Mileage: Approx 14
Elevation: 10,064’
Gain/Loss: Approx 7,000’
They say: Strenuous
We say: Yes
What it is: Fun hike on beautiful ridges. Not as fun when you’re sick as a dog. After waking up unable to swallow or breath, I convinced the Sherpa that a short hike would do me well. I told him this hike was 14 miles. I failed to mention that it begins off-trail with thousands of feet gain on rough terrain and rocks up a very steep ridge. I also failed to mention that in those 14 miles we climb 3 of the highest mountain in the range, and gain about 7,000 feet. I was being strategic in my negotiations with my wary husband. It worked. We started up the Register Ridge which is a barely visible use trail heading left from the main Ski Hut Trail, around 9am with lozenges in tow. The Register Ridge is indeed steep and rocky (Iron Mountain-esque) but the views and solitude are well worth it. We followed the ridge in silence (you know what they say: a couple that hikes together listening to their own ipods, stays together) and then up the Devils Backbone to the summit of Baldy. We passed a crew of mountain rescue workers who were just dropped by helicopter and headed down the North Backbone towards Dawson Peak and Pine Mountain. On the way up the ridge to Dawson Peak we ran into some hikers we knew who informed us that the rescue team was actually looking for a body. Sad. Then we continued on to Pine Mountain where we stopped en route to sit under a pretty tree and eat cheese and crackers and more lozenges. After we reached the top of Pine, we turned around for the long and steep trek back. The North Backbone up to Baldy is dreadfully steep, but time flew by faster than normal thanks to a personal lecture by the wise Sherpa, on discoveries of indeterminacy in quantum mechanics and its support of theism. Rad. Then we took the trail back down to Manker Flats. This hike is great if you need a quick and brutal workout. However, if you’re sick, I suggest listening to those who care about your heath, and save it for another day.
Please DO: The Register Ridge to anywhere in the range, it’s the most fun route up.
Please DON’T: Do this if it hurts to swallow your own spit.
What you need to bring: the usual stuff, and a topo map so you can find the ridge.
What you want to bring: These little pre-cut cheddar cheese slices from Trader Joes that are already cut to the perfect size to place on top of crackers. They are genius. Convenience tastes better.
How to get there: Exit Baseline Road in Claremont. Turn left on Baseline. In one block turn right onto Padua Avenue. In 1.7 miles turn right at Mt. Baldy Road Continue a few miles up to Maker Flats. Park at upper end of Manker Flats Campground in dirt spots near Falls Road. Don’t forget to display your National Forest Adventure Pass!
The North Backbone Ridge to Baldy
