devil's backbone mt baldy devil's backbone mt baldy

Occasionally, you have to climb up big boulders with no margin of errors. This hike is all about the psychological. After spotting Mt. However, the real challenging part of the Devils Backbone is not on the Devils Backbone Trail per se, which dodges the most difficult and the most perilous area of the Devils Backbone Ridge. HOW DO I PARTICIPATE WITH THE GROUP ON THIS HIKE? There are a number of ways to approach Mount Baldy. Bone-in Wings. 3.3 miles: Turn around when reaching West Baldy. The feeling of accomplishment is like none other! Baldy (via Devil's Backbone) not only takes you to the top of Mt. From here, this is the steepest part of the route in which you gain about 800 feet in a quarter of a mile. Some hikers choose to go this route in order to find a WWII fighter plane that had crashed in the mountains after getting lost in the fog during a training mission back in he day. It was the narrow curvy edges that were most scary. Approx 14 miles. Walking out onto this rock will really give you "butterflies" because it's about a 2,000 foot drop to Stockton Flats below - quite a view! The trail begins on a fire road. You can do it! Food and Water: Each of us brought 150 ounces of water, a bottle of Gatorade, lunch, energy snacks, 2 oranges. Dan's Mt. Sierra Club Ski Hut Trek Highlights. Via Ski Hut, return Backbone; Hike 7-22-07; 100 photos on my Flickr. -Mike. Cheddar Poppers. --Douglas Adams, Images Make sure you pack an extra water or tablets of electrolytes. Turn left on Baseline Road. Start: Devils Backbone Trail connects Baldy Notch with the peak, and is 2.8 miles long with 2,269 of elevation gain. We went through the Devils Backbone and the pictures that are shown online is not the scary part! Do share! I recommend the San Antonio Ski Hut Trail, which has a sign along the way down that says Baldy Bowl Trail, for a descent route. Coming from the Register Ridge Trail you can go to the right and head down the D.BBone to the ski lodge then back to Manker Flats. This is the ridge that you will follow all the way up and is the SE Ridge, called Register Ridge, that goes up toward the summit of Mt. MEETING LOCATION: Burger King (Parking Lot) (76), Climber's Log Entries 2.8 miles: The trail reaches the summit. So many nicknames for one mountain, I know! How far is the devils backbone trail from manker flat and whats the elevation gain, Hi everyone, I wanted to share my more extensive experience hiking the Baldy Notch -> Devils slide as an out-and-back, including what I learned, what I wish I knew before, and how to prepare for the best experience on the mountain Check it out, here: https://metropolitanmolly.com/2021/06/14/hiking-mount-baldy-how-to-successfully-conquer-the-tallest-mountain-in-the-angeles-national-forest-summer-edition/, Your email address will not be published. Hello there Will. Make a left at Falls Road. Distance: 6.6 miles (out and back) REAL TRAIL NAME: Mt Baldy Summit from The Notch via Devils Backbone Trail, MEETING TIME: 7:00am -7:20am (Please be there on time), MEETING LOCATION: You will see the top of Mt Baldy directly front of you. The Baldy Bowl Ski Hut Trail is definitely a more strenuous uphill workout than Devil's Backbone, so choose this route if you're looking for a good leg workout! All of a sudden, you can see Baldy Notch. mdostby. The trail to the summit begins at Manker Flats trailhead and we take the winding fire road up to Baldy Notch at which we will take a break. Baldy, and West Baldy along the same razor sharp ridge. Find out more about hiking levels here: In 7.2 miles, go past Mt. As you descend to the east, the route splinters into several steep use trails. This is Baldy Notch. Baldy Road and find parking on the side of the street above Manker Flat campground. Peak Elevation: 10,064 Via Ski Hut HOW DO I PARTICIPATE WITH THE GROUP ON THIS HIKE? Your email address will not be published. Harwood, Mt. 76. From the Notch, you can cheat and take the ski lift down. My 666th review fittingly goes to. PARKING PERMIT (REQUIRED): Adventure Pass: $5 Day, or $30 annual. Required fields are marked *, Notice: It seems you have Javascript disabled in your Browser. Poway, CA, Hike it! Make a right on Padua Avenue and continue for 1.8 miles. There is no serious danger during the day in the summer, but the trail could be difficult at night or in snow. The Devils Backbone connects Mt. As the summit of San Antonio draws closer, the geography turns from sparse vegetation and greenery to the starkness of small rocks, gravel and what the surface of the moon must look like. In addition, as Level 9experienced hikers, you must already have a good idea what to pack for these more challenging hikes. However, the fear turns to exhilaration mixed with vast shots of adrenaline, not too mention for me a spiritual awakening! HIKE PREREQUISITE: Must have completed a LATH hike Level 7+ and up with no problem. More. Baldy Road and drive for 11.5 miles past Mt. If you do this climb after all of the snow has melted, bring plenty of water, since there are no water sources until you get down to the SA Ski Hut, where there is a small run-off stream. Turn right to stay on Mt. Trailhead, September 2012. I hiked Mt. Anytime you are reading about something called the Devils Backbone and its drop offs on either side of the trail at 9000 plus feet, its time to stop researching, I decided to stop researching! From the trail-head start to this point we covered the 3.6 miles in two hours with an elevation gain of 2000 ft. From Baldy Notch you get a very clear, vivid and quite frankly intimidating view of your destination, the ridge line of the Devils Backbone and off in the distance the summit of Mt. [] 10,064 foot summit and in the end, we concluded that ascending via Baldy Bowl and descending along The Devils Backbone, making for an 11.3 mile hike, was the best route we stand by this decision (Great post []. In reality, it is probably better to do this hike without your dog. Pretty much snow all the way up beyond the ski-hut, recommend crampons/microspikes and an early start when the pack is somewhat firm. As far as creature comforts at Manker Flats, there are flush toilets, running water, no showers. This hike is the easiest way up to Mt Baldy, however remembers it starts and stays in high elevation, so some people may experience altitude sickness. 1. However, as our Sierra Club friend pointed out, a few of these hikers got lost due to the snow covering the trail and have died due to exposure to the elements while being lost in the wilderness of the valley. The Devil's Backbone is the sharp ridge extending due east from the summit of Mt. Continue 2.8 miles on Mt. Gold-seekers originally established the trail to the summit in San Gabriel Canyon. Shasta), with steep slopes running down on both sides. By clicking Attending, or attending the hike, you confirming that you understand that all outdoor activity such as hiking, backpacking, and trekking have an associated danger, and will not hold any hike lead/organizer, participant, LA Trail Hikers, or any group associated pet responsible for any hazard to your well being. We decided to ascend on the ski hut trail and come down on the devil's backbone so we can enjoy a loop. Baldy. San Antonio! On the day we hiked, the daytime temp was low 80s, although the 14 mph winds kept it very comfortable. Baldy via the Ski Hut Trail as an out and back. Rated 5 / 5. After about 10mins you'll see a sign and there are 3 different paths to different hikes (3 tree top, Mt. in 22 reviews, From here, you can choose to ride the lift down or hike another 3 miles down to Manker Flats. in 7 reviews, The first section starts off paved up until San Antonio Falls which is roughly a half mile up. in 5 reviews. Check out our other hikes -Mt Baldy https://youtu.be/1v28_su0Mhs-Mt San Gorgonio https://youtu.be/h_BT4GJLpgA-Half Dome https://youtu.be/udfoUshBz0M-Mt Wilso. Baldy. If time is limited, consider hiking to Mt. HIKE WALKTHROUGH: This is a popular route because it can take advantage of riding the ski lift. The summit actually has two peaks: the main peak, elevation 10,068 feet (3,069 m), and a sub-peak, West Baldy, at 9,988 feet (3,044 m). Turn North (right) on Padua, follow for a mile to the light. Objective: Summit Mt. He guided us to the proper route along the trail and hiked off ahead of us down the mountain. Snowshoes, crampons and ice axe may be needed in wintertime depending on snowpack. Turn left again at Mt. Head east on the 210, and exit Baseline Road in Claremont. Mountain Ave. will turn into Mt Baldy Road and dead end into the Ski Area Parking lot. If you have them, gaiters will help keep snow out of your socks/show opening. Coaching Sessions: Telehealth, Park, or Trail, POPS TAKE US TO THE TOP An Amazing Father and Son Adventure Coated in Love, Mental Health, Crisis (including hotlines), and Recovery Resources, How Hiking Supports Mental, Physical, and Recovery Health: Articles and Resources, numerous trails to the top of Mt. Make sure that the Hike Level accommodates your hiking experience. Over half of this trail is partially or fully-exposed to the sun. After about 10mins you'll see a sign and there are 3 different paths to different hikes (3 tree top, From here, you can choose to ride the lift down or hike another 3 miles down to, The first section starts off paved up until San, Yelp users havent asked any questions yet about. As we came upon the Ski Hut, the trail at this point had leveled off a bit and although still had dips and turns, it was not nearly as steep or Cree covered as the previous part of the route had been. There are several ways to get to the summit: the ski hut/baldy bowl trail, the devil's backbone trail and the bear canyon trail (probably the most difficult). Not far from Los Angeles, this trail is heavily trafficked. A 45-year-old hiker died Saturday after falling about 1,500 feet down a mountainside from a trail near Mt. The Devil's Back Bone, connecting the top of the hill where the ski cable car ends with the Harwood Mountain, is a ridge with steep slopes on both sides. The photo is taken pointing towards West Baldy. Baldy is one of the most prominent mountains with some amazing 360 degree views over Southern California. four fried poppers, mildly spicy jalapeno halves filled with cheddar cheese Maybe you'd like to add it as a new route. Or climb Mt. Return Approx: 4:00pm, HIKE LEVEL:Level9(**Experienced Hikers only** Highly Strenuous. As we approached our campground walking back along Mt. The path dips before rejoining the Backbone for one last climb up the switchbacks to the top of Baldy. We can carpool/caravan fromthe meeting point. a 74 year old Korean man who makes the trek to the summit of Baldy two times per week. All Rights Reserved. The trail continues its 2.7-mile ascent up to Baldy Notch. San Antonio greet us. 2.6 miles: After the Ski Hut, the trail reaches the ridge and ascends to the summit. If he wasnt taking everyones picture with his own camera, he was offering us Korean foods he had brought to the summit with him as snacks. From the top of the ski lift, follow the fire road up the ridge. After hiking 6.8 miles and nearly 5 hours to ascend Mt. Mount Baldy and the Devil's Backbone has been on my to do list ever since my husband and I moved to Los Angeles. : For example, the MY FRIEND SAID I CAN DO THIS HIKE, I SHOULD BE ABLE TO DO IT, RIGHT? Sometimes, you slide your body on the edge of a rock hanging over the swallowing precipice. Harwood, continuing toward a saddle between Mt Baldy and Mt Harwood. This part of the trail immediately under goes a change of scenery, the alpine feel of the hike, although somewhat present gives way to the sparseness of the ridge line, and the breathtaking views of the mountainside giving way to the vast canyons far below! Perseverance and sensing the top is near motivates and drives you past your screaming calves and thighs and airless lungs the final 1/4 of a mile. Some people choose to start hiking from here and hike straight up beneath the ski lifts, but this trail is unnecessarily steep and loose, and signs warn that the parking lot gate is locked at 6:30pm. Activities Hiking Please note, that we have high, experienced expectations for Level 9hikers. My legs were weathering the hike fairly well, it was my feet that were taking the pounding and definitely felt every mile we have done to this point. Comfortable waterproofhiking boots with good grip. And, reflection of sun from snow can cause sunburn as well. Gators and eye protection (sunglasses). Park at Manker Flat. MY FRIEND SAID I CAN DO THIS HIKE, I SHOULD BE ABLE TO DO IT, RIGHT? Not only was this a great place to camp but also the trail-head start to Mt. Harwood, Mt. The trail starts near two porta-potties at a dirt road junction at Manker Flat. The cost of the lift is $25 round trip for adults, $20 for youths age 13 to 17, $15 for children under 12 (must be at least 40 tall), and $15 for seniors over 65 (prices as of 2018). Wish we had stuff like this in Minnesota! (PS: I found that my blue soft water bottle dropped out of my vest after crossing the Mouse Walk and decided not to go back to retrieve it. From there, you walk down the rest of the ridge and meet the normal Devils Backbone Trail on your left, continuing to traverse Mt. Manchester Preserve an Island of Natural Beauty, Health Benefits of Hiking ! From Baldy Notch, you take a very steep trail up towards the beginning of the Devils backbone. Walk past the locked gate of Falls Road and follow the dirt road for almost 2 miles to the ski lodge. 11. When you take the turn off to the left off of the fire road, head up the trail that goes to the Sierra Club Ski Hut. Follow any of the ski runs west to the top or the ski area boundry. Lake Calavera Preserve: Carlsbad, CA.10/08/2020, Iron Mountain, Poway CA 01/31/2020 Hiker Therapy, Monserate Mountain Preserve, Fallbrook Land Conservancy, 03/06/2019 Hiker Therapy, Oakzanita Peak via East Mesa Fire Road Trail: Cuyamaca Rancho State Park, East Mesa Trailhead 01/10/2019 Hiker Therapy, Ramona Grasslands County Preserve; Ramona. http://latrailhikers.com/about/hike-levels/, https://www.facebook.com/latrailhikers/events, http://socalhiker.net/hiking-mt-san-antonio-baldy-loop-trail/, http://www.modernhiker.com/2007/11/22/hiking-mount-san-antonio-mount-baldy-and-mount-harwood/, http://www.everytrail.com/guide/mt-san-antonio-baldy-loop, http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mount_San_Antonio. It follows the edge of a narrow ridge (the Devil's Backbone) and then snakes along the edge of some steep slopes. Keep your eye on the prize and when needed the trail! The Trail is Open and its a heck of a climb!Saw a Bobcat on the way up too! Was extremely windy yesterday, but . At the end of Falls Road, the path makes a big U-turn at San Antonio Falls. The 210 FWY brings you closer to the Mountain and less city driving. Literally, you straddle with one leg on one side and the other leg on the other side of the ridge. Baldy, and West Baldy along the same razor sharp ridge. Please get this ahead of time from a local Sports store like REI stores, Big 5 Sporting Goods, Outdoor Outlet (Alhambra) and other retailers prior to the hike. Turn East (right) onto Mt Baldy Rd. The trail is wide and right away gets your heart pumping as the road begins a steady incline ascent. The trail is almost completely unmarked, except by use, so first-time visitors should have a detailed map -- or at least study one at the Visitor Center. The Devils Backbone trail can be dangerous in winter months. This is a strenuous varation to climb Baldy, it has some nice views on both sides of the ridge and if you want some solitude from the weekend crowds, this is a good option. The higher altitude and easy access makes it a popular training hike for Whitney (or in my case, the John Muir Trail). The campground is set in a very peaceful, serene pine laden forest with gorgeous mountain views at 6000+ feet. However, be wary that trails are hard to follow on the stone surface, and taking the wrong one may necessitate steep backtracking. From Baldy Notch, the fireroad climbs steeply to the second ski lift, marking the start of the Devils Backbone Trail. San Antonio (aka Mt Baldy) Loop via Devils Backbone. In this clockwise loop, you take the Ski Hut Trail to the summit, follow the Devils Backbone to the Notch, and take the fireroad back to the trailhead. Whether you are a first-timer or an experienced hiker, please read our hike details page as the hike may not suite your experience level. Turn right onto Mt. (1), Additions & Corrections As we hiked along he told us of hikers who take this route in the winter months, hiking through the snow. My son even brought up how this hike is a great reminder to enjoy the journey and everything along the way, and to stop and smell the roses, worry less about the destination. After he conquers the pylon we continue on to Baldy Notch and soon arrive. Mt. Hiking Socks Coming down the first part of the ridge, the trail veers left (if the hiker goes up from the Notch, the restaurant) and cuts through the mountainside, while the Devils Backbone Ridge continues upward, with narrower and more slippery foothold. Soon we crest the top of the mountain and my pain and breathlessness turns to shear joy and a remarkable sense of accomplishment as we reach the summit of the mountain. (2). An Adventure Pass parking permit. Devil's Backbone. Hiking Mt. The last stretch is a steep loose rock. In fact the first 1.5 miles down the mountain proved much more hazardous than the previous 6.8 miles up as I lost my footing twice. 0.46 miles: At the junction sign Round Valley 2 , turn right and hike along Long Valley Creek. 2006-2021 SummitPost.org. Approx. : No. Thermos (underlayer to keep warm Optional) : Sky Haven West Trailhead: Hiker Therapy 07/15/17, Fireworks Hike! We even saw the ridge line of the Devils Backbone, which leads to the Baldy summit. When you take the turn off to the left off of the fire road, head up the trail that goes to the Sierra Club Ski Hut. Needless to say we were glad we came across our friend. From here, this is the steepest part of the route in which you gain about 800 feet in a quarter of a mile. Located in the Angeles National Forest, Mt. 4.5 miles: You have reached Mt. Scarf or Facemask Baldy, the highest point in Los Angeles County. San Antonio or as Southern Californians fondly call it Mt. Waterproof Hiking Boots/Shoes or Snow Shoesgood grip (Required) Dogs are allowed on most trails in the San Gabriel Mountains, but that doesnt mean that this hike is suitable for most dogs. Hiking an additional 2.3 miles from the parking lot at the base of the ski lift. When the path levels off, the Devils Backbone Trail becomes a narrow ridgeline spine with significant drop-offs on each side. DOG FRIENDLY? 13 miles round trip. San Antonio Devil's Backbone Ridge - Camino of Death, Images Speaking of right now, the hour of reckoning was here, the anticipated Devils Backbone part of the hike was upon us. Please try to have this prior to the day of the hike. Baldy! and #2, We are crossing the Devils Backbone to get there!. Baldy Ski Lifts to Baldy Notch eliminates a 2.3 mile one-way (1,500 gain) from the ski lift parking lot. DISCLAIMER: LA Trail Hikers and its Leads/Organizers/Participants do not take responsibility for any harm,bodily injury, accidents, or damage to personal property. Continue to the saddle and then on the ridge or slightly to the north side, to the top of MT Baldy. It could get very cold (winds) and the next minute get hot so be prepared!!! Turn left on Baseline Road. Hiking Boots/Shoes withgood grip (Required) Soon we heard the rushing water of San Antonio Falls, a yearly flowing waterfall. Baldy, San Gabriel Mountains, California Arriving mid-afternoon at the Manker Flats Campground,which was to be our home for the next two nights, we set up camp. Besides a hearty breakfast, I would highly suggest an early start when doing this hike, not only due to the time it takes to complete but if you are attempting this hike in the summer months it can and does get hot. Baldy, also known as Mount San Antonio, stands at 10,064 feet and is the highest point of the San Gabriel Mountains. There is another similar windbreak in a much more protected location along the trail below the summit. The fire road ends at the Devil's Backbone, and it is a trail from there on up to the summit. ), In the picture below, the normal route of the Devil's Backbone Trail is visible on left and the Devil's Backbone Ridge continues upward in the middle of the picture, Looking back down the Devil's Backbone Ridge after you climb to the top, This part of the ridge is two inches wide (at the most), View Mt. Baldy and Mt. Flashlight (should we encountertwilight/darkness upon return) Do not do this hike in the winter unless you are a mountaineer with alpine meadows ice/snow travel experience. Even though the view was incredible it was windy and frightening. On a hot day this road can be quite hot and exposed so bring sunscreen! San Antonio trail is considered the mother of all hikes and one that is a must on the bucket list of hiking trails! San Diego, CA. A short side trip to San Antonio Falls is worth the minimal effort. This trail is for hiking. Just did this hike yesterday. Another perk of climbing to the summit of Baldy, is the camaraderie you enjoy with total strangers who share only one thing in common to this point, hiking to the summit of Mt. NOTE: Well be driving from Subway to the hike Manker Flats trail head. I have done it both in wintertime (December 25, 2019. This is the time well be getting together at the meeting location. Other more daring climbers venture off towards the steeper chutes. 0.5 miles: At the waterfall lookout, the Baldy fire road begins. Riding the Sugar Pine Chair Lift up 1,500 at a cost of $25. Devil's Backbone Trail offers spectacular views from an impressive ridge-top trail. When I first considered doing this hike with my son, I must admit that the intimidation factor was high and did not lessen the more I researched this hike. His name was Sam. 1 photo. There is a use trail that goes up to the right, follow this up onto the ridge. Many choose to cut uphill in a narrow switchback pattern to ensure their footing. This hike was on my must conquer list for a while! In 1.8 miles, turn right onto Mt. Thank you. We continue on and as we do my son announces his need to climb one of the 40-foot ski lift pylons. Where do I get a National Forest Adventure Pass? (Instructions for making a reservation when the Ski Hut is open, can be found here.). There is a white gate and blue porta-potty to landmark the start. Climb with caution, as Camino of Death can be more dangerous than the Matterhorn of the Alps, because it does not have the fixed rope protection and is certainly more challenging than the last segment of Mountaineers Route of Mt. If you wish to look us up on map quest you can use 6700 Mt Baldy Road CA 91759. At one point the trail branches off and down into a valley. AMAZING views, and Id definitely do this hike again. Fun local Hike in the North County! The narrow trail climbs north straight up the side of San Antonio Canyon. Lol I thought I was going to do a loop like Claremont.. but I was very wrong. The trail is made up of compact gravel and is very wide. She says she was late to join up with a group of friends at the start of the hike. Harwood. Baldy Summit. Baldy in the Summer #mtbaldy #mtsanantonio #hiking #mountainclimbing #sixpackofpeaks #socalhiking #socal #solohiker #femalehiker #outdoors". Bringing tasty BBQ to the southern Illinois region