Overview
Thunder Mountain stands at 8587 feet and is a classic high elevation ride in the San Gabriel Mountains. The route involves a ride up scenic Falls Road to the Baldy Notch. You can also reach the Notch via the Baldy Ski Lifts on the weekend, this drops milage and elevation gain. The views from Thunder are amazing taking in the Baldy High Country, the jumbled Cajon Pass region, Mojave Desert, and the Los Angeles Basin.
Trail DescriptionFrom the parking area at San Antonio Falls Road pass through the gate and ride up the road for about 3 steep miles to the Notch. Go to the desert viewpoint due north of the Notch Lodge and head right on the road to the summit of Thunder Mountain. The final bit is steep and full of loose gravel.
Getting There
Take the 210 freeway to Claremont exiting onto Baseline Road exit. Head west on Baseline to the first right, which is Padua Ave. Take Padua for about 2 miles reaching the lighted intersection with Mount Balady Road. Turn right onto Baldy Road and take this to Baldy Village in about 7 miles. Continue through the Village and up the swithcbacks up to the entrance to San Antonio Falls Road. Park here if you are taking this route. Park off on the side of the roads and display your adventure pass. If you are continuing up to the ski lifts drive another mile or less along Baldy Road. The road ends at the lifts.
When to Bike & External LinksFor current forecast go to Weather Underground.
The only time to hike-a-bike on Blady is when there is no snow, a slight dusting won't kill you though.
For lifts tickets info go toMount Baldy Ski Lifts.
For current conditions 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. Images |
