case there is snow in the forecast.

Directions: Trailhead coordinates bring you to the Mt. Baldy ski lift parking lot. The lot has three levels (lower, mid, and upper). Park at the upper level at the far end of the road. You can pick up the trail/fire road in that spot and at the first intersection, make a left towards the ski lift and then ultimately head towards the restaurant. This route connects with the Devil’s Backbone trail to the peak and you can return the same way you came.

Mountain Forecast

Mileage (round trip) 10.2
Difficulty Strenuous
Gain (in feet) 3900
Trailhead 34.269449, -117.624532
Hike Time (in hours) 7-8
Exposure Mostly Sunny
Scenery Mountain Views, Forest, Panoramic Views
Facilities None at the trailhead. Top of the Notch restaurant has restrooms and water.
Fees/Permits California Adventure Pass or Interagency Annual Pass/America the Beautiful Pass (National Parks Pass).
More Info https://sixpackofpeaks.com/socal; https://socalhiker.net/a-six-pack-of-peaks
Last Hiked 5/20/2018, 6/1/2019, 6/7/2020

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *