Frank and I hiked up Bear Canyon trail,6 mile with 6000 feet elevation again, of Mt. Baldy to try out my new boots,practice rest step walking, walking within controlled pulse rate.
The trail was nice and comfortable and snow free till 9400 feet saddle. The rest of trail to the summit is covered with hard snow on east facing slope and canyon. Some hikers were well prepared and some were not at all. We ran into a well dressed hiker didn't have any idea about the direction to the summit of Mt. Baldy.
The lower elevation of mountain was nice and warm,the higher part of mountain was a snow wonderland. The near the summit was very cold and windy and icy.
Many people ask the trail condition of Mt. Baldy. But there is no one single answer. Even the snow condition changes by the time of the day,general weather condition of the area,location of the area,angle of slope,and wind chill factor,under the trees,sunny spots,traveled spots,the depth of snow level and many other elements.Please look at the picture of the ridge,9400 ft,of west facing and east facing for the difference on same mountain.
Many subjects discussed for the safety can be learned in our back yard before we get out REAL mountains in north.
Again, we met many nice people on the trail.
My pictures are in WPSMB photo album link.
Last edited by Shin; 02/06/11 10:12 AM.
