Mt. Baldy Trails Closed
Mt. Baldy trails in California remain closed indefinitely due to ongoing winter storms, impacting access for hikers and outdoor enthusiasts. Local authorities urge visitors to check official notices before planning trips as the closure continues amid safety concerns from heavy snowfall and unpredictable weather conditions.
- This is the second time this winter that trails on Mt. Baldy have been closed; a previous closure was in effect from December 31 to January 7 following the deaths of three hikers. - Between 2016 and 2025, there have been 23 fatalities and 345 search and rescue operations on Mt. Baldy. - In late December 2025, three hikers—Marcus Muench Casanova, 19, Juan Sarat Lopez, 37, and Bayron Pedro Ramos Garcia, 36—were found dead on the Devil's Backbone trail, a narrow ridge with steep drop-offs. - The San Bernardino County Sheriff's Department has been advocating for the U.S. Forest Service, which manages the area, to implement a permit system to track and educate hikers about the risks. - The current closure is in effect from February 10 through February 23, 2026, and violators could face a fine of up to $5,000 and/or up to six months in jail. - The Angeles National Forest is considering several options to improve visitor safety, including a permit system, designated parking areas, and potentially having private concessionaires manage developed sites. - The mountain's hazardous conditions are well-documented, with officials describing it as being like "an ice skating rink at a 45 to 50 degree angle" in the winter. - In addition to winter storms, a devastating wildfire in September 2024 led to a closure of all trails leading to the summit until December 2025 to allow for the natural recovery of the area.
