The Baldy Bowl Trail, also known as the Ski Hut Trail, is the shortest route to the summit of Mt Baldy. Unfortunately, that short distance comes at the price of a very steep climb. For fit hikers, you'll have to work, and for those out of shape, expect to take breaks to catch your breath as you navigate the steep slopes. Along the way, you'll have a picture-perfect spot to rest, the Sierra Club Ski Hut. And the final payoff is reaching the highest point in Los Angeles County, Mount San Antonio, known colloquially as Mt Baldy because of its bald face.
In this Guide:
Video and Turn-by-Turn Directions for the Baldy Bowl Trail
Although this is the shortest hike to the summit, the route to Mt Baldy via Baldy Notch and the Devil's Backbone is the more traditional beginners' experience. The slopes are not as steep (overall), and there are more places to catch your breath.
Where is the Baldy Bowl Trail?
The Baldy Bowl Trail hike starts from the Manker Flats parking area, about 4.5 miles past Mt Baldy Village. Use this trailhead address: 993 Falls Rd, Mt Baldy, CA 91759
Do you need a parking pass? Technically, if there's a facility like a bathroom (which there is), you do. But according to the Forest Service fee area map, at the "Baldy Bowl Trailhead" you don't. If you park further down at the Manker Flat Campground you need an Adventure Pass or National Parks Pass.
Is There Snow on Mt Baldy?
Unless you have mountaineering experience and local knowledge, the Baldy Bowl Trail should only be attempted when free of snow. The weather is more unpredictable than ever, but generally, the area is free of snow from May to November. Even if it hasn't snowed in a while, snow can linger on the cooler slopes of the Baldy Bowl Trail. So, if you are in a shoulder month and want to check for snow, here's what I'd do.
Assuming the conditions are good, you'll still want to prepare for the alpine environment. It can be hot at the trailhead and cold and windy at the summit. Here's what I recommend:
Bring extra layers and a shell for the summit. The average wind speed on the summit is 45mph.
Trekking poles are crucial when navigating these steep slopes.
3L of water should be enough for the hike. If you have a water filter you can carry less and refill at San Antonio Creek by the Ski Hut, which generally flows all year.
The sun can be brutal, even if it's cool. Bring some protection.
Snacks will help keep your energy levels up.
Gear That I Love Right Now
Nothing is sponsored or promoted, just the actual gear that I use.
Garmin InReach Mini 2If you are out of cellphone range the Mini 2 will reliably allow you to hit SOS via satellite. You can also send non-emergency texts to just say that you're late, let friends and family follow along, and check the weather. You can see my review here.
Topo Pursuit 2The wide toe box means no blisters, an aggressive tread is great on the trail, it dries very quickly, and it has lots of cushion for long days. It combines everything I love about every other shoe into one.
Garmin Epix ProThese watches are pricey, but I use them 24/7 for sleep tracking, workouts, heart rate, and tracking my hike. It has preloaded hiking maps that help me navigate the trails and is a backup to my smartphone navigation. The Epix Pro has a great battery life, a screen similar to an Apple Watch Ultra, and works in harsh conditions when just using the buttons. See my review here.
Osprey Hikelite 26This updated version of the Hikelite 26 offers incredible value for the money. It's got a wide trampoline back, so your back doesn't get sweaty. It's under 2lbs, has deep side pockets, and is a great balance of what you need without what you don't.
There are no official campgrounds on the Baldy Bowl Trail or Mt Baldy. And there's conflicting information from Angeles National Forest on whether dispersed camping outside official trail camps is allowed. But in practice, it is permitted, and there are several stone wind shelters on the summit where you can camp. If you decide to camp, know that it's extremely windy at the summit and not a calm place to sleep. I've marked some alternative sheltered (and unofficial) spots along the way on the map below if you'd like to overnight in the area. Your best bet for water is the creek crossing by the Ski Hut.
The Gold Ridge / Agamemnon Mine used to sit at the head of the canyon in front of you. Operating from 1897-1907, it was destroyed by an avalanche. Although some scattered wreckage remains, most has been washed away by flooding over the years.
The Ski Hut was first built in 1936 by an Austrian transplant to LA who wanted to recreate the hut experience of the Alps. That hut burned down and was rebuilt in 1937, which is the hut you see today. The Sierra Club runs the hut, and you can make reservations to overnight there.
From here to the summit the trail frequently splits and rejoins itself. Just look for the path with the most footprints as you climb. If your trail starts to fizzle out, backtrack or look for it to join a more established trail to your left or right.
Need More Info?
Have a question about the guide or want to see what other people are saying/asking? View the Youtube comments for this video. Leave a comment and I will do my best to respond.
When planning, always check the park website and social media to make sure the trails are open. Similarly, check the weather and road conditions.