Hey Cirque Running Substack community! We've officially entered into what we would call the mountain running season here in California and we couldn't be more thrilled to start shredding some DG in the high country!
Mount Baldy, also known as Mount San Antonio, is about as good as it gets when it comes to trail running at elevation in Southern California. Mount Baldy, located in Angeles National Forest, plays host to one of the most picturesque trails Los Angeles county has to offer, the Devil's Backbone. Big exposure, stunning views, and perfect temps will be sure to leave a lasting impression as you run across this exposed ridgeline on your way to and from the summit of Mount Baldy. Baldy resides at an elevation of 10,064' feet and is the third tallest peak in Southern California, being eclipsed only by Mount San Jacinto (10,834') and San Gorgonio (11,503') to the east, both worthy peaks with incredible trail running as well.
The Devils Backbone on Mount Baldy is the longest route to the summit (I accidentally say the opposite in the video), so if you're looking for some extra mileage, a little adventure, and some big elevation gain, then the Devil's Backbone is the choice for you. Nearly any trail to the top of Mount Baldy will have you gaining roughly 4,000' feet of elevation so come prepared for some steep running and a good amount of power hiking, trekking poles aren't a bad idea if you own a pair. And if you're a multi-sport, backcountry enthusiast, Baldy Bowl offers incredible skiing, splitboarding, and mountaineering during the right snow year.
One disclaimer I think is worth mentioning, is that Mount Baldy in general has been the sight of many fatal accidents. Being centrally located to one of the largest cities in the world, Mount Baldy attracts an array of outdoor adventurers. While Baldy is relatively close to the city of Los Angeles, it is still a mountain with significant hazards everyone should be aware of. When venturing out into the backcountry of Mount Baldy, always be sure to have a game plan in place, including communication devices, appropriate clothing, and enough food and water to last for multiple hours while out on the trails.
Make sure to check out our Trail Running GPX page so you can download the route and upload it to your watch or phone. This GPX page will be a continuous work in progress so make sure to take advantage of the GPX files we already have posted and be sure to check back weekly as we continue to update the page.
Also, make sure to subscribe to our YouTube channel @CirqueRunning to keep up to date with all of our latest trail running edits. Enjoy this video of Mount Baldy and the Devil's Backbone in Angeles National Forest!
Cirque Running's other sites and media channels
Website: cirquerunning.com
GPX Files: Trail Running GPX Files
Coaching: cirquerunning.com/coaching
Instagram: @cirquerunning
Facebook: Cirque Running
Run Gear List
Patagonia Capilene Cool Lightweight Shirt
Patagonia Strider Pro Shorts 5"
Patagonia Duckbill Cap
Suunto Race Titanium
UltrAspire Momentum 2.0 Vest
Hoka Mafate X
Goodr sunglasses
Cirque Running’s mission is to inspire our trail running community through elevated retreats and professional coaching, with certified UESCA ultrarunning coaches. We’re Trail Runners, Mountain Guides, Educators, Coaches and Stewards of the Sierra and California, and we want to share these remarkable places with all those seeking natural abundance in the Range of Light and beyond.
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