Devil's Backbone

4.6 (63 reviews)

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Devil's Backbone - Grasshopper Heaven - Hiking Near Me - Mount Baldy, California

Devil's Backbone - Amaaaazing view from 10,064 ft high - Hiking Near Me - Mount Baldy, California

Devil's Backbone - Lots of people at the top! - Hiking Near Me - Mount Baldy, California

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At the summit and happy to have made it!

Lauren C.

I summited Mt. Baldy via Devil's Backbone and it was an amazing experience! Not only were the trails easy to find and clearly marked, the people that were also hiking on the trail were super friendly. There is not much social distancing done on the hiking trails or at the summit as most people are just exhausted from the summit. This is a strenuous trail that I would not recommend for small children, but the views cannot be beat. If you are trying to work on the SoCal "6 Pack" of mountains for Mt. Whitney, this is a great option to practice on. Make sure to walk from the parking lot all the way up via Devil's Backbone and take the same trail back for a nice 14 mile hike. Make sure you have enough water and some good shoes/socks along with snacks. I ended up giving a little apple sauce packet to another hiker on the way down because she was exhausted on the side of the trail and needed something to help her. Remember that quick sugars are better than complex sugars. Candy bars are not as good as fruit (but energy gels are an even better option than fruit).

ED L.

This is a pretty rough hike. The incline or decline is quite steep! Along Mount Baldy, the sign pointing to the Devil's Backbone was 1.2 miles... so I went on the trail just to check it out. I believe I have gone a bit too far in... maybe about 3 miles, so I had to hike back up to Baldy. It was tough with the nice incline. There was no sign indicating location until I bumped into a couple hunters. Luckily they didn't mistake me for a bear! Haha. Nice guys though as we spoke on the trail. They said that I was the only daring hiker to be around there... which I didn't have a clue. They asked if I was armed. No, I was not. Haha. They said the area going towards Lytle Creek is known for bears and deers. That kind of got me worried. So rushed back to the Baldy side. Overall, it's a beautiful hike. Lots of rocks and whisking grasshopper jumping around. I felt vulnerable and might have been prey. LOL. The views facing Lytle Creek was spectacular. The Pine Trees there was dropping Pine Cones. Would I do it again? My answer is yes. Just not alone.

Patrick B.

The hike can be tough, but it's definitely not impossible. Difficulty is all relative, I felt that the hike was moderate (I did take the lift up, which cut out about 2.3 miles). Also, we went on a beautiful cool summer day, so there was no snow or ice on the mountains. Personally I felt that the toughest part was the air becoming thinner. However, once I started my rhythmic breathing and kept a steady pace I was ok. I would say that the hike is definitely not for beginners, hiking boots and poles are optional but strongly recommended. Soon after you start the the hike by the notch, you encounter a very steep climb. Not too worry, this is probably one of the steepest parts of the hike! The last steep climb are the final ascent to the peak which can be done, slow and steady! There are gorgeous views of the skyline and surrounding mountain tops as you climb. The actual devil's backbone ridge is quite picturesque. You will definitely have a great sense of accomplishment and awe when you reach the top. The weather on a summary day will be just right, a cool of 70 with a breeze. However, if you go in spring or fall it will be very windy and cold. As many people have mentioned, if you are a beginner: Go in a group and go at your pace. If you run, bike, or do other cardio it will help when you reach the higher altitudes. Lastly, don't let your friends scare you. It is a beautiful hike and definitely do-able.

Justine S.

What a great hike! I went up Baldy for the fourth time a few weeks ago, and enjoyed it every time! Be careful when you decide to go though, because the first time I went it was over 100 degrees, this time it was over 90 degrees, and once I went in late October and the trail was already completely snowed in so I had to turn around since I didn't have crampons on any equipment with me. My friends and I showed up to Manker Flats at 6am on a Saturday, shortly after sunrise and we really thought we were the only crazy people who would be up that early. But no, turns out there's plenty of crazy people in the world since the closest parking lot was almost full by the time we got there. We managed to snag a spot though, and immediately made use of the two portapotties that are conveniently located by the trailhead. They smell TERRIBLE but better than nothing I guess? If you're starting at Manker Flats and going up Devils Backbone and then back down the Ski Hut path, I suggest you look at this very helpful guide: https://hikingguy.com/hiking-trails/best-la-hikes/mt-baldy-hike/ He includes measurements down to the tenth mile mark and includes really helpful pictures so that you know what you're looking for! If you're going up the opposite way (through the Ski Hut first), the turnoff to the Ski Hut is a little steep and you really need to keep an eye out for it on your left hand side about a mile into the hike from the trailhead. We ended up going up and down Devils Backbone since that way we passed the Ski Lodge (different from the Ski Hut!) both times. It makes a really nice breaking point. It wasn't open when we passed it on our way up, but they leave the doors to the bathroom and water fountain open, which was really nice to use. On the way down, we were able to grab a cold drink and a small snack which felt great! Just a note re dogs... I brought three dogs up with us the last time I did it, and I don't think I'll ever do that again. One of my friends was a little slow so we didn't finish anywhere near as fast as I thought we did, so we ended up hitting 90 degree heat which made the dogs really suffer. However everyone on the hike was really friendly and nice about the dogs, and they were a hit at the summit!

Frank S.

My 666th review fittingly goes to... Devil's Backbone! Devil's Backbone is a trail that stretches along the ridge of the mountain east of the Mt. Baldy summit. This trail boasts some of the most spectacular views in the Mt. Baldy area. At times, you are hiking on the ridge top where to the left and right of you are steep mountain slopes (http://www.yelp.com/biz_photos/devils-backbone-mount-baldy?select=b11nnmpMhdk25XoWh3ssiA#b11nnmpMhdk25XoWh3ssiA). Don't look down if you have a fear of heights, although I am not sure you should be here in the first place if you do cuz it's pretty extreme! From jaw dropping views of the Baldy Bowl (http://www.yelp.com/biz_photos/devils-backbone-mount-baldy?select=ASVFWNHhH6lFOk96TGWsaw#ASVFWNHhH6lFOk96TGWsaw) to the 10,064 ft. peak of Old Baldy, hiking to the summit via Devil's Backbone trail is a must for any serious hiker! By distance, hiking from the Baldy Notch (where the ski lift drops you off) to the Baldy summit is just 3.2 miles, or 6.4 miles round-trip. Don't let the short distance fool you, because this is a pretty tough hike especially if you aren't used to hiking in high altitude. The first time I came here, I thought I would breeze through this hike and I got my butt handed to me. I fought altitude sickness and took over 2 hours to summit at 10,064 ft. I later found out that the hike starts at 7,802 ft. elevation which is higher than any place I had hiked at the time. By comparison, Mt. Wilson peaks out at only 5,710 ft. I had no idea how much more difficult hiking is at higher elevation! If you're a hardcore hiker, you can even start your hike way below at the San Antonio Falls/Manker Flats parking area or by the Mt. Baldy ski lifts parking lot to extend the hike even more! I would actually say that the toughest parts of the hike are the beginning and the end. The first section of the hike from the notch to the start of Devil's Backbone is slightly over a mile. This stretch is on pretty steep slope and could sap all your energy. Be sure to take enough breaks and hydrate yourself because it's a lot of work just to reach the Devil's Backbone trailhead. And the final stretch where you climb the slope to the summit is quite strenuous. I took breaks like every 5 minutes, climbing where the trails weren't so visible in the snow. This last part before summiting probably took me an hour! All in all, a breathtaking trail both literally and figuratively; did you know it's much harder to breathe in the thin air at high altitude? For those who plan to come here in the winter or when there is snow/ice, I would highly recommend you bring traction device for your boots like microspikes or crampons. On the Devil's Backbone, one slip could mean a one way ticket to... hell...?

Stephanie P.

IN HONOR OF NATIONAL TRIALS DAY, June 7, 2014!!! BACKGROUND: In the United States, National Trails Day® (NTD) is the American Hiking Society's trail awareness program. Each year events are held to help promote awareness of the wide variety of benefits that trails provide, to encourage people to discover their local trails, to raise awareness of trail issues, and to instill excitement for the outdoors. National Trails Day ® is held every year on the first Saturday in June, although some local events could be held on other dates. Every year on National Trails Day The Crew hikes to the top of Mt. Baldy starting from various trail heads; Register Ridge, Ski Hut, Ice House Canyon, Devils Backbone, and Bear Flat, all with varying degrees difficulty. Know your limits. Mount San Antonio, commonly known as Mount Baldy, at 10,068 ft (3,069 m), is the highest peak in the San Gabriel Mountains, and the highest point in Los Angeles County. Mount San Antonio's sometimes snow-capped peaks are visible on clear days and dominate the view of the Los Angeles skyline. STEP OFF: This is a throwback review in honor of this celebration, show appreciation for, and lovingly give back to the hiking trails we so often take for granted. STATS: Distance: 6.6 miles Elevation Gain: 2,350ft. Max elevation: 10,064 ft. Not for beginners WARNING: Be aware of changes to your body, altitude sickness is possible http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Altitude_sickness http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2013/01/22/dominic-belletti-dead_n_2527345.html ESSENTIALS: Hiking shoes with good lug soles Water Layered clothing Hiking Poles Layers, it gets quite windy at the top Snacks Camera Sun screen (UV rays are stronger at 10,000+ft.) Hat (optional) Money (cash or credit) OUR ROUTE: Summiting Mt. Baldy took a while to get onto my "to do list". After over a year of hemming and hawing, I finally, in 2011, gave into its calling. I was not thrilled the first time, or the second, third, fourth, and fifth time. Sure the 360 degree view from the top is quite breathtaking, but it's mostly a trail hike. There are multiple ways to reach the peak of Baldy, and on National Trails Day 2013, I took the trail most traveled, yet shortest distance, the Devil's Backbone Trail. Round-trip ski lift tickets can be purchased at the ski lift, parking lot. The ride up to the Notch at the crack of dawn, even in June, is quite chilly, so bring layers. Jumpin' off at the top, outside the doors of The Notch, is where our hike began. The Devil's Backbone is a typical ridge-top trail that offers views on either side of the trail, with some unstable rock climbing and scree that offers breathtaking views, as well as getting the heart pumping for those afraid of heights. If you checked out the link above, hiking Mt. Baldy from any starting point can be dangerous, even deadly, so take great care while hiking and don't hike alone. The narrow trail gives way to a steep slope of scree. Cross a forest of sparse pines to a saddle between Mt. Baldy and Mt. Harwood. The steepest section of the trails is covered in 0.7 miles of switchbacks. As we climbed, we could see in the distance, Mount San Gorgonio to the east and Mount San Jacinto to the southeast. Once at the top pictures were taken, food was shared, and some even took a nap. After our break at the top we headed back the same way to The Notch. The 0.7 miles to the saddle between Mt. Baldy and Mt. Harwood was a slippery slope of loose gravel. Finally, The Notch, a restaurant at the top of the ski lifts that offers food, beverage (kid friendly, as well as adult friendly) souvenirs, and clothing. Also, I believe, but not certain, lockers for skiers during the winter months. This was supposed to be a one and done for me, yet, I've hiked to the top of Mt. Baldy seven times. This year I will be celebrating National Trails Day elsewhere, not because of my dislike for Baldy, it just didn't work out this year. I'm sure I'll be back next year. My dislike for trail hikes knocks this one down a star. DISCLAIMER: Hiking is not something that can be taken lightly. It can be life-threatening as you see and hear on the news, people die or get lost all time. Please, if you are going to hike, never go alone and prepare for the worst, hope for the best. Remember when going for a hike, no matter how short you think it may be, always be prepared. Carry at least two liters of water for every five miles (more if the weather is warm), protein bar, nuts, and electrolytes. Wear sturdy lug sole shoes and protective clothing. Some areas the weather can change quicker than a fireman can put on his gear. It is also very important, always always always let a family member or friend know where you are going and when you expect to be back. Lastly, have fun when you hike it up. #HIKING #MtBaldy #Notforbeginners

Melanie D.

Devil's Backbone is named as such due to the trail traversing the ridge of the mountain with essentially nothing on either side - in other words, it's elevated, like the spine, and drops down on either side. It can be used to climb up to or down from Mount Baldy. If climbing up to, it would be a strenuous hike. I have only climbed down from Baldy via this route, and although long, it's not very strenuous. It's mostly flat and downhill. It will lead to the Baldy Notch, where the ski lift is located. From here, you can choose to ride the lift down or hike another 3 miles down to Manker Flats. The scenery is quite beautiful here, as it affords 360 degree views. It's definitely worth a trip here if you are up for a challenge.

Davey G.

Getting an early start on the Mt. Baldy hike is the way to go. My buddy and I arrived at Manker Flat at 7:15am (I totally forgot about the Adventure Pass and luckily there was a random little shop in Baldy village that was open at 7am). I was going to have us ascend via the Ski Hut trail, but I missed the turn-off and we wound up taking the Devils Backbone Trail. I'm glad we did -- it was a much easier climb and we made it to the summit in just under 3 hours. The one tip I would advise is to stick to the RIGHT when you continue past Baldy Notch. The wide trail on the left looks tempting, but it get incredibly steep after about 100 yards. The final climb to the summit is a very rocky and switchback-laden stretch of trail. Descending via the Baldy Bowl trail while lacking trekking poles did us in. My friend and I were slippin' and slidin' for a while on some gravely patches of trail. We completed the 10.6m round trip hike in just under 6 hours Is it normal to be SUPER sore after one of these hikes? Man, my butt is still achin' -- haha.

Yes, this is the hellish incline. You can do it!

Trang L.

This is an ass kicker of a hike. You will taste a bit of hell when climbing the incline and will be ready to give up multiple times, but PUSH THROUGH! By the time you're about to give up, you're already at the top. (That was me) I came here beginning of April 2015 and there were some snow caps around the trail, but not directly on it. Hiking on a weekday allowed for very empty trails, which can be a good or bad thing. If you get lost, the chances of running into people are very low. Consider coming here on a weekend so that the chances of you running into a hiker are higher if this is your first time. Taking the next step to becoming a better hiker/backpacker means pushing through the pain when you're at your worst. As it should be known, Mt. Baldy is not a hike for first timers. The dirt is very loose here, making it easy to slip off and fall if you're not careful. The huge incline with high altitude makes it easy for you to get dizzy with lack of oxygen. Please remember to always stay where you KNOW where you are (ON TRAIL.) Do NOT go off trail if you are lost. My group and I went off trail and got lost on the decline. We had to climb back up on the trail, but it was much safer than getting lost in a place that we were unfamiliar with. TIPS: Bring painkillers if needed. My legs were in an insane amount of pain along with a migraine, making it difficult to hike. I pushed myself mentally, not giving up. Remember: #NOEXCUSES. You can and will do it! Make smart decisions and always be prepared for the worst.

Ruth T.

You're the devil in disguise (oh yes you are) This deceptively short 6.4 mile hike (round trip from the ski lift drop off) should not be taken lightly! I think the highest elevation I've hiked at before was around 8,000 ft, and the first time I did that (but with a pack), it was pretty awful to adjust to. The hike here starts at around that elevation and goes to 10,000 ft, so beginners...start those breathing exercises. The first part of the hike to reach the trailhead is pretty brutal. You do a rapid ascent that is steep and seems to go on forever. Don't be discouraged, it does level off. Eventually. My friend, a beginning hiker, started to feel dizzy and nauseous during this time. Make sure to take frequent breaks and go at your own pace if this is the case! It's not a race, but to the cross-country runners we saw on the trail - props. Compared to the first part, the actual "backbone" is pretty easy. Just don't fall off, I guess. I'd be scared shitless doing this hike in the winter with all the ice, that's for sure. Unfortunately, we did not summit due to time constraints, plus our friend was super exhausted and unwilling to do the second altitude climb that awaited to get to the peak. I'll be back to conquer you next time, and maybe I'll go from the base so I don't have to pay from the ski lift! The way back was a breeze compared to the ascent, just step carefully around those rocks. This trail was very crowded, so keep that in mind if you don't like populated trails. It seemed like for the most part, people packed out their trash. Good on you guys! Views were not the most exciting for me personally, but it is still quite nice. What's pretty awesome is that once you're done hiking, you can ring the bell at the bottom and then go immediately to the restaurant to get a side of fries along with your sense of accomplishment. After all, you deserve it :)

Armine P.

Just breathtaking ... literally Amazing views, great challenging climb. We were told that it's dangerous in the winter time because you cannot see the hedges and can fall thousands of feet to a very painful death. So... maybe don't go when there's snow.

Leanne N.

The devil's backbone itself was not as scary as people said! Previous reviews definitely made me nervous and made me want to rethink my plans of taking this way up to the summit but I'm glad I didn't listen to them. Granted, there was no snow or ice. Find out the weather before you make your decision. I definitely would not take this way if it was snowing because I'm a very clumsy person. The backbone wasn't too narrow. I'm afraid of heights and this wasn't bad at all! Still, take your time and watch your steps. Take this trail if you can, views are very nice.

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Catbox H.

14 years ago

Got a Travelzoo deal for breakfast + R/T ski lift for a great discount! Decided to try this out since I'm starting to get into hiking. The name alone was tempting enough~ The trail is challenging, and the views are phenomenal. The reward after crossing the Devil's Backbone, and shuffling along side the mountain top ridge was a great feeling of accomplishment! I would recommend this hike to anyone. A must must must! read more

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Mary P.

Elite 18

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12 years ago

So I purchased a scenic ski lift coupon and stumbled on this trail. Needless to say we were not prepared! It was October and weather was pretty cool. However, we only had 4 water bottles for two people. There's so much uphill that I downed 2 water bottles before we got to the foot of the summit. We didn't go further because we ran out of water. We will go back and feel so accomplished when we finally get up the summit. Furthermore, the hike is fun because it's kind of scary the trail gets very narrow and steep. It took us about 2 hours from the top of the notch restaurant to the foot of the summit. read more

Devil's Backbone - Hiking Near Me - Mount Baldy, California

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Elizabeth A.

10 years ago

Devils backbone is a strenuous hike. Amazing 360 views of entire San Gabriel mountains and L.A city. read more

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Liliana M.

12 years ago

Awesome views all around. Super steep! Take lots of water I took 4L and drank all of it. Also please watch your step it's a serious hike. My husband had to help a guy that fell on the narrow part of the trail =0 it was scary he wasn't seriously hurt but it was a close call. So please be careful. read more

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Andrew Z.

11 years ago

This hike is a killer, but oh so worth the effort. Starting at the parking lot, we were greeted by a very nice attendant who told us it was a beautiful day for heading up to the summit. We got our tickets for the chairlift and Top of the Notch restaurant from a friendly woman working in the small trailer at the lot, and made our way up the steps. The chairlift is a gorgeous ten-minute ride. Very quiet and the scenery is wonderful. Once you reach the top, ask for the trail you're looking for (we took a wrong turn and were halfway up one of the steepest inclines I've ever come across when we realized we needed to turn around.) Once we were on the right trail, it was full steam ahead - but we didn't rush it as we physically couldn't. You're starting off at 7,300 feet so the oxygen is already limited, but the scenery continues to be a real treat all the way up. This isn't for the feint of heart if you're afraid of heights as there are some spots with a pretty severe drop on either one or both sides, but if you watch your footing you're going to be fine. Once you emerge from the trees and make your way up the last portion to the summit, there are a number of different routes. Take your pick, I suppose. Trekking poles were very helpful for me, both during ascent and descent. That last portion on your way up is a LOT of work but if you take your time, the summit will greet you and you can find a good spot to relax for awhile and enjoy the neighboring mountains before heading back down. The descent goes much faster, though it felt never-ending as we reached the top of the green chairlift (a higher lift that wasn't running while we were there - I believe it only operates in the wintertime.) Stick with it, make your way back to the restaurant and relax with some good food before heading back down to the lot. Again, this hike is no easy task. I'm a regular at the gym and take care of myself and it still had me winded. We took 5.5 hours to do the whole thing with about 30 minutes spent at the top. Highly recommended for a good workout and fantastic views! read more

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Elizabeth K.

Elite 14

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14 years ago

I'm actually quite embarrassed to write a review for something I haven't yet accomplished, so this is for all the people who are either amateur hikers (like me) or are on the fence about this trail. It's called Devil's Backbone because the trail is 10,000+ in elevation, narrow, and looks imaginatively like what the Devil's spine would look like had he decided to take the form of a dangerous mountain path. Or so I've heard... I've taken two very different trails that both begin at the base of Mt. Baldy. One was past the waterfall, off the paved dirt road, and up into the tiny path on the left. It's easily missed because it looks so steep and impossible to hike. That one almost put me to my death. A switchback trail, so it takes a while to even get to the halfway point (about 2.5 miles) to the green house, where I came back down after that. Hiking sticks is a must on this trail. Lots of big rocks, and some climbing on all fours at one point. The other one was the one that continues on the paved dirt road (very easy), past the ski lifts (wave "hi!"-- they get so happy! After all, they just paid $25 per person to ride it...), and to Baldy Notch. This took us a little over an hour with maybe a 5-10 min break. Just a little side note: do not eat at the Baldy Notch, unless all you want is a drink at the bar because you can't believe you're not even half way through. The food is expensive and not very fulfilling. This is where it gets painful, but I'm not sure if it's because I took a long break before continuing. We went further up after Baldy Notch and was led to two paths: one trail on the left that was dirt paved and also looked like it was going downhill, and one trail on the right that was legit an 80 degree slope. We took the latter trail, and this goes on for about 30 minutes. That's the one that leads quickly to Devil's Backbone. I couldn't do it. I went up painfully, but I also knew that had I been maybe wearing less clothes and was less groggy, I would have been able to reach the top. It's certainly extremely challenging, but not impossible at all. Once again, hiking sticks are recommended. Long socks, the right boots (I just wore my running shoes because I didn't expect to go up this far today). Sunscreen. Sunglasses. Layer your clothes. I'm 22 and I went with my 55 year old parents, yet I'm the one curled up in bed, the soreness in my thighs preventing me from getting up. If you're like my parents-- nature loving and hike hungry, Devil's Backbone (the whole shabang) is most definitely for you and worth the pain. Goodnight. read more

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Jason A.

10 years ago

In the past 3 weeks, two people have died on this trail and an addition person died nearby. There have been dozens of helicopter rescues and serious injuries. 1) Be informed about conditions. Call the ranger station, look on instagram for #mtbaldy, go to mountain-forecast.com, and reddit.com/r/socalhiking. 2) Be prepared - bring hiking poles ($20 at target or walmart) for additional points of contact. Bring at least microspikes for traction. Sometimes real crampons or ice axes might be necessary. You can rent them for about $12/day each for REI members. 3) Don't be afraid to turn back if conditions are bad or you're under-equipped. Last time I went, just 2 days after the trails re-opened, a family with 2 kids (7-10 years old) went up with no gear and had to turn back. One of the kids slipped on the worst part of Devil's Backbone but ended up holding on to the trail on all fours. read more

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Doug M.

17 years ago

Team in Training Hike for Discovery Rendezvous at Mt. Baldy! At an elevation of a little over 10,000 feet, not a lot of people who started the Team in Training Hike program thought they would have a chance to succeed at something like this. But half of our Team is hiking Baldy via the Ski Hut and the other half by way of the Devil's Backbone to meet at the summit. Both are really cool routes, but with the Devil's backbone, you have the option of cutting off almost half of the 3500-foot elevation gain with a ski lift ride to Baldy Notch. There's also a nice little restaurant/snack bar perched at the top of the ski lift for your convenience. On Baldy, always be ready that there may be a stiff, cool wind near the summit, so always bring an extra sweater even if it seems nice down below. And be prepared to get tired. One more thing...don't forget your camera. We started our training with easy walks at Malibu Creek State Park (home of the MASH site), Reseda Canyon and Cheeseboro Canyon. Then we built our conditioning with hikes at Pt Magu, Chantry Flats, Bear Canyon and Echo Mountain. Then on to Mt. Pacifico, a really cool night hike in the Verdugos, Bulldog and next...Baldy. So we've been all over the San Gabriel and Santa Monica Ranges. Coaches and mentors were at our side from Day 1. And we've seen places and things we never imagined were in our own backyards. After Baldy, it's another nice coastal hike before we head up to Yosemite for our big trip with Yosemite-based guides. Some of us are going to take on Half Dome, some Yosemite Falls and some the Panorama trail. Best of all, we've all raised money for The Leukemia and Lymphoma Society to help with research for blood cancers and care for the patients who have these horrible diseases. There's another Hike program starting right now and it's not too late to join. Instead of Yosemite, this one's final destination is the Rocky Mountains! It doesn't matter what your skill level is or if you've ever hiked before. Some of us didn't have a clue what kind of boots to get when we started. But if you're interested in a great time, making new friends, achieving more than you can imagine and best of all, making a difference, check out: http://www.teamintraining.org/firsttimehere/sportprograms/hikeadventures or contact our campaign manager Rachel Hershberg: 310.846.4705 Rachel.Hershberg@lls.org read more

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Sara P.

Elite 24

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12 years ago

How did I never review my experience hiking devils backbone?! Well it was some time ago now (almost 7 months). But I came, I went and I conquered! It was an absolutely gorgeous day out for a hike, there was a blissful breeze and enough hikers on the trail to keep you motivated. Bring lots of water and a few energizing snacks! As this was a first for a hike at the elevation level, I struggled and took my time making it to the top. It's a breathtaking view and worth every ache! read more

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Max G.

11 years ago

beautiful hike. 360 view of so-cal. I started from the camp at 9am (not from the ski lift) it begins with a pave road which continues for about an 20-30min. As you continue hiking you'll see the ski lifts below which is another starting point for "cheaters" I would like to say haha. Once you reach the top of the ski lift/restaurant (Stop by get some Gatorade/snickers..it took me an hour to get from the car to the restaurant). Once you leave the restaurant continue going straight it will be pretty obvious. Just no left or right. After about 10mins you'll see a sign and there are 3 different paths to different hikes (3 tree top, Mt. Baldy, and some other one) just make sure you'll take the one on the left. It's the steepest one. You'll feel like your making a Uturn back to the restaurant but you will be incline big time. From there on its a tough climb. For about 2-3 hours but well worth it trust me!! Safe hiking! I started at 9am- got to the car around 4:30-45pm. I hike a lot to and it was a tough hike for me. Take a friend don't go alone like I did. Take lots of water 5-6bottles person, a scarf, long sleeve just incase it gets cold or really windy. Hiking boots, hat, lots of snacks!!!! That was my mistake! read more

Devil's Backbone - 3 hours in. - Hiking Near Me - Mount Baldy, California

Devil's Backbone - On the way down. - Hiking Near Me - Mount Baldy, California

Devil's Backbone - Almost at the peak - Hiking Near Me - Mount Baldy, California

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Jacob F.

8 years ago

This was probably the hardest hike I've ever done and probably the hardest physical activity I have ever done. My friend and I went up to Mt. Baldy ok this trail and down the ski hut trail. However grueling it was it was also extremely memorable. I would not suggest going down the ski hut trail as it is very steep and the rocks slide under your feet. Come prepared to face this beast of a mountain. Don't be like my friend and I and wear tennis shoes and not bring any hiking equipment. But, I would highly recommend this mountain and this trail. The views are spectacular. read more

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scott m.

14 years ago

such an awesome hike not as strenuous as i thought but Ive been hiking since i was about 8 got a little light headed since its pretty high up but some water did the trick not for people who have a fear of heights however since it drops off in certain places but the views and scenery are absolutely spectacular!!! read more

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Tony C.

15 years ago

This was a fun way down from the summit after crawling straight up the bowl (naively blazed our own trail). I cannot attest to this trail from the bottom up, but it looks like it would be a good workout. I liked the views and narrowness it offered. The last few miles coming down from the lodge are a little "boring" compared to the rest of the trail, but at least they are not too strenuous. read more

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Pilar R.

13 years ago

This Hike is Wonderful! definitely a must for all hikers out there. Its about 13 miles of mainly uphill with breath taking views all around at a moderate paste it should take you about 4-5 hours round trip. You want to take plenty of water and a light jacket if you get easily cold the winds are cold but more refreshing than anything :) . Make sure to but Sunblock! specially in your back neck arms, there are hardly any trees on the 2nd half up to the top. About kids, well yeah you could take them just be preciouses on the way down it gets really slippery with all the rocks. I've seen kids as young as 9 and AMAZING elderly hiker's as well, we didn't ask but we came across a group of 5 that look around their 70's no joke, Obviously in great shape :) I mean we were dying and here they were going by like a walk in the park. let's see what else, we didn't come across any wild animals that day only annoying flying grasshoppers almost at the top that was it. After we went to eat at "Top Of The Notch Restaurant" good food, good prices, fresh beer good way to finish the day. :) read more

Devil's Backbone - I got this at the Visitors center :) - Hiking Near Me - Mount Baldy, California

Devil's Backbone - This is the back - Hiking Near Me - Mount Baldy, California

Devil's Backbone - The Lift will help you but the harder part is after so think of it as a little push lol. Last time I went 8/4/13 it was $20 - Hiking Near Me - Mount Baldy, California

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Angie L.

Elite 14

654

151

14 years ago

I never felt more alive than being on top of Mt Baldy. MUST DO for any avid hiker.

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David M.

Elite 23

326

1221

124

13 years ago

I always go down DBB from the summit, and would be curious to try it the other way. I start from the Village and it's pretty much exactly 9 miles to the Notch via this route. I start at the Village as I think the views are better, and I can stop at the restaurant before moving on to the 3 Tees. read more

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James P.

12 years ago

This part of the hike has been the most beautiful spot in all if the different hikes I do in So Cal. Such a great payoff, and getting to the 10k ft elevation is amazing. Can't wait to do it again. Coming down the backbone towards end of the hike you end up at a lodge with cold beers waiting and a lift ticket down caps off the day. If you're more than just a once in a while hiker you could probably do this. It's tough but worth it. read more

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Morgan P.

12 years ago

This trail is challenging, however it is a challenge that can be conquered. If you are not used to elevation change and tough trails, this is not for you. The accent takes about two hours and you will want to be sure you have about double the water you think you should take, this is not a place you want to run out of water in especially during the summer when there is no snow to refill your bladders. If you are lucky you may see some California Big Horn. I recommend starting this trial before sunrise, it is much more peaceful and not as hot. Happy hiking! read more

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Chris S.

13 years ago

In LA for business, and always looking for a good spot to hike and have to say this was a challenge. Spectacular view and the last push from the Devils Backbone looks daunting (and it is) but it is worth it. There are a few spots on the trail which are narrow along the spine and for those who have a fear of heights can be a little unnerving. This was a great way to spend a day. Have good shoes, lots of H20, sunscreen and a windbreaker (this was in April) Started off at base around 70 degrees, up top it was windy and a nice 50 w/ spots of snow on the ground. I recommend this to anyone. LA is known for beaches etc, but I just happened to find this gem online. When asking locals..few knew of this place. I have to say, I preferred this over a beach any day. read more

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e m.

9 years ago

I dont like this trail. It can narrow to 18 inches in parts with big drops. It is the scariest trails i have hiked. Im a leader with the sierra club and i have hiked many trails. If you do this trail, do it when there is no rain or snow. Also do not do it in the dark if possible. There is a readon they call it the devils backbone. I know one hiking group who is doing mt baldy/devils backbone. in the dark and that is very foolish and risky. Quite a few people have died on devils backbone especially when there was snow or ice. It is a very tough trail. You need to be in good shape to do mt. baldy! On devils backbone you are walking narrow ridges some of the way. It wasnt windy when i did it but it can get windy. If you hike mt. Baldy, make sure you have lots of water with electrolytes, hiking boots, poles or one may do. A pole can help with traction or balancing. A jacket. Sometimes there may be snow up there even when you may not think so. If you have qusetions abt baldy or devils backbone, feel free to ask me. I have been to the top. One nice thing abt hiking baldy is the incredible views! read more

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Katie D.

12 years ago

Personally, I think Mt. Baldy is the most amazing peak-having done the big 3 (Jacinto, Gorgonio and Baldy) many times. THere is something about the vast expanse of the peak and the 360 degree view and the fact that I ALWAYS hit rain coming down toward the Devil's backbone. I admit I have only done it via the Ski Hut trail and down the Devil's backbone. My family usually takes the ski lift down while I hike with the dogs down the last bit on the fire road. The fact that 3/4 of the way in, you can stop for some Arrogant Bastard pitchers at the ski lodge definitely adds a unique twist to this hike. OK, so the nuts and bolts of the hike. You start out on a WIDE fire road. Barely into the hike is a spur to a lovely waterfall, then you start up a fire road and if you're not alert, you can miss the ridiculously steep side trail off to the left that takes you to the ski hut trail. Once you scamper up the first part, it's a picturesque stroll through pine trees on a well maintained switchback up to the old ski hut. There are plenty of places to take a break (and hundreds of hikers do) at the ski hut. After that, the "fun" begins. Do you like steep gravel? The kind you can slide backwards on if your shoes don't have good treads? Well then you'll love the next part. The distance between the hut and the summit is absurdly short (maybe 2 miles max) but it is a LONG two miles. It's pretty but it's tough. There are multiple intersecting routes. If you have kids, they will whine, but make them keep going because the summit is spectacular. Leave early enough to spend at least an hour at the top. Then, head down the opposite side down a barren, rocky, steep descent. Eventually, it turns into a narrow precipice (the Devil's backbone) that is not recommended for the acrophobic. After that, you drop down into the ski area and eventually to the ski hut. You can pay to be chair lifted down the last bit OR hoof it (only a mile or two) back to the parking lot. But a stop at the ski lodge for a pitcher of beer, sitting on the porch enjoying the view is nice... LOVE THIS HIKE!!! read more

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Epicurean _.

12 years ago

Winter Conditions: I hiked on Feb. 2 2014, and didn't make it to the end of the backbone. It was slick in parts, below 0, and the wind was 25-30 mph at the top of the first peak, which was too sketchy for me to pursue. I am afraid of heights, but if you add in the partial ice and the wind, it is at least a little hairy. That being said, I saw people who did the whole thing this time of year, but they all mentioned the wind. Winter and Gear: If you're gonna do it, be safe and definitely bring skiing clothes, and someone even recommended 4 season gear. 10 ppl died last yr. on it, so be careful! The people I saw who did it had walking sticks, thick pants and jackets, beanies, sunglasses, the works. Getting there: Part I: the car You take a bunch of freeways, which will then get you to Mt. Baldy Road. You take Mt. Baldy road through a town (get your $5 Adventure daily pass at the visitor center for your dashboard), then it dead ends at a combined ski lift and parking lot (get the $12 daily ski pass, and parking for ??). Kinda sucks that you've already spent around $20 just for a hike and a ski lift, but that's how it goes! Part II: the hike to the end of devil's backbone: My calves burn as I write this cuz I practically did the whole thing, but it wasn't that difficult physically. The whole trail has a lot of switchbacks, and there are only a few super vertical parts. a) You can take the first ski lift up, or hike it along a trail that starts at to the left of the ski lift and parking lot. It's up to you. I hiked it, and it wasn't that bad. The entire hike is only strenuous in parts. The trail only diverges in a few parts, and it's really obvious that you should just keep going right on the way up, in the obvious uphill direction to the 'Top of the Notch' ski lodge. It took me an hour to get to the top. b) At the lodge, also the end of the first ski lift, there is a bunch of buildings. This area is impossible to miss. You then go up to the end of the next ski lift. At the beginning starting from the ski lodge, there is the choice between a very wide, less vertical road on the left, and a meandering path closer to the ski lift on the right, which I took. This took me about 20 minutes. The trail diverges and converges a few times, but this is common sense as all roads lead to Rome. c) Once you get to the end of the ski lift, you are basically at or very near the beginning of the Devil's Backbone. From here, it only takes about 30 minutes to get to the top. I didn't do this last part, but timed people who did. read more

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Sara C.

12 years ago

This hike is insane. So amazing. Don't try it if you're not in shape. If you do try it, come prepared! It gets hot and then freezing. I highly recommend hiking poles. If you're afraid of heights, devils backbone is probably not the best idea, the drop offs are crazy. The elevation change, in such a short amount of time, is hard on the body for sure. I recommend hiking shoes... Not running/tennis shoes. It's a tough hike, but so worth it,... If you're prepared. read more

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More info about Devil's Backbone

6777 Mt Baldy Rd
Mt Baldy
Mount Baldy, CA 91759
Directions

Hours

What time does Devil's Backbone open?

What time does Devil's Backbone close?

Outdoor Amenities

Does Devil's Backbone have bike parking?

No, Devil's Backbone does not have bike parking.

Does Devil's Backbone have parking?

Yes, Devil's Backbone has parking options. Private Lot Parking

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“After about 10mins you'll see a sign and there are 3 different paths to different hikes (3 tree top, Mt.”

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Cucamonga Peak

(110 reviews)

+ Great hike. Exhilarating, breathtaking (literally and figuratively)…read more . The hike takes about 12 miles, 6-8 hours, and about 4100' elevation gain. + Good views of San Gabriel mountains and LA county. + There was one shared Cucamonga Peak sign at the summit to hold for photos. - Parking on a Saturday at 6am gets very crowded. Take heed. Arrive early or park a 1-2min walk down the street. - The only restrooms are the two at the trailhead. No hand sanitizers. Better than nothing. Tips: . Bring plenty snacks and +3L of water. . I recommend checking out HikingGuy's guide before you go: https://hikingguy.com/hiking-trails/los-angeles-hikes/cucamonga-peak-hike/ . And get a hiking parking pass ($5) to scratch off your visit date to keep on your dashboard.

Ontario Peak was my first peak hike ever, but Cucamonga solidified my love for hiking and my goal…read moreis to climb all the SoCal peaks. I hiked this in November 2024 and it was cold! However, the cloud coverage was absolutely breaktaking. I had never seen anything like it before. It is inspirational and captivating. Hiking poles recommended and slow and steady will always get the job done. I carpooled and we arrived early for parking. An adventure pass is required. Please go out there and create your own adventure.

Bonita Falls

(164 reviews)

We went for a hike yesterday and Bonita Falls was 22 minutes drive. The location was in Lytle Creek…read morein San Bernardino National Forest. The weather was great. We parked in the designated area. It was around 2.8 miles round trip . Make sure bring water, sunscreen, good hiking shoes and hiking stick. The trail was very rocky and steep going to the waterfalls. The running stream was amazing. Water was cold but soothing to listen to the sound of the water. The waterfall was high , great to take pictures and can get to the waterfalls area. There were people doing rock climbing too. Great adventure.

Beautiful place to go hiking and spend time with family sometimes it does get dirty when people…read moredon't clean up after themselves!!! The scene is beautiful and the water is clear glass clean I love this place always and forever

Blue Ridge Trail

(13 reviews)

Well maintained trail with lots of shade and high elevation. Some parking available in a small lot…read morenear the beginning of the trailhead. The map had me go through the ski resort next door to safely get to the off road to park. I was confused at first but realized that Google Maps would not break any traffic laws therefore I couldn't cross the double yellow lines and make a left into the lot. The trail was peaceful with birds chirping, the sound of water flowing from a stream and beautiful views. I didn't see a bridge as I had in a couple pictures online, not sure if they removed it? I hiked the trail on the AllTrails app and noticed there was a fork near the bench (about the half-way). It's possible that the bridge was on one of those offshoot trails. The trail leads up to a campground area and also the Discovery ski lift connected with the ski resort nextdoor. A little beyond the trail you will find the PCT. I met five people and two dogs on the trail. It was a beautiful day and a good hike. Oh, I placed my annual pass signature side up on my dashboard of my car for the hike but I'm not sure if anyone checked. I went to what appeared to be a ranger station after my hike and it was closed, no one was there. It said it was open to the public on Saturday I think. Either way it's better safe than sorry. You never know when someone will check for the adventure pass (or interagency pass) so yes, I believe a pass is still recommended.

This has become one of my fave local trails - a great workout, gorgeous views, peace & quiet, small…read morewaterfall, snow in season!! Everything you could want in a trail! I say local but, well, sorta "local" I guess - it's about an hour from the greater LA area near Wrightwood but well worth the drive! Google maps takes you right to the trailhead parking lot - it's small but we've always found parking. There are bathrooms too but sometimes they're locked so plan ahead. AllTrails has the trail right at 4 miles and 1,079 feet elevation gain. But the trail also links up with the PCT so you can go further and I highly recommend it if you can - you'll be rewarded with some pretty incredible sweeping mountain vistas! Last time we went, we did around 7 1/2 miles and just over 1500 feet - I was whooped but it was 100% worth it! And there are no bathrooms along the trail or at the end either. The trail is moderate when there's no snow and mostly shaded - a true mountain pine forest habitat. But when there's snow, I'd bump it up to moderate-hard. The snow can last all the way into late April sometimes - it gets deep and the trail is very narrow in lots of places. With snow on the trail, you'll definitely need micro spikes and poles - and a good trail map bc the snow is deceiving regarding trail width and you'll fall if you misstep. To find the part that links up with the PCT, just keep going at the end of the AllTrails map towards the ski lift to the left and you'll see the signs - about another mile and a half and you'll reach the top and there's all the gorgeous views!! It also shows all the area trails that link up inside the AllTrails app so I highly recommend downloading it before you go bc the signal is very spotty out there. And I would recommend snacks and bear spray too.

San Antonio Falls

(66 reviews)

Great place to hike and enjoy nature. Been here many times and never get enough. There's tons of…read moresnow on the ground and by the water fall at the moment.

Only saw one person get a ticket but that's bc they were blocking a driveway. Lots of people park…read morealong the side of the row and it didn't look like anyone had parking permits. This is a fantastic intro hike it's about 1 mile to the falls and you can make it longer by parking farther down the mountain or hike up farther the trail to go above the falls. Saw a rattlesnake but it wasn't fast or aggressive just watch your step. Lots of foot traffic so it feels very safe. Overall one of my favorite beginner friendly hikes.

Rainbow Bridge Via Pacific Crest Trail

(4 reviews)

The Pacific Crest Trailhead - Mojave River Forks End of Road serves as a significant access point…read moreto the iconic Pacific Crest Trail (PCT) in Southern California. Situated at an elevation of 923 meters in the Mojave Desert region, this trailhead marks a unique intersection where the vast wilderness of the PCT meets the end of California Highway 173. It is a crucial gateway for exploring the diverse landscapes of the San Bernardino Mountains foothills and the unique desert environment. Visitors consistently highlight this trailhead as the most accessible starting point for reaching the popular Deep Creek Hot Springs, making it a favored destination for hikers. The opportunity to experience a distinctive desert section of the Pacific Crest Trail, with its scenic Deep Creek Canyon and lush riparian vegetation, is another major draw. The convenience of a wide parking area at the end of the paved road also contributes to its popularity among those looking for day hikes or shorter excursions on the PCT. Before setting out, hikers should be prepared for a creek crossing within about a mile of the trailhead, as Deep Creek must be forded. While often shallow or dry, especially during certain times of the year, water levels can rise significantly after rain or snowmelt, potentially requiring an alternative parallel track near the dam. The trailhead offers ample free parking at the dead-end of Highway 173, making it easily reachable by passenger vehicle. This trailhead is ideal for hiking and trail running, particularly for those aiming for the Deep Creek Hot Springs, which is typically a 12-mile out-and-back journey. The arid desert climate suggests that spring and fall offer the most comfortable conditions for exploration, avoiding the extreme heat of summer or potential high waters in winter. Its location also provides convenient access to nearby amenities at Mojave River Forks Regional Park, including camping and recreational opportunities at Silverwood Lake.

i love this trail, but do it on a cloudy day, wont recommend hiking this on a hot day because…read moretheres no shade the whole time. and pls. pick up after your pet. parking is kinda sketchy too. so take the risk. Other than that love the bridge at the end of the trail!

Inspiration Point, Wrightwood

(2 reviews)

A great place to get away from the hustle of bustle of city life and for "inspiration". From this…read morepoint, you can see from Wrightwood, CA, through Los Angeles, all the way to Catalina Island (on a clear day). The views from this lookout are amazing and there are hiking trails to enjoy nearby if you care to venture. Overall, a great place to take a moment to pause, reflect, and admire the beauty that nature has to offer. There's a bench located at the stop for visitors to utilize as well :) Link for more info: http://www.wrightwoodca.com/wrightwood-mountains/mountain.php?view&mountain=10

Beautiful easy hike. It is perfect for teenagers, kids and dogs. Highly reccomend specially at…read moresunset

Big Horn Mine

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Big Horn Mine is a nice escape from the city, without having to travel too far…read more All trails will have you thinking it's a difficult hike, when the main thing to keep in mind is that you need to dress appropriately. Wear hiking boots/shoes and this will be a breeze. The recent fires still show some burn scars and lack of shade, so ideally get in/out before early afternoon. Other than that it's lovely.

Did a little exploring, no signs or maps and we still found it. Such an amazing view!read more

Castle Rock Trail

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This is a beautiful trail, but a little tougher than expected! There seem to be quite a few…read moredifferent trails/routes you can take, but I'd plan for about 2-3 miles minimum (in the altitude it feels longer lol). They recently added a parking lot, which made it so much more convenient for parking and to find the start of the trail! I'm so glad they did this. I'd still say the earlier arrival, the better, so you can get a parking spot. For the trail itself, it's a good workout - there are both uphills & downhills. Once you get to the top, there are beautiful views of the lake.

We took this hike with our pups and it was awesome! It was definitely a work out with lots of steep…read moreand uphill hiking. We made it to the big rock at the very end, unfortunately with our pups we were unable to climb all the day to the tippy top. Overall an awesome hike, saw lots of trees, rocks, and little streams along the way! Trail is dog friendly, and has a lot of spots to stop for great views of the lake

North Etiwanda Preserve

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It's a great hiking trail towards the Etiwanda waterfalls. The trail has part that's rocky and…read morerough. It's quite a climb so hiking stick and boots are useful. There are no shades during the hike only at the end either lots of trees surrounding the area. It's a beautiful view of San Bernardino Mountains and county. It's worthy. Bring water and wear sunscreen. No restrooms available . You need to pay for parking. No dogs allowed. Be careful there's really San Bernardino security checking for parking and dogs. You don't want to pay penalty.

I used to do this trail almost monthly. Hadn't been in a couple years and it felt right to come…read moreback and do this trail before I move out of state. It was the perfect morning for a sunrise hike today. This is a great trail for a quick cardio workout. Watch for parts of the trail that are gravel and slippery. Cute rabbits on the trail frequently and sometimes even deer. The hi light is the waterfall at the top!! I enjoyed sitting by the falls and having a snack before hiking back down. Parking is for a fee now...so that was new. QR codes posted around the lot and gates open at 6/630 am.

Claremont Hills Wilderness Park

(473 reviews)

Woke up early today to hike the 5-mile loop. Arrived at 6:30 when the ranger unlocked the gates…read more Full moon was out still, alluring and mysterious. Parking is now $9 for 4 hours, which seems a bit steep to me, but then again it's worse closer to LA so... Watched the sunrise illuminate the valley as we hiked. Completed it in 1.5 hrs with a stretch break at the rest area at the top. Lots of walkers, several bikers and runners, some dogs with their owners. Lots of birdsong but very little wildlife to be seen, until the last mile, when we saw 3 deer in their leisurely grazing. So beautiful!

Beautiful park and lots of parking. Parking is not cheap, I paid $9.35 to park for 4 hours. Looking…read moreinto a season pass ($170). The views were beautiful. It's a popular park for hiking. The trails are beautifully maintained. Share the trail with bikes and horses (if you come upon any). Some areas are shaded, so bring lots of water as there's none on the trail. Definitely a beautiful area to soak in nature. Be cautious as it is a 'wildlife' park, and there have been sightings of mountain lions and other wildlife. It's a dog-friendly and kid-friendly trail. In many areas, the elevation is a gradual incline, not abrupt, so it gives you a chance to adjust. Overall, a wonderful place to train for the PCT or marathons.