The snow started at the narrows and is continuous from there on. There was lots of snow around the summit, but it has been above freezing day and night. The Ski Hut trail is clear of snow until beyond the Hut.
Sorry, I did not mean to be vague, others call it the narrows. It is a treeless ridge you cross maybe 2/3 of the way, around 9,000 feet more or less. If it is icy it can be dangerous. I had no camera last Saturday, here are some photos from the past.
Went up to Baldy via Bear Cyn.today with Richard and Shin. Met frank(asbufra) at Manker and again meeting Shin and I on West Baldy. Richard tagged Hardwood and met us on Baldy summit..40deg. on summit at 11am.. Great time today with all.. bitchen fog and cloud designs around the summit, camera just doesn't get it...
Rick if you haven't been up to Bear flats I hope this helps...
Nice Pics, thanks for sharing! No fog for me, only clouds. I think the camera did a good job of "getting it". Reminds me of the scene on 13th warrior when the fog bank is coming for them.
Loads of fun with Shin and Mark. Clouds and fog were fantastic... The boot ski down to the Baldy/Harwood Saddle made the long drive down that much better. Some photos at the link below.
Snow melting quickly? It depends on where you are viewing the snow. From my prospective, there is more snow on the north slopes than I expected. Saturday, the upper canyons of Ice House Canyon to Bighorn Peak were solidly covered at 7,000'. It appeared the northwest ridge to Cucamonga was also covered, which mean the trail up from Cucamonga Saddle is totally covered.
If you are planning a trip to the high peaks from the north you will still need to bring ice axe and crampons.
I would not call the temperature this week a heat wave, just seasonable warm. Nothing that is going to 400 to 500' off the snow level in a week.
So, is my reading of this weekend's comments correct that the trail itself from Manker Flats to the summit is now free from snow but that approaches from the North Side of the Mountain still require an ice axe and crampons?
Hey Richard, Its amazing how fast the snow melts once the ground is exposed and can absorb the heat. I can't believe our photos of the summit were taken only 3 days apart.
Mark, Shin, Richard, It was nice to see you all and enjoy two summits with you.
Brent: The Manker Flats trail still has lots of snow once you pass the ski hut. There is deep snow in the trees to the left where the summer trail goes and snow covering most of the summit area. I believe the north side will have snow into July.
Ice axe and crampons are a personal decision, many people do not use them, but there are a couple of short steep snow covered sections where it is helpful to have extra traction.
I hiked up from Manker Flats on Friday. Yeah, there was snow on the trail above the ski hut, but it was so soft that the crampons never came out of the pack on the way up or coming back down.
My guess is that about 6 inches melted between SAT and SUN (looking at MI's photos).
RG, we (I) thought we might run into you while we were up there. Glad you agree regarding the Sony. (Can't beat the panos that GM and ex-Axeman stitch together, but I don't really like spending time with PS anymore.)
Wow, the snow’s really melting quickly and with the heat wave this week, the north side white-stuff will be clearing pretty soon
Not Intended To Be A Factual Statement (NITBAFS)
Originally Posted By wbtravis5152
Snow melting quickly? It depends on where you are viewing the snow. From my prospective……
I was waiting for AlanK to chime in with the un-official NASA position that the rate of snow melt is pretty much independent to “prospective”, perspective, and or point of view of the observer…..but I couldn’t help myself
RP, I did Bear Canyon 2 weekends ago and it was cool enough this past weekend to give J-Tree one more visit before it starts broiling out there (NITBAFS). With all the snow melting, I might give the Big Baldy Loop a go this coming weekend (in trail-runners)
Damn, making fun of the dyslexic for sport, eh...just kidding.
Everything is individual comfort level. I've gone up the to the 8,900' ridge from the Ski Hut with crampons and axe while others have done it utilizing no tools.
Many people get the impression snow is off the mountains when they see little to none while driving along the 10 and 210...plan their trips accordingly and are surprised when they can't get to their destination.
Hey Everyone My thanks too for all the TR's Will do Bear Flats rt this Sat. as training for Rainier trip at the begining of July. Hope to see you all out there. Rick
RP & Shin-san, I'll try to link up with you 2-uber dudes in 2 weeks on May 7th. I'll bring some extra Trader Joe treats
Rick, Bear Canyon is a great SoCal hike (for Whitney training or other wise). I hope to see you up there on Sat. I'm the ol’ bald "experienced" hiker lacking an ice axe and crampons, but wearing shorts & trail runners....hehe! Wishing you a great Rainier trip I still need to get up that big ol’ volcano….maybe this summer!
Hi Rick, Sorry, I couldn't come out on Thursday night. I had to take care of my back for Saturday hike with "Richard the animal" from high desert.
I love to have you as "LEAD" hiker to keep Richard in motion for 6 peak loop hike on 7th of May. My old body won't last long if Richard keep on pushing me from behind. Richard didn't take any breaks on Bear canyon trail. "Normal" hiker takes 2-3 short breaks on the trail. Hope to see you on 7th.
Shin P.S. When my back get better,I'll be there on Thursday.
I still need to get up that big ol’ volcano….maybe this summer!
Want to go up and do it as a day-climb? The other alternative is to head up for a few days any place but the Standard Route up to Muir Camp and the DC Route. (Too many people; too many guides who don't think Independents have a right to be up there.)
Maybe we can get GM and WtG to come along for the fun.
Maybe we can get an invitation to the Palace (MC)?
We'll have to talk about this in about a week. July is usually the best time for Rainier (LONG days, warmer, more stable weather). Baker, Adams, etc, as warm-ups? A week? Fly? Drive?
Just kidding, Larry went up last week and "told" me all about the snow conditions, and "why" you ask didn't I go with him?
Well, four weeks ago I took a header down some steps boarding a dive boat with 60 lbs of SCUBA gear on my back - AND I broke my leg! RATS!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
im planning on doing a loop of the ski hut trail this sunday, is there still a bunch of snow on the east side of that south ridge? i'm planning on no crampons - since i will be with a group of newbies that don't have any, and wouldn't know how to use them if they did. let me know what you guys think.
We didn't use crampons, but there were some people who did. It really depends on what you're comfortable with. I think if you stay on track, you should be fine without gear. (Just don't head up too early if you see the temps will drop below freezing.)
Maybe we can get GM and WtG to come along for the fun.
Maybe we can get an invitation to the Palace (MC)?
We'll have to talk about this in about a week. July is usually the best time for Rainier (LONG days, warmer, more stable weather). Baker, Adams, etc, as warm-ups? A week? Fly? Drive?
A, B, C, Ryann & Norm will be heading up it 1st week in July - whoot!
Hope your back get's better, and your wife makes a speedy recovery. I'll be at the gym next Thur again with Rick and Ryan. I might go Tuesday as well.
I'm doing Baldy today with Patrick, 1st time on the mountain since I've fallen in love with Rock. We'll see if I can break a record today for slowest ascent. See you soon.... Yeti
TR for bear canyon to old baldy summit to baldy summit to ski hut and down to manker flats trailhead. BRR>... Windy on the summits. My pack thermo read 40 degrees but I don't think it reflects wind chill. Hit solid snow about .5 mile past the narrows, used crampons to both summits and back down to the the west bowl trail. Most of the snow could be avoided back to the ski hut.. trail through the trees from the ridge top mostly clear. I think winter is over... Other than the wind on top it was a beautiful day. Rick
Did a night hike last night not 6 peaks but only 2, hit the trail at 9:15pm went up R/R to Hardwood summited there at 11:35,when I topped out from the trees at R/R and hit the bachbone trail I could here the wind going through that one tree stright ahead so I put my glove liners on and jacket, the wind at hardwood was blowing pretty good, enjoyed the desert lights for a few minutes and went on.
Going over to baldy the wind was getting colder, put another layer of gloves on.On the way up the ridge to Baldy I was getting a little sluggish and I layed down on the trail behind a med. size rock and had a bannana and trail bar, got back up and that did the trick, summited baldy at 12:35am. 18 deg. on summit. I took the main chute down the left side of main chute put my mircos on and didn't walk down I scotted down, more snow on chute then I thought..
Got to ski hut at 1:50 and met this guy and I asked are you the Baldy computer guy(big guy)dont remember his name,anyway he invited me in for a cup of of tea they said they saw this guy coming down the bowl and wanted to make sure everything was ok.While I was having my tea he went on the Baldy web site and at 2am the wind chill at the notch was 17deg
Hi Cindy, What part of your body you haven't broken yet? I hope you get well soon. Do any old injuries cure 100%? All my pains never goes away 100% and they come and go whenever they feel like.
Hi Rick, I enjoyed the trip report very much. You haven't slowed down a second from last year even though you had a long lunch at Notch.
Hi Mike, I thought you gave up a flat land hiking. Glad to see you back. Don't think about 9-11 peaks.
Hi Mark, You are crazy!!! It is time to change your name from So.BayMark to "NightClimber". The So.BayMark sounds too civilized. You are the ONLY regular midnight hiker who hikes R/R to Mt. Baldy and climbs down the main BOWL at night. You are the "King of the Night" of Mt. Baldy.
Hey Mike, thanks again for a great day Regarding the mystery lights; I took into account the our location on Thunder Mt, the Glendora experimental forest mountain in the foreground, the location of the lights and conducted a 3 to 4 brew Fourier transformed triangulation (correcting for the curvature of the earth) and determined the lights are coming from the Aetherius World Headquarters in Hollywood. Worse yet, I’m pretty sure the lights are part of their tractor-beam and they were trying to beam us down for some un-holy indoctrination. Good thing their tractor-beam doesn’t work well in high-wind conditions Seriously, the lights were probably coming from LAX
Thanks Cindy and hope you heal up quickly
Mark, I agree with Shin…you’re crazy. It was freak’n cold & windy up there…..and to do it in the middle of night….yikes
Shin-san, get well soon and heal up quickly….cuz come Thurs nite it’s “forearm go-time” in the gym
Patrick & Jeff, sorry we missed you guys on Baldy, but it was too cold for me to hang around on the summit in my Bermuda shorts
RG, thanks for the heads-up RE: wind chill. I've been leaving the down jacket at home, and it would have been real uncomfortable having to wear the motorcycle armor (it's heavy) up the mountain yesterday.
Mark, you need to pick a date for a Night Climb of Mt. Whitney. We can take Master Shin up for a whole new experience. Like your style.
Mark you really are nuts. It was so cold on the summit with that wind chill yesterday, I can't imagine being up there at night with that going on. Mike and Rick, the wind gusts blew Talus sideways! 6 summits with that ice and wind...awesome.
Spent a lot of time thinking about Shin and his wife on a LONG day yesterday...
- Hoping things go well for you and Kazuko.
- Wishing I could have my young bones and muscles back...
Jeff, I could use an easy day. Wish I had read this yesterday. I really do hate wasting time watching TV on a day off.
Richard I'm doing San G and Jepson this coming Saturday by myself your welcome to come down. I've only used the crampons once this winter so need to dust them off for one last climb... Yeti
Shin, See you Thursday night, Rick and Ryan will be there. Frank is at a tradeshow in Baltimore...
Hi Richard, There are 11 good peaks you can bag ONE weekend if you are super ambitious and with a long day with cool temperature. Start Icehouse canyon and down to Ski hut trail: Sugarloaf,Ontario,Bighorn,Cucamonga,Etiwanda,Timber,Telegraph, Thunder,Harwood,Baldy,West Baldy. You can make your LA trip worth while. It will be very hot Tuesday and Wednesday 90s but it will be 70s over the weekend and cooler in the mountain.
Shin, the current snow conditions would make any Baldy loop >7 peaks really tough right now. Wait another month and the conditions should be good for any of these mega-loops.
San Gorgonio 9-Peak loop would extra tough right now with the current snow conditions. Best to wait another month or so.
I did the San G 9-peak loop ~Nov-2005 with David Harris, ET, and Alex Honnold. At the time of the hike I had no idea that Alex was a world-class rock climber. Alex was/is a really nice guy. We had some exciting times crossing the snowy NW slopes of Jepson (Probably similar to the current conditions).
Hi Rick, All your 9,11,and 13 peaks loop records are a time warping speed. You must me using a very good trail running shoes. It looks like there is any more challenge left in Mt. Baldy area.
Shin, The Baldy 6-peak loop and SG 9-peak loops are both great. You'd love both of them. The SG 9-peak would be much better at least a month from now, maybe more. And you'd get more daylight too. That Ontario, BigHorn, etc. hike you mentioned also sounds like a fun challenge. So when's it going to happen?
If you want to scratch your competitive Baldy itch (Hmm.. that doesn't sound right), check out the Baldy Run to the Top at: http://www.run2top.com/info.lasso Monday, September 05, 2011
Some really speedy folks show up for this thing.....with some very impressive times Course record Women time: 1:15:32 Carrie Garritson (Age 11) 1988 Men time: 1:00:49 Matt Ebiner 1987
Last year I hiked Baldy on September 3rd using the Manker Flats to ski hut trail. The trail was surprisingly sparse, relatively speaking--I maybe ran accross 14 people on the trail. I had no idea that there was a race to to the top up the backbone that day. While I never expect solitude on that mountain, I wasn't quite prepared to see several hundred people up there either. Watching all those people high fiving each other after they had just run the trail to 10,064 gave new meaning to "runner's high."
It's been a GREAT winter for the mountains, but not for sandal hiking!
while looking for info on the roads above Kennedy Meadows and thought of you and your trail runners...
Read this:
Quote:
CELL PHONES DON'T WORK OFF MAIN HIGHWAYS IN THIS NECK OF THE WOODS!! AND GPS IS TERRIBLY MISLEADING about roads!
in the same report and remembered that I received a bunch of Text Messages while I was in Death Valley last weekend. (Work phone is AT&T. Did they put an antenna on top of Rogers?)(I know, I probably should have posted this in the Mahogany Flat thread, but don't feel like it.)
in the same report and remembered that I received a bunch of Text Messages while I was in Death Valley last weekend. (Work phone is AT&T. Did they put an antenna on top of Rogers?)(I know, I probably should have posted this in the Mahogany Flat thread, but don't feel like it.)
Last month I had a friend on the MR and I received text messages and phone calls from the Notch, Iceberg Lake, Clyde Meadow and Lower Boy Scout Lake. She was using a iPhone on AT&T. AT&T must of installed new antennas in the Owens Valley.
Hey Mike, this is an off-topic thread. Why are you posting info about phone service on Whitney?
Seriously, I used to be able to make AT&T calls from UBSL and some places in the drainage below LBSL, but never up beyond UBSL. Good to hear you can get a signal up there (for those times I want to sneak away from work, but need to be able to react to an emergency... I'll just use some of that blazing speed to get back down to the car...) I guess Verizon getting the iPhone has benefits for old iPhone users too.
BTW, some of us will be heading up Baldy on Saturday morning via the Ski Hut Trail. (I was going to force Shin to do the Six Peaks Loop, but I know he's had much more important things to do (besides working out)).
BTW II, I rather be out climbing but the Casperson Weather Station is reporting 97 degrees out there. I'm turning on the AC and the TV...
Have a fun climb Carole. Sign the register for me. It's been too long...
Just having some fun, Richard.
Looking again at those photos and where many were taken - today I hiked up to Morris from the Siebert Cabin, and realized it was the first time I'd been up that route since the big fire last summer. Although the pinyons and joshua trees will never recover, there are an amazing amount of grasses and flowers now. Someone's been doing some work trying to create a trail between the top of the ridge and the PCT. I suspect maybe the local Boy Scouts because there were new distance numbers on some of the stakes. However, they appeared to be reversed - while the signs pointed towards the PCT, the closer you got, the higher the number. It was a bit perplexing at first until I realized the numbers were placed on the wrong side of the fiberglass state.
Sadly, the Siebert Cabin is getting trashed. Not an intact pane of glass this year unfortunately.
A,B & C were goofing around on Baldy yesterday. Conditions are dry with occasional patches of melting snow. Devils backbone route has had a slide in the last few days - we were told by a group that had just trod across it.
Saw some guy going up and down the mountain with a dish towel on his head. I think the last time we saw him he was on his 4th summit, on his way to 5x in one day. He was looking strong. We fed him Cheetos as we continuously passed him. Friendly bloke - I wish him well on his adventure.
Saw a storm blow in as we drove away. Hope Mother nature let him finish.
What better day would there be than Friday the Thirteenth?
Thanks Shin and Jeff.
Sorry I couldn't wait for you guys, but rounds four and five were way too hot for me and it'll only get worse as we head into summer. Shin, if my feet were replaceable (Is that a word?), I think I could pull off six. The legs and heart were much better than expected, but I really could not stand putting weight on my feet at the end.
(Quite a few people I met along the trail were urging me on to six. Thanks.)
A SPECIAL thank you to Team ABC... The lunch and snacks (and the gift) were way beyond the call of duty! Whatever was in those gell packs that Ava let me grab from her pack worked wonders...
==========
For those who like to see numbers:
2:02 2:04 2:08 (Much slower if I add the socializing time back in, but I was trying to see how the repeats were going, so I stopped the clock at each stop.) 2:22 2:23
I wanted 5 on 4 hours, but the last one ended up being 4:08+-.
==========
I'd still like to see EK head up there and cruise thru six, maybe even seven.
Congrats RichardP, that’s some serious uber-hiking. According to the Forest Service map they hand out at the Baldy Village Ranger Station its 4.6 miles from Manker Flats to the summit via the Ski Hit trail with a gain of 3904’. So the cumulative stats are something like this….very impressive
Laps/Cumulative Miles/Cumulative gain in feet 1/9.2/3904 2/18.4/7808 3/27.6/11712 4/36.8/15616 5/46/19520 6/55.2/23424 7/64.4/27328
Also, noticed in your photos the Baldy sunrise summit shadow cast over ~Glendale area...never noticed that before....very cool
My GPS states: 41.18 miles, 23,202'. (That elevation gain feels suspect to me, but I did do extra climbing to stay mostly off of the snow.)
I went off-route following some bad tracks on the first trip down and visited the crash site. Thank goodness, I knew where I was and climbed out and back to the trail.
I'll try and convert the track to a .jpg and post it. It's interesting that I thought I was following the same path each trip (after sunrise), but the track has me wandering all over the place.
Congrats, Richard. I just happened to check your SPOT on Friday at work and when I saw the crap load of SPOT tracks on Baldy, I knew what you were up to.
Richard, That makes my three summits of Baldy per year look pretty piddly......
Congrats on the elevation and mileage. I'm still recuperating from the Wild Wild West Marathon last week, and that didn't come close to your mileage!!!!!!
Hi GigaMike, Please give him a break this time otherwise he will get serious about 6X soon. We can give him an extra credit of his attempt of 3Ts very next day of 5X.
Congratulations! We figured you made it but hadn't officially heard. We're very happy for you and very happy to have been able to see you up there and hang out with you for a brief period as you were carving out a rut up and down the hill.
Richard, great going! Everyone has said congrats so not sure what to add. Let me think, doing that more than once is amazing, 3x off the charts, but 5x??? All I can say is...DUDE!
What better day would there be than Friday the Thirteenth?
Thanks Shin and Jeff.
Sorry I couldn't wait for you guys, but rounds four and five were way too hot for me and it'll only get worse as we head into summer. Shin, if my feet were replaceable (Is that a word?), I think I could pull off six. The legs and heart were much better than expected, but I really could not stand putting weight on my feet at the end.
(Quite a few people I met along the trail were urging me on to six. Thanks.)
A SPECIAL thank you to Team ABC... The lunch and snacks (and the gift) were way beyond the call of duty! Whatever was in those gell packs that Ava let me grab from her pack worked wonders...
==========
For those who like to see numbers:
2:02 2:04 2:08 (Much slower if I add the socializing time back in, but I was trying to see how the repeats were going, so I stopped the clock at each stop.) 2:22 2:23
I wanted 5 on 4 hours, but the last one ended up being 4:08+-.
==========
I'd still like to see EK head up there and cruise thru six, maybe even seven.
So RP I am the stat geek in talking to Shin it seems like you broker Rick's time! His total time for 5 summits was 22 hrs 21 min it sounds like you did it in roughly 21 hours??? Great Job! What's even more impressive is that you actually had energy the next day to get some more climbing in when most people would be sitting in a jacuzzi the whole day, like me....
I look forward to trying 3X this year and joining Fight On and AlanK in the 3 summits club....
Mark glad someone but Richard and Shin are into these kind of stats. I was bragging about RP to my friends at work whom I've took up once and some were super "wowed" and one said why? I asked the guy who asked why, why do you go to a gym and run on a treadmill when the weather outside is perfect? Why becuase YOU do what YOU are in to! I would love to see Eric go for 6X!!!!! Maybe if we all pull some $20 bills we can bribe Eric to kill his knees...LOL
Mark glad someone but Richard and Shin are into these kind of stats. I was bragging about RP to my friends at work whom I've took up once and some were super "wowed" and one said why? I asked the guy who asked why, why do you go to a gym and run on a treadmill when the weather outside is perfect? Why becuase YOU do what YOU are in to! I would love to see Eric go for 6X!!!!! Maybe if we all pull some $20 bills we can bribe Eric to kill his knees...LOL
"Why" is a perfectly valid question and "why not?" is probably the correct answer.
Why 1? I have bigger things in mind for later this summer. If I couldn't do Baldy 5 times, there would be no sense in even thinking about the other things I'd like to try. (I'm being cryptic because I may just change my mind and stay home and watch NASCAR.)(In regard to one project, I'm hoping Doug will say "don't bother, someone already did it.")(Another project has been on the list for at least five years.)(There's also the section day-hike of the JMT, but I don't think that'll happen this year because of all the snow up north. I'd want to do it in early July for the really long days.)
Why 2? 5x was way beyond being guaranteed, so it was a challenge...
BTW 1: Jeff and Shin, you better invite me when you do your 3x day.
BTW 2: Mark the night hiking on Baldy wasn't fun. I don't know how you do all those night ascents.
Laps/Cumulative Miles/Cumulative gain in feet 5/46/19520
Richard, I'm just shaking my head. 19.5K' of gain in one day is just hilariously insane! Can't wait to see what's behind Doors 1, 2 or 3 this summer. My congrats to everyone else's. Hope to see you at the Portal in July.
Nice job Richard! Very impressive that you were able to keep your speed up even on your 5th ascent.
I don't know if I can ever get back up to that level again but I did manage to hit a few peaks on the Baldy Loop on Saturday. My knees actually turned out to be more trouble than the ankle.
I've said it before..... We're glad to see you out there again and I think you understand the "teasing" that goes on between us in regard to PBs up some of these mountains.
Also, a few of us are wondering what's happened to your website?
Amgen Tour of California is finishing at the Ski Resort on Saturday...
Although it will be a circus, it sure would be cool to see some of those Pros motoring up Mt. Baldy Road.
Back in '87 (I think), when the World Championship was held at the Academy in Colorado Springs, I went to watch and ride the course (they didn't prohibit the public from riding it)! It was cool crusing around behind a group that had LeMond and Hinault at about 16mph up some pretty steep hills. All of a sudden, I saw them put it on the big chainring and motor away at nearly twice that speed. Amazing how strong they are. (Of course, at 16mph, I was already sucking wind while they had been chatting away...)
I was on Baldy Friday the 13th. We noticed a guy going past us once while he was going up, and once while he was going down.
That was Richard P? I noticed the dish towel (or something like that) that's why I remember it now.
Nice job Richard P
Originally Posted By SanDi_carole
A,B & C were goofing around on Baldy yesterday. Conditions are dry with occasional patches of melting snow. Devils backbone route has had a slide in the last few days - we were told by a group that had just trod across it.
Saw some guy going up and down the mountain with a dish towel on his head. I think the last time we saw him he was on his 4th summit, on his way to 5x in one day. He was looking strong. We fed him Cheetos as we continuously passed him. Friendly bloke - I wish him well on his adventure.
Saw a storm blow in as we drove away. Hope Mother nature let him finish.
Richard, those numbers are approaching the potential for a triple on Whitney. I know that you, Jack, and a few others have made doubles a part of your resumes - is a triple do-able? Ever been done to your knowledge?
Doug has been talking to Jack... We need him (Doug) to tell the story of the Russian woman... I'm thinking it's possible (for me) in two baker's dozens (26) hours...
I hope Jack or RK (or anybody else) get it done before I think I'm ready to try...
Hey Richard along those lines I'm in the works of putting together a fundraiser! Of course you know the theme is Baldy 6X. I'll let you know the date, I'm hoping Eric will try and you and Rick will at least show up to say hi! Once I get a firm date I'll post something, I'm going to try for at least 4 that day!
FYI looks like the upper road will be closed as of 9pm on Friday and yes it looks like a total circus on Sat. Riders are estimated to be in the area around 3pm Sat.
Why 1? I have bigger things in mind for later this summer. If I couldn't do Baldy 5 times, there would be no sense in even thinking about the other things I'd like to try. (I'm being cryptic because I may just change my mind and stay home and watch NASCAR
frank and I did Iron Mtn. today here are some pictures of the north side of West Baldy and Baldy...met abe 67yrs young at summit..also met 2 snakes on trail...
It is just amazing to think that one year ago today, as I type this post, I was at 27,000 ft and on my way to the top of the world! I still look back at it as if it were a dream, but I have the photos to prove it Today Larry and I summited Mt. Baldy to celebrate the anniversary; but unlike Everest, we stood on the summit together!
Still cannot post pics but here is the link to today's summit photo
Hey Richard, Just wanted to say congrads on the many summits. I'm glad it is you doing it and not me. No way. Once is good but then I'm not crazy like you are.
It was good to see you up there and I'm glad that the gels helped.
Shin,Darin, Javier and I hit the Baldy trail at 6:45 this morning. Frank A. met up with us at the hut and greenmountain boy and his friend met us at the summit. They went down regular trail and I went down main bowl chute,got to do alot of short glissading as the chute didn't have much snow,(had to change lanes alot)but was fun anyway. Avg snow was 3".. A beauty of a day on Baldy..
I headed back up Monday after a snowy Saturday climb, much of the snow had melted from the weekend. There was nothing below the hut and really nothing until you hit the woods west of the bowl. That was Monday, I was out in Pomona yesterday and got a good view and it looks mighty brown up there...which should change this weekend.
Forecast as of this morning is for maybe a half inch of snow later Saturday and 1-3 inches Sunday. Supposed to be quite windy (20mph) but that's no surprise for the summit.
Frank A. and I left manker at 6:10am 1 1/2hrs before Shin, Jeff and Richard P. up the reg. trail to meet them at the summit.. Low clouds creeping up cyn. all day, but the winds up above kept pushing them down not letting them go over the bowl.. Frank and I stayed to the right of the reg. trail though the trees as the trail was to icee..
Chilly day on summit 28deg.with wind blowing, had good time with great friends...
Sorry but Ty and I missed you guys at the summit, we were on top of West Baldy at 11 AM and shortly there after we were on Baldy. We took the Bear Flat Trail up, then stop at the Cafe in town when we came down from the summit right around 3 PM but all of you were gone already, maybe next time.
It is official, you can summit Baldy from Manker without stepping in snow at all, but you better hurry, snow this afternoon.
Nice pictures Mark, thanks for the company.
Sorry we missed you Patrick and Ty, I would have waited had I known you were on the way.
Shin, the Chineses couple and I had a nice walk down, they were fit and fun, we laughed most of the way to the cars. For them navigating the path in the fog seemed hard, and our help was appreciated.
Hi Frank, You were kind enough to escort down the couple who were not prepared well at all for the cold and windy Mt. Baldy yesterday. I am glad to hear that your kindness was appreciated well by them. Many people tend to over estimate their abilities and get into a trouble. But you prevented the thing to happen. Thank you very much.
Looking forward to the next hike soon on snow covered trail.
I talked to you last Saturday at Manker Flats. I was with the REI group across the street from where you parked. I also had hiked with you two years ago with Kurt's Baldy hike. How often do you hike Baldy? Would it be possible if I could join your group sometime in December for a Baldy hike? I'm trying to develop snow skills. Thanks.
Hi Randy, It's nice to see you again,too.I usually hike on Saturday. Please contact me by an e-mail or P.M. for date and time. Looking forward to hiking with you next month. Shin
Anyone know if there is any snow in the bowl or if crampons will be necessary this weekend?
Happy Thanksgiving to all!
JB
We were there today 11-23-2011
While the bowl could be done it's got a whole lot of rocks coming down, just not enough snow to keep them buried. We did the water drainage route just on the west side of the Sierra Ski Hut today and made the saddle between Harwood and Baldy by 9:30, we choose to go in and out of the rocks/shrubs to avoid the rocks that were coming down that chute. It was fairly warm by 12 noon so it's melting. The south end of the bowl has much more snow in it and we did get a 50 glissade on the way down, about 12 inches on that side in the trees, before the rock garden. Have fun.
Hi Bob, I just came back from Mt. Baldy this afternoon. The snow condition beyond the Ski hut is excellent. It was not deep or soft. The temperature stayed low enough and kept is nice. The trail below the Ski hut is nice and dry.
Richard and I went up Bear canyon today. Area beyond 9000 feet had nice snow, a bit soft. South of West Baldy had nice deeper snow. The solid snow field begins after the "Narrow". The summit was a bit cold but it was all right. The summit area was covered with snow but not deep enough.
No crampons were needed at all. Microspike was just fine.
Today was Richard's over 500,000 feet elevation again per year so we change our rout from Ski hut trail to Bear canyon to gain more elevation gain. Congratulations Richard. I think he is crazy and I was crazy enough to tag along with him. We had a very nice hike with less people because today was Turkey day.
Ski hut was open. Dan White was working hard to fix the outhouse. Thank you Dan for keeping up the SKi hut nice and clean for all of us.
I went up this morning, trying to burn calories. It was a beautiful day, just at freezing on the uphill and not a wisp of wind the entire way. Warm on the descent. Almost no snow and only a few patches of ice until the hut. Micro spikes were very helpful above the hut, lots of icy spots and slippery snow and the trail will only get icier.
Path was in nice shape...
Flag is gone.
I believe this is where Patrick glissaded, used it myself, thanks Patrick.
A few more photos here:
Thank you all for the "heads up" on the trail conditions. Looks sane enough to go. I'm going to do the west face of the bowl since there seems to be some snow sticking there.
Richard. You're an "animal". Congrats once again!!!!!
Thanks Shin! Thanks Bob. It was only a short while ago that I figured out that if I calculated the gain for the climbs I did in the first three months of the year (started tracking via GPS in early April), I might be able to hit half-a-million feet of gain for the year. Can't believe how awesome it is to be able to say that out loud!
Here are some highlight photos:
Down on dry gound. Bear Flats.
At what some call the narrows, but I call the South Backbone. Cool wind swirls in the snow.
I was actually planning on being up there again today, but the legs were feeling the effects of quite a bit of soft snow... Plus, there was the lure of heading to Eddie Bauer for some new First Ascent gear. (Dang, they make some really light, really warm stuff these days.)
Shins 250th summit: Well we weren't going to make it easy for him...Shin, Randy and I hiked up Bear Flat this morning, when we heard the wind in the trees we knew it was going to be a cold one.. Along the way in exposed areas and ridges the wind blasted us..When Randy and I got to West Baldy to Baldy summit, Shin was waiting for us, the wind was I have to say 60mph gust..On the summit I took my thermometer out and it was 12deg.at 11:50am, with my glove off my fingers went numb fast I put my glove back on and took other one off to take pictures and got only 2 point and shoot pictures as my fingers went numb and felt like ballons..We got out of there fast.. I slipped twice on the way back on my butt on hard ice between the trees and the hut in the boulder field,be carefull alot of ice on the trail in the rocks..
Glad to meet you Randy..
Shin, had a great time congrats to you!!
Scofield: Shin told me you and a friend were going to meet us on the trail
Nah I told Shin my good friend Frank backed out due to weather, he doesn't have winter gear so he would have frozen. I told him I'll go but don't wait because things have been crazy around my house. Going today to stretch my legs but sick of these dry conditions. Nice pics Mark hope to see you soon.
Shin, Congrats on #250 and your perserverance yesterday. I tried to summit around 9:45 but bailed after the being pushed back by several strong gust and pelleted with small rocks... this was about 400 yds below the summit. Watching the wind whip acoss the top it didn't look like a good place to be. Glad you were able to make it. Think snow!! See you next time. Rick Agoura Hills.
Congratulations Shin, see you next weekend. I'm hoping LA has a heat wave... I am sick of this extremely cold weather... 21 degrees this morning outside my front door!
Great Christmas present from "You to You". (Would that be considered re-gifting???).
I also went up yesterday at 0700Hrs and I, also, got turned around due to high winds and the extreme cold. Brrrrr! Other than that it was a beautiful day up there.
Thanks for the great time yesterday with you and Shin. It was great to meet you and hike with you guys. With those wind gusts I have never been more scared and exhilarated at the same time! Hope we can do it again sometime. Thanks Randy
Hi Mark, Thank you for hiking with me and Randy yesterday. It was the coldest and windiest Mt. Baldy hike ever for me and I'll remember it for long time. But we have done very well under super ugly weather. All of us got what we wanted yesterday but we didn't expect that much.
My hands still feel a bit strange from the coldness from yesterday. I went REI to get a glove liner today.
The wind was strong enough to blow me off and pinned me down on the ground near the summit.
Congratulations Shin, see you next weekend. I'm hoping LA has a heat wave... I am sick of this extremely cold weather... 21 degrees this morning outside my front door!
WOW Shin what a difference a day makes. RP your heat wave came the next day. I summited on Sunday and brought my temp thing. 42 degrees on the summit with winds of only about 5mph....Beautiful day to be on Baldy....Ran into Frank, Tracie and Talus...
I was thinking about heading up Baldy this weekend. For those of you who have been up the Manker flats route recently, were Crampons and ice axe necessary or helpful? Will microspikes do?
I was thinking about heading up Baldy this weekend. For those of you who have been up the Manker flats route recently, were Crampons and ice axe necessary or helpful? Will microspikes do?
Brent
Microspikes and trekking poles will do ya. That trail is so beaten in.
headed up tomorrow morning 8am, doing a ski hut loop with the solo orizaba climber we met in mexico.
Please report on conditions. I'd love to try to get up there one last time before it's full 'winter' conditions (ie needing ice ax/crampons - i don't have those skills or tools yet) if it's possible!
headed up tomorrow morning 8am, doing a ski hut loop with the solo orizaba climber we met in mexico.
There is an outside chance that I may be able to hike baldy tomorrow morning as well and will likely go up and down the Manker flats trail. If you see a tall, skinny guy in a red jacket huffing and puffing, say hey.
If I do make it on the trail tomorrow, I'll post a report, tif.
it was windy and cold today, but when hiking in the sun i was able to shed layers. i went ultra light, wearing only trail runners no micro spikes or anything. that said the northeast facing slope of the south ridge was full of hard ice all day long, especially on the trail where everyone packs it down - very slippery. i saw a few people doing just fine with micro spikes however. there is so little coverage i was able to shoot straight up the scree slope just right of where the trail usually switchbacks. unless it warms up considerably you will want micro spikes on that part of the trail, if you're okay on the scree slope then you shouldn't have a problem getting up with gym shoes - although boots would be preferable for the way down to keep the rocks out of your shoes. it was pretty deserted today, so i wasn't overly concerned with kicking stuff down on other hikers, but be aware of stuff that you kick loose for the sake of those below.
other than that slope the mountain is pretty much snow free.
Baercave, I'm sorry I missed you. I was on the trail today too. I echo your comments. I was expecting more snow and so I brought boots and microspikes. I would not want to do the forest section beyond the rock garden without the microspikes, but boy did I miss my trail runners. Boots are completely unnecessary, as are gaiters and snowbaskets for your poles. You will not posthole.
For those who don't want any ice or snow, you will make it all the way to the ski hut without seeing more than 1 or two very small patches of ice which are mostly in the brush.
Baercave, I'm sorry I missed you. I was on the trail today too. I echo your comments. I was expecting more snow and so I brought boots and microspikes. I would not want to do the forest section beyond the rock garden without the microspikes, but boy did I miss my trail runners. Boots are completely unnecessary, as are gaiters and snowbaskets for your poles. You will not posthole.
For those who don't want any ice or snow, you will make it all the way to the ski hut without seeing more than 1 or two very small patches of ice which are mostly in the brush.
Brent
after reading your description above, which i did not see until i returned this afternoon we did see each other! i'm pretty sure i spoke with you above the ridge about how it sucked, i think you were changing shoes or something. and i'm pretty sure i passed you on the way down too, i was moving very fast with someone i met on the summit.
Shin kicked our $$@ up Bear Canyon yesterday! A BIG group of us spent quite a bit of time on the summit, enjoying the somewhat mild conditions. Great time at the Lodge in the Village afterwards.
Had a great time with everybody, what a great group of friends..
I started at Manker at 2:45am(had to get early start Shin,Richard and Giga were hiking together ) watching the moon on my way up Register Ridge,when I hit the back bone trail I didn't see the moon again until summit, after I reached the summit at 6:01 just in time to see a 1/8 of the moon left, within 10 min. the clouds took over the moon not seeing it again..Nice to see some members I don't see very often..
Hi Mark, I enjoyed your picture very much. The picture with a shadow of Mt. Baldy and lunar eclipse are very interesting. You should organize a "Moon Light Hike" on Mt. Baldy since you have most experience and knowledge of night time hiking on Mt.Baldy. Some views are only seen at night.
We really had a good time with WPSMB members and BBC members. (Richard P. GigaMike,TracieB. So.Bay Mark, Snownymph, NormaR., Cheryl,Ron,Ty) We met John and Carlton who are members of WPSMB. Sorry,we didn't have much time to visit yesterday because everyone was hungry for a big lunch at the Lodge. Looking forward to hiking with you next time.
It was very nice to see GigaMike on the trail again.
Richard,please rest up on Sunday.
All pictures are in WPSMB album link.
BBC's motto is No leader,No rules,No drama. Just hike up.
Carlton and I had a great day Saturday on Baldy and the highlight was meeting the WPSMB group including GigaMike, Cori, Norma R., Ron and our Baldy idol, Shin! Great to meet all of you and sorry we missed Richard P, my personal Whitney idol. Love the trip reports on the member picture sites. Shin, you are the best, love your picture site and commentaries. I started this hiking addiction at almost the same time, June 2004, as you and somehow you have summitted Baldy 250 times since, wow! And Norma, Hiker Neil and I enjoyed meeting you at the Portal this summer and I am an avid reader of your interesting and varied hiking adventures. GigaMike, glad you are back. Carlton and I hope to continue our Baldy adventures through the winter and look forward to meeting up again with all of you. Thanks for the invite to the Baldy Lodge lunch, I had family from back East visiting and had to make a beeline back home but am looking forward to a future lunch. Every day on Baldy is a great day!
Dang, sorry I missed everyone... I got a late start on the Bear Flat trail (my first time on that hard route) and hit the summit around 2pm. Didn't like the snow/ice section in that little bowl around 9K feet so I went down the Backbone trail and hitched a ride back to the village. Maybe next time.
Sorry I missed y'all. Will and I must have passed you by when we skipped the hut on our descent.The eclipse was pretty interesting, although like Mark, we didn't get to witness totality. (I couldn't hang out since I was on a hike and bike and wanted to get home before dark.)
Belated congratulations to you, Shin, on achieving another Baldy milestone -- the hard way!
Hope to see you all in them thar' snowy hills real soon.
Not much snow there on Friday December 16. A few icy patches up to the Hut and a few inches on the ground above there. Ice axe and crampons were in the pack but never needed. I wouldn't go up there without them though. Here are a couple pictures:
Since it was light raining Saturday night here in Torrance I didnt go up to Baldy early because of ice on the road, I arrived at 5:50 this Sunday morning,with a light coating of ice on the road after the turn off to go up to Manker Flat. I drove real slow around the turns and up the road, as there was no tracks to follow as I was the first one up there I guess, I even beat the sand truck..At 6:25 I hit the trail arriving at the hut at 8:00,had a bite to eat fill my water bottle and headed for the main bowl chute before heading up chute I saw Shin and Jeff across the way heading to the hut,said hello there and Jose from Encino was right behind me and he heard me tell Shin where I was going and he followed me and we were partners for the day..
The Main Bowl as you can see in the pictures is not in great shape very soft snow, when you kickstep most of the the time you hit a rock. 3/4 the way up I put mircos on as the closer to the top the more slipping I was doing the last 1/4 of the chute most of the time I was on all 4s climbing up..At the summit it was a blowing and 17 deg. lasted 5 min. up there...There was from 1 inch of snow to 15 inches(in the drifts).. Came down reg. trail...This was my first hike with my new Lowa Mtn.Experts boots everything work out good feet stayed nice and toasty no bruised toes... Another great day on Baldy
It was nice meeting some of you from the board last week. After seeing the forecast of snow on Baldy, I decided to do the hike again in the snow. Here is a link to a video I made of the hike on Saturday. It was a little cloudy and there was some wind on the ridge, but not too bad
Rumor has it that some of the regulars will be running around Baldy Friday morning again - it's only a rumor at this point but you know how rumors spread
I hit the trail arriving at the hut at 8:00,...headed for the main bowl chute before heading up chute I saw Shin and Jeff across the way heading to the hut,said hello there and Jose from Encino was right behind me and he heard me tell Shin where I was going and he followed me and we were partners for the day..
.. I was doing the last 1/4 of the chute most of the time I was on all 4s climbing up..At the summit it was a blowing and 17 deg. lasted 5 min. up there...There was from 1 inch of snow to 15 inches(in the drifts).. Came down reg. trail...mark Baldy 12-18-2011
Great pix Mark, sorry I missed you - wasn't feeling well but changed my mind at the 11th hour, came up with Trailbud Doug the birthday boy and his son Ryan. Ryan's first time on Baldy. He went up and down the bowl with instep spikes.
Another great day on Baldy just hanging out with friends.
Tracie & Patrick Are you guys going up on Friday? time? and to the Lodge after?
Stacy
6 AM Friday Stacy
Jeff and Shin are coming back that evening to the lodge for dinner with family, I'm heading to another engagement so I'm headed home right after the climb - Traffic on Friday will be a "Zoo" come join us for the climb
Rats, that sounds like fun...too bad I have shopping to do. I'm assuming there is snow now at the TH right? If so, I can call a "sledding" trip for the fam and sneak in a climb.
as of monday most of the trailhead snow has melted...as did most all of the snow below the hut level, still a good amount up high and on sunless slopes...
Cool Patrick! We are going to hike...time and distance are TBA. We want to do the dinner thing with Jeff and Shin, but don't want to sit around for 2-3 hours in between. I'm sure we'll see you up there somewhere, if you stay on the ski hut trail up and down. If we don't see you, have a Merry Christmas and a safe and Happy New Year! Take care, Stacy
Hardly any snow to speak of all the way to the south side of the "rock garden" past the Ski Hut - still Icy in the shady spots but not much snow. There's patches from the top of the ridge to the summit but not much else. Have fun, Happy New Years
I went up today. All I can add to lilbitmo's report is that I was glad to have microspikes going up through the trees to the ridge. Didn't need them before that or after. There was a cold wind on top, otherwise it was a warm, sunny day on the mountain.
Happy New Year everyone. Baldy on NY Eve was absolutely beautiful. Left out of Manker with a t shirt and shorts at 6:30am. No spikes needed, a little ice in spots, always a way around it. I am amazed with the running clubs that come running by, with nothing more than a bottle of water. When is the snow going to fall !! My best to everyone fo 2012. Dave
might as well have been July up there today and ooooh the crowds. the switchbacks through the woods could have been the 405 on my decent...on second thought maybe lombard street is a better analogy.
frank, good to see you. it's always great seeing nice people on Baldy. No Shin though? I would have lost that bet.
Crowds? I saw two headlamps across the way on the West Bowl Ridge, summitted at 1:20am this morning 29deg...Who ever enclosed the wind break thanks..Highlight of trip, going down main bowl using moon over my right shoulder.. Another bitchen night on Baldy...
Crowds? I saw two headlamps across the way on the West Bowl Ridge, summitted at 1:20am this morning 29deg...Who ever enclosed the wind break thanks..Highlight of trip, going down main bowl using moon over my right shoulder.. Another bitchen night on Baldy...
The (part) Vampire was out again, bummer, would have liked to see you and some of those good cookies - was up Bear Flat/Village today - over 200 people between summit and Manker (Noodle) Flat trail head
Hi Patrick, Happy new year!! What a surprise to see you,Sam,and Ryan on the "DRY" Mt. Baldy today. The global warming took away our enjoyment from us this winter.
We must ask Mark's blood type. He loves the dark side of the world especially at full moon night. Does he get a new cookie recipes idea at full moon night? Mark, Happy new Year!!! I hope to see you during a day soon if your eyes won't hurt badly.
I hiked with my friend Edith and Randy today. The traffic was very heavy today.
We may have to put away all winter gears in the closet.
WOW! With crowds like that I'll be sticking with night and early morning hikes, you put me in a stadium with 50,000 people for a rock concert and I love that atmosphere... Weather is just to nice...
There was a Full Moon up on Whitney too. That would definitely be a solitary climb... and the conditions aren't tough enough to make it unreasonable for you right now!
Clear and cold today, nice and sunny while it was gray in LA. Not a soul to be seen all day from Manker to Backbone...good stuff. SAR choppers were doing training flights at the saddle which was cool, interesting to watch the pilots work up close.
Dry as a bone, hopefully the weekend will change that.
Has anybody here climbed Baldy using the North Approach from Blue Ridge via Pine Mountain and Dawson Peak? My son wants try a new route this weekend. We were hoping to make this an overnighter.
Would this route be suitable for the current conditions? We're okay dealing with snow and ice.
I got a close up look at the route yesterday, it is almost entirely dry. It's a fun route and certainly offers some varied terrain from the walk up routes as RP said.
Has anybody here climbed Baldy using the North Approach from Blue Ridge via Pine Mountain and Dawson Peak? My son wants try a new route this weekend. We were hoping to make this an overnighter.
Would this route be suitable for the current conditions? We're okay dealing with snow and ice.
Conditions are going to change this weekend so be prepared. The NOAA website shows (http://forecast.weather.gov/MapClick.php...p;FcstType=text)snow and rain for Friday thru Sunday. I was in the area of the ridge that leads from Dawson up to Baldy four weeks ago and there's still plenty of spots with "Ice" under the snow (it's a north facing slope) and with fresh snow coming down over the top of that there's going to be some spots that are very slick - just bring the right equipment and have a great time
[quote=iPlod]Has anybody here climbed Baldy using the North Approach from Blue Ridge via Pine Mountain and Dawson Peak? My son wants try a new route this weekend. We were hoping to make this an overnighter.
Would this route be suitable for the current conditions? We're okay dealing with snow and ice.
I myself have always wanted to do that route but not till late spring early summer. Also on my list is fish fork creek. I hear thats a very remote area. Anybody do fish fork ?
[quote=iPlod]Has anybody here climbed Baldy using the North Approach from Blue Ridge via Pine Mountain and Dawson Peak? My son wants try a new route this weekend. We were hoping to make this an overnighter.
Would this route be suitable for the current conditions? We're okay dealing with snow and ice.
I myself have always wanted to do that route but not till late spring early summer. Also on my list is fish fork creek. I hear thats a very remote area. Anybody do fish fork ?
Last April Sam P and myself climbed up to the saddle between Harwood and Baldy directly up the water drainage next to the Ski Hut (at the far northeast end of Baldy Bowl), then we traversed over to the Dawson/Baldy saddle (very steep and very exposed when Icy - which is was at that time) then we followed the canyon that was presented to us from the ridge in that saddle directly down to the west leading down into Fish Fork, then we followed the creek for 1/2 mile till it opened up (where the canyon makes a slight turn to the south) into the (our left as we were heading downhill and in a westerly direction) Baldy/West Baldy North Faces. We then turned South East and climbed what I refer to as the North West Face of Mount Baldy - one crux with small waterfall running through and under the snow at the time,some ice fall but not much that day we were there fairly early in the day. Unless you want a total scree slug I would not do it until it's covered in snow again - might not happen this season. Hope that is what you were referring to? Enjoy
This is a fun one in a good snow year. Rugged with a water fall or two. Up Lytle Canyon Dave
Agreed, Dave G, Sam P, AKA Taco (Ryan D) and myself did both the North Face of Harwood and the Northeast Face of Baldy in a two week period two years ago following this route - it's quite a scramble to get back to the base of the climbs but well worth it - great photo, brings back memories
Has anybody here climbed Baldy using the North Approach from Blue Ridge via Pine Mountain and Dawson Peak? My son wants try a new route this weekend. We were hoping to make this an overnighter.
Would this route be suitable for the current conditions? We're okay dealing with snow and ice.
i don't think you'd fall so much as slide all the way down. footing was loose. but with proper ice defeating equipment you should have a great time - esp over two days.
I appreciate everybody's information about Baldy's north approach. I'm looking forward to trying it out soon. I'm not going to try this weekend due to incoming storm. Common sense prevails.
Hopefully Baldy will get some more snow so we can start practicing our snow travel in the bowl.
Had a great time today with the gang, 14 of us..Went up Register Ridge and down reg. trail to ski hut..Ice on R/R had to put on mirco(not plural) 3/4 the ways up R/R and the rest of the way to ski hut. mircos is all that was needed today..23deg. at summit
For some reason, I only had 1 micro-spike last Friday also. If I don't find the other one, maybe we can flip a coin to see who gets to make up a new pair...
The Whitney Portal group went up Baldy today. We ran into some icy sections on the ridge past the ski hut (after the rock garden). Micro spikes or basic crampons would be useful. You can make it up the ice sections without any traction aids (not gracefully) but descending safely would be difficult. This was the only section requiring traction aids.
It was 27 degrees when we summited (about 10:30 AM).
Climbing Baldy from the north approach looks like fun. At least it did yesterday as we looked down from the summit. Count me in for a Blue Ridge outing.
I would love to organize the group climb but I am starting a new job on Monday. I don't when and where I'll be traveling. Let me propose Saturday, February 25th.
I will start a new thread for planning the outing if others express an interest in joining in.
TR for Baldy on Sat. 2/11/2012 about 35 at Manker 7:15.... just missed Shin and Randy.. they were ahead of me all the way.. Met about 10 min below the summit as they were coming down... Still snow/ice in the trees along the west ridge. Tried out some Yax Trax... seemed to work well. Be careful stretching them on your boot... if you let go they sling shot away. Wind was tolerable. Clouds started coming up the valley below the Hut around 9:45. by 2pm it was socked in and lightly pelleting... not snow flakes... white pellets. All in all a good day finally back on the mountain... last there in Nov. Ran into Sam halfway below the ski hut at 2:30... said he has going for the top.. Hope he had a good hike.. Lets all find the snow gods and do a snow dance or something to get some white stuff on the mountain. Happy Hiking Rick
Hi Rick nice to have met you yesterday as Shin and I were coming down. It was cold and windy at the peak yesterday. Shin pushed me to the top in record time, so I want to thank him his encouragement and help. Just before we got to the parking lot we got a combination of snow/light hail. It must have been snowy up in the fog coming down from the peak. We had a great time as Shin met many of his friends on our way down from the peak. Nice to have met you all. See you all again.
Hi That would save us eastsiders some time. I looked for a road/trail access but didn't see a winter road close? In the old days (70's ) seemed like we went up Baden Powell some where in that area .HWY 2 ? could that work I would be up for the hike Thanks for the offer to kick it off . Feb 24 I am in Lancaster and could do the 138 over .Thanks Doug
I summited via the Manker Flats Ski Hut trail on Friday the 10th--gorgeous day on the trail, by the way. The water flow at the spring crossing next to the hut seemed a little lighter than normal to me, although I have never been there in February. I was there in November, though and it seemed as though the flow was stronger then. Both times, I was there during the day time in relatively warm weather. Is it just my imagination? Does anyone else think that the flow seemed a little less than normal?
I summited on Monday 2/6. You're right, the flow was fairly light last week but I have seen a lot of variation there (but never so low that I couldn't fill a bottle). The stream responds pretty fast to local conditions. I bet if you went up now, after last week's precip, there would be more flow. I don't think it's anything unusual.
Doug, I'm not sure but I think the Blue Ridge Rd which takes you to the trailhead for the north backbone trail is closed. It was a few weeks ago. You can start in Wrightwood which adds a few miles to the route. I've never done that so I can't tell you just where you pick up the trail in Wrightwood.
You are right that the north route up Baden Powell starts up from Hwy 2 at Vincent Gulch which is just a little west of the turnoff for the Blue Ridge Rd. Burt
Last time I parked at Guffy, I believe that this was the trail that was intersecting the PCT from Wrightwood. If memory serves me, after it intersects, you proceed East for about 1/4 to 1/2 mile and look for the obvious razor ridge directly north of the road.
Acorn Trail is correct for this time of year. My guess is that the road you can drive in "summer" Is closed as soon as Mountain High starts blowing snow.
Thanks, Burt. I thought about snow possibly affecting the flow, but I think that water is entirely spring fed and in the summer months when any memory of snow is long gone, the flow seems stronger. Just curious.
Brent, you know, I think you're right. It seems that the flow is generally greater in the summer. I wonder how that could be. Maybe the snowmelt on Mt. Whitney seeps into the aquifer and takes a couple months to move south through subterranean rock layers before it ends up on Mt Baldy.
Brent, you know, I think you're right. It seems that the flow is generally greater in the summer. I wonder how that could be. Maybe the snowmelt on Mt. Whitney seeps into the aquifer and takes a couple months to move south through subterranean rock layers before it ends up on Mt Baldy.
Without looking at local core samples / maps you hit it spot on. With all of the faulting in the area there is a large potential for all sorts of interesting water movement / hanging aquifers. From the time they get an influx of water there is a delay before it re surges from a spring. In karst terrain (like the Appalachians) that can be as little as two hours, elsewhere it could be years.
Acorn Trail is correct for this time of year. My guess is that the road you can drive in "summer" Is closed as soon as Mountain High starts blowing snow.
If you plan to hike up the Acorn Trail out of Wrightwood, the trailhead is next to a "Private Residence" and the owner is not friendly to hikers what-so-ever, you need to park about 1/8 mile down the road where it's legal to do so or you may get towed - Just for general information if you've never been there, friend picked me up there once after doing the PCT section from 15 Freeway all the way to Wrightwood and they wouldn't even let him wait, they were that unfriendly, so he parked down the street and picked me up when I called him on a radio
The two times that I've done the Acorn Trail, I/we've parked down in a school parking lot (?) Added a bit of walking to get to the Trailhead.
We basically walked up from the bottom of Acorn Dr. The parking was a block or two over. It added some walking, but that is the point of the whole exercise anyway.
Did anyone go up the ski hut trail today? I'm hoping to take my kids up tomorrow and am curious about whether any of the snow from earlier this week is still on the trail.
Has anyone tried to use the Blue Ridge Truck Trail that is accessed on the east side of Wrightwood off of Lone Pine Canyon Road? It looks to be about 1.25 in length and about 1000' below where the other BRTT that comes in from the west side. Observed using google maps....
Did anyone go up the ski hut trail today? I'm hoping to take my kids up tomorrow and am curious about whether any of the snow from earlier this week is still on the trail.
Brent N
Brent - did Register Ridge to Baldy today - plenty of snow on the ridge but not that much in the saddle between Harwood and Baldy, came down the (never used) chute that is directly below Harwood back to the main trail (a canyon that comes out just below the ski hut by about an 1/8 of a mile) the main trail from there back to the road is slushy (so it will freeze tonight and be icy in the early morning. The shady spots will have snow for a few more days, nothing more than 6 to 8 inches in most spots - Depending on the time of day you go it will be Icy early morning, fairly consolidated up until about 11 AM then getting softer throughout the day - depends on what protection and comfort level the kids can handle or like.
The road is really slick in the early AM - the melt runs down that road and freezes at night and will be that way for the next 3-5 days.
Have fun - the bowl is empty of most snow, not that much fell in the bowl but a bunch fell in the canyons and ridges below Harwood, go figure?
Is the road do-able in a Prius with chains on? Also do you know how often they spread sand on the road. I was up to Manker Flats on Thursday afternoon and I could see that sand had been spread on the road. Thanks.
Is the road do-able in a Prius with chains on? Also do you know how often they spread sand on the road. I was up to Manker Flats on Thursday afternoon and I could see that sand had been spread on the road. Thanks.
Randy, not exactly sure the "time table" of when they do it, but most mornings that I have been there when there's a potential of ice on the roads at least one truck is roaming around putting brickdust/sand/gravel in the spots that need it. Unless there's really fresh snow, I've always been able to get to Manker - during a storm they shovel it then follow that up by spreading out the sandy stuff as soon as they can in the very early hours of the morning so that as many people can get to the lifts and into the village as possible. Within a day or two it will not be needed, it's getting warmer - tonights little bit of moisture is so insignificant as to be meaningless - have fun
Thanks for your reply. I was beginning to worry more about the drive up then the actual hike! I know for sure that it will be nice and cold in the morning when I go up. Thanks again.
I took my 10 year old and 15 year old girls up the ski hut trail today. There was a surprising amount of snow. The snow started at around 7,000 feet and got progressively thicker the higher we went, culminating in a lot of snow in the forrested area. We were glad for the microspikes starting at around 7,400 feet. In the afternoon when it turned to slush, however, microspikes have their limits.
It was a great day on Baldy, and, I finally scaled Kurt's no hand's rock--a first for me.
Hi, Rick. The area in the trees was icy-ish in the morning, but very slushy in the afternoon. A week ago, it was very icy, but you now have a new layer of snow that is melting. I don't give it very long with the weather we will have this week. I'll bet by the end of the week, it will be mostly ice.
No hands rock is on the ski hut (Manker Flats) trail at around 7300 feet or so. Whenever Kurt takes a group up, he demonstrates how to scale it with no hands, making it look easy enough that several other people attempt it. I've never seen anyone other than Kurt scale it with no hands.
Here is one of Richard P's pictures of Kurt on no hands rock about 3 weeks ago.
TR Today - WIND. I'm a pretty solid dude and it took a lot of effort just to put foot on sign. I should have known when I eyed the spindrift from the highway.
some significant snow (by winter '12 standards). if you're like me you enjoy bombing down the slope to the rock garden....do tread lightly as there is 6-8" of freshie on top of solid ice.
Hiked up R/R last night on Baldy, summited at 9:25 31deg and not a breath of wind on top, used the half of moon for most of the trip..
One of my highlights last night was comeing down the summit before I went down the chute was the moon hitting the pine trees with snow around the base of the trees the beautiful glow it showed I can't capture it on my camera..
On the way down about 15min. past the hut I heard a growl, well kinda like a growl. I stopped looked up the hill towards R/R and it made a sound I never heard before almost like a dog wanting to bark but what came out was a raspy sound, with goose bumps all over me I looked up the hill with my lamp for about 2min.no eyes,the animal made this sound 3x then I started walking down again and in about 2min. later it made the raspy growl type sound once more kinda like if the animal had a cold and couldn't growl right, I stopped again goose bumps going on to look up but nothing...Does anybody have any idea what it might have been...
NICE. I started up at 3a last week and had a pair of narrow eyes following me for a bit, I knew it was small but it's funny how it gets to you in the dark. Turned out to be a possum and I enjoyed a good laugh at my own expense...in your case I'm pretty sure possums don't growl :-)
On the way down about 15min. past the hut I heard a growl, well kinda like a growl. I stopped looked up the hill towards R/R and it made a sound I never heard before almost like a dog wanting to bark but what came out was a raspy sound, with goose bumps all over me I looked up the hill with my lamp for about 2min.no eyes,the animal made this sound 3x then I started walking down again and in about 2min. later it made the raspy growl type sound once more kinda like if the animal had a cold and couldn't growl right, I stopped again goose bumps going on to look up but nothing...Does anybody have any idea what it might have been...
I didn't want to tell you Mark but it was me, I kept waiting for you to break out the famous "Chocolate Chip Cookies" and when you didn't my stomach was growling from tracking you all night
Mark, I think there are programs out there with recordings of animal "growls"/raspy sounds on the internet if you search
This season has been utterly dismal. Despite the lack of snow, one young man felt the need to ascend yesterday with crampons! He was walking around the summit with crampons on. I don't know which trail he took, he said something about a meadow, but it wasn't Bear Flat because I went that way.
So my next night hike I will bring chocolate chip cookies to flush either Patrick or a mountain lion out and if its Patrick I wont need life insurance, but if it's the....
Thanks Tracie I listened to 4 different web sites but to no avail..
Yes, twice I've seen a lion just across the creek from the ski hut. Both times in the gloaming, too dark for a photo and too fleeting for the sluggish digicam anyway.
Night is also the best time to see these little fellows. These photos were taken on the Ski Hut Trail.
Scorpions are found in most of the popular SoCal hiking areas; I've encountered them up to 10,700 ft. on San Gorgonio.
The nocturnal mountain milieu is vastly different than that which is experienced by most daytime group hikers, best enjoyed in natural light of moon and sky.
When headlamp use is needed, the most memorable sounds on Baldy and such are those generated when a moth spirals in, drawn to the light, then is snatched a foot from your partner's eyes by a toothsome darting bat.
They *always* scream when that happens.
Which is another reason why most nighttime hikes are solo...
Hello everyone! I am going to be in the lovely state of California in late April on business. I have always wanted to climb Baldy, and was hoping that conditions would allow me to climb Baldy while I am in the area. Based on current conditions and your experience, what are the chances that I will be able to climb Baldy this April? Any and all opinions are welcome!
Hey Dave, it has been very dry...the mountain has been nearly bare all winter. Unless we have successive, big, late storms I would guess it will be a clear walkup as it is now.
Scorpions are found in most of the popular SoCal hiking areas; I've encountered them up to 10,700 ft. on San Gorgonio.
Scorpions??? When I'm trying to acclimatize for Whitney, I usually bivy a couple of weekends up on Baldy first. Didn't realize I was turning myself into scorpion bait.
Scorpions are found in most of the popular SoCal hiking areas; I've encountered them up to 10,700 ft. on San Gorgonio.
Scorpions??? When I'm trying to acclimatize for Whitney, I usually bivy a couple of weekends up on Baldy first. Didn't realize I was turning myself into scorpion bait.
Are you saying that I will encounter ice at those levels? Please elaborate. Also, will the chair lift be operating in late April? It would be on a Friday that I plan to do this hike.
Dave Check here Baldy Ski Lift and Weather Info The lifts have been periodically closed depending on the weather...especially when it's windy. Good luck, Stacy
DocDiamond: Since Brent hasn't answered I will chime in. 8400' - 9000' is the stretch through the trees between the bowl and the ridge. It's shady and always holds ice longer than any other part of the Ski Hut route.
TR for 3-10 Sat. Went up early via the ski hut. Area in the trees below the west ridge had a little snow. Walk up without any micros... on the way down stayed to the right (going down) of the route up... almost all in sun and no snow.. until the very bottom... It was 41degrees at 6:30 so pretty soft by 9 on the way down. Never hurts to have the "micros" in the pack though. About 3/4 mile below the skihut came across a "herd" of Goats. Ram, 3 ewes and a little one. Nice to some wildlife other than scorpions.... hahaha Happy Hiking to All Rick
It hard to say what condition will be in late April but this year it is safe to assume the will not be much snow around. This week's heat melted everything that fell the previous week. It would take a monstrous series of storms between now and late April for there to be appreciable snow on the south face trails.
Generally, the chair lift operates on weekends once the ski season is over and Mt. Baldy Ski Area is closed, based on a sign I saw in REI last week. If your plan is to use the lift going up, there is a spot on the Backbone trail that gathers and keeps snow late that can get a bit dicey, if you do not have the right gear. If your plan is to use it for exiting and it stops you in your tracks, you can take the Register Trail down rather than retracing your steps over the summit. The Register Trail is hard to find because it is not an official trail with junction signage. Its junction with the Backbone Trail is about mid-Mt. Harwood.
DocDiamond, my information is about three weeks old. I done the ski hut trail three times between November and the end of February. Back then, on the ski hut trail, there was snow and ice from about 8400 feet to 9000 feet. This is a relatively steep section that doesn't get any afternoon sun. You could walk around the snow by going off trail, but I don't like doing that for ecological reasons. From wbtravis's report, it sounds like even that section got melted out since I was there last.
The ski hut trail (also known as the Manker Flats trail) is different from the path on which you would use the chair lifts. The chair lifts take you up to the ski lodge (the modern one) and from there you ascend the Devil's backbone. The ski hut trail is entirely on foot. You encounter the old Sierra Club ski hut (not the same structure as the ski lodge) by the spring at about 8,000 feet and from there you go up around the West side of the bowl. The trail head for those two paths are within a quarter of a mile of each other. Maybe that was more info than you were seeking.
I did the Ski Hut up yesterday and descended via the Backbone Trail to the ski area and chairlift down. Brought the crampons and did not need them. The area in the trees just past the Ski Hut had some snow that was easily avoided. The Backbone trail had a few snow areas that were old drifts but easy to get around. All in all, it was basically like hiking in summer except the temps were in the 30's at the summit and 40's otherwise. Now all of that may change this weekend, forecast is for a big cold front and snow. Let's hope so because so far this is the winter that never happened...
You guys have answered my questions very well -- thank you! I will probably go up the Ski Hut trail from Manker Flats, and down the Backbone to the fire road, since the ski lifts probably will not be running on a Friday in late April. Unless you get a lot of snow over the next few weeks, it sounds like I should be able to do the trek with little difficulty from ice and snow. Thanks again, and happy hiking to each of you!
The mountain reported 18". I haven't been in the bowl, I did putz around Icehouse yesterday with the family and there was 10-12" of freshie...real light stuff, it was cold. I wouldn't expect that it was enough, or will consolidate to be able to do much in the bowl...plus I imagine the wind was blowing it around pretty fierce. My two cents.
I hit the trail at 6:15 this morning,yes the road was icey,right away I noticed no footprints so it must have snowed Sunday night.4 or 5 chutes(gullys) on the way to the hut I noticed that there were slides, the biggest gully before the hut I waded across waist deep..got to the hut at 8:10 and it was 13deg.I tried different ways to the hut trying to stay high but after knee deep and at times thigh deep I went lower..
I did not go up main bowl knowing the the fresh snow would be that sinking feeling..Did not matter, from the hut to the summit I went though ankle,calf,knee,and waist deep snow.I started though the trees and then cut right so I could walk the west ridge, as soon as I hit the top of the ridge the flying snow started,when the gust weren't happening it was very nice out.The higher I went up the longer the breaks I took, alot of the day going up I would take 5 steps and rest, there were times the snow was so soft on small incline humps I would get no traction and have to swim over the hump.
At the summit(12:15) it was 11deg.when I got there there was no wind dropped my bag and started to have lunch that didn't last long as a gust of wind came up and didn't let up,grab my camera to take a couple more pictures and my hand were numb and swollen that fast, tried to put gloves on and only got them on 3/4 of the way my hands were like two ballons, grabbed my pack and went behind the bush just off the summit a little better but my hands were wet and swollen couldnt get them on, I took my gloves off and put my other gloves on stuck my right hand in my pocket and in 15min. my hand was normal again..
On the way down from the summit it was more of knee deep snow around the west part of the chutes on the west side I hit a spot where I was wadeing waist deep got out of there as soon as I could..
Went down the west bowl twice I tried to glissade but was to soft, at the top of the bowl it was knee deep in the middle it was thigh deep with styrofoam type snow..Got to the hut stream and filled up with water and food and the first two people I saw all day walked by..the 3rd person I saw at the register was karen and she was just going to the hut..3 people all day..
As I was breaking trail today I was thinking of richard and gigamike all the times they broke trail at whitney, you have to give it to those two as they had it alot harder then me..my legs got a workout today...
Beautiful pictures Mark!! Some of the pictures showing the snow-covered trees look like a Christmas cards; they're really pretty! Sounds (and looks) like it was awfully cold uper there. I haven't walked thru that waist-deep kind of snow in a long time.
WOW, those are some great photos Mark. They really do look like post cards or something out of National Geographic. I tried to get up there Sunday, but my Prius kept slipping on the snow and ice even with snow cables. I didn't get much further than Ice House Canyon Rd.
Mark, Looks like you had a great time. I can't make it up till Sat. Do you think there is enough white stuff to climb the center of the bowl? Shin are you heading up on Sat.?? Happy Hiking Rick
I hoping I can squeeze in a climb with Shin and his daughter between the family obligations this weekend. I wouldn't mind seeing that rotten "son" of his too.
Took a trip up to Mt. Baldy then over to West Baldy. With the recent snow I couldn't resist. I took the Ski Hut trail up the western bowl through the trees to the top. There were a few people who took the bowl direct and made it.
There was evidence of some surface slides, but nothing major. I did not go up the bowl for three reasons: I am a slacker and didn't start till 0800, forgot my helmet (rime ice was coming down) and the the art of solo hiking, stay away from surface slides. Here are some photos.
I hoping I can squeeze in a climb with Shin and his daughter between the family obligations this weekend. I wouldn't mind seeing that rotten "son" of his too.
Ha, Richard thanks! Told Shin I'm taking my daughter to Arizona this weekend to see my other Dad you know the biological kind? Have fun I'm missing out on meeting Shin's daughter for the first time, maybe he can convert her to become a mountain person. Hope you guys have good weather. See you all soon
My roommate and I will be out there this Sunday-Monday. I'm new on the board here but if anyone's on Baldy this weekend and wants to say hi we'll be the two 20something guys w/ a red pack and a green pack.
Shin, Enjoy the hike with your daughter. Wish I could be there to see you two having a great day. Maybe sometime we'll plan a family hike and all the sons and daughters can make the parents look silly! James
Trail Report.. 3-24-12 Left manker flats PL at 6:45 about 40degrees. encounter snow on the trail to the ski hut around 7K. Met Mark(southbay) coming down. He spent the night on the top... came down the center chute.. southface.. said it was in xlnt condition so headed to the top via that route. Solid snow..no postholing.. one guy ahead of me but no rocks kicked loose. somewhat of a cold steady wind which kept the snow firm.. Near the top at the large pines it got a little soft and slick but no problems. Windy at the summit lots of hikers making the top and returning via the west ridge. returned via west ridge and then down the west bowl.. it was in great shape. boot skied most of it. Trail through the rock garden was soft but lots of boot prints to follow. Below the skihut was as Tracie predicted "slushy" and slick. Never saw Shin... all in all an almost "winter" day.
Nothing in the village, first signs of snow around 7000' or so and pretty steady from 8k up. Annoyingly slushy and surprisingly deep in spots. Awesome views, turned back just shy of West Baldy, friend hit a wall and wanted some beer. Another great trip (most of the way) up!
Add 15-20" from today for current conditions. Could be a great week to head up, if you have the time.
Hi Rick, Sorry,we missed you. We were there on the trail. We were playing with snow in the tree section,8600 ft, of ridge area. We met Mark near the register. He hiked up Register trail night before to the summit and bivouacked up there and hiked down the main BOWL with micro spikes. He is the adventurer of Mt. Baldy. GigaMike joined us and he and my friend Rik took off to the main BOWL. GigaMike hit the summit and hiked down east BOWL in lightening speed to joined us for a last minute photo session in time at Ski hut. "Speedy" is alive and well. Richard don't use "ExSpeedy" any more. Richard,Tracie & Talus,and Cori had a very relaxing time around the Ski hut. Thier bodies needed some rest,including mine. We had a nice lunch at the Lodge as usual.
Sorry I missed you, I was looking forward to meeting the legend "Richard". Was Gigamike in a bright blue softshell jacket? If so he was right behind me near the top of the bowl but then I think he went to the right and I looped around to the left to get to the summit. We'll meet up again soon I'm sure.
Shin and I hit the trail at 6:15 up to the hut where we had a snack and he put on mircos. We headed up the main bowl where I put my mircos on. The snow was anywhere from 1/2 inch to a foot of snow on the bowl,with some dirt hiking,Shin had a bad knee so of course he was still well ahead of me,thanks Shin for kicking steps in that I used part of the time, the sun was beating down on us going up the bowl and I sure didn't need the 3 ply pants on that I brought.we hit the summit around 11am and there was a light breeze and around 38 deg.. Came down the West Bowl and did my first face first stomach glissade, it was a blast...
Thanks Shin for another fun day..
BTW:I didn't want to take my hiking poles up with me so I put them under the steps at the hut and when we got back to the hut they were gone, yea I know but I have done this a few times in the past this time it didn't work out for me,I checked the vistor center and no one brought them there. I hopeing someone was using them on Baldy and when they were done with them they would put them back. So I won't be up there for a couple of weeks if anyone goes by the hut can you see if my poles are under the steps and call me or take them to vistor center I will drive over to pick them up there or your place... Cell (310)713-9157 I know, after what Richard went though twice at Baldy you would think I would know better, but I just trust people...
BTW:Please keep your hands off other peoples stuff...
Mark, I started about 8:30 when I got to the hut I had a snack and saw the poles under the steps. Saw you and Shin going up the bowl (did'nt know that was you) so I went way right to avoid rockfall. Conditions were so bad up near the top I hung further right and hit the backbone and went to the summit. Small world
Hi Mark, Thank you very much for a fun day on Mt. Baldy today. I posted the video of your Head Down Glissading on my photo album link. I didn't know what you were doing till I saw your face. You were crazy. But the snow was very wet and deep enough for some fun stuff. Everyone,please just enjoy the video. At least we enjoyed the last good snow. Looking forward to a next fun hike. Shin
I hope Shin-San was wearing a brace on that bum knee.
On another note: it was downright hot on Whitney yesterday. BP was comfortable enough to eat up on the summit. The wind was picking up as we were heading down. Couldn't have been fun to be up there overnight.
Hi all. I went up today and it was pretty cold. The thermometer in my car registered 34 degrees when I started at 0730. There was sporadic snow along the way until the Hut. After that I would say it was pretty much all snow. There was also some light dusting of snow from Saturday night. The peak was pretty much covered in snow. The wind breaks were also covered in snow. There were icycles in the trees still. For me the only real hard part was coming down through the trees. It was still very icy and slick. However it was a fun day. Get up there before it melts!!
So I called Shin Friday evening and asked if he wanted to do Baldy he said yea but he has a wedding to go to later in the day so we have to make it a quick one . Well I told him to pick a time and we hit the trail at 6:10 this morning. Took him up Register and for a change I was ahead of Shin all the way to the summit(I love it when Shin is hurting )
At the Backbone trail I told Shin we have 50min. left to the summit and told him after the notch going up I slow down, so with him creeping closer I pushed and we made it in my best time 35min from the Register/Backbone trail(just think if Richard was behind me...no way)
Got to the summit at 8:45 and told Shin he'll get home in plenty of time and be able to relax in recliner with a coke..
27deg. at summit w/light breeze,low cut shoes w/ankle gaters and light pants..
Hi Randy, The title of my day was "Chasing Mark all morning long on Mt. Baldy." Mark guided me into his domain,Register ridge trail,where he has been hiking at night for a few years. I chased him up to Devil's backbone and Mt. Baldy. I chased him down to west Bowl's scree field. He ran down like a bighorn sheep to the bottom of Bowl. He has been coming down main Bowl's scree field every time he climbed Mt. Baldy. I couldn't catch him all morning long. I can name him "Quick sliver Mark".
I gave a field test to Chinese knockoff of Micro spike. 1) It is very hard to put it on boots because no size option. One size fits all. 2) It handled well on hard snow. 3) One of the metal chain link separated after I climbed down on scree field consist of small gavels and wet sand. I was able to fix it at home. 4) other side didn't stay on the boot properly after climbed down the scree field. This may indicates poor workmanship or poor quality of metal. But it is very reasonable price for what it is.
Hi Richard, The Chinese microspikes are perfectly fine on the snow. But the product quality is clearly visible. It is a good rental unit for the store for the tourists for snow use only. It is better than nothing and it is lighter and safer than crampons for the beginners.
I used U.S. made micros on snow,dirt,rock,gravel,sand,and all mixes but there were no issues of any kinds at all. Since the Chinese one's rubber part is stiffer and the continuous tension to the metal link,it maybe very easy to break under extreme tension. I'll keep on using it till it falls apart.
Taking into account the fact that Baldy may get about a foot of snow later this week, do you guys think that crampons or snowshoes will be necessary to reach the top this weekend?
My personal opinion is that in the Baldy area one should have at least micro-spikes. I have never used crampons, but I use micro-spikes and they have helped me a great deal in the snowy terrain of Baldy.
I'll be on the route Friday and will post conditions. Forecast is for 12" tops by Friday, the mountain is reporting 5" dense heavy snow at the notch as of 3p. Maybe we will get enough coverage to climb the bowl direct this weekend.
A Friday trip report would be great to see. Looking to do Ski Hut Trail on Saturday, but only if there's NOT a lot of new snow (I don't have any snow gear)
We went up Baldy using Ski Hut trail today,(Wednesday). In the morning there was snow starting at the Ice House turn off. We wore microspikes from the car at Manker and did not remove them all day.
After the Ski Hut there was 6-8 inches of new snow, we did not see the bowl because of fog and falling snow. Lots of wind and snow and sleet and cold; on and off all day, we were covered in ice by the Summit. By the time we returned there was no snow at Manker and the roads were clear, but it was getting colder. Conditions were actually pretty good and will certainly be better once the weather settles.
Thanks guys, the heavy wet snow was easy to walk in so it was not that bad. The hardest part was getting out of bed at 4 AM and driving up in the heavy rain, trusting it would be snow at Manker. The only time it was hard to navigate was the last 300 yards to the top, we just kept going up, feeling our way until we met the ridge.
Dave C., These are the April conditions I mentioned. I don't know about winter gear, but I was damn happy to have a warm coat.
More wetness today, snow level about 1K higher than forecasted, between IHC and Manker when I left at 3p today. Lower route was heavy and wet and should freeze solid tonight, microspikes will be helpful tomorrow. Lots of POW up high, about 8-10" new at 2p today and it absolutely poured the entire ride home, maybe we will make the 12"-18" forecasted above 9K.
Lots of wind, more to come tonight so there should be many a drift up high.
Lots of thunder and lightening this afternoon, fortunately I was far below by that time. Saw a Bobcat at the trailhead with a squirrel hanging out of its mouth...hadn't seen one in a while, nice to see the food chain hard at work. Anyone heading up early tomorrow take your time the road is littered with rocks, from IHC down was a river.
And now it's sunny at the beach, gotta love California.
Beautiful! Are the pictures posted in reverse order? It looks to me like the end sequence is going up to the summit via the West Bowl and the beginning sequence is (obviously) on the summit. In either case, I wish I had been there.
(2 minutes later) OK. I started with the photo dump and just now read your trip report that explains the sequencing. Burt
However, I'm not sure which direction this shot is taken from, so it could be deceiving. If it's any indication, the ski lifts are remaining closed and are only operating on weekends for scenic rides. I read on one report that the snow level was above 7000ft.
What are the current snow/ice conditions on the mountain? Does the trail from manker flats up the backbone currently require micro spikes? We want to do this hike next weekend (may 5) but not sure about current conditions. Thanks in advance.
Hi Farnsworth. I just hiked Baldy for the first time on Friday, April 27. I was in the area on a business trip, and decided to climb Baldy. I went up the Ski Hut Trail from Manker Flats and came down Devil's Backbone. There was some ice in shaded areas, but it was not a problem. I took Microspikes but did not need them. Unless conditions change drastically, you should be fine. I was in shorts and a tee shirt most of the time. Go for it!
Thanks Doc! I was thinking about going up Sunday. Hikergirl, if you go maybe you can post a report. I haven't been up Baldy or any mtn since Oct 1st when I blew my knee out on the Backbone. Anxious to get back up there.....
Went up yesterday 05/05/12, with my 10 yo daughter and did the loop. No snow or ice on trail, busy..must have been 40 people on summit, a little cool and some wind off the backbone.
I hiked Mt. Baldy yesterday (5/5) with my group in training to hike Whitney. Other than being a bit breezy and cool early on, it was the perfect day for a hike. The weather was beautiful and the trail was in great shape.
We took the Ski Hut trail from Manker Flats to the summit, and then descended via the Devil's Backbone Trail to the ski lifts. The only patches of snow and ice were in a few shaded areas, beginning past the ski hut, and a little closer to the summit. There was one part of the trail as we ascended through the trees near the bowl where there was a patch of ice, but that could be easily avoided and it was melting fast. By next weekend, it may not even be there. All other sections of the trail were completely dry as most of the existing snow is well off to the side.
Thanks Hikergirl! Great post & pix. I didn't get up there today as my buds flaked out, but I did 12 miles in Blackstar Canyon as a consolation. Will do Baldy next sun....
I've never heard of Blackstar Canyon. Will have to check it out. Enjoy your time on the mountain Sunday, Cat. If it continues to warm up, the snow may be all melted by then. Here's to perfect weather!
Went up the ski hut trail and down the backbone to the lifts today. No snow or ice on the trail at all. Up high there are a few patches of snow (and boy did it feel good on my head under my hat on such a warm day like today!!). All in all a great day for a hike and TONS of people on the trail and up top.
More snow on West Baldy than Baldy itself, but even then you can get to the top without walking on the white stuff.
All in all, it's summer on baldy for all intents and purposes!
Hi tif & everyone! My friends & I went up Baldy yesterday. Spectacular day, no wind & very warm. Went up/down the backbone to test the new ACL. Strong & stable - ready for the next challenge! No crowds at the summit. NICE! probably due to mom's day. As always best to get an EARLY start to avoid the hoards & masses....... -cat
Congrats Shin, your getting closer to 400, won't be long...
I was a little ahead of you guys, I summited at 10pm Saturday..
So Richard MR on Friday,Langley on Saturday,Baldy on Sunday = your living the good life..what do you think of are So.Cal. mountain weather(you do call Baldy a mountain don't you)
Shin Congrats... we keep missing each other I've noticed. Did the center chute several weeks ago on Baldy, then read you had been on top the same day. We need to do breakfast again one of these days.
Richard, What time were you on Langley, I was at the summit around 11:45am. on Sat. I enjoy reading of all your adventures but we've never met..
I hiked Whitney last Thursday and then did Baldy this Tuesday. I think Whitney is a good conditioner hike for Baldy, not the other way around.
OK, I know Whitney has the edge in altitude and distance but the Ski Hut trail is the bear, so to speak, for steep, lousy footing. (The Bear Flats trail is unspeakable.)
R.I.P. Register Ridge. The last few times I've gone up the Ski Hut trail I've noticed that the lower end of the Register Ridge route is blocked by brush and rocks. Today I stopped in at the Visitor's Center to ask about it. Mr. Ranger Man said the trail maintenance people do that when an informal route gets used so much it becomes an alternate to the established trail. Register Ridge certainly fell into that category.
Shin has now hit #286. Rick Graham chased us (Dave G, Carole C, Talus, Shin) up the trail carrying 55 lbs of weights, well a 25 lb weight and 5 gallons of water, in his pack I think it's #5 or 6 for Talus
Hi Tracie, Thank you very much for organizing a local memorial hike for "AsABat" last weekend. Your personal card was very nice. It was very nice to hike with Carole C. and Dave G. again.
The highlight of the day: 1) Rick G.'s special training method. 2) The recently erected wooden display board with map box at the trail head was gone. Removed or destroied by someone? 3) The trail head of register trail was closed by rocks and dead trees.
Pictures are my photo album link. Thank you Tracie B.for a fun hike.
Any first hand weather reports for Baldy? I'm thinking about taking my kids up tomorrow. This weather report shows it is currently 59 degrees F at 10:00 am, but that seems hard to believe with how hot it is down the mountain. http://www.mtbaldychamber.com/weather.lasso
I use this NOAA page to check Baldy weather: http://forecast.weather.gov/MapClick.php?lat=34.29353230038843&lon=-117.65945632812497. I have found it accurate as far as conditions such as possible thunderstorms go. This weekend looks clear all day, every day. You'll see that it is based on Big Pines at about 6900' elev. Obviously, it will be cooler on top. I don't go up Baldy without a layer for warmth. It can be hot almost all the way up but an uncomfortable chill wind can be blowing at the summit.
Perfect weather today. For the climb up, I don't think it ever got over 73, including on the top. Wind was not bad. Visibility was clear enough to see Catalina, San Clemente Island and even make out th individual buildings in LA.
A near perfect day for Shin's Number 288 yesterday... we were so fast, we got to have breakfast at the Mt. Baldy Lodge Restaurant (better than lunch/dinner).
A near perfect day for Shin's Number 288 yesterday... we were so fast, we got to have breakfast at the Mt. Baldy Lodge Restaurant (better than lunch/dinner).
Ah, breakfast at Baldy. I sure miss the Midway . . .
I'm assuming you mean the Bear Canyon Trail. If so, that sounds about right. I have done both and they both took me about the same time to complete. Both are excellent hikes, but the Bear Canyon Trail is more exposed, so I would not do that one on a really hot day. Bring at least 4-5 liters of ice water if it's hot.
Thanks Joyce, that's probably the hike I'm referring to. I'm just surprised that the extra 2000 ft of climbing doesn't add much time to the hike.
I just found this:
Quote:
Trail name: The USFS fact sheet refers to the trail as Bear Canyon Trail, as does the signage on the trail (7W12). The Tom Harrison map calls it the Mt. Baldy Trail while the USGS topo map labels it simply Baldy Trail. Jerry Schad refers to it both as the Bear Canyon Trail and the Bear Flat Trail. John Robinson calls it the Bear Flat Trail or Old Mt. Baldy Trai
I'm assuming you mean the Bear Canyon Trail. If so, that sounds about right. I have done both and they both took me about the same time to complete. Both are excellent hikes, but the Bear Canyon Trail is more exposed, so I would not do that one on a really hot day. Bring at least 4-5 liters of ice water if it's hot.
The trail is fairly straightforward and, depending on your start time, there will be others gathering in the parking lot that you can follow. Once you park in the lot, start walking up the fire road. Below is a detailed description of the hike from one of guys I hike with. He is leading a Meetup this Saturday on that trail and I copied the info directly from his posting.
His group will be descending via the Devil's Backbone Trail and he estimates the total hike time to be 7-10 hrs. I prefer going down the DBT, but that is best when you have another person with you so that you can leave a car at the bottom of the ski lifts to get back to the Village where you started. Hope this helps.
The trail begins about 100 yards south of the NFS Baldy Visitor Center and behind the church.
To reach the trail head we proceed up a road for about 1/2 mile passing by some extraordinary private homes nestled in this beautiful canyon with a year long stream. Its easy to see why this road was the first to be settled in Baldy area. Once we leave the cabins behind the real hike begins.
I like to see this hike in roughly four parts:
Part 1 is the relatively easy to moderate initial climb out of the village. The first half of this section is shaded with oak and your typical Southern California vegetation as it follows the creek canyon. This section ends (mentally anyway) when you reach the lush open area of the Bear Flat camp site. Note: There is no water past this point.
Part 2 is basically switch-backing up a steep east, south-east mountain slope. The switchbacks are quite numerous, and your goal should be to ascend this section before the morning sun gets to work as the trail is totally exposed here. It's not a particularly pleasant hike at this point.
Part 3 begins as you top the east facing slope and start working up the ridge-line that will take you much of the way towards the summit and into the alpine forest zone. The grade is steep here, and as you progress, quick rest stops are perfectly OK to let your leg muscles stop screaming. The views on this section are actually quite stunning, with vistas of all the surrounding San Gabriel ranges. You will pass through two or three mountain saddles with relatively level ground and some shaded areas on the way, but frankly, its up and up and up for most of this hike.
Section 4 takes you to the summit and here you will transition out of the alpine zone and into a mixed alpine high-altitude environment with lots of ground-up decomposing granite. You will cross a razor back ridge that presents no problems in the summer time and proceed on up to the final push to the summit. Don't be fooled by what seems like your first glimpse of the summit, you are actually viewing West Baldy. As you approach, you will actually be traversing along the slope of West Baldy before beginning the final push to the Mt. Baldy Summit. Keep a sharp eye out for the trail marker and bear right to reach Mt. Baldy proper. You will soon see piles of stones built as wind shelters in the distance as you look towards the summit. That's where you're headed and you'll be there in no time!
The only thing I would add to Hikergirl's accurate description is a little more detail about the beginning, since you asked about finding the trail.
Turn into the church parking lot (don't park there) and follow the road up to a sign that says you can't go any further. Park there and walk up the paved road to where it ends and a wooden "bridge" crosses the stream. Then you're on the trail itself. There are a few places where the trail branches in the first 1/8th mile or so. Just always choose the uphill.
I strongly second her recommendation that you get an early start. The sun on the switchbacks up through the chaparral is no fun at all.
There were so many people on the Ski Hut trail today (Saturday) that it looked like the MWMT in mid-August. There should have been traffic cops for lane control. But the weather couldn't have been better for hiking - a little cool, slight breeze, really nice.
I ran into Shin and Jeff around 2:30. They were starting up when I was coming down the last stretch. After checking to make sure they knew the way I let them continue.
Someone has cleared away the rocks and tree limbs from the beginning of the register ridge route. Whoever did it did a good job and even cleaned up the "trail" a bit.
Two guys flew off the summit heading down the Bear Flats trail on bikes just as I was getting to the top. If I had gotten there before they took off I might have had a chance to try my Swiss Army Mountain Bike Tire Deflater tool. I don't know if bikes are legal on Baldy or not, but except for the fire road it's no place for bikes. There was a report of 2 guys on bikes on San Gorgonio last week. They are definitely not allowed there.
A while ago I posted that the start of the Register Ridge trail had been thoroughly blocked by tree limbs and boulders. Then I posted that the blockage had been removed and it even looked like someone had cleaned up the few feet of the route that can be seen from the Ski Hut trail. When I went up last Thursday the route was still open but today (Monday) it is blocked again.Stay tuned for further updates in this epic ongoing struggle!
It was a beautiful day on Baldy yesterday morning. Was windy down below but surprisingly calm on the summit. & being a Friday it was deserted...
Shin took me up Register Ridge. What a butt-buster! I have now discovered another trail up Baldy I dislike. People ask me which trail I like best & my answer is I dislike all of them equally ;-p , but I think now that one more.......
I want to say it was an honor to accompany Shin on his 295th? is that what you said Shin? summit of Baldy. & humbly, this was my 10th....
Got to the summit at 8pm last night and like Shin said made me pissed and sick to see the wind breaks broken apart..Anyway stayed overnight at the partial windbreak, wind blew all night long...32deg when I got there and 29deg. when I left early this morning, turned headlamp off at 5:40 on way down trail..
I got Richard P. Syndrome this morning left my cell phone on summit called ranger station twice but a no go...
Nice one....I was up there Tuesday overnight and they hadn't been torn down yet. So goes the cycle on Baldy, something built or blocked soon to be undone and done again...so it goes.
Why would someone do that? Like Norma says Makes no sense at all! Those have not only provided much appreciated break from the wind but have been great places to have conversastions with fellow hikers....
Last time I was up, a week ago Monday, I spent a few minutes picking up rocks from what had been the opening of the shelter and piling them back up on the side walls. I didn't try to move any of the larger rocks by myself - all I need is to throw my back out when I'm up there.
I'm going back up tomorrow and will do a little more. If everyone moves a few rocks every time they're up there I think we can rebuild the shelter pretty fast.
I did notice that someone wrote shelters, plural, a while ago. If more than the one has been destroyed I guess I will surrender and say the vandals have won.
When I was up there with Shin Fri before last we noticed the larger shelter was in disarray, then last Fri I noticed a smaller shelter had been partially knocked down also. I don't know what's going on but someone is going thru a lot of trouble to do that. If these people need to lift weights that badly they need to go to the gym more.....
Hi Mark, I'll hike on Saturday this weekend and I'll start to rebuild it. We need a good wind shelter on the summit for next several weeks till we get good snow.
We have to organize a summit watch team. We,general hiker,will take care of day shift and swing shift so you take care of graveyard shift. You are the most qualified person for the job.
The summer hiking season is over now and there will be less public who don't understand the rules of mountains.
I was up today, don't have anything to add to what's been reported.
I've been trying to figure out Why. It seems there are 2 possibilities. (1) A vandal who just gets his jollies knocking down things. (2) Much more likely, someone who is on a campaign to return the summit of Baldy to its "wilderness" condition. The problem, of course, is that Baldy is not wilderness. It is regular National Forest, "land of many uses," including overnight camping.
I have been a terror about things that people leave on top, including prayer flags, US flags, crosses, etc. I checked with the Ranger and it is all considered litter so I carried it down. For a while I was removing a line of prayer flags almost every week.
But the rocks on Baldy belong there. They don't become unnatural just because you put one on top another.
I will say that when I summited Baldy the first time, 25 or so years ago, my initial reaction to the windbreaks was negative. They seemed obtrusive. But then I realized how right they are for where they are.
I wonder if the person doing this monitors this forum. I would be interested in hearing his side of it.
It's an interesting conversation for sure, would be great to get the person to weigh in.
I'm all for restoring wilderness to it's natural state and to minimize the impact that we all have on it. Frankly, I'll be the first person to pull a ribbon from a tree or remove a duck from a OBVIOUS and WELL ESTABLISHED route. However to the above point the windbreaks on Baldy serve a very different purpose...especially for those of us who camp and/or choose to socialize there.
Shin if I can get a respite from my duties I'll try to scoot up early Sat morning and help, maybe there will be some freshie to play in!
understand, i am not the person who is taking down the windbreak(s). i have used those on baldy on many occasions and feel they can be a lifesaving tool.
Originally Posted By burtw
For a while I was removing a line of prayer flags almost every week. But the rocks on Baldy belong there.
but one man's flags just might be another man's rocks.
Originally Posted By GreenMountainBoy
Frankly, I'll be the first person to pull a ribbon from a tree or remove a duck from a OBVIOUS and WELL ESTABLISHED route.
i volunteer with the forest service. we use the ribbons (we call them flags) to identify many things - some not so apparent to the casual observer - for others who may be coming to do the work in that area and who may not have ever seen the job site in question. seriously think about those flags. you may be removing the flag that identifies a tree nearby that needs to be removed so it doesn't fall on / near the trail and take someone out.
i've set up ducks, for one time usage, to identify water / supply caches. i remove them on my way out. others may be doing the same. i don't like seeing them either. especially if they never move.
but one man's flags just might be another man's rocks.
The rocks are natural there. The flags were packed up. Pack it in, pack it out is the principle that applies here.
As for the U.S. flags I've removed: First, I did check with the Ranger before I removed them. (If it is now the position of the NFS that the windbreaks should be removed I would accept that. But I doubt that it is.)
Second, it does no honor to the flag to leave it up there where it becomes faded and torn in a matter of days.
looks nice and white from the beach...thanks to anyone who worked on the wind breaks today, bet it was brisk. i'll head up tomorrow and do more if needed.
Hi Mike, I tried to rebuild the wind shelter on Saturday around 9:00. It was very cold and the ground was frozen and even my water bottle started to freeze. I took a shovel with me and cleared only one yard square. I should have gone a bit latter with warmer temperature. It was very nice to see snow covered Mt. Baldy. Pictures are in WPS album link.
Cool, I saw a green 4runner there yesterday and thought it was you....alas, no stickers! Thanks, i worked some on the smaller ones as well, looks like the large windbreak will have to wait for warmer weather.
As a conditions update, I saw many an idle crampon and ice axe yesterday. These are not needed, microspikes are handy however.
Those who destroy these types of structures hate the environment, regardless of their purpose they are vandals. The structures serve a purpose and in no way damage nature. For shame.
There is no snow from this weeks storm. Today there was lots of ice in the trees, especially near West Baldy on Bear Flat Trail, it looked like the trees had Christmas Decorations. The ground was not frozen, but it is getting colder, a good nip in the air when the wind blows.
Those who destroy these types of structures hate the environment, regardless of their purpose they are vandals. The structures serve a purpose and in no way damage nature. For shame.
That's the funniest shit I've read in a while. Thanks!
Today was an almost perfect day on the mountain. Cool t-shirt and shorts weather, Catalina and San Clemente islands sticking up out of the fog. There were a lot of people on the Ski Hut trail and at the top but they were all in a mellow mood so even that wasn't unpleasant. Now if we can just fix the situation with the windbreaks... (I would propose a Saturday work party but it doesn't look like the weather will cooperate next week. If we can't schedule a work party soon it will may have to wait until next spring.)
We did best we can do. We have to pile up more rocks on the wall section from outside of windbreak to build up a bit more for better protection. The center part is nice and flat so you can camp out now.
First off I want to thank Shin for rebuilding the wind break,with the help from Richard and Cathy and whoever else helped..Frank A. and I went up this morning and enjoyed it, adding rocks from the back to the south side and north end,temp at this time 9:30 is 38deg in shade and 50deg in sun with a light breeze at times..
While heading up the slope to the summit we stopped and had a drink on a log and this guy with a dog comes down we pet the dog and the guy comes around and I say morning and look at his poles and said to myself I had that kind then looked at just below the grips and both poles had old duct tape [img][img]http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8339/8219613480_396769017e_s.jpg[/img] on them so I ask him did you find those poles and he said yea he did at the hut and I said under the steps and he said yea, I said well those are mine I left them there to hike up baldy, I told him I'm not going to argue or fight you for them and he handed them to me and I said thanks...I learned my lesson, this was back in March of this year that I lost them..
After the summit on the way down we met Tracie and Talus and the 4 of us walked back up to the summit where we had a snack and sat at a wind break and Rick Graham comes over to us he was doing Bear Cyn..Rick went back down bear Cyn and the rest of us took reg. trail down..
Nice running into you and Frank and it seems like every time I hike Baldy, I run into Rick Graham!
I want to clarify that I did not haul that gallon container of water up to the summit - Rick likes to add large containers of water and weights to his pack.
Cathy is CatB... the new hotshot on the block. She'll be leaving us Old Geezers in the dust at will fairly soon.
LOL!! Richard, are you calling me an "old Geezer"!
Originally Posted By Tracie B
I want to clarify that I did not haul that gallon container of water up to the summit - Rick likes to add large containers of water and weights to his pack.
Actually, I thought you had brought it up for Tallus to share with other dogs on the summit I thought it was a pretty cool idea!
HEY!!! Don't like to admit it but I'm headed for geezerhood myself. Fighting it kicking & screaming. I think we are the same age Richard.
& Tracie, I've seen your dog on Baldy previously so I must have seen you but at the time I didn't know who you were. Let me know next time you go up so we can meet...
Hi everyone, I just got an email from my friends who hiked Mt. Baldy today. The windbreak was destroyed again by someone. There is someone out there who hates us to enjoy hiking on Mt. Baldy.
To the A-Hole that is doing this; We will find you! I told Shin I haven't given anyone a proper beat down since College! We have enough groups of friends that climb Baldy every day of the week with cameras eventually you will be found. You are probally a Baldy village resident that has no job since you are doing this when nobody else is on the summit because you don't have the guts to show your face and do this when people can see you, just like those spineless cowards who are throwing registers off the summits in the sierras. With All of Shin's groups of friends amongst the Koreans and the Persians and my Chinese speaking friends we'll find who you are. On any given day on Baldy in the summer there are hundreds a few hundreds of people who enjoy these windbreaks. You are not preserving the pristine mountain environment you are infringing on all these people's right to sit back and relax on the summit with their fellow hiker.....
With All of Shin's groups of friends amongst the Koreans and the Persians and my Chinese speaking friends we'll find who you are.
I got lost here. Did the culprit leave a note or clue in an Asian language?
I'll join the "what a bummer" bandwagon. I really appreciate those windbreaks every time I camp up there. I would be happy to join a rebuilding work party, but in order for that to be effective, there will need to be a guard-duty detail for a few days afterwards as well.
LOL Good catch Brent! When I studied Mandarin it had a bad effect on my English now my English is horrible. I mean't our freinds will find who this guy is......
Most people agree with you Brent i'd say 99.99% of the Baldy regulars. If you like to hang on the summit for more than 30 seconds most of the days are really windy so those wind breaks offer a good place to hide from the wind and lean against while you talk to your buds!
I don't know who you are. I don't know what you want. If you are looking for ransom, I can tell you I don't have money. But what I do have are a very particular set of skills; skills I have acquired over a very long career. Skills that make me a nightmare for people like you. If you stop destroying windbreaks now, that'll be the end of it. I will not look for you, I will not pursue you. But if you don't, I will look for you, I will find you, and I will hurt you.
I don't know who you are. I don't know what you want. If you are looking for ransom, I can tell you I don't have money. But what I do have are a very particular set of skills; skills I have acquired over a very long career. Skills that make me a nightmare for people like you. If you stop destroying windbreaks now, that'll be the end of it. I will not look for you, I will not pursue you. But if you don't, I will look for you, I will find you, and I will hurt you.
That's Vegas. If he had opposable thumbs I would consider him a prime suspect but he doesn't. I put a piece of salami on a rock for him and he knocked it down between 2 rocks with his nose. Try as he might, he couldn't shift the rocks to get at the salami. So you can rule him out.
Love the clouds in the picture. What were hiking conditions like that day?
Graham copied that photo from my Baldy Bowl Dog Patrol post on the San Gabriel Mountains Discussion Forum, so I'm not sure if he can answer your question. That day I started at Manker Flats with slightly hazy, mostly sunny conditions. The low-lying clouds were mostly to the west, leaving the Baldy area clear. I had a relatively easy, cool hike up and fed my Clif bars to the dogs, who followed me from Manker to the summit. They are habitual runaways who apparently live off the kindness of strange hikers. A few days after I took that picture, I hiked Baldy again. They were at the summit and followed me down to the Notch.
Baldy trail condition 12/01/2012 There was NO SNOW at all from Manker flat to the summit.
It was cloudy most of this morning and it was very windy and cold at the summit around 9:30 a.m..
The frost formed on the bush in front of my eyes this morning.
The windbreak has been intact after Edith and Martin rebuilt on Tuesday. It was destroyed some time from on last Sunday afternoon or Monday after rebuilt by WPS CB unit last Saturday. But, we have to build up a bit more so it will work as a windbreak. Thank Edith and Martin for your hard work. Our will has expressed to whoever destroyed our windbreak. It started end of October.
A good pair of gloves and good windbreaker are a must item even though there is no snow on the mountain now.
I'll post another actual trail report next Saturday.
Shin, you have to keep the streak alive for both of us now... I did manage to get up Five Fingers this morning, but the right leg sure didn't like it. I guess I should stick to an easy mountain like Baldy for a while longer.
A very big THANK YOU to everyone who spent time rebuilding the windbreaks! Their full return allowed me a luxurious respite on a wet, cold and windy day today. Sadly, keeping with SoCal weather patterns for the last 2 years, no freshie today and it doesn't look like that 3-7" originally forecasted for tonight is going to happen at all. Bummer.
If you hike Baldy and/or Icehouse Canyon regularly you have seen large number of Koreans of all ages, male and female, on the trails. Sometimes Korean hiking groups arrive in tour buses.
I have hiked baldy and surrounding peaks probably a 100 times and most Koreans tend to hike the Ice house canyon route to the Ice house saddle. Sometimes to Timber and sometimes to the other peaks, but I have not often seen them on the Bear Flats trail my favorite or the devils backbone, if baldy the ski hut trail. They are avid and hardy hikers and I have come across many in the high Sierra on the high sierra trail, onion valley, JMT or Mt. Langley.
I see that the link to the NYT article goes dead after 7 days. The article talks about the fact that Koreans consider the mountains to be spiritual places and grow up hiking to shrines and temples at the top of peaks. There is an ancient trail that runs the full distance of the Korean peninsula from the Chinese border to the sea in the south (although of course S. Koreans cannot hike the northern portion now).
The trail was muddy coming down from the ski hut at 1:00p today. Most folks I saw on the trail were wearing microspikes and boots. I was able to summit at noon with my trail runners and poles no problem. There's not enough snow to justify carrying an ice axe at this time. I did notice a couple guys going up the main bowl with their crampons and axe. IMO, I think it's silly to go that route with such little snow coverage.
I was up to Manker on the 15th, and there was snow covering the road up at the very start. You mean its all melted now? I was expecting that it would be really deep by now.
There were patches of ice on the road when I started out in the morning. It was all melted by the time I came down. There are small patches of snow after turning the corner on the road past the waterfall.
Nice photos and info on the trail. How was the road driving up? I have a Prius and even with cables it does not do well in the snow. Thanks for the info.
Frank A. and I did a full moon hike last night his 101st summit mine 100th. Put crampons on at skihut, when we got back to skihut we changed to micros down to waterfall.. Summiting at 11pm with 9deg. on summit and we figure 25mph winds. I got to the summit 5min. before Frank when he got there took a couple of photos and got out of there. 100ft off of summit took froze over glasses off only needed to see 20ft in front of me anyway(time for goggles)...
Half way to ski hut on way up sheriff helicopter was looking for two lost hiker/skiers they came over to us and ask us to blink are lights twice for we are ok and 3x if we need help,Frank took care of the blinks.Dont know whatever happened to the hikers, maybe just late getting back..
Beautiful night last night..just another bitchen night on Baldy
Wow! It looks fabulous up there... midnight hikes are always delightful, esp w/ full moons. I'm so happy the snow finally arrived.. hopefully it'll stick around for more than a few minutes - I've got lots of Baldy hikin' to do!
(Mr. SoBayMark, you have GREAT skin [looking at the summit pic..] what sunscreen are you using?)
Oh, and congratulations on your 100/101st summits!
Mark, Great night hike under a full moon. Headlamps were optional the whole night. It was interesting how it went from a clear still night to wind and cold mist in a about two minutes, glad we brought the warm gear. I usually try and take moon light photos after the summit and the summit wind froze my camera (and me too!) so I got almost no pictures.
Desiree, Frank and I did a nice hike today to Bighorn Pk. Weather was great low was 21deg., wind started up around 1pm on are way down, micros all day long. Snow was soft and fresh between couple of inches on top of ice to a foot deep. Hiking on virgin snow making are own tracks.Very nice scenery today..
Hi James.. No gully going up, up the side after the saddle, this was just a leasurly hike going up. Desirees 2nd hike coming off of Plantar Fasciitis ..Thanks
Hi,today was a good day up at Baldy. The weather was cold and clear. I happened to meet Shin this morning and he invited me to join him and others from the group who were up there and we all had a great time. I would also like to thank Tracy and Carol for helping me get up the Bowl for my first time. Their help and advice was invaluable for getting me up there. Thanks. Hope to see you all up there again.
Anybody going up this weekend? I can't stand by & look at it anymore with this fabulous weather we're having. Mostly likely I would go up Sun, but if someone wants to twist my arm I could go Sat also ;-) ........
It was another glorious day on Baldy today. The sun was a'blazin'. Very warm, no wind. Some patches of ice but no snow on the trail up to the hut. From the hut snow all the way, except for some bare spots on the steep section above the saddle. Varying conditions but mostly getting soft as the day wore on. Some folks were using crampons but microspikes over trail runners were sufficient...
Summit #14 for me. A long way to 300....
Met Randy S. at the summit. Good to meet you Randy!.....
Hi CatB, it was good to meet you and your friend on top of Baldy yesterday. Yes it was very warm. It was almost too warm for winter. We'll have to get together some time to hike. Hey did you happen to see the helicopters around the Bowl when you were coming down. I have bad news about that which I will post seperately. See you next time.
Yes I did see the helicopter circling the bowl. I was down below the hut already & I immediately had a bad feeling. I saw the rest of the SAR folks at the falls. I thought to ask if anything happened but didn't. I thought maybe they were doing some practice drills because they didn't seem too excited. Then I saw the blurb in the LATimes this morning.
Yea, easy to do. One little misstep & you're going down. Even with the spikes I was sliding in the soft stuff.....
Each mountain has a zone that will over time set the stage for most of the accidents , Whitney has that area, Some years ago focus was to reduce the blindly following the past and several very minor adjustments were suggested ,this has reduced these accidents, but like all aspects of human exploits the older and wiser may not see the need to discourage the risk and fall back on the old ways. Claiming that the risk is the adventure .
When you read about various routes up the North Fork take this into account.
Study the rescues/recoveries on Mt Baldy and see if one certain area yields a pattern, I recall from some years ago Mr Secor slide down one area of the Mountain.
Everest may provide the best example of this logic. Mr. Messenger wrote sometime in the 70's about the accident that would occur , this did come to pass and again and again!
So not today,but when you look back over the course of events when did the accident start... was it years ago or at that momment?
Hard topic to post ,please understand the risk , don't let yourself be put at a greater risk. Thanks Doug
So sorry to hear this. CatB and Randy, which path did you take? I worry that there would not be enough snow in the Bowl right now to go up or down it. A slip now could easily take you into poorly covered debris.
Brent, I took the path through the trees following up the summer trail. CatB and I got to the peak at about the same time. The Bowl had about half the amount of snow that it had two weeks ago. Did the Bowl with Shin two weeks ago and there was plenty of snow then. I think Dominic had gone up the West Bowl where there was still quite a bit of snow. I thought about the West Bowl, but was not comfortable about it so I went through the trees.
Randy, thanks. For my own education, what was it about the West Bowl that made you feel uncomfortable? I haven't ever hiked the Bowl but am hoping to find a winter travel course soon. I won't attempt the bowl until I have solid self-arrest skills. I just want to learn whatever I can from you Pro Bowl folks.
Hi Brent, believe me I'm not even close to being a Pro Bowl guy. I was in a group led by Shin, and Tacy B and Carol from this board were behind me giving me advice about foot and ice ax placement. At times it was really tedious. Plus you really need quad strength and strong achilles for digging in and climbing. I think it will be a while before I do it by myself. That said, a couple of years ago I did the West Bowl with a friend and this time the bowl appeared very slick. It was early morning so it might have looked really icy. Later in the day it might have been more slushy to get a better grip in the snow. I hope this answers your question.
I'll show what a winter newbie I am, but I would think you would prefer slick on the way up so as to get better traction with your crampons and that slushy is great for glisading but not so much ascending.
My friends, Patrick, Marc and I hiked Mt. Baldy via the ski hut trail from Manker Flats yesterday, 1/28/13. We were the only ones on the trail and hiked on fresh snow, doing a little route-finding on the way up past the ski hut through the trees and to the summit. The clouds dancing above threatened a whiteout, and we encountered some light snow about halfway to the ski hut, but it turned out to be a gorgeous day as the clouds came and went. It was SUPER windy at the summit and extremely cold with the wind chill factor, probably below zero. We were assaulted by blowing snow and biting wind, so we stayed about 5 minutes, took a few pictures, and quickly descended. It was pretty cool to have an entire mountain to ourselves. By the time we returned to the road in the afternoon, all the snow and ice had been cleared. I finally figured out how to post pics on this board, so here are a few.
The temperature was well below freezing as we made our way past Baldy Village.
The road was so icy that we couldn't make it all the way to Manker Flats. We parked in one of the turnouts and walked about 1.5 miles to the trailhead.
This is Marc on the summit with a spectacular view of the golden-hued ocean and Catalina Island in the distance.
Cloud formations to the southeast of Mt. Baldy summit. You can see the snow blowing around in the wind.
Thanks, Stacy! I can't believe I've been missing out all this time. Too bad I didn't have my regular camera yesterday. I probably would have taken 300 pictures. The scenery was so beautiful!
Now how do I write this? Be safe.. bring a jacket and some snacks and take a full moon winter hike in the mountains. Hear the snow as you move ,feel the brisk cold air across your face as you travel, hear the world as Sonya does. Experience the night like you have never before. You are surronded be millions of diamonds in that blue light of the night. Repeat when one needs to journey into the quiet world of solitude .
The photo from the summit tells a story, without the clouds you would see the city, the ocean and beyond. Like the story of the man in the cave only looking at the wall and seeing the shadows until you turn and see the outside....
Now how do I write this? Be safe.. bring a jacket and some snacks and take a full moon winter hike in the mountains. Hear the snow as you move ,feel the brisk cold air across your face as you travel, hear the world as Sonya does. Experience the night like you have never before. You are surronded be millions of diamonds in that blue light of the night. Repeat when one needs to journey into the quiet world of solitude . Doug
Mark and I hike Baldy on full moon nights often.
Last Saturday we started mid afternoon in a steady rain, clouds and fog, and we were wondering if we made a mistake. By the time we reached the snow the clouds and rain had gone, the moon was out, and a sunset was coloring the western sky. We just smiled the rest of the night. What a great feeling. It was like we had a secret only a very few know about. Ice covered trees sparkling with moonlight, watching your moon shadow move across the snow, and the summit at midnight almost as bright as noon, pictures or words never describe it properly, need to be there. People may wonder why some of us climb the same mountain over and over, those of us that do, no explanation is needed.
I love those poetic images you just inspired in my mind, but I don't know about doing a Baldy night hike in the winter. Monday's hike was only my third Baldy hike in the snow and I'm still adjusting my body to snow travel. My favorite night hike is the Mt. Whitney trail. Other than that, I keep my hikes limited to daytime hours only. However, if there is ever a WPSMB group night hike at Baldy (hint, hint), I would totally do it. I'd be wrapped up like a mummy, though, and wouldn't be able to move that fast. Now that I think about it, that might also present a safety hazard.
Asbufra, I totally get that about people wondering why we climb the same mountains over and over. Some of my friends criticize me for my repeated Baldy climbs. It just never gets old and I can't explain it to them. Like you said, those of us that do it need no explanation.
Joyce it sounds like you guys had a really good trip, plus I bet alot of experience to have been gained in that type of weather. Those pictures are awesome. How was the weather coming down? Did you have any limited visibility? If so, how was your navigation?Every time I come down from the peak it seems like I never come down the same way.
Hey, Randy. Thanks for the compliment on the pics. We did indeed have a great experience on the mountain as always. It was so awesome to be standing atop this Arctic-like mass, look to the northeast and see dry desert terrain, and then turn to the southwest and view a golden ocean with barges and islands. So amazing!
This was only my third time hiking Baldy in the snow and it was my friends' first snow hike, so I was pretty much their guide. I watched the clouds on the way up and became concerned about a possible whiteout because of how quickly the clouds swirled together around the summit. By the time we made it to the ski hut, the clouds parted and the sun came out, so we cautiously proceeded. The clouds were around, but never near us, and we had complete visibility, even on the way down.
Navigation was fairly easy. We just retraced our steps in the snow. Going up the summit slope, it was little bit of a challenge finding the trail. What I did was gauge the distance between West Baldy and the summit, and when I realized we were a little too far to the right, we shifted left a bit, went straight up and we were there. It was pretty cool being the first people on the trail after fresh snowfall and great to know that we blazed a trail for everyone else. I hope our tracks remained.
Joyce that must have been quite an experience for only your third time up Baldy in the snow. Good job! I went up last Sunday, had some snow/sleet, and it was pretty cloudy. From the hut you could barely see the trail past the stream. Since I was by myself I turned around in the area of the trees. I also learned a cold weather lesson: keep your gloves on while eating! Glad you had a good time.
Oh yes, the work. We were toast by the time we made it back down to the ski hut, but the phrase "Mongolian Barbecue" propelled us off the mountain. We went to a place in Claremont after the hike and devoured multiple helpings.
Here is the link to the full photo album on Smug Mug.
Big time congrats, Joyce! Amazing photos... Love the cloud formations from the summit. Regarding navigation, I always carry a map and compass. That said, I usually have good whether or I am with people that know the routes of the mountain I am on. I haven't had to navigate in recent years. Time to get out and practice.
Can't wait to hike Baldy with you again. Looking at March. I'll post a date when it's confirmed...
Hi M.C. how are you? Poor weather navigation on Baldy is one of the things I'm concerned with when hiking there during the winter. Getting to the hut is usually not too bad. But when going up past the trees along that western ridge can sometimes be a problem. Much of it seems to be kind of cross country in a way. Going up is obviously not a problem, but going down is, at least for me. Shin told me to be aware of important land marks, such as the two barren trees along the ridge. But that is why we do this, to test our limits, and to know our limits.
Thanks, MC and Mark! Yes, I am totally hooked. As a matter of fact, I'll be back on the mountain next Saturday.
Mark, I'm sure I'll cross paths with you somewhere on the trails soon. It's so funny how we met at Baldy last year. It was like a big party on the summit that day and that encounter was totally random. I was at Potato Mountain last month and met another person from this board, Jeff H, in the same manner. Gotta love the message board.
MC, I can't wait to go on another adventure with you! Let me know when you have your dates confirmed. We've got stories and songs to chat about and write. There is much creative energy to be gained at Mt. Baldy.
I was at Icehouse Canyon yesterday and was able to see the bowl from the Chapman trail. It's pretty dry, except in a few places. Hopefully, we get more snow soon. See the picture below.
Hi Joyce, its amazing how fast the snow melts up there. The weather has fluctuated quite a bit this year. Hopefully we should get some more snow this coming week!
My wife and I are thinking about going up to Icehouse Canyon for a couple of hours tomorrow. What winter 'footwear' would you recommend - snowshoes? crampons? microspikes? At most we'd go up to the saddle, but I doubt we'll make it that far.
Microspikes and poles should do for anything that does not include heading south toward the ECBO peaks. Last week, it was clear until beyond the 3 mile mark. With the million man and woman march every Saturday, I'm sure this trail will be beaten in very early in the morning.
Went up the bowl on Sunday, 2/10/13. The snow that fell was still powder (not consolidated) and with only about a foot of it, we punched through to rocks with nearly every step. Not good for crampons, but we were glad we had them when just before we topped out in the chute we ascended, we encountered ice. The ice sent one guy onto all fours making his way up and a few others scratching their heads on how to continue in approach shoes. I hate when that happens!
With the sun and heat of today and a forecast of much the same for the next few days, i'm sure the current coverage is a mere shadow of it's former self.
Dave G
Glad we had 'pons at this point. The guys below... not so happy.
Microspikes and poles should do for anything that does not include heading south toward the ECBO peaks. Last week, it was clear until beyond the 3 mile mark. With the million man and woman march every Saturday, I'm sure this trail will be beaten in very early in the morning.
Thanks for the input. We didn't go last weekend, but may try to head up there tomorrow.
what a bummer...keeping with the lack of winters here in socal. I was there two days after RP's pic above and it was all gone, there was some decent front-pointing possible for about 200 yards in the woods and that was it...meh.
Hi I was down south a week ago and watched the snow clear off the bowl area in about two days I think Friday - Saturday. The winter up here is a non event , wind, cold and waiting for the next storm , I think Mammoth needs some fresh and hope for a wet late season.Went thru Death Valley this week saw very few flowers , nothing until past Furnace Creek , Salt grass was showing a nice green Park was busy.Thanks Doug
& mcpherson, I think that's about as gorgeous a shot of Baldy as I have ever seen. Where was it taken from?
-cat b.
On the Icehouse Canyon Trail, up near the top of the switchbacks there's a sign asking hikers not to cut the switchbacks, and nearby a little clearing with the best view of Baldy on the IC trail. There are also some great panoramas higher up on the Ontario Peak Trail.
Hiked Baldy on 3/15. Went up the Ski Hut trail and down the Backbone Trail. Both trails are almost snow free and can be done without crampons. We used them on the way up just to shortcut directly up the hill but other stayed on the trail and didn't need them.
I went up Mt Baldy for the 1st time yesterday, we started at the Manker Campground area and passed the Ski Hut to the top, then returned the Devil Backbone route and down to the car. I must say it's steeper than the Whitney trail, and just about as steep as the Cactus-to-Clouds trail, but not as long and hot. No snow on the trail, only Lizards.
Hi 49'er, It was a very nice day for me up on Mt. Baldy yesterday. I ran into legendary Mr. Bob Rockwell and his friend Jay on the trail. What a surprise to see them in big city mountains. The last time I met them was on the trail of near the Gilbert lake last year.
Mario,Ellen,and I shared the summit with nice cool breeze. Mario has been training for his hike in south America. Ellen was warming up for the moonlight hike on Skyline this weekend. I have been training for Mt. Whitney hike in June.
The rock windbreaker was destroyed again. It was just perfect last week.
Oh, and a new waitress at the Baldy Lodge Restaurant who ought to be given her walking papers...
I think she's the one we had too.
We tried Three Tees on Sat June 8th. It was HOT. The trail through Icehouse Cyn was like a multi-lane freeway but thankfully most people adhered to the yielding to the uphill hiker "rule". We had driven up from San Diego, and left a car at the ski lift parking lot so we could take the chair lift down. Getting to the TH at 10:30 and then averaging 1 mi/hr just didn't cut it, though. We altered the plan to "One Tee", summitted Timber Peak, then headed back down. Gorgeous day, minus the heat, gnats by the creek at dusk, and too-close of an encounter with a rattler.
Hopefully we can get some higher-altitude experience before attempting Whitney on the 4th of July. I don't think we're going to be able to fit in Gorgonio.
Hi, NoUglyOneYet, Our experience with a new waitress has been informed to the owner. The owner and his staff assured us for a regular friendly service on our next visit. I am very glad that we can enjoy good foods and rest up after the hike. Shin
I went up the Register Ridge route today. As long as I was in the neighborhood I continued to the summit of Mt. Harwood before going on to the Baldy summit. There's an interesting GPS station near the Harwood summit. It measures movement of the earth at that spot within a few millimeters for measuring plate tectonics, earthquakes, magma movement, etc.
The Register Ridge route is a clearly visible track all the way. The 2(and only other)times I went up that way many years ago the route was pretty sketchy with sections I had to guess at. Although you can't go wrong if you just keep going up.
The only class 2 route in the San Gabriels and San Bernardinos that I know from experience personal to be steeper than R.R. is Iron Mountain. I'm planning on doing Big Iron in late October or November. (It's not a summer hike!) Anyone want to join me? I'm looking for a hiking companion, not someone who needs to prove how fast and macho they are.
It was great to see you on the mountain yesterday, Cat. We descended via the Devil's Backbone trail and stayed for some of the festivities at the Notch, had a couple of drinks and took the ski lift down from there. Ran into Pavel at the Notch and chatted for a bit. It was another gorgeous day on the mountain with perfect temps. I took the image below with my phone.
After a week galavanting around in the Sierra and it's back to Baldy and holy hotness! Easily the hottest day I've been on that mountain...100 at Manker this afternoon and 90's on the upper mountain.
Passed no less than 91 people going up, half of them looked ready to pass right out! Summit 4 Hope going on too...tough day for it.
LOTS of ANNOYING new signs all over the trees and the Hut...
They are there because people continue to ignore the rules, and fail to recognize it is private property. The area and the hut upkeep are the result of volunteer work. I would argue the entitled people are more annoying than the signs!
I overnighted above the switchbacks last night, had to have been one of the warmest overnights on Baldy. There was another camper up the trail a bit, and then a group of guys in hammocks 15mins below the summit.
I hit the summit last night to catch the sunset, some yahoos were collecting wood for a campfire on the summit. I explained the dangers and effect on the environment of such activity. To my dismay, when I summited again this morning the evidence of their ignorance was evident with a pile of charred wood. Not sure what action I could have taken.
No wind on the summit, and warm as you would ever want. Sunset and sunrise below.
I did the Ski Hut trail today. The weather was fine when the sun was behind clouds but pretty hot when it was blazing. Not a real problem, though. There was almost no one on the trail and I had the summit all to myself.
This was my first outing since the MWMT last Monday and I felt great. I always said that Whitney was a good conditioning hike for Baldy.
Climb Whitney a few times and Baldy does become easy... As hot as it was at 13K' in the Sierra, I can imagine how hot Baldy was... Anybody do Bear Flat, with a late start, over the past few days?
Shin, I'll be at Baldy tomorrow. We are taking the Register Ridge trail and starting at 6am. Maybe I'll get to say "Hi" to you in the parking lot before we begin, but that's probably the only time I'll see you.
Hi Hikergirl76, We are flexible about the route. We may join with you if CatB say yes. Other WPSMB members will be on the Register trail tomorrow from 4:00 a.m.
Richard, 5:30 a.m. at Vons is confirmed if you want to join. I'll carpool with CatB.
James, I can only hike once a week. See you on next event.
I will be headed up the Baldy Bowl Trail around 6am. Our babysitter's husband was asked to organize a hike for the Loma Linda University Orthopaedic Surgery Residency Program. He asked me to tag along since I've done the hike a few times. I believe there will be 6 or so in our group.
Has anyone hiked the North Backbone trail, the one that goes up Baldy via Pine and Dawson, recently? It's been years since I went that way and I haven't seen anyone else come up to the summit from the north for a long time. I'm wondering if the trail has fallen into disuse. If it's still a viable trail would anyone like to do it with me the week after next?
Des Frank and I hit R/R at 4am for the summit, got to the summit just before 8am and waited for Shin,Richard,Carole and CatB
Very nice day on top 68deg at one point while up there, met fellow Whitney forum "63Chevyll" and his dog. And Dan was there also 500 and something summits for him.. And a large meetup group from Riverside but where was Hikergirl
I saw Shin, Richard, Carole and Cat B in the Manker Flats parking lot before our group started out. I was actually with the Meetup group that was on the summit with you guys, but I stopped for breakfast about halfway up register ridge and took in the views, so I fell behind a bit. I made it to the summit around 10:30 and ran into 63Chevyll on his way down. He said I had just missed everyone. I'm so glad you all had a great time. It was truly a wonderful day to be on the mountain and I'm looking forward to the next WPSMB outing.
In mid-June,while conditioning for MW, I hiked from Baldy Village up the Bear Flats trail to the summit, then down the Backbone trail to the Notch, up and down the ^^^ (3-Ts) to Icehouse Saddle, and down IH Canyon to the parking lot. That's the Baldy Massif Traverse. Today I did the reverse traverse, from IH Canyon, over the ^^^ to the Notch, and up the Backbone trail to the summit of Baldy. But I cheated a little and came down the Ski Hut trail instead of Bear Flats. My excuse was that in late afternoon it would be easier to hitch a ride down from Manker Flats to the IHC parking area than up from the Village. (It was easy, I got a ride with the first people who came out of the Falls Road.) My total time, trailhead to trailhead, was 9'45". It was a great day for hiking, close to but not quite too warm for comfort.
It's 17 - 17.5 miles. Going the other way, starting in the Village and coming out at IHC, it's 19.5 (if you can trust the posted distances). Even though it's longer, I thought it was easier starting in the Village and going across to IHC. Going that way, the hardest part (the Bear Flats trail) is at the beginning when you're fresh and once you summit Baldy it's all cruising. Coming from IHC the hardest part is past the 1/2 point when you climb out of the Notch to the summit. By then you've already done the grind up the south side of Telegraph.
I'm planning on doing this (starting at the Village) in a few weeks. Did you need to get water at the Notch? I've gone up Baldy from the Village/down Backbone, and also have done the 3 Ts from IHC/down the fire road, but have never put them together. I may not get to the Sierras this summer, so this hike is my goal this year. It takes me 3.5 hrs. to summit from the Village and I usually have plenty of water left over when I'm done. I will be going slower when I do the Traverse, so thinking I may need to refill at the Notch (if it's open). Thanks! Brian
I did stop at the Notch going both ways. The restroom at the Notch is open everyday (at least during the day), with potable water and flush toilets. Then there's the good water at Columbine Springs, 2-1/2 miles from the IHC trailhead.
Have a good hike. It ain't the Sierras but it ain't bad.
Hi Burt, Some hikers told me that the "BALDY BIG LOOP" is hiking from IHC parking-Village-Bear canyon trail-West Baldy-Baldy-Harwood-Devils backbone -Baldy Notch - 3Ts- Ice house canyon saddle- IHC parking. This route makes a complete loop of 6 peaks with about 20 miles. No hitch hiking from IHC parking to Village!!! I agree with you that it is better to start from Village up. I didn't like many long switchbacks from Timber to Telegraph. It is better to do this big loop in April or May or October or November when the weather is nice and no snow on the trail if you want to enjoy the hike. If you want to punish your body, you can do it all the year round. There are three water spots, Bear canyon flat, Baldy Notch for water and foods, a natural spring along IHC (2.5 mile point). If anyone can do this big loop for distance and Bear canyon trail a few times for elevation gain, you are ready for Mt. Whitney main trail hike any time. No other training is needed, I think.
I'll leave the Baldy Big Loop for the big boys. I'm happy to do the mini-loop and hitch a ride. I did consider throwing in W. Baldy and Harwood but decided that would be a bit much for my old bod. Harwood is actually a very easy add-on coming down the Devil's Backbone but W. Baldy is a significant addition.
See you on the trail one of these days. If you're not spending all your time rock-climbing. I was never any good at that.
For my Whitney trip I did Bear Canyon to the peak and then down to the ridge near the West Baldy Bowl (just above the trees and rocks). I figured it gave me about an extra 2-3 miles round trip back up to Baldy and then back to Bear Flats (15 miles total). I also wanted to do the Hut from Bear Flats, but wussed out. I think that this did help though since it gave some extra mileage and additional elevation. If nothing else I think it increased my confidence.
Randy, That sounds like a good add-on for conditioning, too. Did you see any sheep? I haven't seen even 1 this year and I've been in places where they should be.
For Whitney conditioning I like a combination of Baldy hikes for difficulty and the San Gorgonio lollypop (or balloon) from S. Fork for distance and altitude. The SG hike is 24+ miles and gets up to 11,500 but it's pretty easy. I did it in 10'20" this spring.
Shin, the Super, Super-Max Baldy loop would start from the Village, do the 6 peaks PLUS continuing south from IHS up Big Horn peak (off-trail), then across to Ontario, off-trail across to Sugar Loaf, and then down and back to the car. But I'm just blowing smoke - I've done all the rest of it in pieces but I've never done Sugar Loaf at all and probably never will.
Burt, I was hiking Register Ridge with Tracie and Robin in April and we saw some bighorn sheep at the junction of Register Ridge and Devils Backbone. There was maybe half a dozen or so. Pretty impressive to see.
I would like to do SanG, but its just so far away. I found that doing combinations of Baldy can be just as good for a training hike. That Super-Max Loop sounds pretty interesting and impressive!
Hi BurtW, I have never tagged Sugar Loaf, either. Maybe this fall. I have never thought about doing any crazy hike like Super Max Baldy hike or Superman class hike tagging 13 peaks in Mt. Baldy area. I did Big Baldy Loop once before with Richard P.. That was good and hard enough for me.
I am a very lazy day hiker. I just hike as a maintenance of body only. As long as I can get to the summit any form or shape, I am happy. I don't have a guts to hike Register trail alone at night and hike down the main bowl down all season like Southbay Mark does. I don't have a mental fortitude of hiking up Bear canyon down to Noodle bowl then down the Bear canyon for many times like Randy S. did.
You set the bar too high for everyone. I just turned 64. I was thinking about giving up my hobby because of my age. You are 75 years old still doing fantastic. You have to disclose all your secrets and share with us how to keep your body and mind so young and strong.
Hey everyone! I was just kidding about the Super Max Baldy Loop! Although knowing the crazies on this BB I bet someone either has already done it or will soon. But it won't be me.
Shin, what's the Noodle Bowl??
Randy, I'm glad you saw the sheep. It's good to know that they're still there. I was getting concerned because the Bear Flats trail and W. Baldy used to be pretty reliable places for seeing them but not this year for me. I also didn't see any on San Gorgonio the 2 times I was over there this year. I think my last sighting was a single male I saw late last year coming down the Ski Hut trail. He was right near the trail and didn't see me until I was almost on top him. Then he looked at me for a long minute and finally just backed off a little way, but still pretty close and in plain sight.
Talking about age and hiking, along with the endurance crazies. I saw it all Sat. Anyone know this beautiful elderly lady, Kathy Unger, Moving at a good pace up and down! don't want to speculate on her age unless someone knows,I would like to know. On the endurance side, I was really entertained by all the Ultra Marathoners, I was impressed at such physical ability!!! Don't normally like Baldy Busy, but it was a good day.
Wife and I got up to Manker Flats about 7, and everyone but the kitchen sink were already there. Looked like a high school/college x-country team were training for the Race-to-the-top. 20-25 took off up the trail as we started our hike, but they were nowhere to be seen once we hit the ski hut detour. Warm to start (mid-70s) but still a good day to hike. Unfortunately, got a blister before the ski hut with an old pair of boots (that are now in the recycle bin), and since I am doing Langley-in-a-day in 3 weeks, decided not to push it and turned around. Still, 5 miles and 2,200 elevation gain is better than sitting at home!
I've had an incredible spring and summer hiking and I've posted about it several times. Mt. Whitney (OK, it almost killed me but I made it), Vivian Creek, the 24.4 mile San Gorgonio lollipop in 10'20", the Mt Baldy circuit from the Village to IHC (also in 10'20"), Baldy via Register Ridge plus Harwood, and the Ski Hut trail every week I wasn't doing something bigger. I sure didn't feel 76 years old. I told friends that I didn't know what was going on but I would enjoy it as long as it lasted.
Yesterday I did Baldy via Bear Flats and it's clear that the miracle is over. I made the summit OK but it was hard, the way it used to be before this spring. The Bear Flats trail has always been at the edge of what I can do and it's the way I measure how I'm doing.
I also figured out why I've been feeling so good. At the end of March I was having a lot of arthritis pain in my right knee. I went to the doctor and he injected the knee with steroids. Whenever a knee is injected some of the steroids leak out of the knee capsule and act like extra adrenaline bouncing around your system. That extra juice was the "miracle" I was feeling and it's gone now.
The knee has started to hurt again, too, but it has been injected 3 times over the past few years and the doctor was clear that's it's so deteriorated that the next time is titanium time.
I will delay having the replacement done as long as possible. Even without the performance enhancing drugs it's too nice in the mountains for me to want to spend a couple months doing rehab. I'll try to put it off until Winter.
A bit of a TR for yesterday: a tip of the hat to whoever built the stone monuments on the summit. They're nice.
The way I look at it... I'm not an Olympic caliber athlete and use whatever I need to keep it fun... Diamox when I haven't been up in a while... Lots of different pain killers when I'm going Big (in my mind at least).
I've said it before and I'll say it again... I hope I can still do this stuff like you and Shin and Rockwell and others when I reach your age... I'm thinking Not based on how I feel right now...
BTW: it's time for a trip down to LA next weekend... Baldy included.
"..use whatever I need to keep it fun... Diamox when I haven't been up in a while... Lots of different pain killers when I'm going Big"
It was not until about a year or so ago that I found out that people used meds (outside of the much discussed Diamox) to ease discomfort during recreation. I had always thought that the pain was a requirement for the activity in the "no pain no gain" tradition. I came from a bicycle racing (time trials) background that dictated if you were on the edge of screaming,than the proper effort was put forth!
The idea of ache-free start-ups on the second and third mornings of backpacking trips sounds quite appealing.
It was another good day on Baldy! 62 degrees at the Manker Flats parking area at 8:30, 72 on top a little before noon, 76 back at the car at 2:15. A cool breeze blowing up the legs of my shorts kept everything comfortable. I picked up a little trash; the trail was pretty clean for a Monday. There's often a lot of wrappers, water bottles, and miscellaneous stuff on Monday left by the Sunday strivers.
Bee, I think "no pain, no gain" refers to sore muscles from exertion, not arthritis pain. Arthritis pain not only hurts, it is a signal that further damage is being done in the joint.
I had always thought that the pain was a requirement for the activity .... tradition.
The thing that "pains" me the most these days is that I can't keep up with a lot of my friends due to knee pain!!!
I like doing the ski hut trail up, hate it coming down. Been years since doing the B Bone, don't remember if its any better. Any ideas on routes down for old knees ?
Burtw, when you are ready to consider a knee replacement (eg. when the cortisone shots finally lose their magic powers) ask your doctor about a Uni-compartmental (aka: partial) knee replacement vs. a Total Knee Replacement. For individuals with knees that are degenerated only over one condyle, this may be a good alternative if you're seeking a super speedy recovery. (return to normal daily living in 3-6 weeks, back to sports 6-10 weeks). If you need a Total Knee Replacement, those aren't so bad either.. Recovery time isn't that long and if you're active/flexible prior to surgery, chances are you'll stay that way after surgery. Some bad asses get both knees done at the same time... and they do just fine. More and more active folks are seeking knee replacements younger because their arthritis pain is hindering their quality of life.. and with advancements in surgery, prosthetic materials last longer (approx 20 years).
Thanks HT, that's very helpful. I am trying to collect all the info I can so when I do finally talk to the surgeon I don't just have to rely on his word for what's best. I value the experience of people on this board who have had knees replaced and continue to hike.
When I had my hip done I consulted 2 surgeons outside of Kaiser to get their advice before sitting down with the K. surgeon who would do the job. One of them was pushing micro-incisions which sounded great until the other, who wasn't going to do the job anyway, pointed out the disadvantages of micro surgery for hip replacement.
6 months after I had the hip replacement done (over 10 years ago now) I sent the surgeon who did it a Mt. Whitney postcard and wrote that I had just been up there. I think he was happier about it than I was. (Maybe not.)
Ridgeline, there is no way off Baldy that isn't hell on the hips and knees. I think the Ski Hut is easier than the Backbone but lots of people disagree with me. Maybe that's because I hike the road instead of taking the lift down from the Notch. And the Bear Flats trail is a killer in both directions. (Let's not even talk about the North Backbone.)
I do find that it's a little easier on the infrastructure if I go down leading with the sides of my feet instead of pointing them straight forward. I don't know if that works for other people, though.
What I did before I had my hip replacement was stick to trails that weren't as hard on the joints as Baldy but were still interesting. The Islip Saddle, Crystal Lake, Windy Gap, Baden-Powell area is interesting, challenging but way easier on the joints.
I like doing the ski hut trail up, hate it coming down. Been years since doing the B Bone, don't remember if its any better. Any ideas on routes down for old knees ?
Ridgeline, I always descend Baldy on the Backbone trail, except when there's snow, and I find it much easier on the knees and feet. I usually take the ski lift down from there, so I'm not sure what it's like hiking the extra mileage by taking the road. The Backbone trail is also much more scenic.
I like doing the ski hut trail up, hate it coming down. Been years since doing the B Bone, don't remember if its any better. Any ideas on routes down for old knees ?
Ridgeline, I always descend Baldy on the Backbone trail, except when there's snow, and I find it much easier on the knees and feet. I usually take the ski lift down from there, so I'm not sure what it's like hiking the extra mileage by taking the road. The Backbone trail is also much more scenic.
Joyce
That's what I thought. I have to do that next time.
The highlight of the day was meeting Cindy Abbott, Mt. Everest climber and Iditarod racer, and Larry Abbott on the trail today. Both of them have some medical issues but they are training for their next adventure. They were looking good.
From the summit of Mt. Baldy, I was able to see two mountain fires, one in Mt. San Jacinto and other one in town of Wrightwood. The fire in Wrightwood is just north of Mt. Baldy but the air quality of Mt. Baldy area was excellent because there was very cool wind was blowing from the west. Hope, everyone is safe.
I have a question for the Baldy vampire hikers. I plan on doing a night hike next week, sleeping on top. What temps have you been experiencing overnight on the summit?
I have a question for the Baldy vampire hikers. I plan on doing a night hike next week, sleeping on top. What temps have you been experiencing overnight on the summit?
Brent N
It's getting cold up there at night. Did a sunset hike last Saturday, 100-degrees down in the valleys, but a very welcome and chilly 50-degrees on the summit at sundown.
16 million people, and we were the only two to think of cooling off up there?
Nice pics. Looking forward to this "cooler-weather" hike next Wednesday morning to celbrate my 50th. May have to touch West Baldy and Mt Harwood peaks as well (depending how good I feel).
The answer to my question of what the weather might be like--freaking cold. Temps up top went down to 38.6, and winds were probably 35 mph. I had no bivy and the wind sucked all heat out of my bag. However, the sunrise was one of the prettiest and most welcome sights I have ever seen.
Succeeded in my B-day hike last Wednesday morning. 7:10 start from the trailhead, County road crews were chip-sealing Mt. Baldy Road from the Village to the ski parking lot past Manker Flats. That made parking a challenge, since you couldn't park on either side of the shoulder. Ended up on the south side of the Falls Road stub, just across from thre porta-potty. Had the mountain all to myself on the way up, except for one local runner and his 2 dogs who stared ahead of me, did a loop to the Ski Hut and saw them coming down.
On top around 9:45 with blustery winds and a bit cool, so with only a tank-top and t-shirt on, I only enjoyed the alone-time for 15-20 minutes. Saw 3 groups on the way down, only one north of the ski hut. Went off-trail before then to inspect the 1950s military plane wreck, and rather than climb back up to the trail (the smarter way), ended up traversing the hill way past the knoll to get back to the ski hut. So, I got to make my way back half-way down the hill while watching out for snakes, etc. Funny, I hit someone else's tracks in the process so I am not alone in making the less-smart choice! Made it back to the trailhead around 12:15, just as the chip seal truck was coming down from the ski parking lot so I was able to pull out and head down canyon right in front of him (saved an hour+ in drying time if I hadn't gotten outta there!). Still had pilot car escort for the next mile or two.
All in all a beautiful day on the mountain. Wish I could do that every week day!
Vandalism & Safety: There used to be several trail signs on Ski hut trail of Mt. Baldy trails. But all of them have sawed off or kicked down gradually and all of them are gone two weeks ago. Edith and Martin spent many hours to rebuilt the rock windbreaker several times last season at the summit. They spent hour to block off the side trail where you have to use your hands to climb up the rock by many tree brunches three weeks ago but following week the blockade was completely removed and the trail was cut. This section of trail is ruined. CatB witnessed a guy try to kick down the rock windbreaker located at north side of the summit two weeks ago. I looked around the area but the vandal was gone. There were several sections of trail were rebuilt by someone or organization lately and they look very nice. We have to protect last and only sigh on Devils backbone trail near the summit. Someone destroy our mountain and someone protect our mountain. Let's everyone becomes the neighborhood watcher to save our mountain which we enjoy from vandals.
We have met two young hikers got lost and heading up the main bowl just 200 feet beyond the Ski hut. They couldn't tell the trail from non trail. We sent them on the right trail but they are totally not prepared well at all. No knowledge or preparation. Early part of this year, many hikers got call from a hiker who needed a help to help out his/her lost friends on Bear canyon trail at night. They wanted to go down Ski hut trail but they went down the Bear canyon trail. They were found OK very late at night. They started hiking very late afternoon and they didn't know the trail. They had no light, no map, no knowledge of the area. Later they demanded the authority to have signs on the trail so hikers won't get lost. I think that before we demand for 100% foolproof signs for everyone, let's prepare well before our hike. A good preparation will make our hiking more enjoyable.
Hi Shin, This is a never-ending battle. We have to fight for the mountain but we will never fully win.
A lot of people on Baldy have no sense of a wilderness ethic. The problem is that Baldy is too close to a population base of 10 million people, getting to the summit is hard enough to make it a worthwhile challenge, but still easy enough for any young stud in good condition to make it. Once on top they feel they own the mountain rather than being a caretaker of it.
I have some understanding of this. The first time I summited, in the late 1980s, I felt that I had done something really special so I was disappointed when I came over the last rise and saw dozens of people sitting around having a good time. I really didn't like the windbreaks. I thought the summit should be a "natural" area and they were out of place. I never did anything to destroy them and over time I came to appreciate them. But I do understand the motivation of someone who wants to tear them down.
I don't understand people who steal or destroy trail signs and put other people in danger. I would suggest hanging them (the people, not the signs) but there are no trees high enough at the summit.
So I agree with you, all of us who love the mountains need to see it as our neighborhood and ourselves as neighborhood watch members.
I saw a couple rangers on the trail a few weeks ago and asked them about the signs. They said signs were sanctioned and sadly only lasted a few weeks, as Shin mentioned previously.
Why people decide they need to self regulate the wilderness is beyond me. Destroying ducks, signs, windbreaks and registers takes away from those hoping to enjoy the trails, whether they are use trails or maintained trails.
My hope is to give more to the wilderness than I take away. cat holes excluded...
Bring me up to speed, here, on this sign topic. Are the signs being removed out of pure vandalism/malice, or is there a controversy with the locals?
I ask this because I have lived in a few coastal towns where the locals hated the "valley people" (their words not mine)so much, that they would routinely remove the turn-off sign designating the town(s) (mostly a bedroom community that seemed to not rely on tourons for $$$$)
The destruction of the windblocks/ducks/etc. has been a point of contention in every hiking community that I have encountered. It has continued to surprise me that the windblocks up on Dana have prevailed (perhaps I better knock on nearby wood, such as my hard head)
I think it's pure vandalism and/or that people want a sign as a souvenir to show that they "conquered" Mt. Baldy. There's not really an insider-outsider issue here.
I saw a couple sign posts last Wednesday but no signs. Wondered what they were for. Only readable sign was the "Manker Flats" directional sign up on the ski hut trail, north of the knoll above the ski hut. That's too bad, because there are a couple places where a sign might assist.
That sign is particularly critical because there is a use trail that goes down to the plane wreck right there. It is very easy to go off the main trail at that point and if a person doesn't recover and get back up to the trail pretty soon they can find themselves in serious trouble. (I did that my first time up but I was lucky, I saw a group on the main trail above me and scrambled up to them.) But as Shin pointed out, it's also easy to make a mistake from the summit and start down the Bear Flats trail instead of Manker Flats. Every sign that has been on that trail is necessary and the people who take them are idiots, malicious, or both.
Another great day on Baldy. Beautiful, clear morning. Chilly on the summit with the west wind. Went up solo but ran into Randy & hiked to the hut with him. On the summit there was Frank & Desiree.
Also in response to Shin's post, I did see that same person again who I saw last time taking apart one of the shelters. We passed at the top of the last steep part above the saddle, him coming down, me going up. Was wearing what looked to be the same reddish-colored shirt, has medium-brown longish hair pulled back in a bun or pony tail, wears black horn-rimmed glasses somewhat geeky looking. If anyone spots him. I did not want to confront him. I would venture to say he looks like a Baldy local. He's probably on this board reading about himself......
I was on top today and the windbreaks were in good condition. It was an almost perfect day for a hike up Baldy. If there hadn't been some haze in the basin it would have been absolutely perfect. Still, you could see Catalina clearly and San Clemente Is. if you knew where to look.
Had a great sighting of an adult male sheep who just kept grazing as I came close to him.
Also many birds at the creek crossing. Besides the usual juncos, chickadees and nuthatches there was a whole flock of LBJs. (Birder technical jargon = Little Brown Jobs, otherwise unidentified.)
I hiked the Bear Flats trail (AKA the Mt. Baldy Death March) today. Had the trail to myself almost all the way. 5 guys came up to a little way above the chaparral switchbacks but it looked like they were just up to get a good view of the mountains from Telegraph around to Cucamonga, Ontario, and Sugarloaf.
There are now signs at the upper parking area saying Private Property, No Parking, Violators will be Towed.* It's not a big deal right now since there's another parking area a few yards down the road. But I have seen times in the summer when both areas were full of cars. And the Hikers Welcome sign has been taken down, also. (There is a sign in the church parking area that says Hikers Welcome.) I had interactions with 2 locals who were very friendly which is what I've come to expect.
Last week I posted that the windbreaks were in good condition. They're not now and I was probably wrong about them then. The windbreak that I mostly sit in to have my lunch is in pretty good shape but most of the others have been trashed. From the outside they appear to be OK but the inside areas are full of rocks. I just hadn't looked inside them last week.
Wasps (the insects, not the social category) are out in huge numbers at the summit and they're very aggressive about trying to get your food. I finally gave up and came part way back down to finish my lunch.
Have you noticed how that trail gets a little longer and a little steeper every year? I think it's probably plate tectonics, stretching and tilting the surface in that area.
*I think the tow away signs are a bluff. They don't cite the authority for towing nor give a number to call if you come back and find your car gone. But I don't plan to test it and see.
Hi Scott932394, Mt. Baldy had her first snow for this season. Yesterday was a perfect day a hike with blue sky, firm fresh snow on the trail, no wind, and good friends.
Snow was melting fast late morning. Mt. Baldy road was free of snow or ice. No ice axe or crampons are needed if you use trekking poles. Beyond Ski hut, the snow level was 6-8 inches to the summit.
Frank, Des, Lou and Paco started at Middle Fork Rd along Lytle Creek and hike up to Cucamonga Pk.. 10hrs and 15min hike. Started at 6am and got back ay 4:15. My first time up this way to Cucamonga, a really nice way to go. Did not take micros I knew I would not need them but it would have made it easier if I had them,Des used hers for awhile. Windy at times found shelter at summit for lunch. After Icehouse Saddle only saw 3 people up and back to Saddle.. great times with friends..
On Saturday my friends and I hiked up the Register Ridge trail and descended via Devil's Backbone to Baldy Notch. There were a few spots on the RR where the trail was covered in snow and we had to be careful, but it was okay with trekking poles. We brought microspikes, but didn't have to use them. There was no one else on the trail, except for one guy coming down (yes, coming down) once we almost hit the Backbone Trail. He seemed quite experienced. As we neared the summit, the snow was deeper and more plentiful, so we left the trail and hiked in snow all the way to the top.
On the Backbone Trail, the snow was mostly slush, except for a couple of dicey spots in the shade toward the north side. There were lots of small "creeks" and "rivers" on the trail as the snow was melting fast. I've posted a few of my pics below.
Going up the Register Ridge Trail. We encountered significant snow around 7,000ft.
Not much in the Bowl.
On the Devil's Backbone Trail heading toward the summit.
Making a beeline through the snow; almost at the summit.
I've been meaning to reply to this thread for a long time, but life seems to have a way of... getting in the way lately.
It was great to finally meet a few of you and I hope can hike with you at some point. If you see me out on the trails, be sure to say hi. I'm usually dressed in a similar fashion and if it's allowed, will most likely have the mutt with me too.
Shin asked me about my screen name. This is why it's 63ChevyII:
Question.. Has anyone been up skihut to the summitt today (Friday) or yesterday. Any snow to play with.. if so about where does it start. Going up in the morning.
After hiking Baldy last week I brought my poles into my apartment to replace the duct tape I keep wound around the top of the shafts (for emergencies). Usually they just ride around in the back of my car between hikes. Today as I got my gear together at the Falls Rd parking area I realized my poles were resting comfortably at home.
After considering and rejecting the idea of scrubbing the hike altogether I decided I could hike to the hut without poles. I've been regularly using poles for at least 40 years so I thought it would be interesting to see what it was like to hike without them.
I made it to the hut with no problem and decided to go on to the summit. The second half was tough with only my 2 hind legs. I really need for my shoulders to take some of the work load off my knees and hips. By the time I got to the summit my bottom half was telling me in no uncertain terms to never forget the poles again.
I wasn't willing to come down the ski hut trail without poles so I returned via the Backbone Trail and fire road. Even with the lack of poles it was a great, if crowded, day on Baldy.
Mark or anyone that was there, is the person sitting across from Tracie in this picture a guy named Dan? If it's who I think it is he was there 24 hours before that sitting in the same spot.
Dan walked up while we were there, Enjoy his story's he has to tell, something like #579 summits or around there for him...
Damn I cant wait for retirement, and hike for a living
BTW: you missed Tracies Gingersnap cookies and my chocolate chip
mark
It was just a Daja vu as my mind had the vision in it when I left the summit then 24 later you post that picture, twilight zone moment - yeah I committed to Sam Page to do something Sunday morning with him, otherwise I might have come to the summit again just for the two kinds of cookies, I'm silly like that
It was dry, sunny with a light breeze, an absolutely beautiful day - Just as BurtW predicted. Such a great day to be out & playing. Trail was dry with streams lightly trickling. No snow to speak of - only tiny patches in areas of protected shade.
It was a perfect day on Baldy! Or it would have been if someone hadn't taken my lifetime senior pass out of my car. Since there were no signs of forced entry I assume I put my keys in my pack without clicking the clicker, leaving the door unlocked. That still means that someone was going around the parking area trying doors to see if they were locked and they lucked out on mine.
Burt, Added insult would have been a ticket for not displaying your pass. I actually have two lifetime sr. passes because I forgot mine when flying and then renting a car and had to purchase another (only $10.00), now all the non srs can be envious and want to live a long life.
Happy Birthday BurtW !! We made your official birthday hike today. Sorry to hear about your senior pass.
Abbas, Masuod, and Mani have rebuilt the main rock windbreaker today.
Several volunteers from San Gabriel trail builder were making great improvement on class 3 section of trail below Ski hut. They have done an excellent jobs. Thank you all.
Joyce (Hyker Girl), MC and I went up Falling Rock Canyon yesterday. Joyce was a SUPER TROOPER while going out of her comfort zone and never giving up - even when I took them on what I (mistakenly) thought was Frank and Mark's shortcut on the descent.
So what was that tiny sliver of white in the vertical crack between the front edge of my dashboard and the panel below the windshield? Using a nail file, I first managed to knock it further down into the void and finally to get a corner of it high enough to snag it. My senior pass! Since the NFS office was closed today for Veterans Day I hadn't had a chance to replace it. Except for the egg on my face all's well.
Hi So one day at work I said The old days people didn't take your stuff! a co worker said the old days you didn't forget where you left your stuff. Happy Birthday. Hope to see you on a hike this winter Doug
The 'top' gremlin at my house is Riley (our dog), followed by my 15 month old son. I had to wear trail runners to work 2 days last week because I couldn't figure out where Riley put my sneakers (my punishment for not getting him out on the trails lately I suppose). If we leave keys (or other important items) on the coffee table, they're likely to end up in the toy box. The kiddo likes to play with them, then throws them in there when he's done. I didn't believe he was doing it, but I caught him in the act the other day
Scott, you are absolutely right. I put the permit on the dash. How did it slide forward and fall into the crack? Had to be gremlins.
In my defense I'll say I didn't understand why, if someone got into my car they didn't take anything else. So I spent a long time looking under the seats, in my pockets, in all the cubbies, in any place I could think of. I decided the only answer was a thief when I ruled out every other possibility - except the possibility that it had slid down into that crack.
I would rather have egg on my face than have to accept that a thief was working the Manker parking area.
Shin will be taking care of me on Thanksgiving morning... It may be a "winter climb"... Keep in mind that it will be a SLOW ascent no matter what the conditions are... It took me 3 hours to get up last time... I've done Round Trips faster than that in the past... But, we don't get to Rest On Our Laurels.
An early morning Thanksgiving day hike on Baldy has been a tradition for me for a few years now. A great way to burn calories before dinner and very few people. The perfect plan for me is to arrive home just as the Turkey is finished cooking. See you near the summit.
AWESOME! I'll be around Thanksgiving w/e. I just may join you guys..... Might need new trail shoes tho. Wore a good portion of rubber off them screeing down the bowl last w/e. Thanks Mark! ;-p ........
Any guesses regarding what time you will reach the summit? If I don't hike Skyline Friday or Saturday, the mutt and I may try to meet everyone up there. I'm a plodder, so I'd need to start earlier.
The way I see the weather, snow down to 6k today down to 3.5 tomorrow and the next chance will be Thur Thanksgiving. I am planning for the Baldy Bowel on Wed. somewhat consolidated and weather should be sunny.
Desiree, Louise, Pascal, Frank and I hit the trail at 6:45 to a great day of hiking. 28deg at the hut and 28deg at the summit. Des,Pascal and I went up the main bowl to a good work out, the deepest was 6 to 10 inches deep in are boot prints. And no wind on summit, a very nice day, light snow falling at the hut in the morning and light snow falling back down to the road in the afternoon.. Just another bitchen day on Baldy
We went up the Backbone yesterday (11/24) from the Notch to Baldy Summit. Cold & windy-clouds and snowfall starting around 8000ft, with 50-100ft visibility. A lot of snow on the mountain, with 3-4ft drifts on the ridge and icy patches on a few of the exposed sections. The big snowfield going up to the summit of Harwood was somewhat eerie in the low light and wind-something of a moonscape stretching up forever. Around 9500ft we starting coming up out of the clouds, and upon reaching the summit emerged into a brilliant, beautiful, and very cold day. Didn't take a thermometer, but I'd say the windchill was near 0. Overall a very good day to be there.
A lot of beautiful snow & ice covered trees
Heading up the trail from the end of Backbone Rd.
One of the narrow sections of the Backbone.
The vast snowfield going up to the summit of Mt. Harwood
Crossing the saddle between Harwood & Baldy- very cold & windy here.
Starting to break through the clouds
Nothing but sunshine and freezing fingers up top!
The clouds mostly burned off while we were on top, and visibility was great on the way down
Hi Mark and Nick you caught the "Day" Side note When I get to the top of Baldy the secret view is to the East out into the desert. I spent about 25 years walking East and then back into LA towards Palmdale and just below Baldy on the Tower lines so everyone can have lights and inter net? Must of been something other than that HUH?
MC, We were there on Thursday and conditions were typical for this time of year. Occasional patches of snow after the hut and total snow coverage on the summit.
We had microspikes and used them to get through the tree shaded slope just beyond the bowl, and again near the summit, they were not needed anywhere else. There was some ice in the path but crampons and ice axes were left in the car.
I went up Bear Canyon on Tuesday and I didn't hit any significant patches of snow until after the 9,000 foot mark. There were a few drifts as deep as a foot, especially closer to the summit, but mostly it was no more than a couple inches deep.
Baldy today was a shorts day, warm, little if any breeze. Bowl is dry, micro spikes when needed above the switch backs through the trees. No snow or rain for a few days, possible chance middle of the week.
I went up the Hut trail today and did not run into any snow until I was in the Rock Garden area. There were patches along the ridge and then once on the ridge to the peak was all snow. It is surprising that on Thursday Mark and others did the Bowl and now there is no snow! Temps were brisk and there was some wind going up the ridge above the west bowl. Coming down I saw M.C. and Norma going up. It was good to see them considering it was a year ago since Shin's 300 that I saw them last. It was a good day. Hopefully more snow this week!!
Wanted to say Merry Christmas from the summit this morning, but I forgot my phone.
Shin and I had the upper mountain to ourselves until on the way down. Unfortunately, it was so windy, the summit couldn't be enjoyed, so we had a quick turn-around.
There's only a bit of snow in the trees above the Ski Hut and a bit more near the summit. A few days on mild weather like today, and it will go back to summer conditions.
BTW: I confirmed that Baldy IS EASIER than Owens Peak today and have passed Shin's Mt. Whitney Qualifier by beating 2 1/2 hours up today... Now all I need to do is beat My Qualifier, which involved dropping about 10 more pounds! (If you don't recall, Shin said I was not allowed to head back to Whitney until I could climb Baldy in less than 2.5 hours.)
Des, Frank, and I started at Vincent gap parking and went to Baden Powell area over to Mt Burnham. On are way back we summited Baden Powell and enjoyed the views.. Had fun in the snow today with up to 6 inches in a couple of places. Micros were a fine thing to have today but I forget mine and followed Des tracks when needed.. Windy at times low was 37deg.
Just another bitchen day on the other side of Baldy
When I started up the Ski Hut trail at 9:30 this morning the pile of rocks (too big to be called a cairn, more like a stele) was intact. When I came down, about 1:30, it had been destroyed. As it turned out, just as I was getting down to the road there were 3 people standing there with the NFS map looking puzzled. They asked me if this was the trail up Baldy. There really needs to be a visible marker there. (I remember that the first time I went up, in 1988, I missed the turn-off and walked about 1/2 mile too far up the road before turning back and finding it.)
I'm not sure what you're asking. Is it the time to go up Harwood via RR and back down the same way? I don't know the answer to that because I've never come down RR (and hope I never will). If it's up RR to Harwood, then across to the summit of Baldy by the Backbone Trail, returning back down to the Falls Rd. via the Ski Hut trail, I don't think it takes much, if any, longer than straight up and down the Ski Hut trail. RR is steeper but shorter than the Ski Hut trail, and Harwood is almost a freebie.
Thanks for the reply burtw. Sorry my inquiry is not more clear.
I want to ballpark how long it would take my friend and I to go up R/R to Mt. Harwood. As a reference point, I was hoping someone would give me an idea how this trail compared to hiking Baldy via Ski Hut Trail, possibly posting some times(ie "it takes me 3 hrs to hike Ski Hut Trail and 3h15m to hike R/R until it meets Devil's backbone") or similar info (ie "it takes me about 10% longer to make the climb to Devil's backbone via R/R").
I want to descend via Devils Backbone Trail and Mt. Baldy Rd (which I can estimate based on previous trips), assuming it is open to hikers this time of year. If it is not open to hikers, we would take Backbone up to the summit and then go down Ski Hut Trail.
Enjoying my new zoom I went from 3x to 20x Dan heading to Hardwood
Oh and BTW: If you do Bear Flat and park a car at Manker, when you park the other car at the village ask the other person if they have their keys with them only had to hitchhike for 5min and Kathy and I got picked up and taken down to the village to my car Thanks Tracie for offering your car to us..
63Chevell it takes about the same time to hike up RR as the ski hut trail if you're not a complete animal...in which case you can do it about 30-45 minutes faster than the ski hut trail. My fastest time up RR was slightly over 2 hours which isn't going to set any speed records on this board.
Mark and CatB, nice to run into you yesterday. My first Baldy since getting pneumonia and I needed Talus on that leash so she could be the engine and me the caboose. We ran into Ellen, Sally and then Randy, who walked to the hut with us and convinced me to turn around there. We saw sheep below the hut, but no camera. Also ran into George, who wants to do Russell with the gang this summer and we have sort of nominated Sierra Gator as our group leader so I hope he is feeling better too.
I went up Baldy today with my friend, Mario and his dog, Lua. There was one to two inches of snow above 7000 feet to the summit. The snow was firm in the morning but started to melt late morning at lower elevation. It was low 20s at the summit and very cold with a bit stronger wind. Ski hut was 28F late morning. No crampon or microspikes were needed today. It was cloudy and foggy most of the morning except near the summit. But the view was fantastic.
Please take microspikes this weekend for icy sections. Please be careful with falling rocks on the Mt. Baldy road early in the morning. We had a very bad falling rocks around 6:00 a.m. before the tunnel but completely cleaned up within a few hours. The road is free of snow or ice.
Thank you for the conditions update Shin. I would like your photos , but can't find the 'member album link.' Can you post a direct link or point me in the right direction?
Hi 63 Chevyll, The 5th title of main page of Whitney Portal Store Message board, there is a tile to read "WPSMB member photo album links".Click it then scroll down to "Shin". You can find all photos.
Road/Trail Condition 02/07/2014 Mt. Baldy road is clear with no snow. Ski hut trail: There was thin snow between Manker to Ski hut but melting very fast except in the shade. There was 3-6 inches of snow beyond Ski hut to the ridge under the trees. Nice to have microspike when you come down. No crampons. The rest of the trail to the summit had very little snow. We need more cold storm to keep the snow on the mountain.
Summitted from Bear Canyon on 2/17 and traversed down the Devil's Backbone. Beautiful clear weather. Absolutely zero snow although I believe a front is moving in this week...
I'd be very careful about being anywhere near the Baldy Bowl after the DUMP happens...
Thanks for the 'reality-check' Richard. That's something I hadn't thought about.
Maybe I'll check out Icehouse - too bad there's that pesky requirement for a permit... kind've a pain when you want to start early and don't have permits ahead of time.
Yeah, what Richard said! Don't turn you back on the Baldy Bowl............ Here's some dudes dodging a slide back on the west of the bowl in Jan 2011. Luckily, no one got hurt
I'd be very careful about being anywhere near the Baldy Bowl after the DUMP happens...
Thanks for the 'reality-check' Richard. That's something I hadn't thought about.
Maybe I'll check out Icehouse - too bad there's that pesky requirement for a permit... kind've a pain when you want to start early and don't have permits ahead of time.
63ChevyII Call the visitors center at baldy they leave permits on the bulletin board out front for any one that asks them too, never been a problem with them - but 99% of the folks don't bother as in 11 years of going up that trail I've never seen a ranger on the trail so you should be fine without one, just MHO
When I went up Icehouse earlier in the month, the new kiosks had several pads of permits and a laminated example of how to fill out them out in the register box.
Since there is/was no signage yet, it was pretty much ignored by everyone walking by. There was only one other permit besides ours filled out when we started, both were gone at the end of the hike.
Now there's a metal box for self-permitting right at the start of the Icehouse trail. Better bring your own pencil, though. There wasn't one last time I was there.
At the moment I'm honestly not feeling up to hiking tomorrow (long week with little sleep), but I do want to get out in the snow this winter. It seems my opportunities will be very limited this year, so I better take advantage when I can.
We will not be operating today as the forecast calls for more snow as well as high winds. Yesterday & last night we received 5" of snow after the rain stopped which is less than what was forecast. Today forecasts have the possibility of more snow on the way. Some as bold as to say 1 to 3 feet. We'll be hoping for the best.
Snow level was down to Manker Flats when we arrived this morning. It was 4 to 6 inches most of the way to the Ski Hut, became thicker in a few areas but didn't get real thick until the rock garden, from there up the south side of the bowl was mix between, grupel and wet snow underneath, continued to snow all day on and off. What is there is 2.5 feet deep in the bowl, might be more by now from all the fresh flurries coming down all day. This will stick around for at least two weeks depending on how much it heats up. Wouldn't wait to long to go, this could be all we see this winter, who knows.
Sounds like the forecaster were Crying Wolf again? Be interested in hearing how the conditions are on Baldy...
After watching the TV weather early (4AM) Saturday I was expecting mudslides, debris flows, flash floods, deep snow and no chance of making Manker alive. But we just cruised up with 2WD on slightly damp roads and almost no rain the entire drive from OC. There was nice new snow on the trail from the start but crampons and ice axes stayed in the car, we used microspikes to descend. It will probably get icy on the trail, be smart and be safe.
So the story goes like this, I was in Sacramento over the weekend for my granddaughters B.D. and to visit Pops, so I missed out on the fun so today was my day to take off of work and enjoy the snow. By the time I got to the skihut someone was trying to go up the Bowl, I could tell the bowl was light on snow since it was dirt underneath and not much grip,so I decided to go up the middle of West baldy but all I did was spin my wheels so I moved a little left and went up that side with good grip and foot prints, at the top the sun was coming out and getting warm, off came the mid weight and gloves,I met Shawn at the trail head and we past each other off and on. Had a snack just before the last push, then headed to the summit with a copter going overhead, the last few steps to the summit I knew it landed and was able to take a couple of shots..
Light breeze and 33deg on summit after a bit I headed for the chutes I was going to go down the one I know best but when I got there it was light snow and ice I thought for a minute and said I'll be safe today and go around to the trees.
At the hut I met Johnny the rock climber and then long time no see was Dave G.
Three climbers were going up the Bowl when I was crossing the rock pile and later saw one coming down and later saw only one 3/4 the way up the chute.
Saw around 35 people today mostly at the hut and below..
We went up Saturday with the crew. It was flippin awesome. Horizontal rime on the trees above the ridge. Summit was scoured almost smooth from the wind. Plaque was covered in ice and I was too after a few minutes playing at the windbreak. I was digging a hole so I could hide from the wind.. =)
Wind was pretty beastly until the Noodle bowl and then only sporadic on the ridge. Tons o fun was had glissading down the West Bowl. No rocks were found and no one pulled a "Carole" - thank you Norma
Wow, what a difference a week makes, top pic of the bowl was on 3/8/2014, bottom pic was 3/15/2014,it was windy both weekends but things are melting fast. Good to see Shin and Rick Graham on the way up.
Beautiful day Saturday. 37 at the trailhead at 7am, and snow was sparse the first dozen or so switchbacks. Snow more consistent after Lamel Springs sign (1.7 miles in), and broke trail after another half-mile. Some icy spots but never used microspikes or ice axe once, trek poles worked well. Very windy at the saddle and howling at the summit (around 9:20). One other on top. Did a few glissades on way down (again in icy areas), and a few postholes to the knees and finished the normally 7.9 mile roundtrip in 6.5 miles. All in all a nice trip. Fifty degress back at the trailhead, so if weather keeps up the snow on the switchbacks will be gone in another month - sad.
I climbed Baldy on Tuesday the 18th and skied Gorgonio on Thursday March 20. Baldy is pretty bare at this point. Just a few patches that are melting fast. The north side of Gorgonio still has some good snow. Had a great day skiing it.
Congrats on 350 Shin! I ran into Shin on Baldy back in March. Riley decided he liked Shin's hiking speed more than mine: Akichow, it looks like your pup and Riley have the same pack.
I snapped some pics of Baldy on my way to work yesterday:
The day before my birthday, last November, when I was a youngster, I hiked the ski hut trail to the top of Baldy. It was no harder than usual; no easier, either. It was my xxx hike to the top - I don't have a count.
Five days later, after I had become an old man of 77, I went up but had to turn back right before the wooden sign above the hard scrabble. (My name for the scree slope, and I'm sticking with it.) I have tried a number of times since then without summitting.
Yesterday, finally, I was on top again. It was a beautiful day on the mountain, cool but not cold. I carried micro spikes but didn't need them.
I met a couple who are training for Whitney. They have a permit for a 3-day trip in August. It was great talking to them. They are the kind of hikers who go up hill with no more effort than if they were walking on the flat. Since they hike on Mondays and I do, too, I expect to see them again.
So with a Friday night snow, with wind, it made for a really nice Saturday hike up R/R to the summit. 22deg on summit 38deg in sun, light wind on summit made for a nice lunch break. Shin saw your car at Manker congrats on another summit another one closer to your goal.
Hi Mark, You took many beautiful pictures of the day. I left my car at Manker and headed up from Bear canyon trail to the summit. My friend was training for Mt. Whitney hike this weekend so we took Bear canyon for the distance and elevation gain. It was a super nice hike with moderate amount of snow on the trail. It was a bit windy at some spots. Frank was looking for you at the summit for a while. It looked like we missed each other at the summit.
This will be the last snow on Mt. Baldy this season.
This group sounds like a good source for Baldy info. We were hoping to bring a group of first-timers up the Backbone this coming Saturday, 5/3, now we're not so sure, due to the recent storm. Based on your experience, any estimates on when the current snow coverage might melt away enough for the route to be done safely? We, of course, are ready to reschedule if necessary, no rush in the interests of safety. Thanks for anything you might offer.
Mountain Bob, You can be pretty sure it will "melt away". Most spring snow storms on Baldy are gone in a few days, Right now the ground is warm, and the winds are drying. If there is snow it would be patches near the summit, you can just walk around it.
Notice the photos with no snow at the Ski Lodge and watch the temperature on:
Melt away it has.. FYI the spring in IceHouse Canyon is running nicely. Did 3T's yeseterday as a training hike. Someone had removed the Telegraph junction .25 mile summit sign. Another hiker was just replacing it as I got to that point. Is similar mischevous happening on the Balday trails?? What are the condition of the windbreaks on Baldy. Planning on an overnight stay next weekend. Happy Hiking to all Rik
Did Baldy Ski Hut up and back Saturday. Cool weather and swirling winds made it a great day to do it. Got an early start (6:15) and less than a dozen on the summit at 9:30. All windbreaks were intact then. Good water flow just south of the hut too - crisp, clean and cold from some snow runoff. One patch of white between West Baldy and Baldy. "Rush hour" appeared to be 7:30-8:30, because it was a steady stream of hikers when we got back to the ridge above ski hut around 10:30. Thinned out to a trickle the last couple miles.
Just wondering on the water supply at the hut and if it is still going strong. Thinking of spending a night or two on top this weekend and don't want to carry water from the car if I don't have to. Thanks for any info.
Shin got his 365th Mt. Baldy summit on the Summer solstice (Sat), right around his 10th year anniversary of starting serious hiking back in June 2004. Shin’s accomplishment is an excellent example of training, perseverance and determination. In addition, Shin is the consummate Mt Baldy ambassador, always sharing the good spirit and knows almost everyone on the mountain (which is saying something as there were about half a million folks up there on Sat) Just think of the possibilities in the next 10 years!!! Cheers, RickG
That is a heck of an accomplishment - congratulations! My legs hurt just thining about a couple hikes up the ski hut trail, but 365 to the summit - way to go!
Congratulations Shin. Your absolutely right there Rick, Shin is the perfect hiking Ambassador we are lucky to have people like him in our community. I must have just missed you guys on Saturday.
I saw the pictures of your 300th summit, you had so many friends show up to join you on the hike. Even a snow storm did not slow them down!!! I think you may need to have the Park Rangers do traffic control for number 400. The lodge may have to bring in a extra cook to feed everyone.
Hi, thank you my friends, Since I live in Orange county and I am a half day hiker, Mt. Baldy is a very convenient and inexpensive place to get good workout in outdoor. Mt Baldy offers us a lot of different trails for training for many bigger mountains. I have met many hikers who shared their experience with me freely. I have enjoyed meeting them and learned a lots from them. I really feel that I am very fortunate to be surrounded by many good friends. I wish I could use my 10 years of hiking experience of Mt. Baldy for other mountains in Sierra in the future. Thank you all for your friendship. Shin
Frank A. pointed this sign out to me about 200 yards off the Summit at the time I didn't ever remember seeing it but later that day I remember seeing it maybe 5 years ago, what I didn't know was that Bob R. was part of the rescue team..
So Shin once again I missed you by minutes on the Summit, Dan(621st summit)was coming down the east side and I asked him if he saw you up there(we knew your car was in the village)and he said your were still up there when he left..missed you again
Nice day on Summit,cookies of the day were cranberry,dark chocolate chip,macadamia nut oatmeal cookies
Hi Mark, I decided to hike up Bear canyon trail to get more workout. I didn't meet or see anyone on the trail till the summit except a friendly cat just above the church. It was a bit warmer in the switchbacks. I met Yeti(Jeff S.) and his friends on the trail.
Miguel F. set the fastest time, 1:13,from Manker to the summit. He was running like a bighorn sheep. He is an amazing athlete.
As to the memorial plate, I have seen another memorial plate on a tree at 8800 feet elevation area on Ski hut trail.
Looking forward to seeing you all next time. You guys are still looking very young. Shin
What I remember, he was an experienced mountaineer, family man and succumbed to an accident on the ice. There was another accident around the same time with alot of SAR out for awhile.
Here is Ali's other memorial plaque, just a short ways below the Ski Hut, on the left side of the trail. It is about 40 ft. to left, as you near the final switchback stretch below the hut.
Also two close-up pics (zoomed in camera) on two other days, neither of which came out so well.
Ten years have flown too quickly. I met Ali thru the Sierra Club, but did not have a chance to hike with him. He was president of the Calif. Mountaineering Club at that time.
I spoke a tiny bit of Farsi with him, and with even our limited interaction he was friendly and warm, and brimming with enthusiasm for the mountains. Memorable enough for me that five or six years later when I heard the name of the missing hiker, I knew it was him. BeGrims.... May he rest in peace.
Here's part of the LA Times article I saved in '04--it may still be available/archived online:
"Body of Missing Newbury Park Hiker Is Found on Mt. Baldy
*Ali Aminian, an experienced climber, slipped on an icy trail and fell more than 500 feet down a slope, authorities say
By Lance Pugmire and Holly Wolcott, Times Staff Writers
The body of a Newbury Park hiker who had been missing for three days was found Wednesday on Mt. Baldy, where he apparently had slipped on a narrow, icy trail and fallen more than 500 feet down a slope.
Ali Aminian, 51, was an experienced hiker and Sierra Club member who had been president of the California Mountaineering Club in 1998.
"One of the things he said was that if he had to die, he wanted to die climbing in the mountains," said Jilaa Aminian, a 21-year-old sociology major at UCLA and Aminian's oldest child. "I just hope that he didn't suffer."
Aminian was hiking alone Sunday, en route to the 10,064-foot peak of Mt. Baldy, when he encountered what rescuers described as hard, frozen ice conditions. He fell near the 8,990-foot elevation marker on Bear Flats Trail, hitting small pine trees as he plummeted and stopping under a small pine that obscured his body from searchers, a rescue official said.
One of four rescue dogs picked up a scent at sunset Tuesday. About 11:30 a.m. the next day, volunteers from the China Lake Mountain Rescue Group found the body. The terrain was so icy that the rescuers' metal shoe spikes "barely stuck to the slope," said volunteer Tom Roseman. "I'm sure he just slipped and couldn't stop himself until he hit the bottom." Aminian was wearing basic hiking boots, Roseman said.
A Los Angeles County sheriff's helicopter lowered a hoist to recover the body."
stay safe, see ya out there, arocknoid
PS Ridgeline, the other hiker missing at that time was Charles Koh, whose body was later found in Goode Canyon.
I am (was?) scheduled for a group hike this Sat on Baldy. There's been alot of unconfirmed information about flood damage bandied about but this was the latest I received from others in the group. If anyone has gone up there & seen trail conditions firsthand maybe you can report back to this board...
<<11:04 AM Danny, I just got an email (see below) from Michael, one of the LA Backpackers organizers, regarding the cancellation of his scheduled backpacking trip to Baldy this Saturday... What do you think? ---- Well, I'm sorry to say that I just learned that the trails up Baldy are washed out from the mudslides/rain storms. I had called a ranger station on Monday and was told that there was some debris on the trails but they were still accessible. But I now understand that it's far more serious than that. The Visitors Centre at the base of Baldy was destroyed by mudslides so it is closed indefinitely. So I called a number of ranger stations and was told by a few different rangers that they have not been able to clear the trails, nor will they by Saturday. And, while they haven't closed the trails, I'm not comfortable leading anyone into a situation this hazardous. I am hoping to do the hike in the Fall and look forward to joining in on others.>>
Thanks for all the support to all of you who reached out to our community after Sunday's flash floods. The damage was fairly light to the upper mountain with minimal wash outs that will be repaired today. The residents of Goat Hill and other specific areas in the village continue to pick up the peices today where several homes were comprimized by mud and debris.
With the rain behind us we will be operating this coming weekend for Moonlight Hikes with live music Friday August 8th with Ron Ely and Saturday night, visiting us from San Fransisco on their Southern California tour, the Three Times Bad Band.
The Beatunes performance Saturday night was nothing short of spectacular. If you missed the show be sure and check these guys out or send us a note letting us know you would like to see them back at the Notch again soon.
My wife and I hiked Baldy yesterday via the Hut trail. The Baldy Rd has been cleared along with the shoulders graded in the Manker Flats area. The trail to the hut is in good shape, but maybe a little rockier from all the rain water. Crossing the Bowl the trail has another erosion channel across it. Climbing out of the bowl through the trees and on to the summit, the trail has a lot of erosion and is now a lot rockier. Some of this will smooth out once enough hikers make their way up and down the peak. Hikers who are not familiar with the route may have difficulty finding their way until enough foot prints make the trail more obvious.
Frank Des and I took R/R Saturday at 2:30p because of to many people coming down main trail. We headed to West Baldy to spend the night and enjoy the Full Moon, then in morning hike over to the ski lift for breakfast..Very crowded around Baldy summit, and some SOB knocked down the main wind break again..
Trails were good all the way up and over to ski lift some gulleys made good foot steps for us, the deepest gully we came across was 6"
37deg. in morning, with a strong cup of coffee Hey... Just Another Bitchen Day On Baldy
It looks like you're using a Soto Windmaster stove. I just got one and used it in Humphreys Basin for 4 days of rain, hail, and constant wind and it always worked like a charm. I don't know how long the ignitor will last but it will still be a great stove if eventually I have to use a match to get it going.
I have that stove, too. Only used it for a few days total so far, but I've been very happy with it. Haven't used a Jetboil, but it seems comparable. Boils water amazingly fast!
Burt..maybe Hiking Jim can answer this(i might have asked him this before but forgot his answer)On the ignitor at elevation I'll push it in and it will click once(not firing) and then all it does is just push in without any response so I have to go to my windproof matches, this is what happened on Baldy last weekend and I'll be using it again Saturday night on Langley..
Mark, I was using my Soto stove at Desolation Lake which is higher than the summit of Baldy and didn't have that problem. It didn't always ignite the first time but always did eventually.
How is Register Ridge after the rain storms a couple of weeks ago? I want to try it for the first time Saturday and am wondering if I'll have any difficulties following it. I will have a GPS track of the trail.
I have a friend that would like to go with us. Problem is, his wife is due to have their 3rd child in a couple weeks. Is there cell reception on the mountain? I've been up Baldy a few times, but have never tried my phone.
Register Ridge is in fine shape, probably fared better than the Ski Hut trail. There is a rut or two, nothing that is difficult.
It seems my phone seldom works on the summit of Baldy, but I know phone service on Baldy Summit is possible, but most of the trails on the way have no service.
Regarding phone service, spent the night up there on Sat. and had intermittent service, never more than 2 bars. ATT FYI came up from town thru Bear Flats. above BF the switchbacks were very chewed up.. lots of washouts.. passable but slow. Came down the backbone and the trail was in good shape after the steeper top section... Have done RR several times, route is easy to follow after the initial climb to the ridge line.. about 50yds past the register? Just keep going up and favoring to the right.
Hopefully the temps won't be as hot as last weekend.
FYI, this was just posted at the Baldy Visitor's Center and is effective as of today:
Quote:
USDA Forest Service Angeles National Forest Forest Order No 01-14-06
Pursuant to 16 USC 551 and 36 CFR 261.50(b), the following act is prohibited in the San Gabriel River Ranger District of the Angeles National Forest. This Order is effective from August 21, 2014, through August 20,2015.
Being on the Mt. Baldy Trail (Forest Trail No. 237W12), from Bear Flat north to the Mt. San Antonio Summit, as shown on the attached map. 36 CFR 261.55 (a).
Pursuant to 36 CFR 261.50(e) the following persons are exempt from this order:
1. Persons with a permit specifically authorizing the otherwise prohibited act or omission.
2. Any Federal, State, or Local Officer or member of any organized rescue or firefighting force in performance of any official duty.
This prohibition is in addition to the general prohibitions contained in 36 CFR Part 261, Subpart A.
A violation of this prohibition is punishable by a fine of not more than $5,000 for an individual or $10,000 for an organization, or imprisonment for not more than six months, or both. 16 USC 3559, 3571, and 3581.
Done at Arcadia, California this 20th day of August, 2014.
Thomas A. Contreras Forest Supervisor Angeles National Forest
I'm sure the trail suffered a bit of damage with the recent flooding, but has anyone been up this trail to validate it was hit this hard?
Wow, a 1-year closure, that’s seems a bit harsh! Have they blocked the top of the trail, as lots of folks ‘accidently’ descend Bear Canyon from Baldy summit? So I guess excursions over to West Baldy are illegal?
Hi Tracie, According to Pavel's friend who hiked the area recently, the switch back section of trail beyond the Bear Flat was severely damaged by the recent flash flood. A few section have 5 feet deep erosion. The trail was broken up badly.
We celebrated Pavel's 50th birthday at the Notch yesterday. Pavel is known as a "Mayor of Mt. Baldy". We drove from Manker flat to Thunder mountain with 4WD. The ski slope was damaged very badly. One of our 4WD had to leave the trailer to get up the hill. Tracie, I thought about your "Jeep". Later we hiked up Telegraph peak for our small party before the big surprise party at the Notch in the evening. Everyone had a good time.
This is a total shot in the dark, but... some time ago we were up on Baldy and found a rather nice wind jacket that looked like it was left in one of the stone circles on the summit. I'm sure the owner would love to have it back. If you know anything about this would you please reply with a description of the jacket so I can get it back to you. Or, can someone recommend a Baldy forum that might be a little more specific? Thanks.
So for the last few times on Baldy I have just missed Shin on the summit, so for Saturday morning I told Frank lets leave early to beat the heat and maybe we can catch Shin on the trail. Well 3/4 to the summit I turn around and this guy that looks like Shin is coming up behind us but he has shorts on so I said na Shin doesn't where shorts, yep it was him. It was nice to finish the rest of the way with him and tell us about his climb with RG. So 10 min later on the summit here comes RG nice to see you again Rick.
69 deg on summit beautiful day up the, as Shin said they found Mr.Kim alive at around 10:30a thanks SAR for what you do..
Hey Mark, I just missed you guys. I got to the summit at 8AM from Register Ridge and immediately walked down to the SAR guys, who were 200 feet away on the ridge to West Baldy. I then plopped down there for twenty minutes and watched hikers arriving on the summit. I ran into Rick Graham about ten minutes down the Ski Hut Trail.
Here's my trip report. with some Shin references ...
Very sad as this was the best training trail in SoCal! I was up there on August 17 Sunday and the trail was very beat up. There was one spot just above Bear Flats that was washed out to about waist-deep and about 14 feet long. It was passable but very sketchy. The rest of the first 19 switchbacks were ok but very rocky and rough with minor washouts here and there. Above the first trees the trail was visible and pretty easy to follow with washouts here and there but not as bad as the first steep switchbacks (those had the worst damage). I was able to make it up to the narrows with no problem but the steep trail was very rough and full of small scree and sand. From there it was fine, not many washouts at all. I am guessing most of the restoration work will occur on the first 20 switchbacks after Bear Flats. Very sad to hear about it, but we would rather be safe than sorry of course! Anyway, hope this helps. Got Whitney on Oct 18th, gonna make another try after the thunderstorms on Aug 11-12 stopped me at Trail Crest.
Maybe someone like Doc Murray, who has TONS of Trail Maintenance Supervision experience, can convince the Powers That Be that a volunteer crew(s) could get the repairs done in a much more timely manner... assuming that that's what the issue is.
It's been a couple of months since there have been any reports re the conditions on Baldy. Hiking via Manker this Sunday -- anyone been up recently? Any snow at all to contend with? Thanks in advance for any beta you might be able to provide. BruinDave
Hi BruinDave, There is no snow at all for the entire trail. The creek near Ski hut is running but very low. One huge dead tree in front of Ski hut was cut down and being made into benches and tables. They are very nice. No more surprise hit of snow and ice on the head when we have HEAVY snow. Plenty of TP in the outhouse but no for sure about weekend. A light windbreaker will be nice to have. Have a nice hike.
Thank you, Shin (aka Mr.Baldy) -- just the guy I was hoping to hear from! Your information is very much appreciated. Perhaps we will see you up there on Sunday?
Does anyone know the outcome of the SAR operation on Baldy today? When I was at Manker the SARs folks asked if I had seen a man and woman who were overdue returning (i hadn'tl but that's all I know.
Hi Burt, It gets dark early these days, with the wind it must have been a cold night. News: Published: Nov. 17, 2014 Updated: 9:57 p.m
MOUNT BALDY: Hikers rescued after cold night on mountain Two lost hikers spent a cold night on Mount Baldy before being rescued unharmed, say San Bernardino County sheriff's officials.
Friends triggered the Sunday night search for 34-year-old Kendy Cruz of Reseda and 33-year-old Genesis Ilada of Buena Park after the pair made a 6 p.m. call to say they were lost.
Sheriff's helicopter pilot Ryan Conner and flight officer Ryan Peppler used night vision goggles to find the hikers on a steep ledge at the 7,700-foot level of San Antonio Canyon, sheriff's officials said in a written statement.
"Due to the steep terrain, the tall trees and the strong winds in the canyon, the crew was unable to rescue the ... hikers," according to the statement. "Ground teams from West Valley Search and Rescue made an extremely difficult hike to the victims and stayed with them."
Early Monday morning, the hikers were hoisted aboard a sheriff's rescue helicopter operated by pilot Al Daniel, crew chief Mike Ells and paramedic Eric Sherwin, who flew them to deputies waiting at the Cow Canyon Saddle.
Re: Conditions On Baldy-Olancha - 11/28/1401:59 AM
It was a perfect day on Baldy. Thanks! The view from the summit rated about a 9.8. San Clemente Island was clearly visible, not just a smear in the haze. You could see ships in the bay and harbor. Even the San Gorgonio Pass was clear and I could see details on the 2 peaks.
The frosting on the turkey had to be spotting what I think had to be Olancha Peak. I'm basing that on the fact that it was due north of the summit of Baldy (allowing for a little error because I haven't corrected the declension on my compass for over a year) and it was a perfect pyramidal shape. So, unless someone corrects me I'm sticking with Olancha.
Re: Conditions On Baldy-Olancha - 11/28/1408:17 AM
I have to admit, when I started visualizing the bearings, I said "wait a minute, how can White mountain be North of Baldy, when it is East of Whitney??" Living much farther north in California, it is easy to forget that the further south you go (in this state) the further EAST the location is. I should have immediately remembered this from flying (where you learn that Reno, Nv is WEST of major destinatios in the southern regions). Thanks for posting this information.
This makes me nostalgic for the "Is it possible to see Half Dome from Turlock" great debate (yes you can,as proven by our dearly departed friend, Wayne....who used to help me with my math problems)
Re: Conditions On Baldy-Olancha - 11/28/1404:32 PM
Thanks Dale. One clarification: I did set the declension on my compass when I bought it. I just haven't changed it to bring it up to date for over a year. So the error is about 1 degree, not 12.
Math is math and trumps my vision. But Olancha is a pretty distinctive shape and is more isolated than Telescope. (I thought I also identified the Pannamints yesterday without picking out specific peaks.)
Incidentally, on last Saturday I camped at Mahogany Flats. It was really cold and I didn't sleep well. Sunday I started up the Telescope Peak trail but I felt lousy and knew almost from the beginning I wasn't going to summit. Monday I did summit Wildrose Peak which is a really pleasant hike.
I was on Baldy yesterday. Lovely day. Very nice in the sun, a bit cool in the shade. I was with my daughter, age 5, who likes to climb on everything, so I didn't summit.
We just went to the ski hut. It was a rather proud moment for me as a hiking daddy; this was the first time my daughter did it all under her own power. This was at least her 4th time to the ski hut (that I can remember). Hiking all on her own is quite a difference from her first time when I carried her 100% of the way.
The hut was open, so we got to go in.
We saw some wild animals.
We saw some friends.
And in some cases "wild" and "friends" were one and the same.
Five miles RT, about 2000' gain/loss. Not bad for a five year old (and her old man father!). GPS Track plotted on a topo
Oh, and yes, we did fit in some stove testing. Of course. lol
Thanks, Burt. We have fun, and it's a learning experience for her. I want her to see and experience the wider world. Something outside Hello Kitty videos and the like. Something a bit more real.
Since so many of us follow what is happen down here in the southland on this thread I'll post this here -
If anyone left a pair of boots at the Manker Flats Trail Head contact me I have them. They could have been left Wednesday, Thursday or Friday morning. Pass the word on other boards so we can get them back to the owner.
According to my friend, Martin Parson, who hiked Mt. Baldy, Harwood, West Baldy via Register ridge trail today, there wasn't any snow or ice on entire mountains except small amount of snow left on north facing slope of Mt. Harwood from Monday. This recent rain storm didn't leave any new snow at all.
It looks like we can put away crampons, ice axe, and micro into the storage again.
Hiked up Baldy on Saturday and despite being told there was no snow up there I was still surprised after that storm during the week to see no snow at all, not even on the North facing ridges. Although, on the plus side the moisture had dampened down the trail somewhat which made going downhill much easier.
Bumped into Shin on the way up so we joined forces to tag the summit(for Shin it was the second time that day) and then over to West Baldy, met a lot of good people on another beautiful blue sky day.
The photos that I've seen of nearby San Gorgonio Mountain show only light snow -- and Gorgonio is ~1,500 feet higher than Baldy. It just wasn't a particularly cold storm, and there just wasn't a lot of snow.
Re: Conditions On Baldy - Trash Talk - 12/09/1406:18 PM
Went up the Register Ridge route yesterday (Monday). A beautiful day to hike Baldy. I carried a jacket but used it on top as a seat cushion while I ate lunch and had a good conversation with a man from Canada. He and I were the only people up there although 3 men were nearing the summit as I headed down the Ski Hut trail.
But trash! Someone in the past day or two had left orange peel, candy wrappers, and kleenex on the Ridge Route. I would have thought that by the time someone knew about the RR they would also know about leave no trace rules.
Even worse, a week ago when I went up there were a bunch of Sierra Club fliers in the register box. This week the fliers were scattered down the hillside where you make the first big turn after the register. I don't see how they could have blown there. It looks like someone deliberately threw them down the hill. I thought about going down to pick them up but (1) I was tired and (2) it should be done by 2 people, one to belay the one going down the hill. I hope someone from the SC reads this and goes to pick up the trash.
Re: Conditions On Baldy - Trash Talk - 12/14/1411:37 PM
Conditions on Baldy? Best in two years. Last time (Shin 300 hike) the snow was gone for the season within a week. This year who knows but more snow forecast this week. Photos from Saturday 12-13-14:
Re: Conditions On Baldy - Trash Talk - 12/15/1405:10 AM
Nice pictures James I like to get up there right after a snow fall but this weekend couldn't do that so Sunday was the next best.. We were short on time so we just went up to Kellys camp it was just nice to be in snow again, the scenery was awesome even if not all that much snow fell. After the hike we enjoyed Pineapple Upside Down Cake that I made.
So Doug this is the second time that I have posted pictures and can't enlarge them anymore then they are, is this something on my side or are you doing something different.
Re: Conditions On Baldy - Trash Talk - 12/15/1402:15 PM
Hi Mark I adjusted the setting ,looks like it sized your photos as always some great shots, Doing odd jobs the last 6 weeks finishing the ranch project and Doug's backyard, closing the Portal and Earlene had a long list for the house down south ,thought I might sneak in a Baldy trip yesterday but needed to do final work on the house so I could paint before the storm. Alabama Hills project is active now will do a walk with Dave Kirk Thursday to find the best best option of the bottom of the NRT into town, once we thought we had just the old mine road over LP Hill but over the years I found the 1900's trail just outside of town and that links into a trail that goes to the Arch Trail very scenic and will still provide multi use. Ao This maybe a winter hike soon! Tell your dad Hi as always.
I had a fun hike on Register Ridge yesterday morning before rushing off to work.
I started hiking around 3:45, pushed it up the ridge as far as I could before sunrise (~8300 ft), snapped some photos, then headed down. On the descent, I met a gentleman named Martin that was attempting his 248th summit. He thanked me for breaking the trail for him and we exchanged contact info.
The trail was hard to follow in the dark, but the snow was decent up to around 7500', then the postholing began. I tried my snowshoes at that point - the trail is awfully steep there, but it was better than sinking in.
Trail condition 12/19/2014 Mt. Baldy road is free of snow or ice. Manker flat had snow and parking area along the road was a bit tight because of the snow. The trail from the fire road to ski hut had snow entire way today. There was 1-2 feet of snow from Ski hut to the summit. Some section was a bit deeper. The snow wasn't consolidated, yet. It was soft and powdery. It is a good idea to use winter boots, micro spikes, gators, ice ax, poles with snow baskets, and snowshoes. According to Patrick M. and Dave G., the snow level of the bowl was knee deep. You can hike up and glissading down the bowl.
Today, Patrick M., Sam P., Dave G., Ryan D., and I had a fun hike. We met Kathy W., Dez. and Mark A. on the trail.
So Des and I had a plan to spend the night at West Baldy but got a late start so we stayed Below Baldy on top of the Main Bowl where you start your last climb to summit. We had a nice hot dinner and snacks to make for a good night sleep. The wind Friday night was off and on but didn't bother us in the tent cause Des has this bomb shelter with enough guy lines that nothing is going to move it. Saturday morning we headed for the summit as the sun was coming up(a damn nice sunrise), got back to the tent had breakfast and headed down cause we knew the herd was coming up..stayed warm the whole time, my feet got cold once so I'm getting those booties for the outside.
Looked like it was going to snow a few times but didn't
As Shin said those are the conditions
Temps: Friday evening 20deg in the morning in the tent 35 outside 20 summit 18 breakfast in the tent 28
Mark and 63ChevyII - GREAT PIX! Oh how I would love to hike Baldy for Christmas!! Mark, what a great idea to camp below the summit and watch the sunrise. You were treated to a beauty. It was magical!
Kurt, I was up there on Saturday. It was a slushy thin film of white in the trees above the hut, then dry to the Noodle Bowl where the pathetic thin spread of mashed potato continued on to the summit. I met an overly optimistic person on the descent who was carrying his skis and boots down the road from the lifts.
Right on... thanks you two. Wow not much snow up there. I was trying to decide on footwear and it looks like my Lowa Ferrox GTX LO's should do the trick. I'm guessing the snow that Tracy saw on Saturday is melting off quickly.
31ruecambon: What a blessing to have a grandmother who's over 100yrs old. Glad you're able to enjoy her company. Good on ya!
Actually I've been an ambassador for Lowa Boots for a few years now. I've used their boots on everything from the summit of Everest to day hikes in the Sierra and So Cal .
I've been using the aforementioned Ferrox's since last August. It's been an excellent shoe. As far as the toe bumper goes I wouldn't call it "beefy" but I've found it has good toe protection. Overall it's a very comfortable shoe though.
I've seen these 2 gentlemen a number of times on the Ski Hut trail. We don't really know one another but we salute each other as members of the fraternity of hiking geezers. I'm very glad they're OK. I'm not that surprised that they got off route.
In the 100s of times I've hiked Baldy by different routes since 1988 (nobody told me I was supposed to keep score) until recently I only got off trail once - my very first time. I headed down the use trail towards the plane wreck before I realized my mistake.
But a few weeks ago I was coming down the Ski Hut trail well below the hut, not paying a whole lot of attention except where my foot was going to land next, and I realized I was off trail - way off trail. I had followed a clear use trail and was headed down towards the falls. My only recovery was to go back up to where I had gone off trail.
I don't know if that is where these gentlemen went astray. But the general issue is that the Ski Hut trail is used by so many people, with so many different objectives, that new use trails get cut all the time and the route should never be taken for granted.
: I was on the upper section of the Devils : Backbone yesterday -- went up Register Ridge : and came down the Ski Hut trail. There were : sections of snow and ice but I could avoid : them. My biggest concern with Baldy is the : wind -- I've nearly been blown off the : Backbone several times from the Harwood : saddle on up. Hopefully the Santa Ana's will : subside by Sat. Miles of smiles, : Ellen :
But a few weeks ago I was coming down the Ski Hut trail well below the hut, not paying a whole lot of attention except where my foot was going to land next, and I realized I was off trail - way off trail. I had followed a clear use trail and was headed down towards the falls. My only recovery was to go back up to where I had gone off trail.
The SG Trail workers have tried their best to block off this trail with logs, but there is a well worn path which many take on their descent....eyes only on their feet and the few inches in front of that. Must be a natural inclination to turn to the right (?) I've seen folks do this. Even when they see others going on the correct trail (LEFT), they continue on their wayward course until they reach the cliff/dropoff. Glad the two gents are home safe and sound.
Yeah I've seen people take that right hand use trail too. I've been trying to figure out how that trail got started. I'm guessing it happened from wintertime use. When there's snow I've seen many people cross that terrain lower than the trail goes. As the snow melts people still follow that route that was kicked in on the snow.
According to my friend who lives in Baldy village, other hiker was found in Goode canyon. Glad, they are all right.
There are two sections of Ski hut trail which many new hikers take wrong turns. Going up: It is around 8700-8800 feet elevation area. If you keep on going straight to west, you will be ended up in Goode canyon. You have to make quick right turn to stay on the trail. Going down: It is located around 8000 feet elevation area below Ski hut. If you hike down to the right direction, you will be ended up in very steep San Antonio fall canyon and no easy way out.
Every week, there are many hikers get into some kind of troubles but never been on TV news. Last week, I met one hiker got separated from his friend for several hours waiting at Manker. He sprained his ankle over Ski hut and turned around but his friend took off himself somewhere and never been seeing. Ranger station was closed.... I asked him why you didn't stay on the trail. His response was that it was his first time in the mountain. Last month, two GI camped out right next to Ski hut and made an open fire at night. Later in a day, one of them broke his foot and unable to walk right at all. Other guy was very much careless about the seriousness of the situation his friend was in. Their pack was filled with 6 pack of beer.... We offered help and left the area. There is some who took out any flyers or register note from the metal register box and tear them up and spread them all over the area. My friend already contacted the organization not to leave anything in the metal resister box.
There are hundreds of people share the same trail for hundreds reasons. I seldom offer any information or help voluntarily unless I am asked. Because they know more than I do and they are 1000% better than me because they have better clothing and gears. But, I never hesitate to say "You will die if you......" if the hiker is doing 1000% wrong things on the trail. Hiking in mountain has become like driving on 405 freeway.
Climbed Baldy on Friday. It's almost bone dry. There's a few icy patches in the trees on the left side of the bowl. Near the summit there's a few random patches. It was a very pleasant day of shorts and short sleeve shirts the entire day. Wishing there was more snow though. Here are a couple pix:
Here's the spot I'm guessing those guys got off route last week on Baldy. There's several tree branches over the area now that will hopefully help people stay on the route.
Everybody says it was a beautiful day on Baldy yesterday and everybody should know - they were all there. The ski hut trail was so crowded it could have used lane control. It's raining now in downtown LA so there should be precip in the local moumtains.
I carried an Alpine Lowe pack I bought at the hostel for the first time. I never had a frameless pack before. It's the most comfortable day pack I ever had.
I tried to snap some pics last night and today, but whenever I checked, it was covered clouds. I hope that means it's still snowing up there! Here are the pics I took:
Seeing all your black & white images reminds me of looking at old school photos from my father and his friends taken in the 30s, 40s, & 50s . Thanks for posting the pix!
TR 3/7/15... annual birthday hike today.. not much snow below the hut.. below the Rock Garden solid snow trail.. used YaxCables. The trail was solid as it was frozen all the way to the top. Hit the top about 9:30... about 10 people including a group that came up the Bear Flats trail (is it officially open?) they said it was in good shape most of the washout damage had been filled in. It was very windy so only spent about 20 min on top. Heading down, almost from just below the summit it was a train of people heading up. All kinds of config. shorts tennis shoes... to some looking like they were ready for an Arctic exp. and some with skis I quit counting at 100. and I wasn't even back to the last steep section of trees heading to the hut. The trail to the hut was just as crowded... Glad I got an early start. Hope everyone gets down safely. Still my favorite local mountain. Rick
So since I couldn't to Baldy during the week I went up early this morning, hit the trail at 1:45a and did a full moon hike up the main bowl to meet Desiree at her camp below the summit.
BTW: Rick was that you that we met on your way to the summit at Des camp It was his BD hike also.
Yes that was I. I hadn't seen you since that breakfast with you and Shin about 3 yrs ago.. After I headed on up I was wondering if that was you. You pictures are great. Hopefully I'll see you again before so much time passes. Happy Hiking.. Rick
BUMP I did hike the Ski Hut trail yesterday. Nothing special to report. But i was surprised that this thread had disappeared off the topics list so i'm bumping it back to life. Burt
Did the Ski Hut / Baldy / West Baldy / Devil's Backbone yesterday. Beautiful weather, no snow except for tiny patches that no one will walk through anyway. Brought the spikes not knowing what to expect, ended up in shorts and short sleeves, got a little toasty on the way down!
Rick G. spotted a carcass of young brown bear less than 1/5 of mile beyond the trout pond on Mt. Baldy road yesterday morning around 6:45 am. The bear didn't have any apparent scar or any bleeding from the body. It looked very fresh. There were paper plate and some food stuff scattered in the middle of the road. I have seen many bears in this mountains but this was the first time to see a dead one. There is a "Bear Crossing" sign about 100 yards beyond the bear carcass. We reported the incident of bear to the ranger station after our hike but the ranger wasn't clear about which agency, either National Forest department or Animal Control department, was responsible for taking care of the bear carcass.
We were sad about this young bear. Photos are in my member album link.
Ski Hut ,Baldy, West Baldy, Harwood, Devil's backbone yesterday. Beautiful day! I met Shin and Rick on the way up and when they were on their way down; someday I will hike that fast! I had lots of energy, record summit time, was able to touch all 3 peaks, wanted more! Shin and Rick, nice to meet and get to know you guys, Randy nice to see you again! Hopefully I will see you and more people up there this summer.
Hi Halfdomer Homer, It was very nice to visit with you, Bob, and Wayne on Ski hut trail yesterday. I promised to post the pictures but I wasn't able to edit Picasa Web Album on Google at all. Sorry about it. I can't make a back up either today. Something has gone wrong in my computer. Please send my regards to Bob and Wayne. Shin
Shin - I hope your computer is ok! I'm sure I will see you again for different photos; I will try to post mine eventually. I have our group shot with Bob and (I believe his name was) Ray, I just met them and I kept forgetting it myself.. Anyway, thx again and I will see you up there!
Register Ridge or Scree Hut Trail - 05/02/1504:19 AM
Register Ridge is obviously shorter than the Scree Hut but is it faster? Inquiring minds want to know. So Wednesday I went up the Scree Hut trail to the summit. It took me 2'45" to reach the top, including a break at the hut. Today I went up the Register Ridge Route. It took me 2'40" to the top with 2 short breaks. I have cut my overall time on the Scree Hut trail by 30-45 minutes in the last 2 months. I doubt if I can cut it much more in the future. But I am sure I can cut my RR time by 10-15 minutes in the near future. (For purposes of comparison, the time to the top is more useful than overall time up and back because it doesn't get distorted by time spent socializing on top. My overall time is 5:45-5:55 most days.) Thanks to whoever it was that kicked the great toe steps in the soft dirt in the first part of the RR route. Burt
Re: Register Ridge or Scree Hut Trail - 05/03/1509:56 PM
I prefer RR.
It takes me about 2:30-2:40 up the SHT (I know what I said). I was able to tag Baldy and Harwood in 2:15 via RR. I haven't yet been able to re-duplicate that, but the fastest time I ever got up the SHT was 2:28 (while I nabbed a bonus peak and an extra 200' of gain on Register).
Plus the RR is less crowded and I've seen the herds of Big Horn ewes three times in the vicinity of RR and Harwood.
It was a beautiful frozen Saturday morning on 5/09. The Ski Hut trail was covered in snow and all of the trees were solid powdered sugar; the bowl was white in the moonlight before dawn. As the first rays of sun hit the summit, I turned from the bowl trail and followed a set of cramp-on footprints straight up the bowl snow slope. First time I have ever climbed straight up a bowl snow chute with the ice axe and it was HARD. Harder than I thought it would be, but I made it! Amazing and incredible I can only imagine what the MR on Whitney must be like. the snow melted fast, as I came down the SHT and passed the bowl most of the snow was gone including any footprints.. good thing I started out early! Maybe one of these days I will learn to upload my pics to the board..
I haven't read anything on this site, but some of you Baldy Regulars may want to make sure they're not heading in a direction that limits your access...
S California's population keeps growing at a fast pace. More peep in S California means more people on Baldy. I have seen days when there is a steady line of people on the SHT like on the MWMT. There are regulations and/or limitations on San Gorgonio, San Jacinto, Whitney, and all overnight activity in the Sierra. You already get a permit to park at the trailhead. Why should we expect that traffic can increase on Baldy indefinitely w/o limitations? When I hike S Gorgonio it's a minor nuisance to get a trail permit but once i'm on the trail I enjoy the solitude.
Back on the hiking trail after a year of back re-hab. Went up Baden-Powell Saturday morning around 7 solo as everyone else had "better things" to do. Trailhead pretty full by that time, but only saw one on trail a few minutes from the Waldron tree. Was 49 at the trailhead so a touch of Fall in the air. Got to summit in 1:45. Ran into a 15+ boy scout troup on top. Only planned a few minute break so I could get down ahead of them. They went toward Islip Saddle so no issues there. Had light pack and trail runners on, so jogged down in 55 minutes. Would have been a bit quicker but semi-turned ankle not 10 minutes from the summit. Nursed it all the way down. 6-7 groups coming up so the trail was well-used. Nice day out, much better than housework!
I called the Mt. Baldy visitor center and asked about the Old Baldy Bear Flat trail restriction because I had noticed several hikers on the narrows in the weeks past, and they told me that they aren't enforcing it. Lots of hikers every wkend on that trail. (it officially opens on Aug 20) So I (may have!) hiked it twice in the last 2 weeks with a RR hike in between. It's in great shape (I'm pretty sure!). Hehe
Always glad to hear/read your reports Richard. Helps remind why I like getting on the trail, and look forward to the next one. Can't outdo your pics either!
Re: Register Ridge or Scree Hut Trail - 08/12/1502:50 PM
Register Ridge, my GPS said 3.4 miles to the summit from Manker. Thought about hiking down RR but my knees said "you DO want to reach the top of Whitney don't you?". BTW the wildfire last night that burned 25 acres was at the beginning of Mt Baldy Rd, nowhere near the mountain or village. And it is contained now apparently. Happy hiking! -HH
Re: Register Ridge or Scree Hut Trail - 08/19/1511:30 PM
Hiked Baldy on Friday. It has been about a month, maybe two since I have been up there. I was surprised at the trail wash out ruts, particularly when approaching the rock garden. I didn't remember any storms bad enough to do that. We slept in the little bowl at about 9,600. That is such a great place to shelter from the wind and you still get a gorgeous view of the stars. I saw 10 shooting stars, remnants of the Perseids. That is such a pretty mountain.
Re: Register Ridge or Scree Hut Trail - 08/21/1505:56 PM
So you must be the group that said hi to me at about 5:45 AM as you were waking up, I was on my way to the summit for sunrise and I stopped to put my headlamp away and have a snack. 17th summit in 15 months!
Re: Register Ridge or Scree Hut Trail - 08/21/1508:48 PM
Oh yes it was! I made it to the summit @ 6:05AM and just as I put my stuff down and pulled out the camera along came sunrise! Couldn't have been better timing. I would like to spend the night up there sometime.
Re: Register Ridge or Scree Hut Trail - 09/06/1503:01 AM
Did the Skii Hut Trail today in absolutely perfect conditions. 57 degrees at 6:30am and probably 65-70 degrees with a light breeze on top at 11:30am. A TON of people on top but no big deal really. A trickle of water at the ski hut to easily refill your bottle.
So last night was interesting, after I topped out at R/R at 8:30p I could see that Baldy was socked in with fog at the upper El. The wind was blowing on the back bone trail so I stopped and put my light jacket and gloves and cap on, I knew it was going to be a chilly one. The wind was blowing about 30mph at the notch and now I'm starting to get into the fog making my way up its at this point I can only see 8-10ft in front of me, a little higher up I lost the trail looking around nothing looked familiar I backed track to the trail went up again everything looks the same nothing looks familiar I know I have to head west and up hill but I wanted the trail so I take my glasses off and squint at my light but this is not the way I'm turning in 360deg looking for a land mark and nothing but white so I backtrack to the trail and on the 3rd try I go slow and look at the ground and see I need to make a hard right turn going up.I hit the summit 47deg. and have a snack with my light off it is pure darkness no stars no desert or city lights, people are talking in there tent as the baldy run is the next day.
Going off the summit there is no way I'm going down the main bowl,within 15min off the summit it starts to improve with droplets hitting the dirt from the wet pine needles. Right before you drop down going west before you head south the fog came in again and I could see down below I could lose the trail so I headed up and walked the rim around as the ceiling was higher, when I got though the trees I looked up and said WOW! stars and no fog to be seen anywhere.
No matter how many times I do that night hike it is so easy to lose your way in fog. As I walked back to the car I said to myself a couple of times "everything looks the same nothing looks familiar"
Of particular interest were your pictures of the large cache of oranges, bananas, and water jugs at the summit of Mt Baldy taken during your hike yesterday evening. A few hours later they were enjoyed this morning (Sept 7) by the finishers of the 50th Annual Mt Baldy Run to the Top. The runners enjoyed fine weather and good trail conditions.
Re: Register Ridge or Scree Hut Trail - 09/28/1502:34 PM
To the 6 or 7 other hikers I saw on the Bear Flat trail on Sat, you're welcome for me breaking all of the spiderwebs across the trail in the morning. I started out pre- 4:00 AM and made it to summit by 9:00 AM. I was completely alone on top for the first time in 19 summits. Strange for a weekend @ 9:00 AM. Trail was in great condition tho!
Re: Register Ridge or Scree Hut Trail - 10/30/1502:59 AM
Our 3rd and toughest training hike, leading up to our Cactus to Clouds hike on Oct 24.
Stats as tracked by my GPS: Dawson Peak, Pine Mt. and Mt. Baldy via N. Backbone || Distance: 13 mi || Duration: ~9 hours || Gain/Loss: ±6,000′ || Net Elevation Gain (at Max Elevation): +2,040′ || Max Elevation: 10,068′ || Difficulty: Strenuous
Was hiking up Register Ridge on Sunday 11/1/15, and at the start of the hike I was able to smell smoke. About half way up I observed heavy smoke and a small area on fire in the area. I was hiking with Joe and he was able to call 911. When I got to the Back Bone Trail I started to head to the Notch to notify them. By that time I saw a County Fire helicopter and they saw the fire.
When I got to the peak I saw Frank and SoBay Mark. It was a good day up at the peak as usual.
I summited Baldy today (Thursday). For me, that's the big story (more below). But as for conditions, it was cold, 34 degrees at the parking area, sunny, a little snow and ice in the trees after you cross the bottom of the bowl and more above the sign. I used spikes above the sign to the summit because I was carrying them but they weren't really necessary. There were several prints of naked lug soles going to the top.
As for my story, the last 2 times I was on Baldy before today I didn't make it to the top. I thought that I was done with Baldy, or maybe Baldy was done with me. But today, although I was slow, deliberately because I didn't want to burn out and ruin my chance of making it, I felt good all the way to the summit. That's a relief - losing the ability to hike Baldy would be a serious loss in my life.
Monday is my Birthday and I will follow my long-standing B-day ritual (started last year). Sunday, while I am still young, I will hike into a campground and spend the night. Monday, the old geezer I became overnight will hike out.
Hi, I didn't camp on or near Baldy for my b-day overnight. This year I just went to Little Jimmy (Mt Islip) because I had an appt early Monday afternoon so I had to get back to town early. Last year I went to Kelly Camp (Mt Ontario). I have never camped on the Baldy ridge. Sorry for the confusion.
A few sections of trail under the tree area were iced up and very slippery. Microspike may be helpful. The rest of the trail was nice and dry.
Frank A., Phil B. and I had a good time behind the bush below the summit. It was very cold, about high 20s, at the summit. Looking forward to seeing you next time.
Awww... Missed you by about 3 hours. Missed the blue skies by about 40 minutes. When I got up, the summit was totally socked in. No wind but light snow.
No view at the summit, unless you count this mostly naked guy.
Yes Shin lets keep the cold weather here for a while instead of a high pressure coming in the next day that happens so often
we need ft instead of inches of snow, but even a little is fun
Question: do these look like claw marks on top from a bear or other animal, the tree is West of Etiwanda Pk
Question II: Do bears hibernate in So.Cal. with are fair weather and yes some don't because a couple are always in Baldys trash cans. I would like to know if they have done study's on this
1 year ago today, the Mt. Baldy area had just received a fresh layer of snow. I told my boss that I would be into work late and I hit the trail at 3:30 am. I hiked for 4.5 hrs, then got in a full work day.
I wish more of my work days could start off like this!
I was hoping to do something similar this week, but not enough snow.
Originally Posted By 63ChevyII.com
I went for a hike before work the other day. I only had 5 hours, so I did not summit Harwood or Baldy, but it was a fun day.
We only had enough time for a short hike, but still wanted to get out for a bit. We set a turnaround time and headed up Register Ridge. We made it to an elevation of about 8,000' before starting our descent.
*The snow was soft and we did not need any winter traction devices for most of the hike.
*Around 7200', the snow was deep enough to justify using snowshoes and they became especially useful at about 7600, where we were breaking trail. We found some areas where the windblown snow was 3' deep.
*By the time we started our descent (~10 AM), the temperature had risen significantly and the snow was becoming wet and sticky. I would guess that microspikes would be useful tomorrow and beyond, especially in those areas that had high foot traffic.
*On our descent, we passed 8-10 people that were headed up. I would expect the trail to be broken all the way to Devil’s Backbone Trail and possibly up to Mt. Harwood.
Clicking HERE or on the screenshot at the top of the post will bring you to a small gallery of photos from yesterday.
Didn't summit today on Bear Flat but had a great time in the snow and with Tracie. We saw 5 people on the trail and all turned back, the higher we went up the slower we went and the postholing was happening more so we had a turn around time at 1:00. We saw Abe and he said the dense clouds turned him around and the snow was getting deeper on ahead, if you don't know Abe he's from San Diego and going to be 73 this year and does Bear Flat every Sunday at least 45 weeks out of the year,when he speaks I listen, he said he'll be back on Tuesday with better weather.
Hi Mark, They are super nice winter photos. I am glad that you turned around. Bear canyon is super hard especially after the fresh snow. I learned my lesson many years ago so no more Bear canyon in winter for me.
I got my regular exercise on Ski hut trail on Monday and just to Ski hut today. I wanted to avoid heavy weekend traffic on Mt. Baldy road after the big snow storm. Mt. Baldy road wad nice and dry except Manker parking had some icy spots. Ski hut trail has 1-2 feet of snow to Ski hut. The trail had a few modified routes because of the snow. From Ski hut to summit had two separate routes with 2-3 feet of snow: One followed to regular summer trail through rock garden. But the trail was set a bit lower direction. Other trail goes up the bottom of bowl and leads diagonally on the steep slope to the ridge on the left to merge into regular summer trail the ridge above. Rest of the trail was very nice snow trail to the summit. Microspike and a set of poles are must. No crampons or snowshoes. I saw several hikers went up the Bowl today. (Photos are member album link.)
Ok so 2nd time around worked, long day but made Bear Flat to the Summit, tough hike, high winds going across the ridge turned Abe and 3 other people back. Frank Des and I and 3 others are the only ones to the summit yesterday from Bear Flat. I don't know who the hell made tracks on the down slope on the ridge,glad it didn't give way.. So now that I did it off to other areas- Deer Springs overnight, San G overnight-the Wall, in coming weeks.Another foot + of snow please mother nature.
I have done Bear Canyon in the winter a few times but the snow was firm enough to hold us. A pair of crampons and it is like walking on blacktop.
Yesterday was not like that, soft deep snow and not many footprints, softer snow makes the steeper places safer but it is was much harder. I can’t remember the last time I started with a headlamp and had to put it back on to finish.
In winter that trail gets more beautiful the higher you go.
Saturday I loaded up my pack and headed up Icehouse Canyon to test some gear. It was a beautiful day. Here's a pic looking towards Baldy and Harwood, from the ridge I climbed to get to Bighorn.
Micros or similar traction was needed up until Icehouse Saddle. At that point most used more aggressive traction, as well as helmets, and ice axe.
I didn't need snowshoes. Put on crampons at the hut, wore them to the summit and then back down to the hut. Probably didn't NEED them, but they were in my pack...
About 45 degrees at the trailhead in the morning, then it warmed up a lot during the day. No wind.
Mt. Baldy trails are closed till Tuesday due to super icy condition. There were 12 rescue operations and one more death in Icehouse canyon on Saturday according to "The Press-Enterprises". Please read the details yourself.
While I was waiting for Tracie this morning 2 women asked me at Manker if Baldy was open and I said yea they told me that they closed Icehouse.We went up R/R icy and strong winds most of the day(the weatherman was right Saturday when he said Mtns. 65mph gust)
Saw no one go up main bowl one guy came down later in day.
someone ripped the caution tape down and people were going up icehouse, talked to one guy coming out and he only went up to saddle, to icy..
Question: How can conditions be so icy that crampons wouldn't help?
Not trying to pick apart a comment made by a rescue professional, just trying to understand this before my next trip up there.
I have climbed all over but never seen conditions where full crampons (not microspikes), when used with an ice axe and a helmet, didn't solve the problem.
Interesting discussion here with links to stories with such cautionary quotes ...
1. The Slabs above LBSL...bare windblown ice that was bulletproof to the typical Grivel, BD, etc 10-point crampon. Bailed off and bushwhacked to safety.
2. The ridge on Baden-Powell. Only slightly softer than bulletproof. Luckily, it softened up enough for the descent to keep it to slightly hair-raising.
If you go up with full-blown ice gear, I wouldn't sweat it too much.
Hi sds, I have had a few occasions which the upper part of Mt. Baldy bowl was covered with blue ice. I had to slam my old fashioned and heavy Charlet Moser ice axe in stake position as hard as possible to secure my body all the way up. All the parts, pick, Adze,and spike, of this ax is made out of solid steel. All edge and tip is very sharp. I don't mind using a heavy duty ax to keep me "alive". Many hikers use very light ax with a pick cut diagonally today. A modern ax looks nice but this kind of ice ax may not be effective on the slop frozen solid unless the hiker is experienced like Doug Sr.
One of WPSMB group hike several years back, Doug Sr. climbed iced up and very steep west side of Mt. Baldy bowl with a microspike and trekking poles. Wes G. and I followed Doug Sr. on the slop. We used ice ax and crampons but it was still very scary. Doug Sr. knows how to maintain the balance and control the body weight on very icy and steep slope.
Having gears is one thing but knowing how to use them is other thing.
Richard P. and I had a long slide down on north face of Baden-Powell. Yes, the canyon was frozen near solid.
I personally avoid all possible risks in advance if it is possible.
Gee I was just getting ready to post and then Shin rats me out! Ok so the micro spike deal was, I make every effort to test gear we sale and sale at a fair price. After this climb I wrote up a short report saying they work well on flat trails and maybe very low angle slopes , since that time spikes have increased in length and new straps that may not fail the first few times out. Hillsound makes a great product with front points but most weekend hikers think they look scary?
OK so when will clampons fail? Richard tagged several locations, I will add one we have pictures of and was the result of a several fatal accidents. Above the notch on the Mountaineer's route and at the start of the "Easy Walk Off" .This 10'-20' section can be blue ice and 50 degree+ downslope with no distance to self arrest. Add to these condition the surface may be covered with scree.
Now onto what I had planned to say. I will call this "hard ice , blue ice or the poop that the front points bounce off. Caused by the melt/ freeze cycle. You find this in the later winter months, higher elevation and shaded areas . Add a fresh layer of snow 1-2 inches or wind blown and you are ready for the ride. The next problem is you have ice covered rock , covered by 1/8 of an inch ! crampons will bounce. The steeper the slope may in fact be safer, you can read the slope, how deep the pack and get off long before you put yourself at risk.
That self arrest thing pray to God you never need to use it! Like in rock climbing the old school rules of never falling may have limited the rating but most lived longer.
On the poles , might as well clear that up as well , high quality poles shortened to the bottom of each section are very strong. Not so much for the cheap ones, on testing many of these brands I found Leki's to not bend or break and could control a steep slide. Would you want to risk your life on a long run out slope or a chance they might work ?? I say NO, this winter Stuff can get you in so many ways, and if you are not in a group or close to an exit point the elements may be fatal with a minor injury.
We hear it over and over I have crampons and ice ax should I go????? Can we rent the gear?? If you understand the dribble above the answer screams at you.
All Mt. Baldy trails except the fire road to the Notch, Ski resort, is officially closed till further notice according to the ranger in charge at Mt. Baldy visitor center today.
We had a short hike up to the ridge around 8600 ft. The tree section is still icy. It is good to have a pair of crampons and trekking poles there. The section below the Ski hut is dry except a few short icy spots.
Well to share in my embarrassment but hoping that it will help others, I was one of those who was pulled off last Saturday. I was going through the tree section just beyond the rock garden. I was hiking in earlier made footprints and was feeling fine. I had micros on. Maybe I should have noticed that the ground was more like ice than snow. I did feel confident that I was in no danger at the time. However I did slip and slid about 40-50 down and into a tree. Some hikers behind me got to me and helped me down to the hut (if you read this board, thanks for your help), which seemed to take forever. It seemed that there was already a chopper in the area, which was trying to get to another hiker. I indicated that I couldn't make it down on my own and I was airlifted out to USC Trauma Center. I sustained 4-6 rib fractures and a punctured lung. I'm home now with months of rehab to just get back to normal.
We often see people going up dressed like they are going for a walk around the park. I remember you Shin telling me that this mountain can kill you and its true!
So with that best to you all and hope to see you in more than a few months
Randy, thank you for posting that. If l weren't recovering from knee surgery it could easily have been me. Do the @$##/\& rehab and get well soon. Burt
OMG Randy so sorry to hear about your accident! You are SO FORTUNATE! What a cluster it was last w/e up there! I know a bunch of other people that were in the Icehouse area & had to be rescued also. They were also very fortunate. I know how conditions can get & that's why I stay away until things improve... Much luck in your recovery. You will learn ALOT about yourself in PT. Take good care & hope to see you soon ;-)......
There was an another fatal accident on DBB trail near Mt. Harwood last Saturday according to LA Times.
Several sections of trail,the tree section beyond the rock garden, west facing slope above 9000 feet, and under any trees, were very icy early in the morning. Please be careful.
Micro and trekking poles will be very helpful. The summit plateau was iced up so please stay on south side of the summit.
Hi Shin, Really sad.. I called the ranger station about 10am Sat. to check on conditions. The ranger said there had been a third fatality and the recommended on those experienced with the crampons and ice axe arrest go into snow/ice areas. Were there any notices posted to that effect? Safe Hiking Rick
Hi Rick, There is a notice written in English and Korean posted on the white steel gate at Manker flat. But the pictures of crampons is a microspike and the picture of ice ax is ice climbing ax on the notice. It is not well prepared at all.
Posting the notice will not help at all because most of the weekend hikers don't have a clue about the trail condition and ignore the notice and even kind caution from other hikers. It may be a good idea to have one park ranger stationed at the gate to caution or remind the public about the trail condition from 7:00a.m.-11:00a.m. on weekend while the trail is in treacherous condition. I have never ever seen a single ranger on Mt. Baldy trails in last 11 years. Preventing the accident is better than assisting the rescue.
Randy, glad you're OK and at least we know it wasn't you last Sat. who slipped because you are in rehab! I know exactly the location you described because I was hiking with you one day in that area. Anyway, be careful everyone!
Hello all, I'm planning on taking my 13 y.o. son up Ski Hut trail as soon as possible. If anyone could give me some info on ice or snow conditions that would be great. I noticed Shin was up there recently so it must be OK for this coming weekend, right?
Thx for the link, I already checked the weather but I'm looking for recent hikers and the ice conditions above rock garden mostly. Any recent info would be nice!
Hi Halfdomer, This was the snow condition of last Saturday: Below 8200 ft: Dry all the way to Ski hut. The tree section: Hard consolidated snow to the ridge. It will be icy but all right in the afternoon. Micro and poles are must. 8600-9200 ft: Dry 9200-9500: West facing hill side is a bit icy. Micro and poles are must. 9500-10064 ft: Thin snow on gentle slope. Icy under the tree in the morning. The consolidated snow is still there so stay on the existing trail with micro and pole will make your hike very safe.
Since the trail is icy in some spots, and several people have slid out of control over the last few weeks, how about bringing along ice axe and crampons?
Hi Mescalito345, Everyone has own idea about the safety issue. I respect everyone's opinions and experiences. You can bring or use any gears you may have for the hike. If I may say, I prefer using microspike and trekking poles over crampons and ice axe combination with one reason. Reason: Since most of the trail is dry and snow covered area has been consolidated and the snow covering got thin, it is much easier to put microspike on and off and trekking poles for getting much better body balance on the trail as long as you stay on the established trail. Using ice axe and crampons is just overkill for this trail condition.
I’m not going to Mt. Baldy. I think that Halfdomer is planning to go.
I’ve done Shasta six times, and winter Whitney six times. So I have ice axe, crampons, microspikes, trekking poles, etc.
It might not be too icy on Mt. Baldy today, but conditions could be quite a bit different by next week. After reading the news stories about Baldy recently, I keep wondering why nobody brought an ice axe.
Thx everybody for the info, I really appreciate it.. I was thinking microspikes and poles for sure but according to this morning's weather it looks like the snow showers are moving in tonight instead of tomorrow afternoon. Darn I thought I could sneak it in but oh well.. maybe next weekend. Thx again everyone for the info!
Hmmm no Baldy pictures to go by yesterday for today's hike. Tracie and I did Bear Flat today warm in the beginning until we got some wind and el. we carried mircos and pons but only used the mircos on the way down. Down low on way up when we hit ice the footsteps were frozen so we just stepped in them, up higher deeper snow 3" to 6". Heading up to summit was icy we almost stopped to put mircos on close to summit but found some grip and put them on at summit for the way down which at times was slippery. 38deg. on summit with 30+mph winds.
BTW: we saw a lot of crampon tracks/people wearing today on the ski hut trail coming down. No helicopters today
I kept waiting for someone to update this thread. Yesterday l decided l had to check it out for myself. The trail is clear, the weather was beautiful, there were very few other hikers. My new knee is about 90% of it's normal strength.
Awesome, I opted for Mt Wilson on Sunday because even the Baldy visitors center didn't know the trail conditions. I will be up there hopefully April 30th or so with my 13 y.o. son who wants to hike with me. I can't this weekend because my Devo tribute band is playing in Santa Ana on Saturday night (shameless plug). Cya up there!
Hi Burt, Meant to Post Sunday night. Very.... windy Sunday Made the top of the West Bowl, but the wind was miserable, I expected it to be a lot warmer and hadn't brought any "winter" gear, so called it a day. Be up again weekend after next. Safe Hiking to All Rick
Does anyone know how much snow is on the Devil's Backbone trail these days?
You won't find snow on the Devil's Backbone trail. There are some snow fields on the north facing slopes if you are looking to ski, but they are off the trail and shrinking. You might encounter high winds after Harwood.
Does anyone know how much snow is on the Devil's Backbone trail these days?
You won't find snow on the Devil's Backbone trail. There are some snow fields on the north facing slopes if you are looking to ski, but they are off the trail and shrinking. You might encounter high winds after Harwood.
Thanks for the report. Actually, I was hoping for a "dry trail." Baldy Marathons happening this weekend, and I expect that the route will include the summit.
I summited Baldy today via the Ski Hut Trail. The trail is in as good condition as it gets. The weather wasn't. Sunny and 36 at the parking area in the morning. Heavy fog, 39, and visibility less than 100 yds at the parking area in the afternoon. It was just starting to sleet a little on top when I finished lunch and started back down. Equipment report #1 (software): Based on Hiking Geek's write-up I ordered Woolpro's Merino 1/4 zip long-sleeve top and their lightweight short sleeve T. I wore them today and even with the cold, damp weather I was comfortable all day with just them on top. I carried a parka but never put it on, even when I was eating lunch on the summit. I have Smartwool's version of these 2 garments but the Woolpro are much better. And cheaper. I highly recommend them. But note, they run small. I wear a medium in everything but I need a large with these. Equipment report #2 (hardware): Today was the first time I have been on the summit since getting a new right knee 4 months ago. I had come close a few times before but didn't make it. The knee just wasn't ready. It wasn't particularly hard getting to the top today but my knee was tired by the time I got back to my car and my overall time was slow, 7-1/4 hours total. I was doing sub-6 hours RT last year.
Well the weather says it's going to be beautiful on Baldy this weekend (in the 60's) So my son and I will be hiking the ski hut trail on Monday, hope to see some of you there!
Beautiful day on Baldy yesterday, my son summited via ski hut trail for the first time AND he got to meet Shin! It was great seeing you again Shin! Trail was in perfect condition.
Well what was supposed to be a nice hike up New Army Pass this Father's Day weekend with my son became a wait in the Mojave desert by the side of the road in my minivan which lost it's transmission somewhere in Red Rock Park on the 14 near sunset out of cell range. After several hours a nice man stopped and happened to have cell service and I was able to call AAA and get it towed to Mojave where we spent a very uneventful night at motel 6. The next day (Saturday) I rented a uhaul in California City and towed my van home. That afternoon after I dropped the uhaul off, I headed to Baldy anyway because I had to hike something at least! Started at 6:30PM up the ski hut trail and summited just before 10PM. Windy, several tents on the summit, but beautiful and moonlit (almost full). I hiked from the summit to Mankar down the Devil's backbone and only used my headlamp during that sketchy traverse. Moonlit trail, yes it was one of THOSE nights, almost made me forget about the $$ I'm going to have to spend on my van! Trail in very good condition.
Hi Doug Sr., I hiked Register ridge trail last two weekends. The trail was open as usual.
Rick G. and I were told by the San Gabriel trail builder crew almost a month ago that Register ridge trail would be closed for conservation purpose. They blocked off the trailhead by many sizable rocks. But, very next week, all rocks were removed and used for markings of trailhead. I don't know who did it.
I took all pictures about this closure on my WPSMB album but all my pictures with Picasa Web album is no longer supported by Google so my WPSMB album link is gone on the WPSMB.
There is a big dead tree on the middle of the trail around 8000 ft but it will be cleaned up next week.
Sorry I didn't follow up on the status of RR. But I concur with Shin, that the trail is open. There was one section about half way where a large tree had fallen (since late last year), but it is easy to navigate around.
The dead tree blocking the Register ridge trail was cleaned up today.
We met Mr. Don Vallejo,88 years old hiker, on steep Register ridge trail today. We met him again at the summit later. He looked very strong and he was very witty. He is an inspiration to all of us.
There was no sign of smoke from recent Blue cut fire around Mt. Baldy. The air was nice and clean.
Was up on Baldy (Bear Flat Trail) on Sat. for Summit # 30! In 27 months! Before that I hadn't hiked in 14 years, so I'm impressed with myself... Anyway, there are new signs up on the summit and the Baldy metal marker is now cemented into a little rock cairn. The signs all point to the respective trails so nobody will take the village trail instead of the ski hut. It looks a little cluttered up there now, but we definitely needed the signs, hope nobody steals them this time. Beautiful weather by the way.
Did the Ski Hut Trail up and Devil's backbone down on Labor Day Saturday and while there were a good number of peeps on the trail, the conditions were maybe the best ever. 58 degrees at Manker at 6:30AM, 68 degrees on top, very clear with just a touch of a light breeze. Water flowing near the hut to top off your water bottle too. Amazing day on Mt Baldy.
The trails of Mt. Baldy got new trail signs with steel recently. They look very nice. But, the locations of some signs are completely wrong and the signs will lead the hikers to wrong directions. A few sections where need a sign most don't have a sing at all. The information of one sign isn't correct. "Nobody has died yet by this signs" but there is a room to reduce any possible accidents in the future if we do something about it. Since all the signs were installed by the officials so I can't express my opinion to them.
Shin's comments are right on. I'm glad to see the effort that was put into installing signs but there are some real problems. There is one sign that could increase rather than decrease the chances that a person could go in the wrong direction. It's been 2 weeks since l was up so l might remember wrong but l think it's where a Baldy novice might go on the use trail down to the plane wreck rather than stay on the real trail.
Also, when l was up there wasn't any sort of stone or deadwood barrier to block that downhill track that has led some people to fail to jog left but, instead, to keep going straight downhill and get in trouble. That place is dangerous for a novice and should have either a sign or a permanent barrier.
Finally, the mileage sign on top has the ski hut trail as 3.5 miles when the Harrison map and my GPS both say it is 4.2.
I should add that now there's a good sign at that wrong downhill track. Thanks to whatever agency or organization that is responsible for putting them up.
Hi Burt, Many Mt. Baldy regulars share the same concerns as you do. Two signs on the slope are installed at wrong location and one additional sign is needed at bottom of the slope to control the traffic to the ridge line of the slope rather than allowing the traffic to head to extremely right or left direction. All signs are looking nice but at wrong places. One retired ranger expressed his view to an agency but they didn't have ears to listen to.
I use big dead trees lined up strait on the slope as a general guide or land mark of trail to the summit. All these dead trees are very unique so you won't get confused.
There were 3 hunters in Bear canyon yesterday.
One volunteer trail builder group blocked off Register Ridge trail head last week again. That was their 3rd try. But the trailhead was passable yesterday. Who will win this battle, trail builder or hikers?
I wonder if I am taking the wrong track. I notice that somebody has used sharpie pen to try to provide directions at those signs. Shin, if you wouldn't mind posting your pics of the logs that you use to guide you, that would be very helpful. That trip down is always a bit of a treacherous ski fest for me. Great to see you on the trail on Saturday!
There has been so much switchback cutting between the Ski Hut and the summit that the original trail is difficult to follow. The unofficial Register Ridge trail has become popular with hikers who want a harder route to the summit. Attempts to obscure the beginning of the trail are likely futile. The problem with use trails up steep slopes is that they are not constructed by knowledgeable trail builders. A big rain can turn them into ugly, eroded gullies.
The last rain storm didn't bring not much snow to Mt. Baldy but we can still enjoy winter snow hiking. Trail condition of Ski hut trail to the summit: Mt. Baldy road to Manker flat parking: No snow or ice. Dry Fire road to trail head: Dry except icy spots in front of out house. Ski hut trail: 40% of upper section of trail was covered with thin snow. Shaded area had icy spots. Ski hut to the summit: Covered with good consolidated snow. No icy spots even under the tree section. 9000-9200 was dry. Bowl: Snow was thin. It will melt off in a few days.
It was windy and cold today. Micro spike and trekking poles were useful.
It was very icy above 9400 ft to the summit. The last rain storm didn't bring any new snow at all. The trail below Ski hut was dry. The tree section is still icy. This is what I saw today. https://goo.gl/photos/MXFqMycwDfMt6WBUA
Trekking poles and microspike are must.
It was very nice to see Norma R. and Mark I. today.
Great photos. Tracie, Dan, and I went up Register Ridge and it was snow/ice free until you got onto the Backbone Trail. The part going up to the peak was mostly wind-blown ice. We decided not to risk it going up. Seeing the County fire helicopter also brought back memories for me.
I made an attempt to hike on Christmas day. Trail condition: Mt. Baldy road: There was no icy spots or no snow on the road. It was well maintained. Fire road: there was snow entire road and some icy spots. To Ski hut: 1-2 feet of snow all the way. Beyond Ski hut to 9500 feet: 1.5-2.5 feet of sugary snow.
Justin and I broke the trail from Ski hut to 9100 feet. Mostly Justin. I gave ground information underneath of snow. Mike and Gordon joined us to break the trail from 9100 to 9500 feet. The snow was sugary and unstable and some section was above knee deep. We decided to turn around because the weather was changing and we were very tired of braking trail and it will take us over one hour to break the trail to the summit. https://goo.gl/photos/U3X9WbCuFNV8pWqC6 Thank you Justin, Mike, and Gordon for a great hike.
1.Helio crashed on Mt Baldy on Thurs (12/29). Looks like it happened on the ridge somewhere between West Baldy and Mt Baldy. These folks were pretty lucky to come away with just a few bumps. http://www.nbclosangeles.com/on-air/as-s...-408700205.html
And now the rest of the story? Just a fly by or lets land and get a few shots? Gone wrong .During one of the jobs in Utah we got a call from the crew that they needed picked up along the road the chopper was belly deep in snow , we ask WHY? G
Hi All, Noticed a quick clip on a Heli Rescue along Backbone? Anyone have any more details.. also any trail condition updates would be appreciated. Planning on a hike from Manker Flats Sat. weather permitting. Thanks, Rick
Yesterday, Monday, almost continuous snow from the gate. Trail very hard in the AM. Watch for black ice on waterfall road. Crampons/microspikes recommended. Storms coming later this week will change conditions. Currently most snow on Baldy in 5 yrs.
I hiked up the bowl over MLK (1/16/17). Road conditions were good and clear of ice. I managed to make it to the ski hut in only my boots, but microspikes would've been ideal. I donned my crampons after the ski hut. There was plenty of snow up the main bowl. It was windy all day, but especially windy once you top out at the bowl.
news accounts were sketchy about what happened. One suggested they were hiking up the bowl, another said they were near the end of the hike walking along the ridge when the avalanche happened. These were three young guys, all in their 20's, all with crampons and ice axes and experience using them.
Mt. Baldy road was in good condition. The outhouse area in Manker was frozen early in the morning. White gate to San Antonio Fall was dry. Rest of the Ski hut trail was covered 1-3 feet of snow to Ski hut. The trail was modified for winter trail. A few sections of trail needed some attention. The trail from Ski hut to the summit wasn't established. The Bowl was covered with solid snow, some section was hard. Upper section's bottom layer was icy. Most of the climbers went up the Bowl today.
There was a climber fell upper section of Bowl today when I was climbing just 20 yards below. I avoided him on time. He self-arrested head down position and stopped 10 yards below. He was all right.
The snow was very deep every where. Nobody came up from DBT or Bear canyon directions when we were there.
Looking at this newscast which started as "they'll tell how they escaped from under a wall of snow" ?? also the picture of the three is at the top of Timber Mountain.. Did the slide even happen on Baldy? Anyone have more info?
The entire surface, west side, main, east side, of the bowl was very smooth without any significant rough area yesterday. There were a few small area had rough snow ridges at upper section of the main bowl.
I have seen a large area the snow was shifted like a sand, not like a wall of snow, many years ago.
The news station wanted to make the new more exciting and entertaining one for the public. I wish news station or authority should provide more specific and accurate information to the public so we can learn from the news.
Mt. Baldy road/Manker flat: dry Manker flat outhouse to San Antonio fall: very icy with melted snow and water early in the morning. There was a big dead tree blocking the trail around 7900 feet elevation. One section of trail, there were many fallen rocks on snowy trail below Ski hut. Solid snow to the summit. Snow in the bowl was hard and crusty early in the morning according to my friends. Snow on the trail was slusy late morning.
Has anyone been up Baldy since Sunday's storm who can report on trail conditions? I plan on taking the Ski hut trail all the way, which means we won't be using the bowl. I'd appreciate any observations.
Hi Brent, I was up there today. Mt. Baldy road- Dry Manker to 7500 - mostly snow free but some section was icy. Ski hut to the summit was solid consolidated snow with 3-10 inches of new snow from last week. There were two signs of avalanche in west side of the Bowl. There was a nice alternate route under the tree section. From 8600-9000 is straight up the south facing slope with good snow. The slope facing west, 9200-9400, was very icy so it is a good idea to have crampons or ice axe ready. If you slip, it will be a long slide down into the deep Goode canyon without stopping. I made steps with ice axe on the way down but. Going up is fine with micro but it is nice to have crampons for going down. There was no hikers from DBT or Bear canyon. Have a nice and safe weekend.
Hi, Shin. Welcome back home. Thank you so much for the beta. It sounds like you even broke some trail for us. He doesn't have self arrest skills yet, so, I think we'll turn around after the Forrest section. I hope to see you soon.
I had a nice hike with James L. today. The condition of trail is still same as last week. The trail beyond Ski hut was still covered with consolidated snow to the summit but much more manageable than last week. Micro spike and trekking pole will be helpful. https://goo.gl/photos/uE7qArkCAPcwzGdbA
Baldy Birthday climb (68yrs old) PDT 3/12/17.. left the parking lot 7:30. Trail to ski hut mostly dry below 7500' Met two teams of "army" Medics that had spent the night on top. reported cold and windy. Above the ski hut mostly solid snow. Trail was pretty much direct, no switch backs. Quite windy above the top of the bowls. Snapped a couple pics on the summit and headed back down as I was concerned the snow was softening up rapidly and getting very slippery. It was. I didn't bring an Ice Axe and was wasn't comfortable glissading with out on. Several did the West Bowl from the top (Paul and Jordon Romero were the first down) That sure make short work of the descent. Not many on the trail. Some sort of boot traction was required to be safe. With the warm temps predicted I think the conditions on descents will be sketchy. Be safe and Have fun. Rick
Hey All, I think I was given wrong info re: the Romero's. A fellow I was hiking with spoke with them on the summit and said that's who they were, but the son looked on 14 or so.. That means he wouldn't have aged in 6 years.. sorry for any confusion.
A little late with these photos. These are from March 10th. We were lucky to be there in the morning while the snow was still firm. With all the heat this week the snow could be less and different condition.
The level of snow is still very deep above Ski hut but snow is melting fast entire mountain except north face of Mt. Baldy. Many signs of falling rocks and big boulders in the bowl last Saturday. https://goo.gl/photos/Zkuvgg3Anq7iniNp7
There was a SAR operation was under way this morning. A hiker in shorts was missing since Friday night. He was on DBT. There were many SAR rangers, trucks and helicopter in the mountain.
Manker to Ski hut: Dry Ski hut to the ridge above tree section: Solid snow 8800-9200 : Mostly dry 9200-summit : Solid consolidated snow.
https://goo.gl/photos/h8tzxCUexpkEaHgL7 I added one picture of north face of Mt. Baldy looking from Mt. Waterman on 3/29/2017. The north side has still covered with solid snow.
It was very nice to see Phil B. and his family on the mountain. Rick G. has a better idea about current trail condition of DBT.
Micro spike and trekking poles will be very helpful.
I hiked up the Devil Backbone trail to Mt Baldy and then came down the Ski Hut Trail on Sat (Apr 1). There were very strong winds on all the ridges with northern exposure to the desert and almost got knock over a few times on the slopes of Harwood.
The Backbone Trail only has a few snowy sections with one tricky section at the top of the cat-walk traverse where you have to kick step for about 10-15’. It’s a zero-tolerance place to take a slip. I hike up & over Harwood and survived the high winds. Met a SAR group at the Harwood & Baldy Col, and I believe they were searching for someone who had an unintended bivy near the summit. The hike up from the Baldy-Harwood Col is pretty much snow-free on the south side of the ridgeline, but the whole summit dome is covered in crusty hard-pack snow (Microspikes highly recommended).
Saw Shin-san, Phil Brown and others on the hike down to the Baldy Ski Hut. Lots of folks still hiking up without any poles or Microspikes and are probably expecting Spring-like conditions with little snow. But there is still plenty of snow in the tree-section above the Hut, the whole summit area, and on any northern slope with plenty of slick areas, I would still recommend bringing Microspikes. No critter sightings today, but lots of doggies. Here are my photos: https://grahamcracker.smugmug.com/2017/Baldy-April-1-2017/
Here's some current Ski Hut area & Baldy & West Baldy conditions:
BS Combo; April 9 2017 Did my first B/S Combo (hike up Baldy and then climb at least 20 laps at S1 gym) in 2017......WoHoo! Started with a hike up Baldy via the Ski Hut trail. The conditions were very nice with just a mild breeze and some over-cast on the summit. The early morning slick snow conditions still require Microspikes in the tree area above Piton Rock and the whole summit dome. It must have rained on either Friday or Sat, and left some rhyme ice clinging to the rocks and bushes around the summit. Saw lots of Mt Baldy regulars including Baxter dog & parents, Julia, Massoud, Dick, Randy, Mac, Pavel, and lots of other hikers. After Mt Baldy, I drove down to Santa Ana and climbed 20 laps at Sender One gym with the help of Shin-san. Photos: https://grahamcracker.smugmug.com/2017/Baldy-April-9-2017/
Oh, no. I didn't realize it was Sam they were looking for. Sam has more shortcuts than anyone. If he's down and hopefully waiting for help, he could be in any number of places.
I just spoke with SAR to let them know about Sam's penchant for taking shortcuts. They are sending me a map which I will mark up with a few that I know of, but if anyone has any suggestions on some of his shortcuts, please reach out to me.
According to KPCC, Sam's body has been found on the north side of Baldy. No more info on just where or why he was there.
Goodbye Sam. I always knew l would meet you when l was going back down and you were on your way up. (Sam was a fast hiker but he started late.) My respects to his family.
It was a beautiful day to go up Baldy on the ski hut trail. There was some snow in the trees, more on the last stretch up to the summit. Most people weren't using spikes. I went up without but put them on in the snowy areas coming back.
There is a big Sam Kim - sized empty space on Baldy. It will take a while to get over expecting to see him around the next curve.
Yes Saturday was a beautiful day for a hike up Bear Canyon Trail. It was my first time up this season and I always forget how hard this trail is! There was snow for the last mile and a half to the summit and I saw a lot of people without spikes trudging through it. I put mine on and it was much better. Must have been 40 people on the summit. Ski hut trail looked busy. Definitely thinking of Sam! Most of the snow should be gone by next weekend I think.
Trail condition: I hiked Register ridge trail to Mt. Harwood, Mt. Baldy, West Baldy, back to Mt. Baldy yesterday. https://goo.gl/photos/SJR54JorHJRrYCwr6 There was no places to use microspike or any other winter gears even though there were several snow fields on north side of mountains.
The trail was nice and dry. We will have a great "Climb for Heroes" hike this weekend.
It was very nice to see PhilB. on the trail. See you this Sunday.
A few people on Mount Baldy this weekend conditions were great and Very well attended hike for Sam , Tracie and the Hero's. Mountains may be the answer to bond us back together! The rest is down hill!
Hi all, just a beautiful weekend up in Baldy country. I hiked Bighorn and Ontario on Sat, and Baldy scree hut trail on Monday. Just gorgeous conditions! I'll be up there all summer training for Whitney and Halfdome and I hope to run into some of you there. Happy Hiking!
Another beautiful day up the Old Baldy trail! One highlight was I got to see Shin and Rick on the summit. The trail is in great condition BTW. This is a great training hike for me, I have Half Dome and Whitney coming up over the next 6 weeks.
Hi Dan, It was very nice to see you at the summit.
Rick G. was doing his Baldy 6 peaks hike of 20 miles last Saturday. I met Mr. Don Villejo on Register Ridge trail in the morning. He is 89 years old!!! I met him on RRT last year, too. He is the oldest Mt. Baldy regular I know of. We are still very young!! https://photos.app.goo.gl/F9mZPGRBbJEQwMZp1
Good luck on your Half Dome hike and Mt. Whitney hike this summer. You are ready to go any time.
Shin thx for your encouragement, it means a lot! So the 6 peaks Rick was doing were West Baldy, Baldy, Harwood and the Three T's? I think he told me he did that before. Anyway hope it doesn't rain this weekend and I hope the Register Ridge is mostly intact.
Hi Richard, I am glad that you still remember how to breath deeply at higher elevation. Mt. Baldy is a good training ground for Sierra. Please come down more often. https://goo.gl/photos/qMeioynnDFsDiFYz5 We had a good hike with Richard P., Rick G., Phil B., and Marta L. Missed GigaMike today.
Hi Doug Sr., Can I get an extra bonus for getting Richard out to the mountains again?
(Mark doesn't like Ski hut trail. I will catch him on Register ridge trail someday soon.)
Congrats Shin-san on tagging #500. So now what's next???....inquiring minds would like to know
It was good to see a number of the Baldy Hiking crew (RichardP, Marta, PhilB), up on Baldy to help celebrate Shin's 500th ascent, and I know there are many others that were up on Baldy with us in spirit.
Funny story, as we were taking Shin's 500th summit photo, one of the other summit-ladies saw Shin's 500th sign and yelled out "I've heard of you.....I want to have my photo with you'
Re: Conditions On Baldy, re: RR - 08/19/1703:15 PM
I hiked up Register Ridge yesterday. It looks like many hikers are using that route. It's in worse shape now than it was about 6 weeks ago when I last did it. There's a lot of loose scree and some deep ruts on the trail, especially on the top third, and that makes footing harder. But it's a lovely route especially if you like solitude. B.
Re: Conditions On Baldy, re: RR - 08/20/1703:13 PM
Originally Posted By burtw
It's in worse shape now than it was about 6 weeks ago when I last did it. There's a lot of loose scree and some deep ruts on the trail, especially on the top third, and that makes footing harder.
This is the problem with use trails. Not being built by experienced trail builders, they are subject to erosion and end up being ugly scars.
Re: Conditions On Baldy, re: RR - 08/21/1703:41 PM
Hi Richard. Yes, it was a very wet year. But I was comparing the condition of the RR track over a period of about 6 weeks this summer, not before and after the storms. But maybe the wet winter softened the soil so it was more liable to damage from hikers. Add the effect of more hikers and I think your point about use trails is valid. But I would hate to feel I should stick to official trails in the mountains. I usually include at least one off-trail segment when I backpack in the Sierra.
Re: Conditions On Baldy, re: RR - 08/24/1705:22 AM
There was considerable monsoonal moisture the first week of August. When I went up Register Ridge on 8/5, the trail was in much worse shape than 7/1. I don't know whether there were monsoonal storms during July, since I was out of the country.
Re: Conditions On Baldy, re: RR - 09/09/1711:01 PM
Congratulations Dan!!!! Dan,aka "Ranger Dan", did his 1000th Mt. Baldy summit hike today. It took him over 30 some years to do it. Many senior members of Mt. Baldy regulars shared this very special day with Dan.
Re: Conditions On Baldy, re: RR - 09/24/1704:23 AM
We have to thank you, authorities or agencies or trail builders or volunteers, for rebuilding the section of 9300-9500 ft elevation of Ski hut trail with installing several metal sign posts. The new trail is wider and smoother with good erosion protection for the trail shoulders. The trail is on the original path. No more taking a short cut trail below. They worked on some part of rock garden, too. Thank you for your hard work. I took some pictures today. https://photos.app.goo.gl/7eEuNkDrd3Aqb1UR2
Re: Conditions On Baldy, re: RR - 09/24/1705:10 PM
On Friday I spoke to the 2 guys who are doing that good work on the trail and did thank them. They are FS volunteers. When I was headed up they were making rock trail borders on the west side of the bowl to indicate where the trail goes. I think that will keep some people from heading downhill there and getting into trouble. When I was headed down from the summit they were planting poles to indicate the route off the top down to the easy stretch before you go down through the trees. They were numbering the poles but then took the numbers off because they said some people thought they were mileage.
Re: Conditions On Baldy, re: trail work - 09/26/1703:52 AM
I went back up to the summit today (Monday) via the Bear Flats Trail. There has been a lot of new work on that trail, too, mostly below the Flats and on the overgrown part of the trail right above the Flats. There's been a lot of cutting and removing tree limbs and shrubs which makes the trail wide open, also a little rock work to define / reinforce edges. I'm assuming this is also the work of FS volunteers, and thanks to them.
Also, I forgot to mention in my earlier post that on last Friday morning I stopped at the Visitors Center to use their superior rest room. Right outside the RR there was a biiig pile of bear scat. The man staffing the VC said it was fresh from the night before. Based on the location, I wonder if the bear was trying to get in the cubicle to use the toilet. In any case, an animal that can produce such a prodigious pile of poop deserves respect.
Re: Conditions On Baldy, re: trail work - 10/17/1706:26 PM
I went up the ski hut trail again yesterday. There is a serious problem on the steep section above the trees, the section I have seen referred to as the hardscrabble. The guys doing the trail work have put markers in a straight line up that section. I thought it looked strange so I followed it up. It is a dangerous route, much worse than the various user tracks. I met a family who had come up the Devils Backbone and were headed down the ski hut trail. It was their first time on Baldy. If they had followed the newly marked route they would have been in serious trouble so I advised them to go down one of the use trails to the right of the new trail. I just spoke to Fred Duncan, the Forest Service person responsible for this work. He explained they had to follow the designated route or else get a new EIR. I suggested it would be safer to take out the new markers on that section and just let newbies follow the use trails. Your comments?
Re: Conditions On Baldy, re: trail work - 10/18/1710:58 PM
Seems strange they'd try to route people straight up and down that section. The use trails aren't the best but they're better than trying to go straight up.
Re: Conditions On Baldy, re: trail work - 10/23/1702:51 AM
Hi Burt, I agree with you 100%. Those three sing posts along the right side of the slope should be moved to the "ORIGINAL" trail, left side of the slope runs in rocky area. I have seen many new paths or used trails created by erosion from rain and snow and careless hikers over last 13 years. Those 3 new sign posts were placed along the "RAIN DRAINAGE", not a "USED TRAIL". There are so many used trails other area beside the original trail. I have hiked down the section today. It is very dangerous either going up or down. It is good for bighorn sheep, not average hikers or tourists. The damage to the slope along this EIR approved trail has expanded beyond repair already. https://photos.app.goo.gl/qnE9fN6fYFOQCX9k1
The situation looks like someone trying to fix a broken water pipe by adding a new bypass pipe without shutting off the old pipe with many sub system. Now, the entire hill side or slope is subject to total destruction. The new signs will promote the damage more, not protecting the environment or protecting the safety of the public.
I hope that the authority should spend many weekends on the trail for evaluating the pattern of traffic of hikers before erecting the signs which don't serve to the public or environment.
Hope, someone can fix them as soon as possible.
P.S. Hi Southbay Mark, it was very nice to see you again today.
Pavel, a mayor of Mt. Bald, was carrying up 60 lb of mortar bag to Ski hut. This was his 3rd trip. They are rebuilding a new out house. There were many volunteers keeping up the Ski hut for us. Thank you for the hard work.
Re: Conditions On Baldy, re: trail work - 01/16/1801:17 AM
Mt. Baldy got the very first snow last week for this season. RickG. and I had our first hike and climb for 2018. Very nice to see CatB. and RandyS. on the trail.
Trail condition: Manker flat to Ski hut: No snow. Ski hut to the ridge under tree: good snow and slippery. In the Bowl: almost no snow. 8500-9000: almost dry. 9000-10064: good amount of snow. The summit area was covered with solid hard snow. The north facing slope is very icy.
Hi Mark, Congratulations on your 200th Baldy summit!!!
James,Patrick,Calico(Jim), and I had a great winter hike, too. https://photos.app.goo.gl/4snhfKH8LGEBLR3A2 The bowl was in a good condition even though with not much snow. Please look at the warning sign posted at the gate for the alpine condition. It is a good thing. This snow maybe the last good snow for this season. It was very nice to see Frank, Todd, Bob,.....and many new hikers.
Mt. Baldy got bit more snow above 8200 feet than last week. But the trail below has no snow till Ski hut. The regular trail was covered with firm/hard snow to the summit. Microspike and poles are must. There were some icy spots in the bowl according to James,Patrick, and Tina. DBB trail is very icy according to one hiker. Picture tells the condition above 9000 feet. https://photos.app.goo.gl/0FUwLvA4SIghNRkC3
Did Baldy yesterday by way of Manker Flat and the ski hut trail... could see tiny patches of snow above 9,000' but only on the north facing slopes and under trees. A beautiful day, breezy on top but very pleasant. East access to drinking water water coming from the creek next to the ski hut.
Great day on Baldy yesterday.. many people about 60 folks on top at 11am. Question about the signs on top showing a distance to "manker flats campground as 3.5 miles" Doesn't seem to be in line with other trail guides. Did the mountain get shorter. Everywhere else seems to get taller/longer as I grow older. Happy and Safer hiking to all.
I'll try to answer that with my best JeffM impression (which might not be that great). The trail was in good spirits the first few thousand years but the last few thousand has been a bit of a decline. Tired of being stabbed with metal posts it's going on a sabbatical and should be right as rain in a few years. In the meantime have to hike somewhere else.
Hope it cleaned out the crumbs. Just don't use it to clean out trail dust from your olfactory. I used to have an olfactory but I sold it for a newfactory.
I think the road might stay closed this season. There was another hit & run homicide near the hairpin. I think that brings it up to three deaths in just the last year...er, day, I mean.
Good basis for a series. CSI: Manker Flats, Law and Order Squirrel Victims Unit. I saw a squirrelmanatee once gathering acorns off the coast of Florida.
Ok seriously, the Baldy Bowl (ski hut) trail is dry and dusty right now after a long summer of hikers. Lots of loose dirt and dust over rocks, the usual. Backbone looks about the same. I would imagine Bear Canyon would be comparable. 1000 posts in this thread yay!
OK so it was a trick, I was watching when the views passed 1 Million then 2 then 3 so the 1000 was another benchmark , As I call many of my post dribble I have over the years held that would not post much on the Baldy thread , maybe just try to get people to do the Heros Hike. Baldy is a fine place to train for Whitney I think better than some of the quote Standard hikes, it is close and with the elevation gain in the short distance it builds endurance. Add a few 20 milers on flat ground to test for friction burns and blisters and pacing you should be ready for Whitney.
Another plus for Baldy is you join a group of regulars and they can help you with tips and other Baldy trails that reach the Summit. The view from the top of Baldy ,one direction you look into the beast the other the vast expanse to the east and at night the light show !!!!!
Hi, Our friend Pavel Dvorak, aka Mayor of Mt. Baldy, has set up a very useful website for conditions of along Mt. Baldy road and Ski hut with 5 real time webcams.
http:10064ft.com
He has been working the project over one year. Thank you Pavel for all the things you have been doing for city people.
Norma R., Shin, Rick Graham and I did the Baldy Bowl Saturday perfect weather very warm on the Bowl. It was nice to catch up with everyone especially Norma since we don't connect often. Helicopter was flying over Baldy early Saturday morning then a 2nd one came over a snowboarder fell(slid) from 3/4 the way up the Bowl slid 600ft from what I know minor injures and was in shock,medics took him away. On are way up the Bowl Norma started having leg cramps in her leg then both legs she ended up glissading down the Bowl back to the hut. 3/4 up the Bowl I was hit with a large piece of ice from one of the trees on my thigh knocked me off my feet grabbed my axe thinking I'm going down like the snowboarder but I stopped don't know what stopped me but I only went maybe 2 ft scared the sh*t out of me but you have to remember everything happened in milliseconds.
Rick G. veered off to the Left(thanks for making steps Rick) and made tracks up the slope to get out of the bowling alley a lot of rocks and ice came down yesterday. When we got to the top of the ridge I told Shin and Rick go to the summit I'm going down main trail to the hut I didn't want to put any pressure on my leg to the summit. 3 small avalanches in the Bowl yesterday as we were going up. We all walked down to Manker very crowded yesterday but had a good time with Shin, Rick and Norma..
Just another Bitchen(and interesting) day on Baldy
Hi Mark, Indeed, it was an exciting day on the Baldy Bowl and glad you made it out OK With the warm temps on Sat, the ryme trees at the top of the Bowl were bombing the Bowl with icy chunks. The Helio extraction of the snowboarder was amazing to watch. Those SAR and Helio Teams are incredible
I went back up on Monday, and snow has completely consolidated and very slick in the Bowl and on the summit dome. On Monday, another guy fell down the Bowl (near the center) and broke his ankle and got some other contusions. His group had a SPOT device and a helio came in a did a fly over and then left (?). I suspect that it was too windy for the Helio to lower a Medic and perform an extraction. Luckily, a couple of SAR guys had just arrived at the Hut and were alerted to the situation. I never saw the Helio return
Folks need to take heed that Mt Baldy and the Bowl can offer some serious conditions with rock-fall, ice-fall, slippery slopes, high winds, etc. Currently, I would recommend micro-spikes and poles for the Summer Trail, and crampons and ice-axe (with knowledge on how to properly use them) for any of the Bowl routes.
Mt. Baldy road: Dry Fire road: Dry. It was maintained nicely. 7500-8200ft: Hard packed snow on some sections of the trail. Detour for the fallen tree. Ski hut to the summit: Hard packed snow 1-3 feet deep all the way to the summit. Crampons and poles are must. Have a great hike.
Same up here I made it just past where Doug was dropping people off last week but still deep snow until around the corner,more snow this week.Baldy could melt freeze and stay awhile.I was down south over the weekend and was watching the melt but could feel a cold air moving in tonight. I tried to register 5 for the Heroes. But can't use same e-mail problem .
Yesterday the ski hut trail was dry until a few hundred feet below the hut then was firm snow (and some ice in shady areas). By the afternoon it was a river of water and mud in places from the rapidly melting snow. Across the bottom of the bowl was soft but consolidated snow. Did not go up the bowl due to the late start, it was soft and hot at the bottom. The regular "trail" was decent snow on the way up, not icy so micros and poles were ok. On the way down the snow was mushy and slippery. Sliding in micros but a few fun glissades. Most people in micros, some in crampons. Still a lot of snow from the bottom of the bowl to the summit though. Hoping for the backbone to melt off before the May 19th Heroes hike.
Fire road to Ski hut: Dry, no micro. Ski hut to the summit: Solid consolidated snow 1-2 feet. Micro spike and poles helpful. Very slushy late morning. The bowl: There were many climbers in the Bowl. You can still climb up the bowl for next few weeks.
There were three hikers came up the summit without any winter snow gears or poles from Devils backbone trail. Devils backbone trail may have much less snow.
The climb for heroes team was on the trail. Tim, Chris, Patrick were training for a mountain in either Iran or Russia in June. Looking forward to seeing more people at the Heroes project.
Thanks so much for the report Shin!! I'm hoping to get out there to the bowl next weekend to try out some new to me snow skills. It sounds like there should still be enough snow for that (assuming the next day or two's heat doesn't change things too much).
Hi all! It's funny that the best resource for current Baldy conditions seems to be a Whitney message board - but I'm glad I found it.
I was wondering does anyone know where the two missing hikers were headed and were eventually found? The news reports just say Cucamonga Canyon and leave it at that.
I spend a lot of time on Baldy, so I'm always curious where and how people can get lost up there.
Hi Matt, According to the resident of Mt. Baldy village, the two missing hikers were found all right after four nights. They decided to head down south in Cucamonga canyon because the trail condition between Bighorn peak and Cucamonga peak was too risky to go back to Icehouse saddle. The south facing canyon had water and less snow.
HI Shin, Have you been up the SkiHut trail, thru the trees to the summit within the last week? Hoping for little to no snow to bring my grandson with me this weekend? Thanks for anyones input on that route. Happy Hiking, Rick
The trail lost most of the snow except: 1)The switchbacks under the tree section to the ridge beyond the rock garden. But the trail had good steps. 2)The area between 9000-10050. The trail had good amount of snow with 1-1.5 feet but could hike without microspike. No snow around the summit.
It is a very good idea for your grandson to have a pair of poles. The snow will get soft by around 9:00. Please keep microspike in your pack for him just in case.
I didn't hike Mt. Baldy much in last 4 months so I was glad that I made it last weekend.
I went up the Ski Hut trail today - still some snow. There were plenty of people w/o microspikes who did fine - just a little slippy.
It was a gorgeous day at the summit - almost no wind. Not very often you can set down a sandwich wrapper and know it won't blow away.
I went down DBT - which was almost completely clear.
I've been experimenting with wearing microspikes on dirt when going down in places where it's really steep - like the maze part on Ski Hut trail and the very top part of DBT coming down from the summit. I can go a lot faster down with them on than w/o them. I like it.
I've been experimenting with wearing microspikes on dirt when going down in places where it's really steep - like the maze part on Ski Hut trail and the very top part of DBT coming down from the summit. I can go a lot faster down with them on than w/o them. I like it.
I have been wondering about that myself. I have problems going down steep, loose slopes. My feet want to shoot out from under me. Thanks for the information.
The snow is getting thin everywhere except north facing slopes.
Mt. Harwood has a band of snow to the north facing slope. Harwood saddle to Baldy has snow on north facing slope but the trail is dry to the summit. Good to go on 19th. Baldy to Dawson saddle is covered with solid snow. West Baldy still has good amount of snow. 8900-9700 feet of Baldy still has good amount of snow. https://photos.app.goo.gl/vgEt5qvEC9DJH6kK8
I went up ski-hut today. So weird to hike over new snow in late May.
The only old snow left was in the final push up to the summit, and not much. I'd expect there to be almost no snow left next week unless we get another storm.
Can anyone tell me where the wreckage of the Military trainers is. I've heard several people mention them. But know one seems to know exactly where are. Thanks in advance for your input. Happy Hiking, Rick
Hi Rick, There are three sites where you can see the big aircraft wreckages, engine, fuselage, and tail section. The aircraft went down in 1949......... It is easier to spot the sites on the slope of Goode canyon on your right side of the trail as you hike down from the summit.
As you hike up (on your left side of the trail): You can spot the tail section looking down among the trees at the bottom of Goode canyon from the trail, around 9000 feet, neat the old wooden "Mt. Baldy" sign. You may have to hike down quite a bit to the actual site.
The fuselage can be seen over the rock on the slope of Goode canyon 30-50 yards from the tail, around 9200 feet, just below the old wooden sign. You can see many small aircraft parts near the area.
The main engine is found about 100 yards from the trail near the last marked wooden sign around 9500 feet elevation. Walk down on the gentle slope, follow the side trail on your right, to the shallow canyon bottom. It sits on the sand.
You should explore the area on your next hike up. It is very interesting.
Hi Shin, Thanks for the directions. Will take a look, hopefully in a couple weeks. Look forward to seeing you and Mark on the mountain. Happy Hiking Rick
Please visit "10064ft.com" for current snow conditions of Mt. Baldy and Mt. Baldy road. Register and visit Webcam. This site was established by our friend Pavel, "Mayor of Mt. Baldy".
Mt. Baldy trail update: Mt. Baldy road: Well maintained and no chain needed to Manker Fire road: 6-12 inch snow from the water falls. Ski hut trail: 1-2 feet deep snow. Bowl: 2-3 feet of snow, upper part of chute has more snow. Beyond rock garden: 2-3 feet of snow, trail goes up left of west bowl, no trail was established on regular summer trail to the ridge. To the summit: 2-4 feet of snow.
The snow was wet and soft on entire mountain, not consolidated. There were many 2-3 feet of snow holes on the trail.
You can go with microspike if you want. I tried not to do postholing as much as possible unless the existing passage was totally wrong general direction.
In winter time with snow, the trail is established by the previous hikers who set the passages/routes. The trail isn't same as the trail without snow, especially above 7500ft. Everyone makes passages/routes/(trails) at their own choice on snow field. It is very hard to tell what underneath of snow. There were many deep holes or high steps up or down on uneven snow passages. It is up to you to decide which is safer for you either using microspike or crampons. I used crampons with winter boots for better control of my footwork and protection.
Ice axe was totally useless last Sunday because the snow was very soft and deep. The trekking poles with snow baskets gave me good balance and support.
I used my snowshoes once i topped out on the bowl to the summit and back to the ski hut. Mark and Sonia chose to keep their snowshoes on their packs and post-holed back to the hut. Different strokes for different folks!
Hi Baldyfan, Mt. Baldy road and Manker flat parking was good condition. Below Ski hut: Snow got thinner but good snow above 7000ft. Beyond Ski hut: Solid snow.
At Ski hut: Offered a pancake and bacon breakfast, thanks.
I turned abound below the ridge around 8400 last Saturday because of rain, dense fog, wind, wet and deep soft snow with above knee postholing. Tried to set a better route.... I heard from other hikers that the condition was the same on last Sunday.
The condition should be better within next few days by a better weather.
I plan to go within next few days so please send me a PM.
Hi Shin, Do you have any details on the Helicopter rescue yesterday. Was the guy on the West Bowl? The news agencies are void of meaningful detail Any input would be of interest. Happy Holidays to All Rick
Hi Rick, According to LA Times, U.S. Forest Service issued temporary emergency closure to Mt. Baldy area effectively from Dec. 11th to Dec. 31st except residents and residents on leased land.
The rescue team has been searching for a missing hiker from Irvine since Sunday on Mt. Baldy.
Thanks Shin, Been following the info on the Hiker that went missing on Sunday. The Helo rescue was some one else. From the footage shown on the news couldn't really tell where the hiker was or what his problem was. If anyone can share more details it would be appreciated. Rick
Hello All, Does anyone know who to contact about the reopening of Mt. Baldy. According to the news the search/recovery efforts have been suspended. I think its time they reopened the Mt. I'm trying to train for a Mt. Rainer climb in Feb. and would like to get some time in the snow. If anyone has a phone number of the agency making the decision, please post and those wanting to see Baldy reopened could call and "complain". Just one Hiker's opinion. Happy Holidays to all Rick
Hello Dale, Thanks for the info. I've emailed Mr. Perez and ask that he lift the closure. I noticed on channel 5 news last night a reporter interviewing people hiking in the baldy area. Can't determine if the rangers are just looking the other way or just not enough manpower to cite the violators. Maybe if more people email or call 626-574-1613, the mountain could be opened so we can enjoy it over the holidays. Happy Hiking to All Rick
Shin and others may know more about how the conditions are but my thoughts are we have had enough melt freeze now the conditions would be somewhat like took out Mr Secor and a few others that winter . My experience is snow is somewhat safe ,tiring if you post hole but hard to fall far as you will be stopped by the snow .Icy crust or ice and the more melt/freeze the greater the challenge,meaning things can go quite well until you encounter the section where crampons won't kick in the ax bounces back and your 3 point defence is over. Keeping the area closed may seem problematic but having people risk death because they don't know or haven't experienced winter and think the "park "is open assume it is safe. Fatal accidents and mountaineering is a strange marriage ,for the seasoned mountaineer it is somewhat a fact that each year you will know a person that won't go to the Star Wars Bar,or visit Mayberry ever again.We know that ! Many entering the family should internalize this bond what we do has risk to ourselves and others.The day I watched a rock fall that could have taken out our son,the day I helped 4 inexperienced climbers get back on route that caused rock fall that could of ended my best friends wife's life. So keeping an area closed has this dichotomy.
Mt. Baldy road & Fire road: Dry Below Ski hut: Snow is getting thin except shaded area. Ski hut to the summit: Consolidated deep snow 2-3 feet. Trails were established. Main Bowl: Snow got very thin. West Bowl: Solid crusty snow.
The picnic table near Ski hut was destroyed (?) by the heavy snow. The creek above Ski hut was completely covered with snow.
West Baldy condition: Below Ski hut: Dry. Beyond Ski hut to the ridge: Good amount of snow. Main bowl: Almost dry.. West bowl: Good amount of snow. beyond ridge to 9200: Almost dry. To Baldy and West Baldy summit: Good amount snow.
Hey I can do a report! conditions to the Ski Hut dry one or two 5 foot patches of snow/ice. At the ski hut changes to winter conditions we went up the left side of the bowl /ridge some/ice very firm in the AM very crappy in the afternoon not soft enough to plunge step and hard pack in areas So mixed conditions for sure. I saw a lot of crampons and poles and some with spikes and poles , but you need something for safety , Boots were working for some but required slow going and risk of sliding. New system today so all this could change overnight!!!!
Mt. Baldy got good amount of snow last week. The snow wasn't consolidated enough. More snow in the forecast.
Mt. Baldy road: Clear, no chain needed. Fire road: Some snow To Ski hut: good snow all the way Bowl: 1-2 feet of unconsolidated snow To summit: deep and soft snow To Ski hut via Ski hut trail: unconsolidated deep snow
Hi All, It looks like Baldy will be open this Sat. Does that include all the normal parking spots like at the Manker Flats TH? Here around SoCal Malibu Creek and Pt. Mugu are open but there is no parking. Any input would be appreciated. Stay Safe and Happy Hiking Rick
I hiked Baldy today. Great to be backed and missed it terribly for two months.
Manker Flats parking is open. Trash bins were full and ppl left their bottles and trash lying around... terrible sight. Please everyone follow the rules and pack out your trash, I don't want them to close the forest again. Ice House Canyon parking lot was closed, but you can park on the streets.
Trail conditions: mostly clear with small patches of snow here and there. Very easy to navigate and no special gear necessary. Register ridge 100% snow free.
My friends went up Saturday. But, they turned around 30 minutes before the summit because of extreme low temperature. They are very strong hikers and had many climbing and hiking experience under severe winter snow conditions.
According to their photos as of early Saturday morning: Manker flat parking : The road looked free of snow but wet. There was snow along the road and other area. Ski hut area to 9400 ft: Fresh snow 6-12 in. Baldy looked very cold with good snow.
There must be more snow by now.
Please look at "10064ft.com" for current snow condition on Mt. Baldy. ( click webcam ) The site has been created and managed by Pavel, the mayor of Mt. Baldy.
The snow on Mt. Baldy was thin and melting fast. Mt. Baldy road: Dry and no chains. Manker flat: Dry and good parking and the outhouse with TP. Fire road: almost dry except some small icy area. To Ski hut: almost dry and icy spots under or near trees. To the summit: 6-12 inches of powdery snow. One single well packed trail. Microspikes and trekking poles are great help. To West Baldy: 6-12 inches of snow. To north direction of the summit : dry To east direction DBT : thin snow.
Thanks Shin for the report and pictures. Just got a ping on facebook Heros hike climber to be on channel KTLA 5@ 7 pm tonight and listed another time on A&E 10 pm .
Off and on down south now so might struggle up your mountain some weekday.
Mt.Baldy got some snow but it didn't last long. ( till 11:00 a.m.) No snow chain, crampons, ice axe needed. Micro spike and poles are helpful.
Most of the trail is free of snow except: Under the tree section to the ridge after rock garden. Above 9500 ft. with thin snow. Maybe gone this afternoon. Snow in the bowl was gone completely.
My friend and I hiked Mt. Baldy, 12/30/20, today Mt. Baldy road: CHP asked all vehicle to install a cable or chain except the vehicle with snow or mud tires. Many visitors were turned around. We drove "ice and snow free" Mt. Baldy road up to Manker flat. Why ? Manker flat: Limited parking space. Near the white gate: A large area was iced up. Fire road: Covered with snow. To Ski hut: soft and deep snow below knee. From Ski hut to the saddle: above knee deep soft snow. The Bowl: Covered with thin snow. Three climbers were in the bowl. Rock garden: Covered with 1-2 ft deep soft snow. Switch back in tree section to the ridge: Covered with deep soft snow. ( It was awful condition.) Ridge to 9500: Covered with deep soft snow. Better to stay on dry section of top of west bowl. We didn't want to posthole above knee deep snow to the summit so we decided to turn around. Going down was harder than going up because of deep soft snow. The snow in the bowl got much thinner middle of afternoon. The snow wasn't consolidated well enough so the trail condition was bad everywhere.
We only used micro spike. Crampons and ice axe were useless. We should have taken a snowshoe.
The traffic on the Mt. Baldy road down was awful because of many visitors in the area. So, please prepare for very slow drive down.
Mt. Baldy got fresh snow last weekend. Mt. Baldy road: Chain/cable will be required this week.(more snow this week.) To Ski hut: 1-2 feet of snow. To ridge : 1-2 feet of fresh/powdery deep snow. Route 1: left side of west bowl to the ridge. We went up with snowshoes. Route 2: summer trail to the ridge. To summit : 1-2 feet of snow. Baldy bowl got less snow than other area but there were a few climbers in the bowl. No foot prints to DBT direction in the morning. It was very cold and windy at the summit. It was a good day to take snowshoes, poles, and micro spike.
Mt. Baldy got more snow last Thursday and Friday. Mt. Baldy road was dry. Manker flat parking lot got less parking space because of the snow. There was solid snow from white gate to summit. We took Zake's chute in main bowl up and down. https://photos.app.goo.gl/GURmpSyCpPspEzfG6 The snow was soft and deep and a bit wet. It got softer late morning. Manker flat parking was covered with many cars with people wanted to play with the snow. There were few miles long cars heading up to Mt. Baldy village area even late afternoon. Prepare for very slow traffic.
More snow than the Lone Pine area ,we had cloulds and starts but very little snow . Looks like TRhor is about covered but rocks are still showing and the chute above Iceberg is covered now so the upper elevation did get snow.
To Ski hut: Almost dry. Snow on Mt. Baldy main bowl is getting very thin. West bowl has good snow. To the ridge from rock garden: Solid consolidate snow. To 9200 ft : 40% of area is covered with thin snow. To summit : Solid consolidate snow. It was very cold and very windy. https://photos.app.goo.gl/ZskhRAUcwZbQtmdK7
West bowl still has a good amount of consolidated snow but the main bowl is dry now. There was a climber on west bowl today.
To Ski hut: Dry. Rock garden to the ridge: hard packed snow and switchbacks in the tree section was a bit icy in the morning. ( Micro spike for on the way down) 8600-9200 ft: Almost dry. 9200 ft - summit: Consolidated snow. The snow on the summit is thinning fast. Good snow on west Baldy.
I can't speak to Etiwanda specifically, but I was at Icehouse Saddle yesterday (from icehouse canyon) and can confirm the trail all teh way to Cucamonga is covered in snow. My friend successfully made the peak with microspikes/trekking poles - I opted for the nearly fully dry trail to Timber instead (have a minor calf strain and didn't want to muck it up in the snow/ice esp on the way down).
Based on that I suspect on the north side of nearly anything right now that high there will be substantial if not full snow/ice coverage - south facing slopes are all nearly dry/clear except for really shady areas.
I always enjoy reading your trip and conditions reports. They are not only interesting, but are a MUST READ for anyone heading up to that area.
The last couple seasons have seen several deaths on Mt Baldy, ranging from a seasoned veteran to a SAR member (searching for a hiker intoxicated by summit fever who hiked into and disappeared in deteriorating conditions). For all we know, your numerous reports/observations/suggestions have saved a life or two, which will not show up in the newspaper headlines.
Hi Jim, Thank you for your kind words. It is very nice to have Mt. Baldy in southern California.
It looks like the snow season is about over. Before I store away all winter gears,I want to share Doug Sr.'s photos of climbing iced up slope of west bowl of Mt. Baldy. These photos were taken at one of WPSMB group hikes on 01/15/2010. Wes G. and I used crampons and ice axe. Doug Sr. used micro spike and poles and jeans. The slope was so icy even crampons didn't bite in the slope well at all. Please look Wes's crampons teeth and even on flat level. (Zoom up footing area of each photos, please.) https://photos.app.goo.gl/fSYt7rE9oryiXdAd7 Doug has real skills and experience.
( I AM NOT SAYING GO LIGHT or HIKE CASUAL CLOTHINGS !!.)
Hello Shin, Really appreciated your updates, trip reports, pictures, etc. went up Baldy yesterday. No wind, about 50 degrees. Good snow still in the trees past the rock garden. and above the second ridge above the airplane wreckage all the way to the top. Top is getting bare but still some snow. Came down the West Bowl. Only about a dozen hikers on the trail. Shout out to Fireman Mike from Aurora Colo who is at one of the Covid First Responder stations in the Denver area. He was visiting family in the area. He's working on climbing all 50 14ers in Colorado. Shin, hope to see you soon on Baldy now that I'm back hiking. Happy Hiking To All Rick
Luck Shin may not always work but when all else fails....
The spike thing was a test they were new on the market and I felt if I was to sale them we should give them a try, after the hike that day I suggest they would be OK for flat trails , but had no use on steeper slopes,I was able to find placement in the sun cups and depressions , if it was a fresh ice slope they would not be enough. I tested ice at an angle and they fail quickly , since they lack front points, and can slip off the boot with pressure .
Now spikes are used by many and I still think a good item for trails at low angle , and the market now offers price points that many will purchase , On the high end I think Hillsound has a great product , spikes a little longer and a strap across the top to hold on to the boot.
Hi Doug, I was up there today. There were two signs of avalanches in the bowl. It must have happened yesterday. I don't know any details.
Mt. Baldy road: No chains were required. Manker flat parking: It was good condition. But, I got a warning by CHP for not comply with a sing. But, there was no sign there. I park at same spot all the time.(?) Fire road: It was very icy with uneven surface. Hard to walk on in the morning. To Ski hut: Hard packed snow trail with alternate route. It was very icy in the morning. It is a good idea to use micro spikes and poles up and down. Bowl: There were two signs of avalanches in the bowl. There were several hikers up on left side of avalanche to the summit. I went up right edge of avalanche and climbed Schitzo Alley, a chute between two prominent rock mass on right side of the bowl, right shoulder of the pointed peak. Snow was deep and soft. To the summit: Snow was above knee level and soft. From the summit to Ski hut: Snow was deep and soft with many deep foot holes. Please be careful. Going down was much harder than going up the steep chute today. From the ridge above tree section: There was a prominent solid alternate trail leads to lower part of west bowl. The trail traverse the hill side. ( Going up: make a left turn in to the hill side of tree section. ) There was no trail on summer trail area today.
Snow condition wasn't good today. It was a long and hard day for me but I had a good time.
Today Shin notes, "There were two signs of avalanches in the bowl. It must have happened yesterday. I don't know any details."
On the the KTLA 5 News today, it was noted that a hiker was injured yesterday in one of the avalanches. Apparently it took some effort to get him down alive.
Thanks Shin looks like more snow today and might start more Avalanches, The storm today said high winds also , could add drifts and whiteout conditions . Looks like we in the new normal with late season systems.
Manker flat/Fire road: Dry Ski hut: Almost dry/ a few snow spots. Rock garden to the ridge: Consolidated snow. Icy early morning. To summit: Consolidated snow but thinning some spots. Microspike and poles will be helpful.
DBT/Register ridge trail direction: Snow is melting fast/dry Bear canyon: According to few hikers, good trail got established and no post holing. Ontario, Cucamonga, Etiwanda direction: All north facing slope have good amount of snow.
Hi Doug and Jim F, Sean and "Super hiking twins" say "Hi". They will be back to Whitney Portal next year.
Last weekend, I told my wife about a very nice family hiker with a father and two young children with very nice hiking and trail manners. They were one of the nicest hikers I met on Baldy. My wife was very disappointed that I didn't get any pictures of them. Luckily, I met them again on the way down yesterday. They were very nicely enough to stop and share about their background and their experience. This twins, Arabella and Matthew, turned out "the youngest" Mt. Whitney climbers at the age of 4. They have climbed Whitney, Langley, White, and Shasta already with 27 Mt. Baldy summits at the age of about 6. They shared with me a great experience at Portal, Doug and Jim F. and more.... It was a great day for me. I met many long time friends, too.
I hiked Harwood, Baldy, West Baldy, back to Baldy via Register Ridge trail up and Ski hut down. No microspikes were needed at all all trails. Snow is almost gone. There were still some snow on north facing slopes of Baldy but DBT was dry. West Baldy was still partially covered with snow but it was fun to walk on shallow sun cup field. There were many trail runners from Bear canyon trail direction. There were a few sections of snow under the tree section but no issues at all.
Thanks for relaying their greetings and sharing the nice photo of you with Arabella and Matthew. If you see them again on Mt Baldy, please say hi for me to the Twins, Sean, and (of course) Mom.
I vividly recall my encounter with the Twins and their Parents in 2019 (after a heavy snowfall winter). In the early morning we were among those coming up the Backside from Guitar Lake. We were all boulder hopping to avoid hard ice and snow on the trail.
Later in the morning on the Mt Whitney Summit, after I had a chance to catch my breath, I resumed my conversation with them. What a privilege to encounter such a remarkable and pleasant family!
Wishing all the WPSMB community great happiness and adventures in the upcoming season on the Mountain.
It was very cold and windy at the summit today. There were many hikers on the trails. A rescue operation for an injured hiker was progress on Mt. Baldy. According to a rescue ranger, a hiker got lost and got injured on the east facing hillside of a left side of ridge of San Antonio canyon. A helicopter was hovering a long time at upper section of the ridge. Almost no one hikes up the ridge.( I know some crazy ones.) There is no trail. A hiker must have gone down straight on the ridge rather than making left turn to get down through switchbacks in the tree section to Ski hut. I hope the hiker will be fine.
Hi John and Sara, it was very nice to meet you today. Sorry, I couldn't stop a bit longer to take a picture because of a heavy traffic on the trail. Congratulations and good luck on Labor day Whitney hike.
Portal was cooling down yesterday and a light wind was starting around 4 PM , watching the sky today and can see some moisture moving around , so we will see if the system moves in tonight or in the morning, many people started up yesterday.
Now onto the current rescue on Baldy and how the two mountains share a common bond , many train on Baldy and the Southern California mountains for a hike on Whitney,these mountains have and will have more rescues and recoveries.When we first bought the store 1988 season the first accident I thought it must be a climber fallen on one of the routes, but later I learned someone had been injuried on the trail , I was confused the wide trail, very well maintained and easy to follow trail. Hulda Crooks in her late 80's had climbed the mountain for many years so how could this be? Many years later the accidents still happen and most likely more often, it can't be a lack of information, or gear since people now will have all the gear on the market if it is suggested it will get them to the summit. All the S&R units and the Agencies publish press releases about conditions, Your and other weekly reports , with detailed conditions and photos to support the conditions are a wealth of information. Some where there is a break down between what is available and what people do that continues causing these accidents. My basic thought of an accident is a unplanned act. It isn't just the young many times the person is beyond the age of doing the things a young person will try ,and we are seeing it isn't just men but also women now needing rescues or recoveries. Several years ago I was the last person that talked with a lady on Baldy.Yesterday I talked with a young lady at a store in town that had suggested to a young man be cautious on the mountain. Many times we hear the leader had years of experience , oh they are the one that needs a rescue ? So just experience may not be the answer . Could it be a factor in making critical choices as events happen or making choices that avoid critical events ? I recall one day a very good friend came into the store a few scrapes and rash from a fall , he say we were going to do a new route up Muir from the east side , he and the team had ropes and gear , They also had pictures of the route as they climbed , I look at the route and think That isn't going to end well ( in my younger days these routes always failed I would have the rash and blood ) think of an inverted ice cream cone, wide at the bottom and a pinpoint top ,now see the rope and the belay spread all over the area , yup about 50 feet of fall if the climbers falls . Remember the pinpoint of the icecream cone They always break and if they don't getting onto the wall never happens either because the pinpoint is in space off the wall. Pinpoint breaks , fall which is not vertical but a steep ice/snow slide past the belay and at some point the slope angle and body friction stops the fall ,Experience says we can do this , we know at some point the pinpoint will break and we should take the slack out of the rope and have a secure belay and gear placed as we climb to limit the fall but experience also tells us It's those other people that fall. Please spend some time with yourself and your climbing group and others that you know spread the word if not us who lets see if we can slow down the accidents and resues. Thank You
Doug, thank you very much for your great advice. I hope many people take your advice seriously enough to enjoy hiking.
Hiking season is in full swing now. Icehouse parking lot was completely full. Many cars were parked beyond a bridge and a few switchbacks up along the road. Manker flat parking was the same condition.
It was cold and windy at the summit. There was a hiker with mountain bike at the summit. I ran into "rick"who initiated "Condition On Baldy" post with three other very nice lady hikers training for Whitney hike. We had a very nice visit. One of the hiker was very fluent in Japanese so I spoke Japanese with her without any accent. One of other lady hiker wondered how "Crazy Jack" was. Crazy Jack, you are famous on Baldy, too. I met a young Marine who served in Japan. Thank you very much for your service. I met Pavel, a mayor of Mt. Baldy, was organizing some activity on the mountain.
There is no new update on Baldy trails but I want to share my experience of San Gorgonio hike with James L., Martha, and Elena. on Saturday in connection with Baldy hike. https://photos.app.goo.gl/pXXSSJD6xYNP1xzj7 The hike was starting from South Fork, Dry lake, SG, Dollar lake with about 22 miles. I learned several important things from this hike. 1) Proper hydration 2) Adequate energy supply 3) Ability of each member in a team 4) Team chemistry
The hike was great with great friends, great weather, and views. We enjoyed every minutes of it.
I had a bit different experience on the way down. I started to lose my body balance here and there every time when I looked up or looked back or leaned over. My footing got poor on top of my loose fitting shoes. So I kept on walking down with looking down position. We stopped a few times for short break and got back to parking lot all right. It was a hard hiking down for me. 1)Hydration I carried a usual amount of water of Baldy hike plus extra bottle of water and small bottle of coke. I don't drink much water on Baldy hike but I should carry and drink much more water. Baldy hike is about 10 miles but this SG was 22 miles long. 2)Adequate supply of energy I should have eaten much more and better food than Baldy hike. My energy level got low on the way down. I usually carry some food and snack but I eat less than a half on the hike and eat up the rest on the way home in my car. 22 miles hike needs more energy. 3)Ability of each member in a team Even though this 22 miles long hike, we are able to keep our member in very tight pack. we never got separated as a team. Each one is relatively same level of fitness and activity level. 4)Team chemistry It is very important to have a positive team chemistry for a long hike, especially. James was our leader with great amount of knowledge and experience about SG and other mountains. He kept his eye on each of us all the time like a sheep dog, nice and gentle. When we hike a place where you don't know well, the situation makes much more overwhelming and consume much more mental ability. It is very nice to be with a solid leader who you can trust.
He advised me to take off my sunglasses so I can judge my footing better. Sure enough, after I took it off, I was able to judge my footing much better than before. I have to apology him for poking on his boots many times with my trekking poles. I should have maintain for distance but I was anxious to get down fast or I was tumbling down fast (could be both)?.
There are many people training for Whitney hike or many other adventures in Sierra. It may be a good idea to test out or simulate all the elements of hiking before so the hike will be much more enjoyable.
Have a great hike.
P.S. rebel trekker, please look your privet message, please.
Great write up of our super fun adventure! Everyone did great and there was no herding necessary. All the team members hiked strong more like bighorn sheep than regular sheep (what are regular sheep called anyway?). Everyone contributed to the hike's success taking turns leading, making very helpful suggestions, and keeping us moving in the right direction. Exactly what a group hike is supposed to do, everyone working for the success of the group. Focused on safety, staying together and team chemistry, which leads to a whole lot of fun!
And no problem with the trekking poles poking my shoes, it kept me alert and on my toes...literally.
Your points on hydration and nutrition are spot on. I have been in that situation as well where I needed far more water and calories. Much thanks to Marta for her uncanny ability to make the best sandwiches on good ol' Trader Joe's organic tortillas. Just when you think you can't eat two of those during a hike both are gone before the descent. Throw in some trail mix and/or dried seaweed for some salt and you've got a power calorie supply. Having the creek near South Fork meadow flowing well also helped. That was pristine cold water and it helped wash down all the food.
Mt. Baldy got snow in May. The snow didn't last long but it was beautiful in the morning. The weather was nice and cool with moderate wind and cloud cover. We met "Super hiking twins" again with their parents. They were on Mt. San Jacinto two weeks ago. Meeting with them was the highlight of the day.
There were many hikers on the mountain including a young couple taking a complete nude picture at the summit plate surrounded by many other hikers. He informed his picture taking to several hikers nearby in advance. But, this was the sickest thing I have experienced on Mt. Baldy. (Freedom of expression or total lack of social manner and respect?)
We saw snow plants, reddish plant, along the side of trail. This "fungus" will be found 7500-8500 feet elevation this time of the year.
There is not much to update about the trail condition. It is bone dry. It has been very warm lately so hydrate well including your loving dogs. Dogs have very limited way to control their body temperature. Taking dogs to the mountains under excessive heat is just torturing your loving dogs. Please start earlier to avoid scorching heat. If I were a dog, I want to stay in airconditioned house with some snack or cool sandy beach. (This is my personal view.)
Carole invited me for a hike with Tina and "KING" Arthur today. We haven't hiked for many years together. All of us are long time friends of WPSMB and Doug's family. We started around 2:20 a.m. to avoid the recent heat wave. We had a great time to update ourselves and enjoyed the hike. There were many campers on every good spots on ridges, under the trees, and the summit. We didn't see them on the way up. The weather was nice with cool breeze.
The heat waive was gone and it was a bit cooler early in the morning. The Manker flat parking lot was already packed around 6:10. This hike never get easy.....occasional cool breeze was very nice. There were trail runners, hikers with various size packs, and coming down over night hikers, early starters, late starters, hikers with dogs, and hiker with a cat around his neck.......joggers training for Baldy Run on the fire road.
The wild flowers around the Ski hut was a treat. I met many great long time friends at Ski hut.
There is nothing to update about the trail condition. It is dry!
We had a perfect meet-up group hike yesterday. Some hikers couldn't go to Sierra because of smoke condition. Some hikers didn't want to go rock climbing outdoor under the heat. Some hikers wanted to do a last hard training before Mt. Whitney hike in 2 weeks. All hikers turned out to be from Sender One (S1) rock climbing gym in Costa Mesa. Two groups started from Village via Bear canyon around 4:00 A.M. They spotted a bighorn sheep along the trail near west Baldy. Other group started from Manker around 6:30 a.m. via Ski hut, Baldy, west Baldy, back to Baldy summit. Three groups summitted almost same time and enjoyed the summit. We were able to get back before noon to avoid the afternoon heat. Everyone had a great time. The flowers were still blooming in San Antonio canyon.
Mt. Baldy was open today. There were many road maintenance project sites along Mt. Baldy road including Manker flat parking area. The parking area got improved very much.
It was much cooler today because of cloud coverage and a thick layer of smoke from north. The smoke spread all over..... Everything looked a light brown color. The air was clear in the morning. I met a volunteer for the Heroes Hike Project and Brent( 5 times Mt. Baldy hikes in a day hiker. Yes, 5 times in a day.) I had a great time with Pavel and his friends at the Lodge on the way home. https://photos.app.goo.gl/14h8y3iGQwMDTTkP8
The air quality was very good on Sunday. The highlight of the day was running into Kurt Wedberg, SMI - Sierra Mountaineering International in Bishop, with his very nice client. He is a long time member of WPSMB and well known professional mountain guide. It is a very rare occasion to meet him on Mt. Baldy. His father was an iconic person on Mt. Baldy. There is a picture in Ski hut. Please check it out next time. I got to know a super nice couple with a beautiful white dog. There was a hiker carry two heavy hummer to train his upper body. There were many hikers, trail runners, and dogs enjoying the day. But, one dog might have a different opinion. https://photos.app.goo.gl/gqUy8ARcn9cMumEK9
It was a bit cold at Manker this morning. There was nice cool breeze at the summit. Preparation for "Baldy run" was under way at the summit. A helicopter made a few flights to deliver water and other supplies for the event on Sunday. I met "Ranger Dan", Brent and Alison in the Rock garden. Today was Ranger Dan's 1400th Mt. Baldy summit. Congratulations Ranger Dan. He is a retired forest ranger and Baldy is his play ground. I also met a long time friend Max. He has over 630 Baldy summits. Today became a Baldy regular's reunion. Combined numbers of Ranger Dan, Brent, Max, and I are over 3100 Baldy summits. ( We have a very boring life. ) There are more Mt. Baldy regulars, Thomas and Sal. They have over 600 summits or more.
Ranger Dan, Brent, Max, Shin = 3100+ Baldy summits!
Obviously decades ago you fellows realized "Climb the mountains and get their good tidings." (John Muir)
The Mercy Air helicopter has been a sponsor of the Mt Baldy Run to the Top (today oct 17) for a number of years, faithfully unloading supplies at the Finish Line on the Summit.
This year the Mt Baldy R2T and the Hike for Heroes were rescheduled from Sep 6 and Sep 11, respectively, to Oct 17 and Nov 13, due to the temporary national forest shutdown. It sounds like today the conditions on the Devil Backbone were OK for the R2T. I hope the ice and snow will hold off until after Nov 13.
It was very windy and cold on Mt. Baldy last Sunday.
Several WPSMB hikers went up Register ridge trail. The wind must have been super strong and freezing cold on the ridge between Harwood and Baldy summit.
We spotted a group of bighorn sheep on west facing slope around 7000 ft. They seemed enjoining grazing before winter sets in.
We took the original route on west facing hillside from 8600-9300ft area of ridgeline in order to avoid the strong and cold wind from north east. We met Rick G. at the summit and had a great time on the trail down.
Hey Shin great talking with you this week . Back up in LP Thanks for another great trip report .Lets hope for a safe winter on the mountains no rescues or recoveries! Slips and falls very easy to get lax and not focus on footing and the rest you know all downhill!
When the mountain gets covered I will try to get a group hike started so will be in touch . Happy T Day!
Recent winter storm didn't bring much snow as forecasted. The condition of snow was very poor. Mt. Baldy road and Manker flat parking lot was dry. The trail to Ski hut was mostly snow free but some icy sections. We tried to climb the main bowl with poor snow condition, hard at the base and soft and thin on top. We experienced an extensive rock falls from main rock mass above around 10:20 when we were 3/5 up. Many rocks in various sizes showed down the bowl. We decided to go down. Some went up. It is a good idea to start climbing the bowl early,8:00 a.m. and look out each other for rock falls as you climb. Even a tiny rock shoot down without sound like a bullet. We practiced self arrest and other snow skills later at safe area today. Over all we had a very good day. https://photos.app.goo.gl/kqTKBVEYBmmnhEmP9
Baldy got more snow last week. No chain was required on Mt. Baldy road. Manker flat parking lot was very crowded but well maintained. Restroom at trailhead has been locked up for last several weeks. Fire road was covered with solid snow and very icy near white gate. To Ski hut: Solid firm snow. Microspike or crampons were useful. Beyond Ski hut to the summit: Solid snow 2-4 feet. Summer trail: There were few established alternate trail but they were very hard to walk on because of heavy and soft snow. Bowl routes: No clear established track in main bowl. We took an established track between Zake chute and 3 pin alleys chute. Going up diagonally to the shoulder of main rock mass and exited out to 3 pin alleys chute. It was a good track but very long near the end. We walked down general direction of summer trail to Ski hut. Going down was much harder than going up in the bowl because of deep fresh snow. It took us over one hour to drive down from Manker flat to 210 freeway because of many people wanted to enjoy the snow. 9 miles of traffic jam.
Hey Thanks Shin another great report . Some winters ago I noticed a trend to make fresh track on the mountain about 700000000000 fresh tracks or more ,so hiking down was like back in Kansas walking in the plowed fields ,I see this often on other popular areas , if we all followed the same track it would pack down and create a trail , sure one might need to slow down a bit for others but then again another old trick shout out DID you see that !! then pass as they are looking around. Well anyway glad we are getting much needed snow and rain 'just hope we will have storm after storm this winter, Now the slide/rock fall during or just after the storms can be serious period of movement and each year we read about lost hikers , This year lets see if we can have 0 accidents or recoveries.
Snow on Baldy has consolidated in last two weeks. It was firm early in the morning. But it got slushy around noon. No microspike are needed till 7500 ft. There was an established track on main bowl with good steps. No one was on the alternate route which we used last two weeks. It was very windy at the summit with a bit more snow than last week. Snow around summit was very hard and icy. Snow on south facing slopes was soft 1-2 feet deep. Some hikers were training in the very steep chute. I met Max (long time hiking friend and WPSMB member). We went down west bowl because snow was good condition to walk down. I met Ray Leonard (WPSMB member) and his son, Jeremiah, and Aurora(K9). They were having great time together with their friends. We had a very nice visit in the perfect winter snow day.
How does Aurora do it? For years I have asked veterinarians (as well as human eye specialists) about the apparent success k9s seem to have avoiding snow blindness. How do K9s do this? So far I have not found an explanation. Anyone have any insights?
The snow on Baldy is getting thin fast. But, there is still good amount of snow left to play above Ski hut (8200 ft). Snow is very hard and icy from the melting and freezing cycle. It is very helpful to have crampons, ice axe, microspikes, and trekking poles.
The snow in the bowl was getting thin fast. Let's be cautious about rock falls caused by rising temperature and strong wind in the bowl. But, the snow was still very heavy from Ski hut to the summit and West Baldy. There were two skiers enjoying the good snow near the summit. Met several longtime WPSMB friends, Rick G., Ellen C., Norma R.,..... Baldy offers us the cheapest way to enjoy the winter snow. https://photos.app.goo.gl/qNQ8SscXCRUxhBMD8
The recent mini winter storm dumped 2-6 inches of fresh snow. Mt. Baldy road was icy above 5500 ft early in the morning. There was a very nice single track trail to the summit from Ski hut. Let's hope that everyone will stay on this good trail rather than creating numerous spar tracks to every direction. The condition of main bowl wasn't good even though it was well covered with snow. The snow on scree and rock fields was too soft, unconsolidated, for good footing and hard to walk on with crampons. The fresh snow on old hard icy snow fields was hard too. The wind was calm with moderate temperature. Fog rolled in late morning and created a mini whiteout condition above 8500 ft. I ran into Mac, a longtime WPSMB member, and met many friends. It was a great winter hiking day on Baldy.
Hey Baldy got more snow than Mammoth , Whitney we get feet of wind! Another great report Shin I did many miles yesterday on my bike , extreme pressure on the left thumb holding the motor control button , wind exposure riding in a tee shirt hitting 30mph on the down hills. On a hike with Bob H and others last fall I said after about 2 rides with the electric bike the only exercise you get is shifting around on the seat.
About a week left on the lottery sign up and about 2 months till another season
Many changes to the permit pick up problem . "PERMITS CAN BE PRINTED AT HOME" A printed permit is required to be with the leader "Printed" paper copy . Also looks like a fire permit is required , if you plan to use a stove and a Sequoia and Kings canyon minimum impact wilderness regulation to be printed and signed.
Go to the Inyo NF site and hit the Whitney Permit link for all the details.
Main take away Print the permit at HOME log into your rec.gov 7 days before your trip start date confirm the group size and Print your permit.
Those bikes are actually really good for aerobic. While I was on one the other day, I was so undistracted by not exercising that I was able to figure out how to spell "aerobic."
I did better today with the arophane thing I stood on the plates attached to the round thing under the seat. I also ran into a guy by pumpkin rock that showed me how to put the playing cards in the spokes and how if you go real slow and yell snake ... I bet it work work in your area! Hey check out Richards and Shins photos ,Baldy may be the new snow play area.
Summit Hike yesterday... dry to the skihut although some hard ice hidden next to bushes and trees. Strong wind at 7am died down around 9. The track through the trees left of the West Bowl was mostly filled in with blown snow. From the saddle up to the large rocks was mostly bare and then solid snow to the summit. blowing about 20 right on the summit but was quiet 50 yards down. Used 8 point crampons in the snow. Very quiet only encountered 6 other people. 2 were going up the West Bowl trying some new boots but never saw them after they started up. All in all a great day for my annual birthday hike. Hope we get some more snow by the end of the month. Happy Hiking to All, Rick
Recent spring storm didn't bring much snow. Manker flat to Ski hut was dry. The snow was melting fast. There was good amount of snow from the rock garden to the ridge, 9300 ft to the summit, and west Baldy direction. The snow in the main bowl was thin. But west bowl still had good amount of snow. We must thank Brent, Mt. Baldy regular, for removing many rocks including a huge rock on the trail from Fire road to Ski hut. Trekking poles and microspikes are helpful.
Mt. Baldy lost most of snow except under the tree section beyond the rock garden and around the summit. You can hike without any gears. It was very windy, near 50 mph, and very cold ,wind chill of 18F. We stayed only a few minutes at the summit. There were many hikers on the trail. This hike was for our WPSMB friend Tina.
Hi Mary, Plese contact Angeles National Forest service office at 1-714-322-6643 or 1-714-322-6574 for the most current information. The national forest was closed occasionally due to forest fire or snowstorm. I hope you can find a good campsite this season.
It was very misty from 210 freeway to 4500 feet early in the morning. It was a bit windy at the summit but clear sky with moderate temperature. Three sections of trail had been blocked by fallen trees were cleared completely. Thank you very much for all your hard work. There were several snow plants, pink colored parasitic plant, on the hillside of 7000 - 7500 feet. They come out around this time of year. They last around for 2 weeks. There were many wildflowers on the mountains now. There were many hikers training for Whitney season.
Summer has come with a heat. Manker flat parking lot was packed. There were many hikers, hikers with dogs, trail runners, and families. Everyone was enjoying the day, but some were suffering a bit. It was nice and cool with a little bit of wind at the summit. I spotted a fresh snow plant hidden behind a tree around 8300 feet area. Most of snow plants were drying up. I saw a tiny snake with white rings on the entire body. Snake season is in. I met a very nice-looking young man, Mathew. He was a member of WPSMB. Glad to meet a WPSMB member on the trail. Doug, he needs some information on Russell. https://photos.app.goo.gl/6WD97UdWpDNS2ZhC6
Thanks Shin for another great report. Russel just started to clear on the north side of the ridge . I should do a picture /write up of the shorh cut , may get it done this summer very few find it with just a vebal directions. Have Mathew give me a call 760 920 2178 . I will call him back if I miss th call on mountain .
Icehouse canyon parking and Manker flat parking were packed even very early in the morning. The summit was very windy and cold.
It was a very nice surprise to meet "Super Hiking Twins", Matthew and Arabella, with their parents. They are the youngest Mt. Whitney hikers, at the age of 4 years old in 2019. I have met this lovely family many times on Baldy. They have climbed 8 out 15 California 14ers already. They plan to climb a few more this season. Doug, please be ready a large order of French fries for them in July. https://photos.app.goo.gl/WorCdAF5i35rrWiA8
Summer hiking season has come on Baldy. It was very crowded. I had a great hike with my new hiking friends, Kevin and Christian.
Today was a very special day for "Ranger" Dan's 1500th and Brent's 500th Baldy summit. "Ranger" Dan is a retired forest ranger hiking Baldy area for over 40 years. Brent is a "Baldy 5x a day" hiker hiking Baldy for a few years. There were many of their hiking and trail running friends, Chris, Alyson, Drew, ... Also, there was a "Super hiking Twins", Matthew and Arabella with their dad. They will be on Whitney this weekend. I met a long-time hiking friend Tom. He is 82 years young!!! Mt. Baldy got everyone today.
There is nothing to update on Baldy conditions. But it was hot. There were many hikers, picnickers, trail runners and more at the summit. One big group was offering a freshly cut watermelon to everyone. It was the best treat ever in summertime on the summit. They were so friendly and well behaved to everyone and took care of all trash out from the summit area. A great group with a great leader. My friend slept in his van near Manker flat trailhead last night and heard bear activities. The trash was scattered around the trash vin in the morning. They were there. We took Register Ridge up and hiked down DBBT and hiked down to Manker via a slippery scree field beneath the ski lift (short cut). I met several longtime friends, Rick G., Todd M., Mac, and Peter P.
Quick question for you or any others - is the Register Ridge route a fully formed trail? (I know it's unmaintained officially) Are there any parts that are difficult to follow? I haven't been on it before and am trying to convince my husband I'll be safe on it solo despite never taking that route before (I've done the ski hut route & backbone several times).
Hi tif, I don't know anything about the official status of Register Ridge trail. It starts from 50 yards beyond the metal register on Ski hut trail (Baldy Bowl trail) on your right and join with DBBT at the bottom of Mt. Harwood. Someone was trying to block the trail over 15 years ago, but it failed. It used to be a very faint animal trail many years ago, but it is a well-established solid single-track trail. It is constantly steep with a few moderate sections. It is on the ridge line with trees and shrubs entire way. It is very nice and quiet. There are no difficult sections at all. You can take many rests with great views. You can tag Mt. Harwood at the junction of DBBT then hike on to Mt. Baldy. A tagging Mt. Harwood adds only 6-10 minutes to the hike. All trails are well established and no chance to get lost. This trail offers you a much better view of the mountain in south and north. I recommend Register Ridge trail up, Mt. Harwood, Mt. Baldy, West Mt. Baldy, then come back to Mt. Baldy. This will give you full menu of daily exercise and training.
Thanks Shin! That helps a ton - I know it might not be an 'official' route up the mountain - but it's helpful to know the basic conditions of the trail itself.
You can view the RR trail on CalTopo.com as well as all the other trails in the area. I've been up RR about a dozen times and always enjoy the different views as Shin mentions. Safe Hiking, Rick
I was talking with Rick G about a route we used in the mid 70's somewhere between ski hut trail and the ski area ,this might of been it? We moved to Utah in 1980 and I didn't hike Baldy till Shin had a 200 or some event maybe early 2000's.
Hi Doug, Richard was motivated enough to hike on Baldy, training mountain for Sierra, under the hot summer heat without breeze after summiting Mt. Whitney last Monday. We had a great hike together like old times. We talked about many things we learned from the trip you tricked us to head out to Mt. Irvine to Miter basin down to Crabtree... Mt. Whitney many years ago. There were very interesting subjects came up regarding to the hydration and nutrition on long summer hikes.
It is very important to cool off body temperature beside hydrating your body. Cooling off body temperature especially head by creating shades with caps, hats, small umbrella, wet your head and putting a wet bandana around a neck area or wet straps of trekking poles. I used more water for cooling off my head than drinking from Guiter Lake to Trail crest.
Havin a good breakfast will provide good energy for the long day. Having a good dinner will help to recover faster from the hard day. I was suffering from mountain sickness and wasn't able to eat anything or drink at Crabtree campground. Richard had a nice hot dinner at the ranger station that night. He was fresh and strong next day. On the other hand, I survived for the entire day with one orange offered by a nice hiker at the campground. I took a long nap at Trail Crest till Richard got back. Headed down to Portal..... I was in vicious cycle of things which I had to avoid on multi day hike on high altitude.
Ski hut trail is covered almost 60 % of the trail and nice cold creek in the midway point to the summit. It's good summer trail if you start early. Nice visit with ranger Dan as usual.
The restroom at Manker flat railhead was closed. There were several people got lost below Ski hut. They headed up the slope of Register ridge trail direction. They realized the mistake and came back. Spotted 3 deer over the rock garden. Strong cool breeze at the summit. Very interesting clouds on the way down. Every hike is interesting for me. https://photos.app.goo.gl/NkjKxe4rQwBV2ELd7
Summited Baldy yesterday (9/9/22). Weather was perfect all the way up. This time, instead of taking the Bowl trail up, we took the first right after you exit off the main dirt road. I believe this trail is called Register Ridge.
It was very cold and windy at the summit. The heatwave is gone and fall weather is in. It was a good hiking weather. I had a great visit with John, WPSMB member, on the way down. Sorry John, I slowed you down today. I ran in to Rick G. heading up to the summit twice today. He was on some kind of mission. By reading the recent many trip reports of Richard P., both Rick G. and Richard P. might have found the way to shield off the "CRYPTONITE" ray. https://photos.app.goo.gl/rpQdLbhtgcDU2b4aA
Have a great hike. P.S. I have many local Superman type of person in my mind, Rick. G., Richard P., GigaMike, Rick Kent,........ Doug Sr.
Shin: great to see you yesterday on the trial, I really appreciated the opportunity to hear your thoughts on what makes Baldy special to you. Hope to see you on the trail again this fall and maybe we can do some snow hikes.
I had a short visit in Ridgecrest and Portal on last Wednesday. It was very cold in the shade at Portal. Later I found out that Richard P. took off to JMT hike on same day. Portal store was very busy with Whitney hikers, JMT hikers, and tourists. I finished my great hamburger even though I didn't climb Whitney. I met a very nice couple, Rick & Diane, from Upland Ca., 8 miles away from Mt. Baldy, in front of store. Doug joined with us over 2 hours talking about local restaurants in Inland Empire, American Indian history, to SR-71 spy plane. The conversation was so much fun to listen to. Doug convinced them to start hiking local mountains and climb Whitney next year. Doug got busy at store and the couple offered a ride to other hikers to Lone Pine. This maybe a secret to stay young mentally and physically. What a precious time I got today.!!! https://photos.app.goo.gl/ZKgTzqYytfZBrcs27 Have a great hike.
Great having time chat and catch up on Baldy. The best part of the store is the ability to meet so many people and each has a story! Ok so have you ever talked with a person that sales seconds of time on n a satellite? Or the most traveled person of the world? And just last week a young man was going to travel the world with no money just asking for food? (This one might not end well,but that in itself would be a story) Well could you believe that the 30-40 lost keys would have a battery that the guy needed and got his car started? But the Audi with the low coolant light wouldn't start and the tow back to LA $ 3000 ,if course it was a month old why would you expect a car to last forever.
Baldy got some snow but not much at all. Mt. Baldy road --- dry Manker flat to Ski hut/Rock garden --- dry Tree section to the ridge --- thin & icy snow (microspike - down) South facing slope to 9300ft --- dry 9300ft to summit --- thin snow (microspike) It was very cold and windy at the summit today. Many trees were covered with ice early in the morning.
There will be heavy snow in the middle of the week so the trail condition will be completely different from this week.
Please check out https://10064ft.com for most current Mt. Baldy road and trail conditions with Live Cams. The cite was created by Pavel aka "Mayor of Mt. Baldy. Thank you Pavel for all your great work.
Last week storm brought some snow and tree new fallen trees on the trail. Manker flat parking lot: Well maintained. Manker to Ski hut: 60% of trail was dry. Bowl: Main bowl - thin snow, West bowl: Moderate snow (Please be careful about shooting rocks starting around 10:00 so hike through the bowl early in the morning. There were many rockfalls from the peaks from right of west bowl. One group was almost got hit. They picked a wrong route on a wrong time of the season with a wrong condition of snow.) To Summit: Good consolidated snow with some fallen ice from trees. It was so windy and cold at the summit on Saturday. Gordon, a volunteer, was sawing off a huge fallen tree near Skihut with a huge saw. He really knew hot to cut a tree right. Thank you, Gordon for your hard work.
Manker Flat parking: It was well maintained. To 7400ft: Mostly dry To Ski hut: Microspike will be helpful. Main Bowl: Thin snow. The multiple poor tracks were established on center left side same direct line of rockfalls in the groove of slope. No track was established on center left. Many rockfalls were seen after 9:30. The rock tumbled down through the groove/channel then spread out every direction from the middle of bowl down. West Bowl: No visible track. Good snow condition. Rock garden to the summit: Solid snow.
Hi-light: The hiking twin and their father were on Baldy.
Observation: Many hikers were climbing with microspikes on the thin not well established poor shallow snow track on very steep slope of bowl. Some people were bragging about taking chances. One solo hiker was climbing with flimsy summer shoes with loosely fit crampons and holding the shaft of ice axe and leaning into the slope all the time. I ended up escort out this hiker after seeing the hiker lost balance and skidded several occasions. One group left one of member in the middle of the bowl. Two separate individual hikers with totally covered with all expensive gears and clothing demanding other climbers to make a room for them. One situation, a well cladded climber demand to make a room for him even though there was a hiker slipped in distressed mode on the track 5 feet away. I felt that if he thought that he was capable than other climbers he should make own track and climb on. No words of assistance or help from the guy. It wasn't a good day for me. I wish we could learn more about basic skills, trail curtesy, and common sense. Sierra club should put a big sigh for the safety of winter snow hike and climb in front of Skihut.
I ran into the Super hiking twins again, (Matthew, Arabella, and their father Sean) today. Today was their 51st Baldy hike. Congratulations.!!
There was a warning sign for extreme alpine conditions prepared by National Forest Service at the junction of the fire road and Baldy bowl (Ski hut) trail. The main bowl (south facing) has many prominent deep channels (covered with thin snow in the picture) where all rocks fall and travel down with extreme speed and spread or fan out all directions from middle of bowl to the bottom. A few hikers got hit and injured and being helicoptered out two weeks ago. It's good to climb out the bowl before 10:00 when the snow is stable. It's better to watch out each other among your team or other hikers. It may be a good idea to remove earphones while climbing the bowl. West bowl (east facing) has much more snow than the main bowl but peaks on the right are very active rockfall area.
More snow is in the forecast this week. The snow condition will be completely different.
Mt. Baldy got a fresh snow last Saturday. New snow wasn't consolidated at all. Microspikea and trekking poles were very helpful. Crampons were helpful above 8200 feet. There were millions of cars along Mt. Baldy road during the day and bumper to bumper traffic from bottom of the mountains to Ski resort area.
Manker parking: It was in very good condition but icy. White gate area: It was very icy early in the morning. To Ski hut: Hard pack snow and some sections were icy. Rock garden to the ridge: Hard packed snow. But new snow was soft. Main bowl: It was covered with new snow but soft and no grip at all. No track was established. Saw few were trying to go up. West bowl: Fresh snow on top of old hard now. No track was established. Ridge to 9500 feet: Solid new snow. Some area was icy. To the summit: Hard packed snow. Some sections of trail got covered with spin drift. Sumit area was icy. It was very cold and the wind was very strong. All trees beyond 9300 feet were covered with ice. It was too cold to stay longer at the summit today. But it was very beautiful.
People have called me a kook for claiming that Baldy is more dangerous than most of the Sierra...
This story reminds me that Secor took a screamer down that face...
The Climbing Community down there needs to put a little more effort into spreading the word that WIND AND FREEZING RAIN AND MELT/FREEZE CYCLES MAKE CLIMBING REALLY, REALLY DANGEROUS!!!!!
2 dead and we're barely 3 weeks into winter...sad.
Maybe it's time for an permit and safety check-in like on Rainier...
A long time friend Laura Wong posted on her facebook page with details of the accident. Please read her report. I have suggested each mountain has a general area where most accidents happen , history tends to support this , add a list of events, actions and conditions and a accident is not if but when.
Skill/ experience would tend to reduce this risk but often these same skills and ability mask the risk or the risk is taken to a higher level.
That day when ... please we have all that feeling today is not the day or the conditions are not stable or the hold looks a little weak, the last placement was ... Come back for another day.
Thank you for always sharing your kindness and wisdom, Doug. We always feel the comradeship of the climbing/hiking community with you up there at the Whitney Portal Store.
In response to the fatal accident on Mt Baldy, January 8th, 2023.
First and foremost deepest condolences to Crystal’s family and friends. She seemed a vibrant force in the community and her positive energy will be missed in the mountains. I hope you find some peace knowing she was surrounded by people who also shared a similar love for wild places, and who did all we could to save her. Please reach out to get the help you need to grieve.
Second, I would like to acknowledge all of those involved who rendered care. To the Physician on the mountain who led a heroic effort to preserve life by initiating the CPR response. Under his guidance, I was the woman who initiated compressions when vitals were loss. The Physician truly exceeded the standard of care under dire circumstances for several hours. To the Accountant who calmly read off time intervals during our CPR response. To my two friends who jumped in the CPR rotation so we could sustain the effort for as long as we did —intermittently for close to two hours. To everyone who responded under dangerous conditions, helping lower Crystal in the liter out of the bowl and to the Hut, all while being pelted by rock & icefall. It was one of the strongest displays of community and compassion in efforts to save one of our own.
Third, for our climbing community: -Consider taking a Wilderness First Aid or Wilderness First Responder course if you are often in the backcountry. CPR is exhausting to sustain for extended periods of time, and the help from others was greatly appreciated. Sometimes you and your friends are the only help until advanced life support arrives; consider being prepared to help others when needed.
-Minimum helmet, ice axe, crampons & solid mountaineering skills with risk-management consideration when tackling an unforgiving objective such as the Baldy Bowl in Winter conditions.
-Please be kind in your comments as the ones left behind are the ones reading. Be safe and take good care of each other.
Please look at the 4th and 5th picture of the 01-07-2023 album. Many climbers were direct line of rock and ice falls or avalanche. It is a very good idea to avoid climbing in congested line. It is almost impossible to avoid rock or ice falls. They hit you like a shotgun blast.
It is a good idea to climb with a few members in a team watching each other for safety by taking turn, while one climbing up, other stop and watch for the falling objects if one sees them coming down warn others. Climb like a inchworm fashion. Some climbers are yelling and screaming out every loud totally something else. This kind of NOISE confuse other hikers. It is a good idea to maintain safe distance among the team member or other teams or climber. I have experienced that one climber was climbing too close and bumped in a climber ahead of him, he fell and went down the slope. Nobody could stop him.
I have seen many groups congregate in the middle of bowl. It is hard to move around to avoid if rock or ice shooting down towards them.
Some people stop and change microspike to crampon or adjusting crampons or changing clothes in the middle of the bowl. It is very hard to make even small adjustments on anything under cold and windy conditions on icy steep slope. It takes longer and harder to do. Try not to stop in bowl climbing. The sooner you climb out, it is safer for you.
It is a very good idea to prepare the bowl climb at Ski-hut for installing crampons properly, choosing right clothing for the condition, getting some snacks for hard climb up, putting sunscreen on, go to outhouse....... Once you step out from Ski-hut, just focus to keep on climbing up and get up to the middle of the bowl as soon as possible then mentally process the remaining bowl climb which is steeper and icier.
I have seen and experienced many situations where many people were encouraging other people to climb or hike even though other people didn't have a gear or experience or will. Encouraging other people is good things but it is depending on the situations.
The team leader should be responsible for individual members safety for the entire day. Any member shouldn't be left behind.
I always check the weather pattern, before or after, of hiking day. I will prepare my hike depending on the weather. No hiking on rainy days, snowy days, super windy days, or changing weather pattern days.
For many advanced hikers or mountaineers, my personal opinion sounds silly, but these are the personal opinions based on my past experience. I hope these things may help to enjoy the mountains a bit better. Myself, I am a weekend hiker living at sea level with no formal training of any kinds, so I am very careful about safety for me and people who I hike with. I want to go home safely and have a nice dinner at the end of the day.
I now most often refrain from talking to hikers on Baldy who are slipping in microspikes or heading to the hut in tennis shoes. I have found that most don't want to hear what I have to say and the few that let me speak always say, "I'm OK." The forest service is trying to spread the word with the large yellow and black sign at the ski hut TH, but people attempting the bowl in micros and the aforementioned sneaker wearing hikers last weekend, saw it and continued on.
There are large number of inexperienced or mildly experienced hikers, who are like you said, completely unaware of the melt/freeze cycle and what harsh winds do to snow. I can only imagine they think the snow they see on Baldy (or anywhere for that matter) is the soft fluffy stuff that fell from the sky. They are not aware that with certain conditions snow becomes ice. It breaks my heart when I hear of another unprepared hiker getting into trouble or worse. I doubt our local forest service has the manpower and funds to initiate and monitor a permit system like the national parks and the Inyo.
Education is the answer, but how do you educate these wanna be mountaineers. I hear over and over on social media to learn from a friend and don't spend the money for a mountaineering course. Of course if I have the time, I comment to please buy and read Freedom of The Hills and yes, take a mountaineering course from a reputable eastside guide service. I can't stress enough that the money spent on a snow travel/mountaineering course is "priceless" when you consider it's skills you will learn to save your life.
Thank you Laura for providing some details of Crystal’s accident. Kudos to you and the other volunteers that rendered care and providing the gallant CPR efforts. Also thanks for the wise climbing-community recommendations for anyone heading up Mt Baldy or any other mountains. My condolences to Crystal’s family and friends. RIP Crystal. Rick G
More sad news; British actor Julian Sands missing on Mt Baldy. Last seen on Jan 13th (Friday) 2023 in the Baldy Bowl area. Another hiker is missing in the Mt Islip area. https://ktla.com/news/local-news/actor-julian-sands-missing-in-mt-baldy-area/?ipid=promo-link-block1 I was up on Baldy that day (Friday 13th) and did the 3-Pin Alley slope. I choose 3-Pin Alley because there was lots of ice-chucks coming down the center routes from the rhyme-ice trees that rim the top of the Bowl. The conditions on 3-Pin Alley were as difficult as I’ve ever seen; with very hard pack snow and a glaze of ice on top. There were very strong winds coming from the West. I hiked down the Ski Hut Trail and there was one tricky section on the off-camber slope above the airplane wreckage ~9500’. It was hard to descend this section even in crampons. Descending this section in micro-spikes would have been extra spicy. Here are my photos https://grahamcracker.smugmug.com/2023/Baldy-3-Pin-Alley-Friday-the-13th-Jan-2023/ Here are the folks I saw that day: a. I saw 2 climbers heading up one of the Western chutes (maybe Hourglass or Girlyman) @ ~9:00am. They summited before me. b. I saw 1 set of fresh crampon tracks on the upper portion of the Devil’s Backbone trail near the summit ~10:45am. I didn’t see anyone else heading up the right-side of the Bowl, so I figured these tracks were from someone that came up Register Ridge, but never saw the person that made these tracks. I didn’t see anyone on the summit @10:50am c. Saw 2 hikers (both men w/ microspikes) coming up the Ski Hut Trail at about ~9400 @ 11:20am d. Saw 2 hikers (both women w/ microspikes) coming up the Ski Hut Trail at about ~9200’ @ 11:25am e. Saw 1 hiker (male) on the Ski Hut Trail in the trees below the West Ridge ~8800’ @ 11:30am f. Saw 3 climbers heading up either Zen or Procrastination Chute @11:45am. I believe they cleared the chute by ~12:15pm g. a group of 4 Asian hikers at the Ski Hut. h. I didn’t see any other hikers below the Ski Hut and got back to the car by ~1:00pm I didn’t see any of the climbers face-2-face and didn’t see anyone that I recognized as Julian. As others have said, Mt Baldy can offer very challenging & serious conditions in the Winter time. Stay safe and take care, Rick G
Thanks for the excellent report, Rick. Answered many questions raised by the media reports on the Julian Sands case. Wonder why the authorities in charge of the SAR have not called on people who were on Baldy that day to report what they saw. Also wonder why it took so long to find Sands' car. If he was reported missing Friday evening, you would think that searching Manker Flats on Saturday morning would have been a no-brainer.
I started hiking Baldy again in January 2010 after an absence of 32 years, and was stunned by the number of people. In the 1970's, the number of people who went above the snowline in the winter was much smaller, and it was not called 'hiking'.
I read Shin's 12/18/22 post, and thought 'this is the Star Wars Bar crowd in Baldy Bowl'.
Hi Edw, I have seen and experienced many situations beyond our common sense. Unfortunately, we tend to emphasize our successful adventure rather than the actual experience of pains and suffering or failure or shortness of skills. We are so accustomed to denying the reality. So, we never learn from our past experiences. It is very hard to change our culture. But, we can help each other to improve ourselves on the tail rather than the after the accident happen. Some people may give you a nasty attitude back to you. Ignore them. At least, you did a right thing to prevent a thing happens.
Trail conditions on Ski hut trail early in the morning: Fire road to Ski hut: Hard packed deep snow and some sections were icy. There were three small scale of avalanche with ice from Register ridge hillside. ( Microspike or crampons and poles are recommended.) Main bowl: Icy. No track. 12 climbers went up right hand side in single file on avalanche line. West bowl: 3 climbers on Hourglass chute direction. Ski hut to the west ridge: Hard packed/frozen snow. Icy. The west ridge to 9200 feet: Hard packed deep snow. 9200-9400 feet: Very icy. One section of trail was very dangerous. West facing hill was frozen solid. 9500-summit: All trees were covered with ice. Large chunk of ice everywhere. The summit area was frozen solid all directions and super strong wind from west. The wind was gusting over 40 mph. I couldn't stand up straight for a long time. I had to kneel down to avoid being blown. It was very cold. https://photos.app.goo.gl/dV3jyHDaGmd4ABZC8
I've carried a SPOT since they released Gen 1. I don't even remember when that was.
Funny thing is, the one time I REALLY would have liked to send out an OK, it had died... (not batteries) the company was cool in replacing it for free. They also had no interest in publishing the story I sent them about the failure...(Is there an emoji for gutless?)
I bought and still carry a SPOT Gen 2. Not only to call for a rescue, but to prevent an unnecessary and embarrassing SAR operation by sending an OK, if I am running late. Is the Baldy area still a dead zone for cell phones? I have not been on Baldy for some time. If my wife called and left a message, my phone would not ring until I was nearly back to Upland.
I wonder if Sands had both a helmet and a satellite-based SOS device. If you have both, I would estimate the chances of surviving a fall and calling for rescue to be at least fair.
The office said it was working with legislators to try to secure more funding for the USFS in order to implement a permit process for local hikers and boost wilderness education.
You down south people better start getting involved in this (with your input)...
This ought to scare you even more: ...former Sheriff John McMahon to meet with members of Congress about increasing weather closures...
(Redacted some comments about gov't overreach...something along the lines of stupid people making decision on things they know nothing about...)
Mt. San Jacinto State Park has closed the upper part of the Skyline Trail. See the Mt. San Jacinto Discussion Board.
Something should be done about winter 'hiking' in Southern California. But perhaps the forest service could start with less expensive measures, such as writeups on winter hazards and volunteer rangers.
The biggest problem I have with closures is that inexperienced people will give them a binary interpretation. I.e., when an area is not closed, they will think it is safe.
There were two signs saying, "Icy trails Hiking Not Advised." along Mt. Baldy Road. The fire road to the Notch was roped up and closed at the junction of Baldy Bowl/Ski hut trail. There was another warning sign for Alpine condition of the mountain. I was hiking solo, so I joined with Yi, Bill, and Rick for an entire day. The trail was covered with consolidated snow and some sections were very icy early in the morning. Some climbers went up east side of bowl with dogs. There were several climbers and skiers in the bowl. I didn't feel comfortable to stay long at Ski hut listening and watching what was going on. It may be a good idea that Politian, officers of parks and forest service, and SAR member to listen in at Ski hut what kind of conversations are exchanged among hikers and climbers or watch how peoples are preparing for the winter snow hike or climb. They may get a clear idea about the real situation of mountains.
We ran into a rescue operation of a snowboarder broke his leg being supported by a Ski hut host waiting for rescue helicopter in the Rock Garden at the bottom of west bowl. Two helicopters took part in the operation.
It bothers me beyond words that people are taking their dogs up there during such a dangerous conditions. If they want to put themselves in danger that’s their choice but taking their fur babies is just so irresponsible.
That is an impressive chunk of ice, Shin. Ski Hut conversations so scary it pains you to listen? Perhaps volunteer rangers there would dampen it down.
I have wondered about the dogs I have seen on Baldy in the winter. Perhaps four legs and claws provide a great deal of traction. But I have known dogs who were afraid of heights, and others afraid of slippery floors.
Please check www.10064ft.com for Mt. Baldy road and trail head conditions. Pavel, aka, "Mayor of Mt. Baldy", added 3 more live cameras. Camera 1) Fire Dept/Post office (4180 ft) Camera 2) Ice House intersection (5000 ft)-- NEW Camera 3) Ice House parking (5200 ft) Camera 4) Ice House trailhead (5200 ft)--NEW Camera 5) Big Butch crossing (5980 ft)-- NEW Camera 6) Harwood Lodge near Manker flat (6000 ft) Camera 7) Ski hut/Baldy Bowl (8200 ft) Out of Order now There will be several sever snowstorms with 4-7 feet of snow in the forecast. The camera shows CHP cruiser in camera 2 this morning. CHP usually controls the traffic for snow chains, 4x4... at the intersection above the dam in heavy snow season.
Thank you, Pavel, for adding more cameras for our safety.
Hey Thanks Shin for the update on the webcams ,if used they can front load people on conditions and understand conditions plus all the great reports that you and others due. These systems moving in the next few days will be placing snow over a layer of hard pack/ice so watch for wind loading and unsafe conditions PLUS whiteout conditions.
RJ Secor basically sealed his fate from a slide in Baldy Bowl and Baldy has claimed many people who are naïve about how bad alpine conditions can be. I suppose such proximity to a huge semi tropical city is a big draw for people with a desire for something adventurist. I'm from New England and Mount Washington can be a really dangerous place anytime from October through May and especially in mid winter, While occasional poorly equipped people try winter ascents, most are scared off by the time they reach timberline. In my early days I climbed it many times including winter and in those times nobody would dare venture above treeline with real crampons. Instep spikes or microspikes just don't cut it on steep icy slopes. As for Katahdin, park officials won't even allow you to go there in winter without undergoing park ranger approval for a winter climb. By western standards, both these mountains are just hills, but weather makes all the difference. From what I see on this forum, Baldy is mostly a benign place for hiking and is often rather welcoming in average winters. But this year, people would do well to treat it like Mount Washington.
All trails on Mt. Baldy remain closed and no reopening date has been set by Angeles National Forest officials.
Many hikers train for Mt. Whitney hike on Mt. Baldy. Many of us already applied for the permits. We will lose our training ground for a while. In order to keep Baldy shape, my friend and I hiked on Old Mt. Wilson trail in city of Sierra Madre off Baldwin Avenue off-ramp on 210 Freeway. Chantry flat trailhead and parking lot was closed. This trail offers us over 14 miles and elevation gain of over 5100 feet in very scenic and well maintained with very moderate incline trail covered with trees. There was solid snow with 2-3 feet deep above 4500 feet. There were several fallen trees on service road near the summit. The last 1.3-mile section of trail was diverted on to service road and this made the last portion of hike very long. We had some drizzle, mist, heavy fog, cold wind, snow....all in very moderate conditions. There was a remain of avalanche and rockslide in one canyon below 5000 ft. Overall the trail was very well maintained, well-marked, and enjoyable. This trail offers us same kind of workout as Bear canyon hike on Mt. Baldy. This trail will keep us in shape till Mt. Baldy reopen.
Shin, thanks for the conditions update on the Mt Wilson Trail. This trail is a gem with a significant history. I've been hiking it regularly since the 1980's (as well as Baldy since the 1950's).
The Mt Wilson Trail Gate, sign, and wrought iron fence (in your photo) were built last year by funds contributed by the citizens of Sierra Madre. It is a replica of a structure that stood there a century ago.
The wooden bridge under construction (in your photo) is the work of Sierra Madre volunteers. The next work outing by the volunteer Trail Crew is March 26. It will meet at Lizzie's Trail Inn at 7AM. Donations for the Trail Crew's equipment purchase can be sent to the Fletcher Trail Maintenance Fund at PO Box 716 Sierra Madre, CA 91025, a 501(c)(3), tax-exempt organization.
The structures/telescopes up on top (covered in snow in your photos) are linked to the construction of the observatory on the summit of Mt Whitney built in 1909 (by the citizens of Lone Pine with some funding from the Smithsonian Institution). The Smithsonian effort was lead by Dr Abbot, director of the Mt Wilson Observatory, Professor MacAdie, and Dr Campbell.
Enjoy the Trail.
Jim
PS- The rattlesnakes on the lower part of the Trail will be waking up soon.
Hi Shin, Thanks for the info on the MWT. Below is postedfrom the Angels National Forest website doesn't look like they have a Baldy Closure in place... just an advisory... Date(s): Mar 2, 2023 Advisory--Hiking at High Elevations Hiking at high elevations (Mt Baldy, Icehouse Canyon, Mt Islip, etc.) in winter/spring requires experienced mountaineering skills and is not recommended for those unprepared for extreme conditions that can change very quickly.
Consider both your safety and the safety of rescuers.
The following is strongly recommended when accessing areas with extreme alpine conditions, e.g., Mt. Baldy & Icehouse Canyon areas, Mt. Islip, etc.
Thanks to Shin for the trip report, and to Jim and Rick for the information.
The last time I hiked the Mount Wilson Trail was in February 2010. Not quite as much snow, but plenty, it was a wet winter. Had the trail pretty much to myself on the way up, but encountered hordes of people coming down. I believe the trail was closed soon after, due to washouts. Perhaps this will occur again, soon. I calculated the elevation gain as 4800', but I do see reports of more. Iron Mountain would be the ultimate conditioner.
The hiking advisory that Shin mentioned a few weeks ago still flashes on Mt Baldy Rd, but there was no trail closure sign at the trailhead. In 20 years of winter hiking on Baldy I've never seen so much snow. It was ~3' on the paved part of the road, ~6-7' on the Ski Hut Trail, but only ~3' on the summit (the signs were visible). I carried snowshoes, crampons, and axe but only used poles and microspikes because there was a boot track the whole way. I started hiking at 9:30, and the snow was terrific (though tiring) to the summit and back down to the ski hut. But the stretch below the hut had softened considerably by the afternoon, and I postholed a number of times. That seemed preferable to snowshoes on that narrow, uneven part of the trails (I basically followed the summer trail up and a lower trail down to avoid that semicircular bit of the trail that sees snow and rock fall). So in this snow it's probably wise to get an early start, although who knows what the mountain will be like if 1-2" of rain actually falls tomorrow?
This is a trail condition of 03-12-20023. Ski hut host offered us a strip of hot bacon and brownie in the morning and one nice couple offered us a hot fresh coffee on the way down. It was a very good day but a long day.
There was 1-5 feet of snow from 100 yard behind the trailhead white gate to the summit. Snow was crusty on top and very soft underneath. It may be caused by the heavy rain from last week. The trail surface was uneven with many deep foot holes as deep as 3 foot deep. Ice axe or trekking poles without big baskets were useless. I lost my footing twice, one time with waist deep near Ski hut. The snow near the creek of Ski hut started to form snow bridge. The creek was running strong; snow must be melting fast.
There was an avalanche on westside ridge. There should be more now by now. The trail was total mess on the way down with soft deep snow. Snowshoes was the best gear for hiking down.
The trail will be more difficult to deal because of recent snow and rain.
Brent mentioned that he was glad he was wearing snowshoes and felt like he was descending in the carpool lane as he was quickly passing those in boots who were post-holing. I did not get up there today, but with the new snow forecasted for this week, I bet snowshoes will again be the preferred mode of transportation. Maybe I will see you there next Saturday. Regards! Norma
The weather was very unstable on Baldy today. It was raining, snowing, windy, and cold. The weather got worsened by 6 hours earlier than the forecast. I didn't have proper clothing, so we turned around. Snow was very heavy beyond Ski hut and several signs of avalanches in the bowl. Many people turned around. There were some hikers and skiers. San Dimas volunteer SAR members were training. I had a chance to speak with one member. She responded back to me very politely for my very pointed questions. There aren't any good solutions for curtailing the accidents on the mountains.
Snow or weather conditions changes every minute so there is no good answer for what to carry or what to wear. The snow condition is good for skier is not good for average hikers or ice climbers. Snow condition is good for advanced mountaineer is totally fatal to average weekend hikers. We get the information about the condition of mountains from different sources and apply to ourselves without knowing who is talking about the conditions.
Last week, many skiers enjoyed the soft snow, but it was a hell for average weekend hikers. Ski hut host told us that there were hikers with microspike heading up to the summit 4 P.M. last week. There was a big, heated words of exchange between elite climbers and one local hiker made a suggestion to them about the unsafe conditions of mountains. Nothing will change.!!
Last storm left more snow on Mt. Baldy. It was very cold but not much wind except the summit. My water bladder's mouthpiece got frozen and no water for a half day. Manker flat: 2-3-foot-deep snow and limited parking space. From trailhead to the summit: 2-6 foot deep of snow. It was well consolidated in the morning. There was a spur trail led you up to right hand side hill following the skier's track keep you 30-50 feet higher than regular trail below around 7700 feet. The track was solid but traveled on very steep snow slope. It was a better idea to stay low. There was a large-scale snow slide and occasional ice falls from up above. From Ski hut to the summit: There was a well-established single-track trail traveling along the left side of west bowl. There was no track was established on regular tree section of summer trail. Thank you, Brent and other hikers, for post-holing and set the safe track for us.
There were two or three climbing parties went up the chutes and the bowl and saw one snowboarder went down very steep chute. They started very early in the morning when the snow was very stable. Most of hikers were well prepared. Everyone seemed having good time. There were many people including newlywed couple enjoining the snow. Manker flat parking was congested as usual on weekend. I got a strip of bacon at Ski hut again. Thank you, Dan White. I met many longtime friends and WPSMB members, Jay, Randy S.... I met super nice young hikers preparing for Sierra season. We agreed on Mt. Baldy is the best mountain for training with the least amount of money.
Hi CatB, It's so nice to hear from you. Mt. Baldy got more snow than last week. If you are interested in hiking again, please let me know.
Manker flat parking lot was almost full around 6:30. Most of fire road was very icy early in the morning. The snow on west facing hillside of Register ridge trail up to San Antonio canyon down slid down in many steep canyons. The trail was well established on consolidated snow to Ski hut. There were many snow slides on the face of bowl. Snow was in good condition for Skiers, snowboarders, climbers, and hikers depend on the route they chose. I took the route between Schitzo alley and 3 pin alley line which I can avoid rock/ice falls and it was the most direct route to the summit. The snow got soft very fast late morning and some sections of trail got many spur tracks everywhere. It got hard to go down between 9000ft to 8600 ft and some below Ski hut. One long travers in the tree section around 8400ft exiting down on west bowl was bit intimidating because of deep soft snow on long steep hillside. I traveled as fast as possible. It is a good idea to start as early as possible to enjoy good snow. https://photos.app.goo.gl/CGPfvFcCN7sM89CC8 Have a great hike.
Snow and trail conditions were pretty much same as last weekend. But, the snow conditions got much poorer by recent high temperature. From the San Antonio fall to the summit was covered 1–5-foot-deep solid snow. Snow gets very soft late morning, and it was very hard to hike up or down. It is better to start early to enjoy the snow hike. There were many hikers, snowboarders, and Skiers in the bowl or different chutes. Some group started around 2:30 a.m. at Manker to climb the bowl. We took a line between Schitzo/3 pin alley to avoid heavy traffic in main bowl. There were many dogs on the mountains. We ran into "Hiking twins" and their father on the trail. They looked very good and enjoying the hike. I got hit by a sizable rock on my thigh in the middle of creek crossing above the Ski hut. The place was the most unthinkable place something to happen. A rock flew down from the creek above without any sound. I was fine but sore thigh. It seemed like a getting a speeding ticket 100 yards away from home. https://photos.app.goo.gl/Qfetobtg47NwcEUQ9
Have a great hike and watch out a flying rock in spring time.
Hey sorry about the rock kinda watch the area for internal bleeding. Watching the snow clear on the mountains down there so should be a mess for awhile. We are just starting with a few warm days ,but snow fighting back at about 7000' on the north facing slopes.
Snow is melting very fast. But there was still 1-4-foot-deep snow from 7700 to the summit. All the good tracks from last week were disappeared by melting snow. The trail from Ski hut to the west ridge still traveled from left side of bottom of west bowl. Snow is still very deep and trail was messed up. No track on regular summer trail in the tree section to the west ridge. Most of early hikers went up Zeke's chute following the glissade line with good track established by skier's heavy boots. There were many skiers at the top edge of the bowl and waiting for the moment. Some went down to deep Goode canyon to the west. Snow got very soft late morning. All tracks were destroyed from 9200-8700. We glissaded down very slowly in controlled speed. There were many hikers glissaded down in main bowl. It may take a few more weeks to see the regular hiking trail.
Hi Shin, Great Pics as usual.... Hopefully I'll be able to do Baldy in a week or 2. Recovering from a torn meniscus. One note and I'm sure Doug will chime in also. Glissading with crampons on is a potential disaster. A hiker several years ago almost bled to death after stabbing his leg in a major artery. Remove your crampons prior to your slide. See you soon. Safe and Happy hiking. Rick
Very surprised to see people glissading with crampons on. It is a basic no-no. And photographing it from below? Yes, I know it may be a slow under-control glissade. But that is a bit like running a stop sign because you see no traffic on the cross-street.
Hi Ric and Edw and many others, I expected your concerns about glissading with crampons. We glissaded the channel of 1-2-foot deep soft snow on top of base layer of snow on the south facing slope of elevation 9200-8700 with 2 sections. I raised my both feet up in the air to avoid touching the snow. This wasn't the case of slip and fall on icy steep slope and failing self-arrest and ended up in the fashion of glissading down or daring climbers using aggressive ice axe running down the icy slope ended up on glissading. If I ended up in this situation, should I change from crampons to mocrospike in the middle of the situation? I am not talking about this situation.
Before we glissaded down, we discussed all about what to expect from glissading and its consequences. The key factor is the snow condition which provides good friction to controls the decent. Many people think how fast they can come down on steep slope. Their mind is occupied with speed , NOT us. We didn't do it in the careless manner at all. One of our friend didn't have micorspike. Some used pole not ice axe. We tried to practice all our skills under controlled manner, NOT on the actual situations. Thank you very much for your safety concerns.
We were glissading down Mt. Bradley in the Sierras once. Perfect conditions. Glissading down a chute we had ascended in the morning. Broad, deep snow, no rocks showing. I was the second person, about 30 yards above the first. I looked up and around to enjoy the view. When I looked down again, the first person, Dave, was at the bottom of the chute and the size of an ant. He had clearly hit a patch of ice we had not seen. I rolled over and self-arrested. Then stood up and tried to warn the people above, by shouting and waving. No good, I was standing below a concave curve in the chute. People rocketed past me in various stages of uncontrol. One person, a peanut-size woman, was doing cartwheels in the air as she passed me. Fortunately, no one was injured. If we had been wearing our crampons, some would have been.
I climbed with RJ Secor in those days, he was about 19 years old. In those days, we used our crampons less and changed them more, because they did not have anti-balling plates.
Even if the conditions for glissading with crampons were safe, I would be concerned about the example it sets for onlookers who don't have the same experience and judgement.
Hi Edw, I removed all glissading pictures out of my photo albums. This is what I can do. Please do not make a comment about my case anymore. Please do not quate or compare my case with other cases. If I have caused a negative effect to the community, I will apologize. I don't feel comfortable at all. If I drive through a red traffic light, I will go to the court in Lone Pine and pay the ticket. I won't make any more ignorant trip report in the future. Have a great hike.
Hi Doug, Please block my post from now on. I might have irritated many WPSMB members. Thank you very much for your kind friendship for many years. Shin
No need for an apology, Shin. It is a matter of opinion, that is what discussion boards are for. I have no doubt that your glissade was safe, I was only concerned about the conclusions a less experienced climber might draw. You are the heart of Snow Conditions on Baldy, and I think everybody who follows it is very grateful to you for your posts, and looks forward to the next one.
Hi Doug, Please block my post from now on. I might have irritated many WPSMB members. Thank you very much for your kind friendship for many years. Shin
Shin you keep posting. You did nothing wrong. I feel some others overstepped this topic and stepped on you. You posts are informative and used by many.
Hey Shin I use my 24 hour rule and if rattledI don't post on a topic ,this is one of those times .You have expressed what your group was doing and now others have commented. This topic pops up and the same discussions .Don't take the discussion personal.For People renting/purchasing crampons they have the responsibility to establish when and how the product is used.
One of the things I like about Shin's posts is that he does comment on issues of safety and courtesy, as well as snow conditions and great photos. I think that is appropriate on a discussion board, and not to be discouraged.
Every moment of every day we calculate risk. [Insert list of everything here, from free soloing to getting out of bed.] And everyone has their own summations which they measure against their own thresholds. Most of us on here know the flexibility of those thresholds, and know when to extend them and when to contract them. These are personal and individual decisions, just like someone watching someone do something risky: they in turn must decide to follow suit within their own parameters.
This idea that an experienced individual in the wilderness, who makes a decision based on their own risk assessment, is "wrong" is dangerous in itself. Was it informed? Yes. Was it risky? Yes. Was it illegal? No.
Comparing it to running a stop sign is fallacious. Running a stop sign and risking the life of an innocent and unaware individual is both reckless and illegal. Putting the shame of endangering others on Shin because he glissaded with crampons on is not even remotely the same thing. The concern about "the example it sets for onlookers who don't have the same experience and judgement," and the pervasive worry about others mimicking behavior to their own detriment is neither Shin's responsibility nor a valid argument against his decision. I am not my brother's keeper.
Laws exist to (hopefully) protect the innocent. No experienced individual making a personal (legal) choice should be held accountable for what an ignorant person chooses to do in a similar situation. Mountaineering and climbing are risky---and so is everything else in life. Should surfers should stop surfing, because someone who can't swim thinks "I can just hold onto the board?"
Shin is a model of safety, respect, and concern for others. He’s one of the last people who deserves any amount of shame.
And yes, Richard brings up Bob R’s crampon glissade accident. Was it a mistake? No, it was an injury as the result of a risk decision. (If I roll “snake eyes” in Vegas, is that a mistake?) And did he ever glissade with crampons on again? I will not answer that publicly, but ask me in person about when it either did or didn’t happen…
You’re a valued member of the MWSMB with your informative Baldy updates & photos. I’m sure you’ve inspired many folks to seek out nice adventures on Mt Baldy & the Sierra. Keep up the good work.
It’s said that going up a mountain is optional, but coming down is mandatory.
Regarding descending Mt Baldy with snowy conditions, you have a couple of options; hike down (w/ boots, microspikes, or crampons), glissade down, ski down, down-climb one of the chutes, etc. Each option has its own risks/rewards and every hiker/climber has to make their own judgement on how they are going to descend. Each hiker should use their best judgement, experience, training, reading the conditions, etc., to calculate their best choice.
Regarding glissading, as many have noted it’s generally recommended to not wear crampons while glissading as one can catch a point in the snow and then twist/break an ankle. This can happen if the snow is firmer and the slope is steep enough that it’s tricky to control the speed. I wouldn’t recommend anyone glissading the steep Baldy Bowl with crampons.
But as with most things, there are no absolutes. For example, if the snow is soft and the slope is not that steep (ie, some sections of the Mt Baldy summer trail around noon on a warm & sunny day). And sliding down this slope can be done slow & controlled, I’d say it’s as safe to glissade a soft slope with crampons on as letting some kid slide down a snow slope in an Oshkosh onesie.
I witnessed & can confirm that Shin & group descended safely, under control, and with minimal risk last Sunday. As usual, everyone stay safe, have fun and take care, Ricky G
Ps, Shin-san, don’t tell anyone about the Dang Queen Glissade Hour on 3-Pin Alley next Sunday…..Shhh, it’s a secret
Hey Shin, I don't post here very often...I do read the messages here daily and have for almost 20 years now. You have been a respected and honored presence here for a very long time and have been the unparalleled voice of experience for Mt. Baldy, as well as it's biggest ambassador. Rather than focus on one small incident that is marginally questionable, I'd like to point out the hundreds if not thousands of individuals who've benefitted from your knowledge and insight. You have, without a doubt, been instrumental in many people discovering and enjoying Baldy...and one can only guess at how many lives you may have saved over the years by providing timely up-dates about conditions and sage advice and cautions from someone who's qualifications have been earned and proven many times over. I, for one, hope you continue here in EXACTLY the same fashion. You would be an irreplaceable loss.
We've crossed paths on Baldy for many years now, and I've always been impressed with your helpful, kind, and knowledgeable advice. You've been a model of prudence and safety, and I'm sure you decided to glissade with crampons after considering the possible risks. For what's it worth, I glissaded down the west bowl Saturday in soft snow and thought the conditions ideal for a safe ride.
Hi Shin, First ... Keep posting... Your advice and instructions is the reason I hike Baldy. 2... Since I was the first to comment on the crampon glissading... it was not meant to critize you. As I said... it is a potentially dangerous activity which caused an serious injury that I witnessed. As you know... many first timers don equipment that they don't know how to use. Just trying to have the inexperienced gain some experience without learning the hard way. Again, Keep the posts coming. See you soon, Rick
Hi Shin, All good things have to end sometime. I enjoyed your photos, opinions, and advice.Most of all your regular posts created a little community and sustained momentum for hiking Mt Baldy for many people.I check these boards regularly and it hasn't been the same for several years even before covid. Have you considered Instagram? Best regards and good luck!
A different perspective on this issue: A lot of inexperienced folks read this forum to learn the very basics of mountain travel. Most have never seen a crampon, let alone put one on. It's one thing for experienced folks to describe glissading with crampons; quite another issue for the inexperienced newbie to think it's a normal way to descend. A short "Don't try this at home without experience" statement would have eliminated the controversy. The critical comments were appropriate.
I’ve been reading Shin’s posts forever, and I enjoy them. I only met Shin once, on the Mountaineers’ Route in 2010, I think. We were the two oldest climbers on the mountain. It was nice climbing with you. Please keep posting.
I don’t feel like debating safety issues today, but here is what I do and don’t do. I don’t like glissading. You can get hurt, ruin expensive clothes, and get your ass cold and wet when staying warm and dry should be a priority. I will only glissade when the snow is so deep and soft that walking down is a poor option. I think my last glissade was on Shasta with Happy Trails in 2016. I never glissade with crampons, ever. MICROspikes and other crampon substitutes are for walking on very low angle slopes. They aren’t for mountaineering. I’ve only used mine a few times in 35 years.
Regarding Bob Pickering's interesting comments on glissading:
Buy a sheet of Cordura from Seattlefabrics.com and have a tailor sew a seat patch on your pants. Wonderful for glissading, and sitting on snow, rocks and logs. The pants sold today for snow climbing certainly do look expensive and flimsy to me.
I have seen a number of glissading accidents. Worse yet, I once met a climber whose stomach looked like it had been operated on by Frankenstein with a dull hatchet. I noticed it while he was changing shirts at our campsite on the Shepherd Pass trail. When I discreetly inquired about the cause, he said it was done by his own ice axe on Shasta.
That said, I think a glissade can be safer than walking down, done properly under good conditions. For example, descending Baldy by the ridge, you have multiple opportunities to slip or trip, and if a forward fall takes you by surprise, you may not get your ice axe into cross-body position in time. But there are basics to glissading. I saw someone tear his hands to shreds on Williamson in the Sierras because he glissaded without gloves. According to the reports, RJ Secor was wearing slick pants and not wearing a helmet (not that we ever wore helmets back in the day, but they certainly make sense in many situations).
I interpreted Shin's request to Doug as removing one post, not retiring from Snow Conditions on Baldy. I certainly hope that is the case.
Hi Bob, Yes, we are getting old but we are still moving around. Snow is melting very first on Baldy. Manker to 8000 feet was mostly dry and summer trail was visible. Ski hut to the summit was very slushy deep snow. Rock garden and shoreline were very slushy deep snow. There was a solid 1-2-foot deep track on left hand side most slope of west bowl, straight up to west ridge was the best. Snow was very deep everywhere. 8700-9000 feet: Stay in glissading track. Harder base. Or, hope around sun cups ridges. 9000-9300 feet: Stay along the glissading track. A bit harder base. 9300-9500 feet: Stay close to the near the ridgeline of winter trail. West facing slope was very icy. The rest of the trail was hard enough for crampons or microspike to the summit. We practiced glissading with "microspike" on the same spots as last weekend. It was south facing long gentle slope with two catch basin on regular summer tail. Snow was slushy entire slope. We enjoyed our last snow hike. It better to hike down to Ski hut via from the west ridge to tree section is better than hiking down toward bowl slope.
We met the "Hiking Twins" and his father. Today was their 59th Baldy summit. I also met my long-time hiking friend Mac, WPSMB member. 5xBaldy/day hiker Brent was up there, too.
Snow is melting very fast. San Antonio waterfall was running very strong. To Ski hut: 99% free of snow. One falling tree blocking the trail around 7700 feet. There was 1-5-foot deep slushy snow from Ski hut to 9700 feet. There was an established good trail in the tree section along the summer trail. No need to go bottom of west bowl. From 8700-9300: There were many tracks and very deep footsteps. It was a total mess late morning. Snow was firm around summit mound. There weren't any visible tracks in other chutes in the bowl except Procrastination chute (very center chute) with relatively solid steps established on or along glissading tracks with much more consolidated base than other area. There was a sizable rock fall from the ridge above. Take turn to watch each other any falling rocks. There were many snow bridges or very deep voids around big rocks.
I ran into Gilbert(WPSMB) and his friend on the way down and had a nice visit. Ski hut was open with many guests. It is better to start hiking early to avoid slushy snow conditions. https://photos.app.goo.gl/a8oDeqijD62cVptP7
Thanks for this update and photos. Some friends are planning a summit attempt on Baldy soon. I told them to keep an eye out for your posts, as conditions seem to be changing quickly.
The extraordinary effort you make to share your experiences/observations with us is deeply appreciated.
Baldy got 1-3 foot of new snow last week. Fire road: Some snow to the Bowl trail junction. Icy on asphalt road early in the morning. To Ski hut: Mostly covered with good snow. Melted late morning on lower section. Ski hut to the summit: Good track was established on deep soft snow. But tree section to the west ridge was very deep and bad. The wooden sign was almost covered with recent snow. From 8700-9400 (south facing slope) Deep soft snow. Stay on same track to save your energy. From 9400-summit: Good track was established along the mouth of chutes looking over the bowl below. It is a very good idea to stay on same track especially on deep soft snow condition. This new snow has slide already in north west side of main bowl and upper part of main chutes area. We took Procrastination chute route. It provided us a good step with new soft snow bonded with good old snow base. It was very windy over 40 mph from northwest and cold. We had a very interesting weather in one day.
I drove up to LP on Thursday morning , rain from IE an turned to snow at top of I 15 for about 1/2 mile then dry from Victorville to LP . We had about inches at the closed gate , in the morning but dry at 2 pm and clear now to the store and around the loop so road is rock free and snow free, may ice around the portal in the shade as we get melt from the plowed snow banks. Gate still locked at the bottom but may open this week. Hey keep hinting on following the same track , using an existing track helps the next hikers and can save post holing and risking lower leg injuries. Also saves the effort of estabishing a fresh trail .
Hi Jim. Thank you very much for the kind words. I feel that I am very lucky to share the knowledge and experience I learned over the years from Doug Sr., Richard P., Rick G. Jeff M., and you, and many other hikers on this board with local hikers training for Mt. Whitney and other peaks in Sierra. I feel as if I am a driver of local commuter bus line, picking up customers and dropping off at their destinations and describing the outside scenery from the window on same bus line for many years. It sounds very boring but every hike is something special to me. I have been hiking solo or with whoever invited me or whoever wants to improve certain things mostly endurance, slow hiking, which I can assist. When they reach their goals, we go separate way. As long as I am invited by younger hikers, I will keep on hiking. Regular hiking keeps doctors away. Looking forward to seeing you soon. P.S. It's about 18 million steps (up&down) and about 3 million feet of elevation gain. There must be a better way to spend my time.
Snow is melting very fast. To Ski hut: completely dry. From Ski hit to bottom of tree section: Rock garden is still covered with 1-4 foot deep snow. Many big voids around rocks. Main bowl got very thin. West bowl had still good amount of snow. To west ridge: Solid single-track meandering the slope. Stay on the track to the summit. West ridge to 9200 feet : Large portion of south facing slope lost snow. Stay on right hand side of sandy slop to avoid slushy snow slope. West facing slope 9200-9400 : Entire west facing slope to Goode canyn was very hard icy old snow. Do not slip down. Around the summit: Most of recent snow was gone except old hard snow. Dowson, Pine, and Baiden Powell lost most of snow. Bear canyon direction: There was still good amount of snow from Narrow, West Baldy to Baldy. (Possible long post holing) There were several skiers and snowboarders on Baldy. Snow hiking season is almost done. I met a hiker carry 50 lb. pack training for Sierra. There were several people training for self-arrest and other snow skills. Snow got very slushy late morning. Snow season is about to over.
Hi, I would like to hike Register Ridge to the Summit this Saturday. Does anyone know how the snow conditions are on Register Ridge to the Summit? How is the Devil's backbone?
Is it safe with just spikes?
How about the Old Baldy Bear Canyon trail to the Summit?
I went up Register last Saturday (5/13). There was no snow until a quarter mile or so below the backbone, but it was solid from there to a bit above the backbone, and I used microspikes. I wanted to avoid that narrow bend in the backbone close to the saddle so I went up and over Harwood. No snow most of the way up Harwood or on the backbone until close to the summit of Baldy. You ought to be fine with microspikes; you don't mention hiking poles, but I always use them on Register.
Perhaps I'll see you tomorrow, as I'm planning on going up Register and down the Ski Hut Trail.
Hi Janet, My friend, Todd, hiked through Bear canyon today. Consolidate firm snow from Narrow to Badly summit. He used a bit more aggressive traction device (Hill sound) than micro spike. Many cars were parked in Baldy Village for Bear canyon hike early this morning. Register ridge looked completely dry. DBT had a small snow patch near Mt. Harwood. Ski hut trail still had solid snow from Rock Garden to the west ridge under tree section and 9300 to summit. Rest of the trail was dry. Snow got very slushy late morning. I met the hiking twins and their parents. They are super nice as usual. Today was their 60th Mt. Baldy summit. I met Sean, WPSMB member, and his team training for Mt. Whitney in late July. We had a nice visit. Many hikers are training for Mt. Whitney.
Team, this chat group and information is amazing. Need some insight.. My nephew and I have reservations for 6/29-6/30 for an overnight trip to the summit. I am 62, and in pretty good shape. Trained on Mt. San Antonio and regular hikes locally w/20-30 lb. backpack. Gear is no issue. We plan to do the switchback route to the summit. Using micro-spikes, and otherwise well prepared with gear and food. Spending one night at Consultation Lake, summiting the next AM, and then returning all the way back.
Any suggestions on the trail conditions currently or possibly expected to be like during last week of June? Do's and Don't? I signed up to this message board this week, but have been following for weeks.
Thank you all for any feedback. We love to hike, but this is our first Whitney attempt, and if we need to, we will turn around if it looks or we feel that the conditions are not something we can handle. Getting some feedback about the trail would be appreciated, now and until trip time.
My daughters and I will be camping at Whitney Portal when you and your nephew are planning to hike. We have Mt Whitney hiking permits then also. We are only prepared to summit provided the switchbacks are "open."
I follow this Message Board closely and just spent the last three days camping at Whitney Portal to acclimatize and to get first hand info on conditions, including talking to some people who were on the Mountain and listening carefully to what Doug Sr had to say.
Based on my current impression, we might walk up the Main Trail several miles on the day of our permit, as well as take hikes in the many interesting areas close by on the other days. However, we have no expectation that the switchbacks will be usable in late June this season.
One of my daughters has never been up the Main Trail, so any experience she gains can be useful for a Summit attempt in the future.
Thank you Jim. I wish you and your daughter a great time up there as well. We have planned to arrive the night prior. About to start looking for a nearby hotel, and if no spots open, will look to camp at one of the open spots. Portal or walk in ones. Everyone I talk to who's done the switchbacks (not on this forum) tells me the switchbacks will be sketchy. I am hoping that other friends on this forum continue to provide feedback up to the 29th of June at least. I've now read enough articles, watched enough YouTube videos of hikers sliding down the switchback w/o crampons, micro-spikes during a snow year and almost going over the edge. If it was up to me, i cancel early if any part of the switchbacks or the trail look and feel suspicious or discomforting. My nephew is young, early 30's very strong, and aggressive; I am extremely calculating and in my earl 60's. trying to find the right balance between wisdom and foolishness
I am extremely calculating and in my earl 60's. trying to find the right balance between wisdom and foolishness
I think the right balance is realizing the trail will be there next year, you may not with the wrong decision.
Four years ago, I attempted the summit on 3 nights of poor sleep and got dizzy standing up from a short break near Trail Camp. Was also overly tired (more than my fitness level suggested I should be) and just felt unwell, and decided I was getting early symptoms of AMS. Grudgingly turned around, but am happy I am able to attempt again this August.
I went up the Old Mt Baldy Trail the same day as Shin's friend (5/27) and found more snow and fewer tracks than anticipated. Above the narrows the snow was fairly solid and slippery, and (for those unfamiliar with the trail) that section, although not nearly as steep an ascent as Bear Flats to the narrows, is a long traverse where you could easily slide into an injury. I saw one person with microspikes turn back and two others summit. I continued with microspikes---slowly---but missed my crampons and axe enough that I went down the Ski Hut Trail. Some of the snow will probably hang around for a while in the section where the trail gradually descends through some shady trees.
Hey everyone, My friend and I are hiking mt whitney on July 1 and we are planning to hike baldy this weekend to practice using an ice axe and crampons. Does anyone know if there is still enough snow in a safe area on Baldy to practice self-arresting + glissading techniques? We're pretty strong hikers but unexperienced in the snow. We live in Santa Barbara and heard Baldy might be the closest place to us to get some snow practice in before we attempt whitney.
Hi Vikram This was the snow conditions of Mt. Baldy's Baldy bowl/Ski-hut trail last Sunday. Most of trails were 95% free of snow. There were snow fields left the tree section of 8400-8600ft and 9400-9800ft. You can hike through the trail without traction device or ice axe. Snow would be much less by now. Devils' backbone trails and Register ridge trails were free of snow. There was still large snow field left between Baldy summit and west Baldy. Snow was hard packed old snow, so it was icy early in the morning. You can experience walking on snow with crampons from Baldy summit to West Baldy. Any other part of snow fields was "NOT" recommended for practicing self-arrest or glissading, especially North facing slop. Most of fatal accidents took place on northside slopes. You can check the south-east facing slope of west Baldy. (Never try towards west or north slope directions. Not safe at all.) There was good snow filed in Goode canyon, a canyon between Baldy and West Baldy. But this canyon is very deep and not safe for this time of the year. Good luck on your training and be safe. Good snow season is over....
Thanks Shin! I guess our best option will be to get to Lone pine a few days earlier than planned and find some hikes around there to practice before taking on Whitney
Many hikers are training for Mt. Whitney or mountains in Sierra on Mt. Baldy lately. I have climbed 12 times in the past as one day hike. Richard P. and "Crazy" Jack climbed nearly 200 times each. They are really crazy.
My very first Mt. Whitney hike was a textbook perfect disastrous hike in 2006. I was invited by my friend to join with his family members, his relatives, family member's friend, and 3 hikers from same company, in total of 10. Everyone met each other first time at the trailhead. The group stayed together till Outpost camp. The group slowly got separated into 3 small separate groups around Trail camp. No visual contact or communication among us at all. His relative developed AMS near Trail Crest and turned around by himself. The leader ditched the rest of members behind and took off to the summit and bragged about being the first one on the summit. I heard next day from his wife that 3 hikers from same company took 22 hours to finish and fell off from the tail but nearly escaped from a bad injury. One group lost their supplies near Trail camp on the way down. We didn't see each other as a hiking party rest of the day. No true leader, no solid plan, no plan B, no physical or mental endurance..............I didn't see him ever since. After this disastrous hike, I decided not to hike with a meetup group, a large group with different intentions and expectations from the hike, and each member in different level of physical and mental conditions.
I studied Mt. Whitney main trail and compared with Mt. Baldy trails for training purpose. I separate Mt. Whitney trail in 4 different segments so I can relate to Mt. Baldy trails.
Baldy 6 peak loop Baldy village : 3904 Ice house parking- Village-West Baldy-Baldy-Harwood-Notch-Thunder- Telegraph-Timber-Ice house parking Summit : 10064 -- 20.1 -- 306ft/M
You can make many mixed hiking options to gain physical and mental training on Mt. Baldy.
If the one person is performing 90% of ability, 3 member party is performing 72.9% level as a team. The more the member in the team, the level of performance will go down. It is a good idea to make a hiking plan based on the least capable person's level and test it out before the hike not on the hike. If you have to stop every 15 minutes for ten different people, it will slow you down as a team. I am assuming everyone in the team is your true friend to look out for you when you are in need.
In order to enjoy the famous cheeseburger, it is a very good idea to train yourself or member for physical and mental endurance to hike over 20 miles with maintaining safety of team member before the dream hike.
Also consider the Vivian Creek Trail on San Gorgonio. Less elevation gain than the Bear Canyon trail on Baldy, but more altitude, and longer. The long downhill run on the Vivian Creek Trail is a good experience for people planning a first-time one-day hike of Whitney. Making the summit on Whitney can be less trying than the long downhill run.
However, Bear Canyon trail is very steep which is good training for the distance of Whitney too. Steeper and shorter training is better than longer and less steep. I summited Whitney 10 times starting at age 45 and Bear Canyon was always one of the last 2 hikes before my Whitney day. Vivian Creek was the other one.
Curious if anyone knows where the remains of Julian Sands were found on Baldy. The news reports say the identity has been positively confirmed but no details on location.
I don't have any connection to that search but as always, thank you to all the SAR team members for their time and efforts.
Interesting. Not where I would have guessed based on my trips up Baldy. There is a spot early on the Devil's Backbone trail that is very thin and exposed. As many harry places as I have been that one always makes me nervous. Can't imagine what its like in winter conditions.
It will be interesting to find out. I had tentatively ruled out the Devil's Backbone because he was an experienced mountaineer who knew the mountain well, and therefore I assumed too sensible to take the Devil's Backbone alone under the conditions at the time. Also ruled out the Bowl on the grounds that he would have been found quickly. Given Graham's excellent report on conditions that day, I would not rule out falling off the west side of the ridge we take from the Ski Hut to the summit. (Some people call it the West Ridge, which it is viewed from the Ski Hut. I call it the South East Ridge, which it is viewed from the summit.)
I have two other questions that puzzle me. First, media reports keep mentioning a cell phone ping about two days after Sanders disappeared. Isn't the Baldy area still pretty much of a dead zone for cell phones? Second, did he have both a helmet and a satellite-based SOS device? If you have both, your chances of surviving a fall and being able to send an SOS are in my opinion fairly good, e.g., around 50-75%.
I never heard mention of a satellite comms/SOS device.
My search experience with cell phones and towers is somewhat dated now but still applicable I think. A victim can be in a "no service" area but still "seen" by a tower or towers (yours or another carrier). A tower or towers can detect a phone but not have a strong or consistent enough signal for voice or even text communication. Search Coordinators will often ask cell service providers for assistance by manually checking cells near the search area for any kind of signal from either the subjects phone or any phone during a particular time period.
Cell signals can be affected by so many things in fringe areas and good location information usually needs more than a single cell tower receiving the phones signal. The newer higher end iPhones have satellite SOS capability and features like fall detection with automatic emergency notification which the Garmin inReach, SPOT, etc do not have. The tech keeps getting better which is of course good but its also giving people a greater sense that the the tech will save them from all the things that traditionally generate SAR missions.
Which is where it would be if he fell down the west side of the Southeast Ridge. I remember Graham commenting in his report on descending the tricky 'off-camber' place on the ridge, on the day Sanders disappeared. I once took off my crampons for the descent, and had some nervous moments there regretting it.
What you are referring to as the Southeast Ridge is due south of the peak. The only feature I would consider southeast of the peak is the Bowl. If anything, this ridge should be referred to as the South Ridge.
I call it Southeast to differentiate it from the ridge on the other side of Goode Canyon, the one the Bear Canyon Trail follows. I mentally think of five ridges radiating from the summit of Baldy: east, north, west, southwest and southeast.
All trails looked very dry on Mt. Baldy. It was very hot. There were many trail runners, hikers, campers, and sightseers. Some hikers who suffered from heat exhaustion requested medical assistance from the authority. Even well-prepared hiker couldn't overcome the excessive heat. It is very good idea to start very early, before 6:00 a.m., and choose the trail with good shade coverage by the trees to avoid the excessive heat. Ski hut/Baldy bowl trail offers very good shade (60%) and good water supply at a half way point to the summit.
I met many longtime friends including Alex and Natalie (WPSMB member) near the Ski hut.
There will be a hiking event on 22nd to celebrate Ranger Dan's 1600th Mt. Baldy summit hike. The group will start around 8:00 from Manker and meet at the summit 12:00. Please say "Hi" if you see him and his group.
There were many cars already at Manker flat around 5:00. It was warm and humid in the morning with little or no breeze. Some dark clouds showed up above the summit with sprinkles. There were still several snow fields left between Baldy and Harwood. Most people seemed enjoying being on the trails, but some weren't. Some hikers didn't carry any water at all. Congratulations Brent for his 700th Baldy summit and Miles for his very first unsupported Baldy summit!
Who cut down many Yucca trees along Ski hut trail from 7000ft to 7800ft. Is this vandalism or some kind of conservation program? I have never seen this in last 19 years. I didn't take any pictures. It's too painful to take pictures. It will take decade to recover the scar. Sad!!! Otherwise, It was very busy summer Mt. Baldy. Some camped out the summit.
Happy birthday Mr. Dan White for his 60th birthday. He has been a great Ski hut host for many decades. There were many friends for a big birthday party at Ski hut.
Pictures of cut down Yucca trees along the Ski hut trail. Wildflowers around Ski hut area were very beautiful this time of year. https://photos.app.goo.gl/wzRiscf2YdgrstVk8 I joined with my friends' R2R training #3 of hiking up and down Baldy then hiking back up and down Ski hut trail for physical and mental training. San Antiono waterfalls was the best place to refresh!!. Without this great break at the waterfalls, we couldn't finish our day.
There were many hikers, hikers training for Mt Whitney, trail runners, sightseer, canyoners, overnight campers, and picnickers on the mountains. Everyone was enjoying a bit cooler day.
I am more than a 'little shocked' that he was found wearing microspikes. Family and friends said he was an experienced mountaineer who knew the mountain well. I would not place him in that category if he was above the Ski Hut, on the day described by graham above, wearing microspikes rather than crampons.
Also not found were ice axe, trekking poles, pack or helmet. I can see losing an ice axe and a trekking pole in the fall. More difficult to understand losing the pack, particularly if you are using the chest and/or waist strap. Personally, I don't like helmets, and would not use one myself on the ridge.
I assume people have seen the call by the San Bernardino County Sheriff's Department for winter closures. It looks like they are tired of the USFS simply doing nothing about the winter problems on Baldy. My main objection to closures is that 'non-closure' signals 'safe' to some people.
Fall hiking season is in. There were many traces of cold season on the trail. Ice was forming in a small water hole, the ground was covered with thin snow over 9300 ft, ice-covered trees on below summit slop, and frosty summit. It was cold, windy, and strong clouds activities.
We spotted a mother bear and two cubs on west ridge, 8600 ft, and walked down to Goode canyon direction.
October 29th was very windy,30-40mph gust, and very cold especially Manker flat parking area. Many early starters turned around because of continuous very strong wind. Most of hikers were well prepared for cold hiking condition. But some were totally ill-prepared. We turned around after inhaling the smells of bacon and pancake breakfast at smoky Ski hut. There were many young guests enjoying the great outdoor experiences.
There were many small rocks blown off by the strong wind on Mt. Baldy road. Several spots were iced up below Ski hut. My friend's leaky water bladder's mouth piece got frozen solid and formed icicle. She ate it at Ski hut. Please keep eyes on all dead trees along the trail. They may snap off without notice like several huge dead trees had been blocking off the trail for several months. Even huge trees were swaying back and forth yesterday. Please observe all rocks or boulders sitting precarious position in the face bowl. They may tumble down someday soon by rain, snow, frost, and human cause.
Winter we just got summer up here! No very cold spell last week but warming up for a few hours a day ,no moisture in the close forecast so should see a few after permit season hikers showing up ,recall a few years ago same warm days very cold nights caught a hiker off guard and didn't survive the night.Mountains and weather always serious and unpredictable.
Ok so Heroes Hike is on for the Nov 11 2023 we started the team wpsmb hope to see you and many others on Baldy ,please join in will print shirts so need your names by next Monday at the latest size also would help I can get the names off the team page Thanks and hope to see many on Baldy for a great cause this is the 10 th year and many different things happening.Thanks Doug
It was very windy on Mt. Baldy last several days. I have checked a few different weather stations before the hike. But, the real condition wasn't exactly same as the forecast. The wind was consistently strong and sometimes frightening throughout the entire trail on Monday. I had to seek shelters many times behind big alive trees, rocks, or bushes. I observed and avoided all dead trees or top-heavy trees. I stayed on west side slop of the ridge from 8600-9500 ft where the original trail is, Goode canyon direction, for much better protection from the wind. The wind was brutal around the summit. I creeped up from the last big bush like an inchworm to the summit plate. I touched and left immediately from the summit. It was the shortest stay at the summit. I advised all hikers that not to hike down Devils backbone direction because of very long ridge hike with exposure to vicious wind. We can protect ourselves most of elements but wind. https://photos.app.goo.gl/2RNLJLAKDnhU2q3j6
Mt. Baldy got some snow last week. The weather was very nice below 9500 ft. It was very cold and windy at the summit but very beautiful above 9500 Ft.
Manker flat parking: Dry To Ski hut: Mostly dry except some icy spots below Ski hut creek. To west ridge: Switchbacks in the tree section had hard packed snow and some areas were very icy. Micro spikes were very helpful, especially coming down. Ridge from 8700ft to 9200ft: Snow was melting fast on south facing slope. Almost no snow. Stay along the metal posts. 9200FT to summit: Hard packed snow. Great with micro spikes. There will be more snow in the forecast this week.
Baldy must have been jealous of the wind and spin on Whitney... We had to deal with a bit of both today... Good seeing Shin and meeting his hiking buddy...(She's strong and fast...)
Mt. Baldy got 2nd snow, 2-4 inches, last week. From Manker flat parking to 8200 feet: Almost no snow except a few icy spots near Ski hut. From Ski hut to the summit: Perfect condition for micro spikes. There was a strong wind from 8600-9000 feet. We took westside of ridge along the original trail to avoid the wind from east. It was a bit cold and windy at the summit.
There were many hikers hiked up early to watch the sunrise. The highlight of the day was hiking with a longtime friend Richard P. and met many Mt. Baldy regulars. My year 2024 started right.
We are in the middle of rainstorm with some snow in the forecast. We hiked before the storm set in. I check the weather forecast on Mount Baldy (San Gabriel Range) site. This site provides 7 days forecast with 4 different elevation levels (Base 1641ft, 4922ft, 8203ft, and 10066ft) and AM/PM/Night, every 3 hours, every 1 hour, almost 3-dimentional and comprehensive weather information for safe hiking.
I also check https://10064ft.com for Mt. Baldy Road conditions. This site and equipment were provided by Pavel AKA Mayor of Mt. Baldy. The live cameras show Fire Department 4180ft, Icehouse intersection 5000ft, Icehouse parking 5200ft, Icehouse trail head 5080ft, Big Butch crossing 5980ft, Harwood Lodge 6000ft-Manker flat parking, Ski Hut/Baldy bowl 8200ft. This site is very useful for winter hiking on Mt. Baldy. Thank you, Pavel.
The weather was consistently changing all day long. But we avoided all elements with minimal efforts. We changed our gears/clothing several times before get into the elements. The trail/ground near the summit was soft on the way up but got frozen up and got very hard within a few minutes. The wind was very strong. All the moistures in the air got icy. We took few pictures and ran down. No lunch break at the summit or all day long.
There may be some new snow on the trail. From Rock Garden to the west ridge and above 9500ft is soft new snow on top of hard packed ice snow. Good traction devices are must.
Recent snowstorm dumped tons of snow on Mt. Baldy. This is the first good snow for this winter season.
Manker flat parking lot was limited parking space because of heavy snow. Adventure pass requirement was enforced. The violation costs $5.00
Trailhead to waterfalls: It was very icy early in the morning. Micro spikes are very helpful. Waterfalls to Ski hut: 1-4 feet of unconsolidated deep soft snow. The winter track was established. But, if you step off the track, you will lose footing and sinking knee to waist deep. It is a very good idea to stay on same track. There was a sign of track travelling to Rock Garden but no one confirmed how far the track was established. Most of hikers turned around from Ski hut due to very strong wind and very bad snow condition. There were many skiers, snowboarders, and some adventurers trying the bowl climb under extreme condition. Micro spikes/crampons and trekking poles with snow baskets are most helpful. The hike was very challenging because of the snow condition and very strong wind.
Before a next storm hit, we hiked up Mt. Baldy today. Manker flat parking lot had limited parking space, and the wilderness pass was enforced. Be sure to place your card backside up so the ranger can see the expiration date.
Manker to San Antonio waterfalls: Dry Fire road to Ski hut junction: Thinning snow. Ski hut trail/Baldy bowl trail to SKi hut: 1-4-foot-deep snow. Stay on the higher line of trail around 7300 ft. Ski hut to the west ridge: Rock Garden was completely covered snow. The trail was deep and messed up with many different tracks. West ridge to 9000 ft: Deep trail with many different tracks. To the summit: Deep trail with many different tracks. Overall, the trail was messed up because of deep wet snow. We took the bowl chute between Shutzou(?) ally and 3-pin-ally with good single track. This line is the longest bowl chute but the closest to the summit. There weren't any established tracks on other chutes. Maybe because of the very poor snow conditions. Hiking down from Ski hut required careful attention to the footing because wet slushy deep snow. Norma R. joined with us. We ran into Mac, longtime WPSMB member, on the trail. Dan White, Ski hut host, offered us cinnamon rolls. There were many guests, skiers, hikers around Ski hut.
Before next storm hit, Richard P. and I hiked Baldy. Brent joined us. He waited for us a long time at Manker flat. We met one skier and K9 at the Ski hut.
Manker flat parking to 7300: Free from snow. Ski hut to the summit: Well-consolidate deep snow. There were a few remains of old avalanches from Register ridge. Tracks run around on the slope 8700-9000 ft. We must be careful about the west facing area between 9300-9500ft. The long slope to the deep canyon below was icy. Stay on well establish winter trail up higher. The summit area above 9700 ft was very icy.
We climbed via a variation route of Zeke's chute. The snow condition and weather in the chute changed as we went up. It is a good idea to prepare all gears at Ski hut before you commit to climb the chute. No changing gears or clothing in the middle of the chute. We experienced very dense fog 8600 - 8000 feet on the way down. It was very hard to determine the footing, no depth perception. It is a perfect condition to injure your legs or losing the direction.
A few things I learned from Leap Day hike. 1) Richard decided to wait for us at Ski hut because his gears weren't good enough for the conditions. He patiently waited for us near 3 hours in cold foggy Ski hut. It was a very wise decision of him from his profound experience. Most people will continue on.... 2) Brent decided to wait the skier with K9 till both exit out the chute safely. We were the only grope in the chute that day. We shared the summit together. Both of them exhibited the concern of the safety of other hikers. Later at the Manker parking lot, we found out that both Richard and Brent are Mt. Baldy 5 times a day hiker. Later Brent took us to a great hamburger restaurant near 210 fwy. This Leap Day hike became a very special hike.
This is my personal views as a weekend sea-level hiker in L.A.
I forgot to add my previous post about changing snow conditions in the bowl. Snow or track condition changes as you climb up from firm above Rock Garden to very icy, sometime ice axe or crampon won't get you secure body position especially 8700-9400ft. The tracks are very shallow or no tracks in steep section. The bowl looks white from distance, but it is frozen solid underneath. I use an old-fashioned steel tipped heavy ice axe, no lightweight axe. We had 3-5 foot very heavy wet snow slowly consolidate over last 3-4 weeks. Then we had some rain and over 55mph wind (5-10 F) for two days last week. It is safe to assume the entire mountain is frozen solid now. There will be several inches of new snow and rain in the forecast today and tomorrow. The condition is not matter of what you have. It will be very dangerous condition.
All rocks and ice chunks start falling down around 9-10:00 a.m. They shoot down like bullets toward mid-section (9000ft) with controlled pattern then spread all directions. Keep eyes on steep slope above all the time, keep on moving to get out the bowl as soon as possible. It is a good idea to maintain good distance among hikers and keep eyes and ears open to the surrounding. It is not a place to rest up or changing gears. It is very good idea to prepare everything at Ski hut before you consider climbing up the bowl.
It is a very good idea to hike with people who you can trust your life.
A great warning, so well-written and detailed. I was particularly impressed by the way you pointed out that while ice axe and crampons are important, there are conditions where they don't penetrate. I think many people do not realize it until they experience it.
Another great report from Shin. The ice Shin called out can be rock hard sometimes call blue ice ,ax will bounce off crampons will not catch a grip,the often fatal accidents on the mountaineers route on Whitney holds ice like this say first 50-10 feet of the easy walk off. When the easy walk off was coined we were in a very long drought cycle and the route looked like a way get non climbers to reach the summit. Thanks Shin for another detailed report.
The conditions of Baldy bowl/Ski hut trail are still Alpine condition. Snow was very icy even below Ski hut starting 7500 ft. There were several teams of climbers were in Procrastination chute very early in the morning. Wind was very strong in the bowl. All tracks from Ski hut to the summit from last week were wiped out by fresh snow and new track was established along summer trail to the west ridge. 8700 ft above to the summit was still covered 3-5 feet of hard-packed snow. The slope exposed with consistent strong wind was blue ice covered with a few inches of fresh snow. All winter gears, crampons, ice axe, helmet, good jacket, gloves were must. SAR operation or operations were underway, and two helicopters were hovering for a few hours in canyons and ridges. There were many SAR members at Ski hut. According to some SAR members, the hiker was rescued but no details. All climbers came down from the summit were very well prepared for the conditions. There were some ill-prepared hikers but most of them didn't hike beyond Ski hut. The snow condition of this season will be very challenging/dangerous for some time.
After 4 weekends of poor weather with snow, rain, and strong winds, Mt. Baldy got a decent spring hiking season. But there is still heavy with 3–5-foot-deep snow beyond Ski hut. The summer trail is dry to 7500 ft. The deep gully around 7900 ft with snow and exposed dirt needs some attention to cross. Some part of trail is covered with blown off tree branches and leaves and make it a bit hard to read the mixed of winter and summer trail. There is sizable snow bridge below Ski hut. The trail to the summit was established along the summer trail. Good traction gears and trekking poles with snow basket are helpful.
There weren't any visible tracks in the bowl. There was a visible long snow slide, a large area was slid down, and traces of rock falls. We met a team of climbers on the way down, one looked experienced and other with micro spike and trekking poles and ice axe without skill, started 1:00 a.m. to climb one of the chutes. Why? Snow in springtime is very unstable.
Snow is melting very fast, and the trail conditions will change every hour. There were many deep voids near trees, bushes, and rocks.
I got out of shape lately, so I joined hiking with my friends who are training for Sierra season and trekking in overseas trail. I hiked 04/21/2024 and 04/24/2024. The snow conditions have changed significantly, much less snow in the bowl on 24th.
Ski hut trail is almost dry to 8000 feet. 3-5-foot-deep snow to the summit still. There were many exposed rocks and scree fields in the bowl now. We climbed up Zeke' chute on 21st with good conditions. We went up regular trail on 24th.
I heard from Brent (5xBaldy hiker) on 24th that there were 2 hikers got injured badly on arms and shoulders almost same time on Tuesday, one by slipped off around 9000 feet down over the trail passed over the trail in Rock Garden and other one glissading down on the same route. Brent provided all emergency assistance and contacted the authority. (I don't know any more details.)
I provided the bowl conditions of 21st, Sunday, to one hiker on Tuesday night. His group was considering going up the bowl. This was my reply to him. "Most on the bowl is covered with solid snow. Ice axe went in 12-15 inches deep in the snow 8300-9000 feet. 6 inches beyond 9000, 12-15 near the mouth of the bowl. Some area around 9300 feet had very thin snow and rocks are showing up......" The snow conditions are changed by the terrain below and elevation by the weather. White covered slope isn't covered evenly with same amount of snow. Blue ice was exposed on some area of upper part of the bowl. https://photos.app.goo.gl/KcAhW6yUE4ZZKssT9
Snow on Mt. Baldy is getting thin fast especially in the bowl. This maybe the last weekend for bowl climbing. West side (left hand side most) of bowl and 3 pin alleys (right hand side most) has still good amount of snow left. We took a long snow band of right side of Schitzo alley and upper section of 3 pin alleys. The slope was covered with slushy snow with 4-7 inches deep on top of hard packed old snow. Some areas were solid blue ice, screes, rocks underneath. A common ice axe with spade shaped tip didn't penetrate into the icy slope well. The old-fashioned ice axe with spear shaped worked very well and provided the best performance and security. The gear selection is very important for safty.
The trail is dry most of part to Ski hut. The creek beyond Ski hut is still under the snow. There is 3-5-foot-deep snow from Ski hut to the summit.
Snow is melting very fast. All chutes in the bowl lost good snow to climb. The trail is dry to Ski hut. One section of trail below Ski hut was blocked off by fallen tree. The massive snow bridges with 4-6 foot deep developed along the creek crossing area. Some area collapsed on the way down. It is better to cross to Ski hut at a bit higher spot. Under the tree section to the west ridge is still covered with solid snow. South facing slope from 8600-9000 is dry. There is still 3-4-foot-deep snow to the summit, but it is getting thin around the summit. Micro spikes and poles are helpful. Info from a hiker from Bear canyon trail: The trail is dry over the Narrows, but remaining trail to the summit is covered with good amount of snow with good track.
I don't know which trail he took, he said something about a meadow, but it wasn't Bear Flat because I went that way.
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June 9th, below Ski Hut.
at the summit. Des,Pascal and I went up the main bowl to a good work out, the deepest was 6 to 10 inches deep in are boot prints. And no wind on summit, a very nice day, light snow falling at the hut in the morning and light snow falling back down to the road in the afternoon..
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DSCN0094 by Frank Asbury, on Flickr
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