Took the Bear Canyon / Old Trail out of the town of Mt Baldy.

The trail up is 6+ miles with approx 5,900’ of gain. If you want to test yourself on a trail that deserves its hard rating and provides solitude. This is a trail to consider.

It took me 5 hrs 20 minutes up and exactly 4 hours down.

The trail was in good condition but did have a significant snow field above 9,000’. Then another lesser snow field approaching the summit. It is passable going up  without equipment.  However I used micro spikes on the way down.

This is definitely the road less traveled. On my way up I saw one person coming down. On the way down a couple climbing up. The only other activity was a small heard of Mountain Sheep. An unexpected surprise.

After all day on the trail and four hours descending the steep slope in full brake mode. I was really ready to see the car.

Note on Parking. In town there is nothing except five spaces in front of the Park Ranger station. It’s on the left as you drive into town. When I arrived the spaces had a do not park sign sitting in that area. I parked just out of town passed the pub on the left. Don’t forget your Adventure Pass for the car where ever you park.