Overview
Sunset Ridge is the high tower covered peak that stands directly over the city of Claremont. For locals Sunset Ridge is a classic hike or mountain bike ride that rewards one with grand views of the Inland Empire and San Gabriel Mountains. I will provide the standard out and back ride, but Sunset Ridge can also be along point to point ride involving one of the longest continuous downhills in the range.Trail DescriptionOption 1: Out and Back
From Cow Canyon Saddle ride up and through the locked gate. The road switch backs a few times for over 2 miles. Keep left at the first intersection. Once you gain the ridge you have a side option to the left to go the summit of Sunset Peak a very worthwhile sidetrip. From the summit of Susnet there is a nice short firebreak that heads due south right back to the saddle. Either way from the saddle take the fireroad south as it roller coasters to a low saddle after many switchbacks. Continue uphill now as the roads gains in elevation, eventually the summit towers come into view. From Sunset Peak to Sunset Ridge is around 3.5 miles one way. The road branches, take the right to the towers. Ride up to the tallest tower complex.
The roundtrip is about 12 miles with 2000-2300 feet of gain.
Option 2: Point to Point The Long Downhill
UNDER CONSTRUCTION TODAY OCT. 13
Getting There
Take the 210 Freeway to Basline offramp in Claremont. You want to head west on Baseline to the first light interesction, Padua Ave. Turn right onto Padua and go north, towards the mountains, for about 2 miles to the lighted Mount Baldy Road intersection. Go right onto Baldy Road and continue for about 2 miles reaching Shinn Road on the right. Continue north and to the left up Baldy Road passing through the tunnels for about 8 miles. As you enter Baldy Village there is a turnoff for Glendora Ridge Road on the left. Make the left and continue up Glendora Ridge Road for about a mile reaching Cow Canyon Saddle. You use to be able to park at the large parking lot at the saddle, but the nearby RV park has posted No Parking signs. I do not know if they actually have the right to do this but you can park along the road just before you reach the saddle.
When to Bike & External LinksThis route can be done year around but there may be short periods of Mount Baldy Road being closed for snow.
For current forecast go to Weather Underground.
For current condtions contact Angeles National Forest or San Bernardino National Forest.
For information about Mount Baldy Vistor center
You will need a Adventure Pass to park at the turnout. Adventure Passes are available at many gas stations in Claremont and Upland. They are also available at the Baldy Ranger Station and further up the road at a private house near Icehouse Canyon. The Icehouse Canyon house will have a sign out front where they are selling passes. Images |
