Mt Baldy via Ski Hut Trail
Dec 18, 2021
Elevation: 10,064 ft
Elevation Gain: 3,885 ft
Total Distance: 10.12 miles
.
SoCal #SixPackofPeaks 2021 goal finally completed !
.
Started 5:30 AM. The ski hut trail has snow and ice on it starting around 2 miles in. With my Solomon Speedcross trail runners on my feet, I was able to get enough traction to reach the ski hut fine without crampons, but I would recommend putting them on once the snow and ice starts.
.
I stopped at the Ski Hut to put on my crampons.  Everyone else there were all set out to climb up the Baldy Bowl. As I continued to hike up the trail, the snow became more hard-packed and the evergreen trees were continuously shedding large chunks of ice. Watch your head!
.
It was a beautiful sunny, clear day with light winds at the summit. I was a bit surprised there were only a couple of other hikers at the top, and for several minutes I had the entire summit to myself.
.
As I was coming back down I saw quite a few people coming up the ski hut trail. Again, would recommend an early morning start: the temps got warmer and I started shedding layers to just short sleeves. However, the snow starts turning slushy, which is not much of a problem on the descent, but the climb up is hard enough on packed snow.
.
Note of caution: Crampons and ski poles / ice axe are an absolute must for your safety. There were sketchy moments along the icy parts of the
trail that require you to plant each foot with purpose, and make sure you establish solid footing with each step before taking the next one. Be safe out there!!