Mount San Antonio and Mount Baldy Notch Trail

Route Description for Mount San Antonio and Mount Baldy Notch Trail

Although it is quite a beautiful hiking route, the Mount San Antonio and Mount Baldy Notch Trail is a physically demanding adventure that will put your endurance to the test. Be sure that your fitness is of a high level and wear proper hiking footwear with good support for the best footing along the trail. Additionally, the entire area surrounding Mount San Antonio is busy with hikers and other outdoor enthusiasts, so make sure to arrive early to secure parking.

For those who want a good challenge that will reward them with beautifully scenic landscape views, then this will be an ideal adventure. With highlights such as the San Antonio Falls and an incredible viewpoint at the summit of “Old Baldy”, the Mount San Antonio and Mount Baldy Notch Trail is one that you won’t want to miss out on.

Setting out from the trailhead at Manker Flats, you will follow along Falls Road as it leads to the northwest. After just 0.9 km, you will arrive at the viewpoint for San Antonio Falls, where you can gaze out at the beautiful cascade of water before continuing on your way.

From here, you will continue along Baldy Road as it leads southeast to arrive at a junction in 0.5 km. Keep right here and follow the road as it traverses the terrain of Manker Canyon, eventually arriving at Mount Baldy Notch and the ski resort after 3.9 km.

From the Top of the Notch restaurant, you will pick up a trail leading northwest that runs parallel to a chairlift. Here, you will begin working your way uphill to reach the top of the Devil’s Backbone Ridge. Turning left along the trail, you will need to traverse the rugged terrain of the Devil’s Backbone over the next 3.0 km, so take your time and watch your footing through this dangerous area.

Even though it is a bit perilous, you will also have the chance to take in some incredible views as you skirt around the summit of Mount Harwood to arrive at the summit of Mount San Antonio. Having conquered “Old Baldy”, take a moment to revel in the views, before beginning your descent.

Following the trail south, you will carefully work your way down the rocky mountainside, eventually reaching the San Antonio Ski hut after 2.3 km. From here, continue along the trail as it leads down the mountainside to the southeast for another 2.4 km to meet up with Baldy Road.

Turning right, you will begin to retrace your steps from the initial leg of your hike, passing by the San Antonio Falls to make the final push back to the trailhead where you began.

Trail Highlights

Mount San Antonio

Often referred to as Mount Baldy or Old Baldy due to its bare summit, Mount San Antonio is a prominent summit in the San Gabriel Mountain Range of Southern California. At 3,068 m in height, the peak is the high point of the surrounding mountain range and is instantly recognizable as a landmark in the region. Views from the summit extend out across the expanse of the Angeles National Forest, as well as the Greater Los Angeles area.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Mount Baldy the same as Mount San Antonio?

Mount Baldy and Mount San Antonio are one and the same. The latter is the official name, although Mount Baldy has stuck as a nickname due to the fact that the summit is tree-less, giving it a “bald” look.

Are there any bears around Mount Baldy?

The landscape surrounding Mount Baldy/Mount San Antonio is teeming with wildlife, including black bears that are often seen in the region. Be sure to exercise all precautions and bring bear spray.

Insider Hints for Mount San Antonio and Mount Baldy Notch Trail

• Arrive early to secure parking
• Have your adventure pass displayed in your vehicle
• Bring bear spray and remain bear aware
• Wear sturdy hiking boots with good support