Los Angeles
Usal Hike Club – Mt Baden Powell Summit
Alpine Objective
Embark on a rewarding hike to the summit of Mount Baden-Powell via the Pacific Crest Trail, climbing steadily through shaded pine forest toward a stunning alpine ridgeline.
Along the way, you’ll encounter the iconic Wally Waldron Tree. A remarkable 1,500-year-old limber pine just below the summit. Its twisted, weathered form tells a powerful story of resilience and is one of the most memorable features of the hike.
At 9,406 feet, the summit rewards you with sweeping views of the Mojave Desert and the Los Angeles Basin. This is a challenging, meaningful hike for those seeking a standout summit day centered around one of Southern California’s most legendary trees.
Ticket Type
When
05/16
Time
8:00 AM - 3:00 PM
Intensity
Details
Mount Baden-Powell is a strenuous summit hike (~8 miles round trip, ~2,800 ft gain). Expect steady, sustained climbing with long switchbacks, high-altitude, and some rocky, uneven sections near the summit ridge. By joining, you confirm you’re capable of completing a challenging, high-elevation summit day.
- Length: 7.7 miles
- Elevation Gain: 2746 ft
- Route Type: Out & Back
- Estimated Total Hiking Time
- Fast pace: ~5 hours
- Average pace: ~6 hours○
- Slow pace: ~7 hours
What to Bring
Essentials
- Water: bring all water you need (2L minimum recommended)
- Snacks + lunch for the summit
- Daypack
- Sunscreen + lip balm
- Hat + sunglasses
Optional
- Trekking poles
- Electrolytes
- Phone with an offline map (AllTrails/Strava)
Your Guide
Dylan McCoy is a passionate outdoor enthusiast and self-proclaimed gear junkie, born and raised near the base of Mt. Baldy in Southern California. His upbringing sparked years of exploration across the San Gabriel Mountains, navigating scenic trails, scaling peaks, and uncovering hidden gems. Now a backpacking guide and NOLS-certified Wilderness First Responder, Dylan has journeyed through expansive coastlines, sun-baked desert plains, and towering alpine peaks, logging countless miles on trails across the western United States and overseas.
