One of the views from the top of Baldy
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Mount Baldy Ski Area California

4.5
·186 reviews·, Canada

Southern California's highest peak offers affordable skiing, snowboarding, and hiking with stunning views year-round.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, better snow

CrowdLow
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One of the views from the top of Baldy

Mount Baldy Ski Area California

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, better snow

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Southern California's highest peak offers affordable skiing, snowboarding, and hiking with stunning views year-round. Instagram

4.5
(186 reviews)

"Phenomenal little ski hill!!!! This is my partners' home mountain and I had the chance to ski here while visiting Thunder Bay for the holidays from Whistler, BC. Reddit"

Vertical photo
TIP

🎟️ Book Lift Tickets Online

Save money and time by purchasing your ski and snowboard lift tickets in advance online.

🚗 Check Road Conditions

Mountain roads can be icy or snowy in winter. Always check conditions before driving up.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Devil's Backbone Trail

Devil's Backbone Trail

Summit Trail

A thrilling hike with breathtaking views, this trail is a must for adventurers.

TikTok
Skiing & Snowboarding

Skiing & Snowboarding

Ski Area

Experience affordable winter sports with varied runs for all skill levels.

TikTok
San Antonio Ski Hut

San Antonio Ski Hut

Near Baldy Village

A historic landmark offering a cozy respite and stunning mountain vistas.

Instagram
Summit Views

Summit Views

Mount Baldy Summit

Reach the highest point in the San Gabriel Mountains for unparalleled panoramic scenery.

TikTok
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Planning Your Visit

Beat the Crowds & Save

For the best value and fewer crowds, consider visiting Mount Baldy during weekdays. Weekends can get busy, especially with Southern California residents seeking snow. Booking lift tickets online in advance is often cheaper than buying at the window, and can save you time. TikTok

Snow Conditions & Gear

Mount Baldy's snow conditions can vary. Check the official snow report before you go, especially if you're planning to hike or snowboard. TikTok Renting gear on-site is an option, but bringing your own or renting in advance might offer better prices. Proper footwear is essential for hiking trails. TikTok

Best Times

When
Weekday mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, better snow
Crowd
Low
When
Winter afternoons
Why
Sunny slopes, good vibes
Crowd
Medium
When
Post-storm
Why
Fresh powder, epic views
Crowd
High

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Next destination is heaven. Please exit the lift and ski safe! First time skiing at Baldy Mountain Resort, BC Canada December 30, 2024 Eagle Double Chair Lift #mtbaldy #snow #outdoor #nature #southokanagan #oliverbc🇨🇦 #winter #westcoast #mountains #skitok #skiingtiktok #skiingislife #salomon #december #canada_life🇨🇦 @Salomon #kootenay #snowyday #Outdoors
@northvangirl76
54.1K likes • 1.8M views

🎟️ Book Lift Tickets Online

Save money and time by purchasing your ski and snowboard lift tickets in advance online. TikTok

🚗 Check Road Conditions

Mountain roads can be icy or snowy in winter. Always check conditions before driving up. TikTok

Here’s the conditions report for those asking. Definitely start early like 6 am right now so snow is firmer #baldy #mountain #hike #california #fyp
@kingcrizzie
16K likes • 137.3K views
Snow play in the LA area? Why not ! Location :📍Mt Baldy —- only 30 min outside of LA!! Amazing hikes, ski or simply snow play. Cool facts - Located in San Gabriel Mountains, California - Highest point in LA at 10,064 feet - There are 57 scenic trails in the Mount Baldy area - Only 45 miles from down town Los Angeles - Ski season runs from Nov - April Make sure to come to LA to enjoy Skiing...
locationsanddestinations
28 likes • 263 views

🥾 Wear Proper Footwear

Sturdy hiking boots are essential for trails, especially in snowy or icy conditions. TikTok

☀️ Enjoy the Sun

The mountain faces south and west, offering sunshine throughout the day and beautiful sunsets. Reddit

This easily accessible canyon begins just below the well-known San Antonio Ski Hut near Mount Baldy, California. Featuring six rappels and an optional shorter approach that skips a long hike and a 70-foot rappel, it’s an excellent training spot for local canyoneering enthusiasts. The final rappel (San Antonio Falls) is the tallest at over 90 feet. For extra practice, you can scramble up the left s...
trvrsoutdoors
383 likes • 13.4K views

Tips

from all over the internet

🎟️ Book Lift Tickets Online

Save money and time by purchasing your ski and snowboard lift tickets in advance online. TikTok

🚗 Check Road Conditions

Mountain roads can be icy or snowy in winter. Always check conditions before driving up. TikTok

🥾 Wear Proper Footwear

Sturdy hiking boots are essential for trails, especially in snowy or icy conditions. TikTok

☀️ Enjoy the Sun

The mountain faces south and west, offering sunshine throughout the day and beautiful sunsets. Reddit

🎒 Pack Layers

Weather can change quickly. Dress in layers to stay comfortable on the mountain. TikTok

What Travellers Say

4.5
(186 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Mount Baldy is praised for its laid-back atmosphere, friendly staff, and great value, offering a variety of runs for all skill levels. Visitors appreciate the cozy chalet with its scenic views and good food. While some note limited merchandise, the overall experience is highly positive, especially for beginners and those seeking an affordable mountain escape. Reddit

"Great ski hill , the vibe is laid back staff friendly . Chalet has great food , the bar upstairs is very nice and cozy with large windows facing the hill . The runs have variety to challenge everyone from newbie to hardcore shredder. The staff have been making more and more jumps and skill areas for snowboarding. The vertical is not as high as loch lomonds . However the hill faces south and west, so you get the sun all day. Sunsets are nice ! They only have a t bar but a new quad lift is being installed ,finally!"

Jay Heathcliff Fanshawe

"fantastic spot for skiers of all levels. The slopes are well-groomed, with a good mix of beginner, intermediate, and advanced runs. The chair lift, magic carpet and t-bar system keep wait times minimal even on busy days. The chalet is clean and offers cozy seating and decent food options, a good wine selection and a nice view of the hill. Staff friendly and helpful. Whether you’re looking for a relaxed ski day or a challenge on the steeper runs, moguls and jumps, this hill delivers."

Melissa B

"I had by far the best experience at mount baldy. Tubing here is so fun. We reached there by evening and there was the beautiful view of mount baldy. We also sat by the wonderful fireplace. There's a bar and a cafe just near the entrance. The indoor is beautiful as well where you can enjoy the food and drinks with the heart warming view of mountain from the large windows."

Raj Salla

What People Like

Great value for money
Friendly and helpful staff
Cozy chalet with views

What People Dislike

Limited merchandise selection

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Mount Baldy Ski Area is about a 30-minute drive from downtown Los Angeles, making it an accessible snow destination. Instagram The drive involves mountain roads, so always check conditions before you go. Parking is available at the ski area. TikTok

Public transportation options to Mount Baldy are limited. It's generally recommended to drive. If you're relying on public transport, you might need to combine bus services with a taxi or rideshare for the final leg. Reddit

Parking is available at the Mount Baldy Ski Area. During peak season and weekends, it can fill up quickly, so arriving early is advised. TikTok

While there isn't a dedicated shuttle service directly to the ski area from major cities, local shuttles might operate within the Baldy Village area during peak times. It's best to check local listings closer to your visit. Reddit

The address is 8401 Mt Baldy Rd, Mount Baldy, CA 91759. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Mount Baldy offers some of the most affordable lift tickets in Southern California, often beating prices at larger resorts. TikTok Prices can vary, so it's best to check their official website or book online in advance for potential discounts. Reddit

Yes, you can typically buy lift tickets at the window, but purchasing them online in advance is often cheaper and can save you time, especially on busy days. TikTok

Look for online deals and consider visiting on weekdays for lower prices. TikTok Sometimes, package deals including rentals might be available. Reddit

Operating hours vary depending on the season and day of the week. It's crucial to check the official Mount Baldy website for the most up-to-date hours of operation, especially for skiing and snowboarding. TikTok

While reservations are not always mandatory, booking lift tickets online in advance is highly recommended to secure your spot and potentially get better pricing. TikTok

🎫 🥾 Onsite Experience

Mount Baldy provides a variety of runs suitable for all levels, from beginner-friendly slopes with a magic carpet to more challenging advanced runs, moguls, and jumps for experienced skiers and snowboarders. Reddit

Yes, Mount Baldy is considered a great spot for beginners, with a dedicated bunny hill and a magic carpet lift that makes learning easier. Reddit The staff is also known for being friendly and offering tips. Reddit

Mount Baldy offers numerous scenic trails, including the challenging Devil's Backbone trail and the popular route to the summit. TikTok+1 There are over 57 trails in the area, catering to various hiking abilities. Instagram

Absolutely! Mount Baldy is a popular spot for snowboarding, with efforts being made to add more jumps and skill areas for riders. TikTokReddit

Mount Baldy is the highest point in the San Gabriel Mountains, reaching an elevation of 10,064 feet. Instagram

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

The chalet at Mount Baldy offers decent food options and a cozy atmosphere with large windows overlooking the slopes. Reddit There's also a bar and cafe near the entrance. Reddit

Yes, there is a bar upstairs in the chalet that is described as very nice and cozy, offering great views of the hill. Reddit

While specific policies can vary, it's generally acceptable to bring your own snacks and drinks for personal consumption, especially if you're hiking. For dining within the chalet or cafe, purchasing their offerings is expected. Reddit

Baldy Village has a few dining options, but the main food services are located at the ski resort's chalet. For a wider variety, you might need to drive down to nearby towns. Reddit

The chalet typically serves comfort food suitable for a ski resort, along with a good wine selection. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

The summit offers incredible panoramic views, especially at sunrise and sunset. TikTokReddit The Devil's Backbone trail provides dramatic ridge-line shots, and the San Antonio Ski Hut area is picturesque. TikTokInstagram

Absolutely. The elevation, varied terrain, and potential for snow make it a fantastic location for landscape photography, particularly during golden hours. TikTok

Early morning for sunrise and late afternoon for sunset offer the best light for photography. Reddit Midday can be harsh, but still offers stunning vistas. TikTok

Drone usage is typically restricted in national forests and parks for safety and environmental reasons. Always check the latest regulations with the U.S. Forest Service before flying a drone. Reddit

A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive landscapes. A telephoto lens can be useful for wildlife or distant peaks. Don't forget a sturdy tripod for low-light conditions and extra batteries, as cold weather drains them faster. TikTok

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Mount Baldy is a fantastic family-friendly destination, especially for introducing children to snow activities. The dedicated beginner area with a magic carpet lift is ideal for young learners. Reddit Tubing is also a popular and fun activity for families. Reddit The chalet offers a warm place to relax and enjoy food with a view, making it comfortable for families to take breaks. Reddit

Tips for Families:
* Arrive Early: Beat the crowds and secure good parking. TikTok
* Rent Gear On-Site: Convenient for families who don't own ski or snowboard equipment.
* Pack Warmth: Ensure kids have plenty of warm layers, hats, and gloves. TikTok

💰 Budget Travelers

Mount Baldy is renowned for its affordability, making it a top choice for budget-conscious travelers looking for a mountain escape. Lift tickets are significantly cheaper than at many other Southern California resorts. TikTok Packing your own snacks and drinks can further reduce costs. Reddit

Budget Tips:
* Weekday Visits: Prices are generally lower on weekdays. Reddit
* Online Ticket Deals: Always check for advance purchase discounts online. TikTok
* Carpool: Share gas and parking costs with friends. Reddit

💑 Couples

For a romantic mountain getaway, Mount Baldy offers cozy charm and stunning scenery. Enjoy a day of skiing or snowboarding together, followed by a warm drink by the fireplace in the chalet. Reddit The beautiful sunsets viewed from the mountain can be particularly romantic. Reddit

Romantic Ideas:
* Sunset Views: Plan your visit to catch the golden hour from the summit or the chalet. Reddit
* Cozy Chalet: Enjoy a warm drink and good conversation in the upstairs bar. Reddit
* Scenic Hikes: Explore trails hand-in-hand, enjoying the crisp mountain air. TikTok

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Skiing and Snowboarding at Mount Baldy

Mount Baldy Ski Area is a gem for Southern California residents looking for accessible winter sports. It's known for being one of the most affordable options in the region, making it a great choice for beginners and budget-conscious skiers and snowboarders. TikTok The resort offers a variety of runs, from gentle slopes perfect for learning with a magic carpet lift, to more challenging terrain for experienced riders. Reddit The ski area is also working on enhancing its offerings for snowboarders, including jumps and skill areas. Reddit

While the vertical drop might not be as extensive as some larger resorts, the south and west-facing slopes ensure you can enjoy the sun all day, culminating in beautiful sunsets. Reddit The installation of a new quad lift is also a significant upgrade, aiming to improve efficiency and reduce wait times. Reddit It's advisable to check the Mount Baldy snow report for the latest conditions before heading up, as snow can be variable. TikTok

Tips for Skiers and Snowboarders:
* Book Lift Tickets Online: Always check for online deals and book in advance for the best prices. TikTok
* Rent Gear Smartly: While rentals are available, consider renting in advance or from a shop closer to the city for potentially better rates.
* Dress in Layers: Mountain weather is unpredictable; layering is key to comfort. TikTok

Hiking Mount Baldy: Trails and Tips

Mount Baldy is a hiker's paradise, offering a diverse network of trails that lead to stunning vistas and the highest peak in the San Gabriel Mountains. The Mount Baldy summit is a popular goal, with the most direct routes often starting from the ski area or Baldy Village. TikTok The Devil's Backbone trail is a particularly famous and thrilling route, known for its dramatic ridge-line and panoramic views, though it requires a good level of fitness and comfort with heights. TikTok

For those seeking a more challenging adventure, canyoneering routes are also available, often starting near the San Antonio Ski Hut. Instagram When hiking, especially during winter or shoulder seasons, be prepared for varied conditions. Snow can linger on trails well into spring, and icy patches are common. TikTok Proper footwear, such as sturdy hiking boots, is non-negotiable for safety and comfort. TikTok Carrying plenty of water and snacks is also essential, as services on the trails are limited. TikTok

Hiking Essentials:
* Sturdy Hiking Boots: Crucial for traction and ankle support. TikTok
* Layered Clothing: Be ready for temperature changes. TikTok
* Navigation: A map, compass, or GPS device is recommended, especially for less-traveled routes.
* Water and Snacks: Stay hydrated and fueled. TikTok
* Check the Weather: Conditions can change rapidly at higher elevations. TikTok

The Mount Baldy Experience: Beyond the Slopes

Mount Baldy offers more than just skiing and hiking; it provides a complete mountain experience. The Mount Baldy Chalet serves as a cozy hub, featuring a bar and cafe with large windows offering heart-warming views of the mountain. Reddit It's a perfect spot to warm up by the fireplace after a day on the slopes or trails. Reddit The laid-back vibe and friendly staff contribute to a welcoming atmosphere, making it feel like a true community mountain. Reddit

For those interested in photography, Mount Baldy is a dream. The summit provides breathtaking Mount Baldy ski lifts photos opportunities, especially during sunrise and sunset. TikTokReddit The unique landscape and the contrast of snow against the rugged terrain make for stunning shots. TikTok Even if you're not skiing or hiking, a visit to Baldy Village offers a chance to enjoy the mountain air and scenic beauty, making it a worthwhile day trip from the Los Angeles area. Instagram

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