Mount Baden Powell is a relatively easy hike after finishing Baldy and Cucamonga. But short and easy does not mean it does not warrant a trip. The approach to the trailhead is from the desert side of the mountain range. Driving there with the sun slowly rising was spectacular.
The trail starts winding its 4+ miles to the top right from the parking lot. The views are amazing, but the highlight for me is just under the peak: a tree that is claimed to be over 1,500 years old. It is hard to imagine what that exactly means. Our way of putting it in perspective was to realize that this tree started its life when the Roman Empire was coming to an end. The dark Middle Ages hadn't even started yet…. Pooof, mind blown. This gnarly tree has survived all this time on a windy, bare ridge in cold snow storms and blazing sun. Well done, tree.

The top of Baden Powell is marked by a little monument and offers views all around.

The way down is easy and fast.

Big tip: definitely make the little detour to Wrightwood to treat yourself on lunch at the Grizzly Cafe. Great atmosphere, friendly staff, bikers to keep you company and homemade food. Check out the Moose head while you're there.