mount baldy summit | July 2015

5 minutes into the hike - stopped to take in the view

The beginning of Devil's Back-Bone 

On Devil's Back-Bone

Mt. Baldy Summit - the last stretch (yes those tiny little things up there are people!). Pictures can be deceiving because this looked so much scarier in person. I remember after finishing Devil's Back-Bone, we thought we were done, but I looked up, then turned to my friend and said, "Vivian, please tell me those aren't people up there. Please tell me we don't have to climb that... Shit, we do."

about an hour later  ~~~ blood, sweat, and tears for this view

view of Devil's Back-Bone from the top

ended the hike with a ride on the ski lift! can't say this wasn't my favorite part of the day :)

In total, the journey to Mt. Baldy took us 8 hours, 12 miles, and 10064ft in the air. The trails were super narrow, slippery, and windy. If wasn't for my backpack I probably would have flown off the mountains. If you plan on doing this I'd recommend 2-3 liters of water, comfortable hiking shoes, walking poles, a light jacket (it can get chilly at the top), and an adventure pass (you can get a day pass for $5 at REI or Sports Chalet. If not, you can get one at the Visitors Center, but they don't open until 7am).

Oh, and when you plan on doing this, make sure you don't have any plans the next day because you're not going to want to move, ever again.