This was our #3 hike in the Six Peak Challenge and we are getting good at this. As with its neighbor Cucamonga Peak, we started early (around 6.10 AM) to beat the heat and the crowd. The parking lot was already filling up fast when we arrived but we found a space quickly. Little tip: use a bathroom before arriving, because the one bathroom at the trailhead had a 20 person line.

This hike starts at a fire road and you quickly gain elevation. We skipped the waterfall lookout since that was down to a trickle. The fire road becomes a dirt road right after the waterfall.

The route description on SoCal Hiker suggests that you do the hike counterclockwise (walking up the entire fire road and coming down the steep forest path). We decided to walk it the other direction, since climbing an endless fire road is mind-numbing for us, but great if you are coming down. Plus as an added bonus, you can treat yourself with a beer and food after you come down from the peak.

The climb starts as soon as the trail peels off from the fire road on the left. And you will be climbing all the way to the top of Baldy. But the scenery is stunning. You start walking through the forest with an occasional view of the valley you left behind. Eventually, you come to the Sierra Club Ski Hut. Its location is stunning. Next to a running creek, with a stunning view. Just before you arrive, you are greeted by small fields of wildflowers, despite the mid Summer draught. The hut is a great spot for a short break and it has a bathroom if needed.

From here you keep climbing and soon encounter a set of steep switchbacks that will test your legs and lungs. They spit you out on some sort of saddle to catch your breath. The following part is a bit confusing since there are many paths going up the mountain, but the good news is that they all seem to convene at the main path, as long as you keep going up. The summit is getting closer and before you know it, you are there. We were blessed with beautiful, calm weather and we enjoyed the views for a good 30 minutes.

We followed the myriad of switchbacks down to the Devil's Backbone trail and decided to bypass Mt Harwood summit. This trail eventually leads you to the (in)famous) narrow trails with drop offs on each side. For those with fear of height (like myself) no need to worry on a good Summer day. The trail was never as narrow or exposed as I anticipated. Or maybe I am dealing better with heights these days. I truly enjoyed this part with the views and rocky path. After turning a few corners, you can already see the ski station at Baldy Notch. Walking down the last mile or so down the steep ski slope was uninspiring, but the thoughts of food and drinks was a major motivator. A cold beer and crispy potato wedges never disappoint after a climb like this and it was true again this time.

From the station, you basically walk all the way back to the parking lot on the fire road. It was getting hot by now and we were very happy with our decision to leave this to last. The grade is perfect for a fast downhill. Large steps, no need for your poles and you are down before you know it.

Another great hike.