By Nicole Miller
The Mount Baldy area is both a hidden winter snow destination as well as a year-round summit for hikers and climbers. Located close to San Dimas, California, it is a great weekend spot for people in
Los Angeles.
The snow capped summit of Mt. Baldy.
Where to stay
Staying within the historic mountain village of Mount Baldy can be much more rewarding than staying in the area of San Dimas just under the mountain range. The town is equipped with lodges and restaurants, located in the quaint San Gabriel Mountains.
Year-round activities
The peak of the San Gabriel Mountains is Mt. San Antonio, but more famously known as Mt. Baldy. There are numerous ways up to the summit, and one path is a 13-mile round-trip. During the winter, ice shoes are highly recommended when climbing to the summit.
Winter activities
During the winter months, many Los Angeles residents travel to places such as Big Bear Mountain and Mountain High for skiing, but every winter, the snow line drops low enough to make Mt. Baldy a secret ski and snowboard destination worth trying out.
The Schoolhouse
An old restored schoolhouse located in the San Gabriel Canyon has been converted to a visitor center. This is a good location to learn about the flora and fauna of the area, pick up the best trails to the top and purchase the Forest Service Adventure pass needed for climbers to park at the trail head.
Directions
From Los Angeles, take Interstate 210 E. and exit left on Baseline Road. Take a right onto Padua Boulevard, then a right on Mt. Baldy Road. Continue up the mountain until you enter the town of Mount Baldy.
Resources
About the Author:
Nicole Miller is a freelance writer living in Los Angeles. She has a Bachelor of Arts degree in English from California State University, Northridge and is a published writer who has contributed to Inside Kung Fu Magazine and the Examiner.com.
Photo Credits:
Image by Flickr.com, courtesy of Joe Hastings
