Scariest section of Devil's Backbone Trail in Mt Baldy

There's nothing wrong with being scared but with a wind gust at 45 mph and fear of heights, what can go wrong? You'll be fine as long as you don't step on loose rocks and slip. Don't freeze to death either. Devil’s Backbone Trail offers spectacular views from an impressive ridge-top trail. The spine-tingling hike along a tantalizing spine starts from Baldy Notch and ends at Mount Baldy, the highest summit in the San Gabriel Mountain. Devil’s Backbone Trail is 3.3-miles long with 2,350 feet of elevation gain, and can be reached several ways. The single track crosses the spine of a skinny ridge with steep drops to the north and south, providing sweeping views and shaky knees for those with a fear of heights. You would not want to hike this way in the winter, but during the summer under normal weather conditions, the trail is devilishly exciting. The views are immense!
The trail leaves the top of the ridge after 2/3 of a mile and crosses the rocky southern face of Mount Harwood (Baldy’s eastern neighbor). Daunting Mount Baldy appears to the west, but keep an eye on the ground. The narrow trail gives way to a steep slope of scree. Cross a forest of sparse pines to a saddle between Baldy and Harwood. The elevation here is 9,360 feet. The summit is at 10,064 feet, so about vertical 700 feet separate you from the top. That distance is covered in 0.7 miles of steep switchbacks. This is the steepest section of the trail, but push through, the highest point in the San Gabriel Mountains waits for you at the top. As you climb, Mount San Gorgonio and Mount San Jacinto appear over your shoulder in the distance to the east and southeast. Enjoy 360-degree views at the summit.

[@samonacaldwell7607]

I did this hike about 4 years ago and just watching this video makes my palms sweat all over again! Great video!

[@bongbongtravels6108]

Glad to hear it!

[@pilarrobles3547]

Yes! This part is sketchy! I solo hiked this route Up Devils and Down Ski Hut just last week! I too have a fear of heights and I will tell you it was tested! But, I made it out alive! Thanks for the reminder! jaha

[@bongbongtravels6108]

That's awesome!

[@hiibye]

Thank you for your bravery and sharing this awesome hike video.. giving me goosebumps just watching you hike

[@bongbongtravels6108]

Glad you enjoyed it

[@vickij8417]

I've been on this trail several times and have a really bad fear of heights but this trail was easy and not scary. Video makes it look more dramatic than it is. To be honest, I walk across this not even knowing thinking about it. I guess it just seems weird to me given me fear of heights.

[@ackleyengineering5413]

This doesn't look anywhere near as bad as people say. Although I work everyday walking 6-8" wide planks and beams

[@meljane8339]

I would be on all fours traversing that ridgeline in that wind. How daunting
...Do you know how much the wind picks up at night (Did you stay around for nightfall?)

[@bongbongtravels6108]

Weather in Mt Baldy is very unpredictable. No it's just a day hike.

[@meljane8339]

@@bongbongtravels6108 'Agreed, I think most taller mountain peaks tend to be that way. ... 'was visiting a local climbing spot frequented by youth camps and such, in the night, alone, and wouldn't climb to the apex, despite rail guards. ...

[@msrhuby]

Listen for it! Ryan Bingham - Bread and Water

[@azaleasucena]

Crazy people!

[@pippishortstocking7913]

So this is where actor Julian Sands was heading to IN THE WINTER when he went missing? 😪 I suspect he was just done with life. Suicide by nature.

[@bongbongtravels6108]

I hope not. Devil's Backbone is no joke when there's snow.

[@pippishortstocking7913]

@@bongbongtravels6108 😭

[@MinskyDoxsky]

The skinwalker lives up there

[@Xiuhcoatl0352]

Nah, homie moved to Wyoming