
Mount Baldy Resort
SoCal's affordable mountain escape for skiing, hiking, and stunning views. Experience genuine mountain charm just an hour from LA.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better prices

Mount Baldy Resort
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better prices
Highlights
Must-see attractions
SoCal's affordable mountain escape for skiing, hiking, and stunning views. Experience genuine mountain charm just an hour from LA.
"The best skiing in southern california. Period. Not even close."

💰 Affordable Skiing
Cheapest lift tickets in SoCal! Book online for deals.
🧥 Dress for the Cold
Layers, waterproofs, and a face mask are essential. It gets really cold!

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Skiing & Snowboarding
Main slopes
Experience some of the best skiing in Southern California at a fraction of the cost of other resorts.

Scenic Chairlift Ride
Chairlift to the Notch
Enjoy breathtaking panoramic views of the San Gabriel Mountains and beyond. Great for non-skiers too!

Top of the Notch Restaurant
Top of the Notch
Savor delicious food with unparalleled mountain vistas. A perfect spot to refuel after a day on the slopes or trails.

Hiking Trails
Various trails
Explore diverse hiking routes, from challenging climbs to scenic walks. The ski lift can save you the strenuous uphill trek.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Beat the Crowds & Save Cash
Weather & Gear Up
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
💰 Affordable Skiing
Cheapest lift tickets in SoCal! Book online for deals.
🧥 Dress for the Cold
Layers, waterproofs, and a face mask are essential. It gets really cold!
🚗 Easy Access from LA
Just an hour from LA with no traffic if you go early.
🚶♀️ Hike or Ride Up
Use the lift to save energy for hiking or skiing.
Tips
from all over the internet
💰 Affordable Skiing
Cheapest lift tickets in SoCal! Book online for deals.
🧥 Dress for the Cold
Layers, waterproofs, and a face mask are essential. It gets really cold!
🚗 Easy Access from LA
Just an hour from LA with no traffic if you go early.
🚶♀️ Hike or Ride Up
Use the lift to save energy for hiking or skiing.
🍽️ Great Mountain Food
The lodge offers delicious food with amazing views.
Solo Adventure Ready
Don't wait for friends, go enjoy the mountain solo!
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Mount Baldy Resort is praised for its affordability and 'real mountain' feel, offering a great value for skiing and hiking compared to other Southern California options. Visitors love the scenic views, the friendly atmosphere, and the accessibility from Los Angeles. However, some note the limited snowmaking capabilities, meaning natural snowfall is crucial for the best ski conditions, and food prices can be a bit high.
"Today we had the absolute honor of running the 60th Annual Run to the Top of Mount Baldy—what an unforgettable experience! 🙌 The course was challenging, inspiring, and so worth every step. Reaching that finish line truly felt like being on top of the world! 🌎✨
I’m beyond proud of all of us for pushing through and making it to the summit. The energy, the views, and the sense of accomplishment were just incredible. This was an experience I’ll never forget, and I’m already excited to come back next year—with my friend right by my side again! 🏔️💪❤️"
Brenna S
"The best skiing in southern california. Period. Not even close. The one thing to know is that they have relatively little snowmaking capability on most of the mountain, so to get the full experience, you need to go in mid-winter when they have gotten good natural snowfall.
Even besides the skiing, we go here all the time, year round. The lodge at the notch has great food, its an awesome home base for hiking. Scenic lift rides are great for when our family visits."
John Robertson
"I've been skiing here for 53 years, and on years like this it's tough to be optimistic. I got day 1 on Spring equinox, Thursday, and was figuring it would be low tide, probably my last. Surprising it was great, didn't get up until 11 and the corn was ripe! Followed up with Saturday and Sunday which will finish skiing, but with a pass you're able to use it year round, save the walk up 3.2 miles and use it for hiking up top; Telegraph Peak, Thunder Mountain or Top of 4 to the Devil's Backbone. (Note: hiking Mt. Baldy proper is closed due to the recent fires) or Sunset dinners with a view of Catalina or Moonlight Hikes or music at Top of the Notch or discounts on tent cabins! Respect the terrain and weather at 8,000 feet. Enjoy real mountain hospitality from the parking lot attendant, to Olaf's Hut ticketing, to the fabulous food, to the lift crew! Special props to Tommy and Robby for THE BEST mountain report, (no brag just fact) and videos. There are new chairs on #3, and a rebuilt sun deck! As Warren Miller said "If you don't do it this year, you'll be a year older when you do" Some will rant but they really don't know the Mojo of this very special place. Going back down the hill stop into the village, the World Famous Mt. Baldy Lodge which has cabins for rent, a terrific back yard with a pool, volleyball and outdoor stage. All in all, real mountain, real close."
Scott Christiansen
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Mount Baldy Resort is about an hour's drive from Los Angeles, often with less traffic than other mountain destinations. Take Mt. Baldy Road all the way to the end, and park near the ski lift.
Yes, parking is available at the base of the ski resort. Follow signs for the ski lift parking area.
Public transportation options to Mount Baldy Resort are limited. Driving is the most common and convenient way to access the resort.
The road, Mt. Baldy Road, is a scenic drive that winds up the mountain. It's generally well-maintained but can be steep and winding in parts.
While there aren't widely advertised shuttle services directly to the resort, some local transport options might be available depending on the season and demand. It's best to check local transit information closer to your visit.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Lift tickets are significantly cheaper here than at other Southern California resorts, often around $50 on weekdays. Booking online in advance can secure better rates.
Yes, you can purchase lift tickets at the ticket office located in the main building. However, buying online beforehand is recommended to ensure availability and potentially better pricing.
Information on specific discounts for children or seniors can vary. It's best to check the official Mount Baldy Resort website or contact them directly for the most current pricing and discount information.
Operating hours can vary depending on the season and day of the week. During the ski season, lifts typically operate from morning until late afternoon. Check the resort's official website for the most up-to-date hours.
While it's free to walk the trails, riding the ski lift for hiking access has a fee, typically around $40 per person.
🎫 ⛷️ Onsite Experience
Mount Baldy offers skiing and snowboarding in the winter, scenic chairlift rides year-round, and hiking on numerous trails. The resort also hosts events and offers dining.
Mount Baldy has some beginner-friendly slopes, and ski lessons are available. It's a great place to learn without the high costs of larger resorts.
The resort offers a variety of terrain, from beginner runs to more challenging slopes. Snowmaking capabilities are limited, so natural snowfall is crucial for the full experience.
Yes, equipment rentals are typically available at the resort. It's advisable to check their website or call ahead to confirm availability and pricing.
Yes, ski lessons are offered at Mount Baldy Resort, making it a good option for first-time skiers or those looking to improve their skills.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
The resort features the Top of the Notch restaurant with scenic views and a lodge with food options. You can find items like French fries for around $11.
While prices can be typical for a mountain resort, some visitors find items like fries to be a bit pricey for what they are. However, the views and atmosphere often make it worthwhile.
Generally, bringing your own snacks and non-alcoholic beverages is permissible, especially for picnics during hiking. However, check resort policies for specific restrictions, particularly in dining areas.
To access the Top of the Notch restaurant, you will likely need to ride the scenic chairlift, which requires a ticket or pass.
Menu options can vary. It's recommended to check the current menu at the Top of the Notch or the lodge restaurant, or call ahead to inquire about specific dietary accommodations.
📸 📸 Photography
The summit offers incredible panoramic views, especially during sunrise and sunset. The scenic chairlift ride also provides stunning photo opportunities of the mountain landscape.
Absolutely! Mount Baldy is beautiful year-round. Winter offers a snowy wonderland, spring brings wildflowers, summer has lush greenery, and fall boasts vibrant foliage.
For landscape shots, a wide-angle lens is great. For capturing details or wildlife, a telephoto lens can be useful. A sturdy tripod is recommended for low-light conditions or long exposures.
Generally, personal photography is allowed. However, commercial photography or drone usage may require permits. Always be respectful of other visitors and the natural environment.
The 'golden hours' around sunrise and sunset offer the most dramatic and beautiful lighting for photography. Midday can be harsh, but still offers great views.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
💰 Budget Travelers
🚶♀️ Hikers and Outdoor Enthusiasts
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Skiing and Snowboarding at Mount Baldy
For those new to the sport, Mount Baldy is an excellent place to learn. Ski lessons are available, and the generally lower crowds on weekdays make it less intimidating. The resort's affordability makes it accessible for many who might otherwise be priced out of skiing in the region. Remember to check the mountain report before heading up, as conditions can vary.
Hiking and Scenic Views
The scenic chairlift ride itself is a major attraction, providing unparalleled panoramic views of the San Gabriel Mountains and the surrounding Southern California landscape. It's a fantastic option for families or those who prefer not to hike but still want to experience the mountain's beauty. The Top of the Notch restaurant at the summit offers a perfect spot to relax, refuel, and soak in the scenery. Remember to respect the mountain terrain and weather conditions, as they can change rapidly at 8,000 feet.
The Mount Baldy Experience: More Than Just Slopes
The nearby Mount Baldy Village adds to the charm, featuring the historic World Famous Mount Baldy Lodge with cabins for rent, a backyard with recreational facilities, and an outdoor stage. This blend of outdoor adventure, cozy accommodations, and a welcoming community vibe makes Mount Baldy a special place for many, fostering a sense of belonging and a desire to return.






Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit