Summit Mt. Baden-Powell

This well maintained and well traveled trail is a popular route with day hikers, backpackers, and Pacific Crest Trail through hikers. Since the trail is on the face of the mountain, snow may linger late into the season.

The Pacific Crest Trail is clearly marked on the western corner of the Vincent Gulch parking lot. The trail is mostly shaded by pines as it switchbacks up the mountain at moderate but consistent grade. The only water available is at 1.5 miles from the trailhead at Lamel Spring. As the trail tops 8000', the views open up to the north towards the Mojave Desert. At 9000', the forest thins and old gnarled limber pines dot the landscape. A short unmarked use trail around the 3.9 mile mark will lead you to a small ancient grove of limber pines, some of which have been sitting on this windswept ridge for thousands of years.

After soaking in the views, continue on the main trail where you'll reach a junction. The summit of Mt. Baden-Powell veers to the left of the Pacific Crest Trail. It is quite obvious as it looms ahead of you. Make sure to stop and visit the "Wally" Waldron tree, a seemingly hardy limber pine estimated to be more than 2000 years old. From here, some short but steep switchbacks takes you to the summit. Take in the expansive 360 degree views of mountain, desert, and lowland scenery. You may even see the faint skyline of downtown Los Angeles on the clearest day, especially after a rain or snow storm. After taking in all the views, retrace you steps back to the trailhead.