Mount Baldy

Mount San Antonio, also known as Mount Baldy or Old Baldy, is a popular tourist destination located in the San Gabriel Mountains of California. With a height of 10,064 feet, it is the highest peak in the mountain range and the highest point in Los Angeles County.

Location and Geography

Mount San Antonio is situated at the border of Los Angeles and San Bernardino counties and is within the Angeles National Forest. The summit is surrounded by breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. Its southern watershed drains into San Antonio Creek, and the northern watershed drains into Lytle Creek and the Fish Fork of the San Gabriel River. Both Lytle Creek and San Antonio Creek are part of the Santa Ana River watershed.

Recreational Activities

Mount San Antonio is a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts and adventure seekers. Hiking is the most popular activity on the mountain, with several trails leading to the summit. The most popular trail is the Baldy Notch Trail, which is a 7.4-mile hike with an elevation gain of 3,100 feet. The trail is considered to be challenging but offers breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape.

Skiing and snowboarding are also popular activities on Mount San Antonio during the winter months. The mountain is home to the Mount Baldy Ski Lifts, which offers several ski runs for skiers and snowboarders of all skill levels.

Flora and Fauna

Mount San Antonio is home to a diverse range of flora and fauna. The summit is surrounded by a dense forest of pine and fir trees, while the lower slopes are covered in chaparral and sagebrush. The mountain is also home to a variety of wildlife, including deer, coyotes, and mountain lions.

History

Mount San Antonio has a rich history dating back to the indigenous Tongva people, who lived in the area for thousands of years. The mountain was named “Baldy” by American settlers due to its lack of vegetation on its summit. The mountain was later renamed to Mount San Antonio in honor of Saint Anthony of Padua.