One of the most popular hikes in Los Angeles County also has one of the highest mountain peaks. At an elevation of 10,064 feet, Mount San Antonio is known for its dangerous conditions, especially in the winter months. From ice to snow and high elevation changes, this hike requires proper gear and preparation to make it to the top without suffering injuries or a fatal fall.
The path to the top of Mount San Antonio, also known as Mount Baldy, is an 11-mile hike that takes about seven hours to complete.
The difficulty level is rated as "hard," indicating that this is not a hike for beginners. It’s recommended to hike in the summer months when there’s no snow or ice to impose additional risk.
Each year, dozens of hikers are rescued from Mount Badly due to the extreme conditions of the climate and dangerous terrain.
The biggest risks include getting lost, dehydration, slipping and falling on ice, or developing hypothermia in the colder months. Not every hiker is lucky enough to make it out alive, and some suffer fatal injuries from falling hundreds of feet or enduring freezing temperatures.
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The dangers of the trail are clearly marked, and the Sheriff’s Department is always reminding hikers to come prepared with enough supplies and proper gear.
They recommend bringing sun protection, layers of clothing, plenty of food and water, a charged cellphone, a first-aid kit, and a navigation device. In the colder months, even more preparation is required.
Temperatures in elevation can differ as much as 35 degrees from the ground. Even if it’s a sunny day in Los Angeles, the mountain might be covered in snow with a dangerously cold wind chill.
In the summer of 2020, it was reported that a family of 11 hikers was rescued off the mountain after getting lost and suffering from dehydration.
If you want to tackle this trail, plan to arrive early to beat the crowds. You’ll have a much better experience when there’s not a line heading up the mountain.
For the serious hiking enthusiast, Mount San Antonio offers a challenging trek with some remarkable views. Would you be up for a hike this difficult? Read our previous article to find other scenic hiking spots in Southern California that are worth checking out.
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