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Telegraph Peak via Manker Flat and Baldy Notch


Highlights:

Splendid high country, wilderness, and breathtaking peak with a 360-degree view
Near:Mt Baldy, CA
Scenery:
Distance:13 miles round trip
Elevation Gain:3525 ft
Hike Time:7 hours
Difficulty:Strenuous
Trail Condition:Well maintained trail
HikeType:Out and Back


Summary: Telegraph Peak (8985') stands as the crowning glory of the celebrated Three T's, with Thunder Mountain (8587') to its north, and Timber Mountain (8303') to its south. This trio of peaks treats you to some of the most superb high country in the San Gabriels. For this hike, you'll be attaining just two of the Three T's, Thunder and Telegraph.

Walk the dirt road from Manker Flat 3.6 miles to Baldy Notch. Pick up the trail straight ahead on east edge of the notch and follow the road south 1.5 miles to the marked Three T's trailhead (on the west ridge .10 mile below the summit of Thunder Mt.). Descend southeast into the Cucamonga Wilderness using the single-track trail to the saddle then follow the trail as it steeply climbs the northwest face of Telegraph to the ridge, 1.2 miles. Turn left (east) at the signed trail and climb the ridge .25 mile to Telegraph.

You can cut 3.6 or 7.2 miles from your hike by riding the ski lift up and/or down, weekends and holidays.

Trailhead: From the new 210 Freeway extension, driving east: Exit Baseline Road in Claremont. Turn left on Baseline. In one block turn right unto Padua Avenue. In 1.7 miles turn right onto Mt. Baldy Road. After 7.2 miles you pass the Angles National Forest Mt. Baldy Visitor Center in Mt. Baldy Village.

From the new 210 Freeway extension, driving west: In Upland, exit Mountain Ave./Mt. Baldy Exit, Exit 54. Turn right and proceed north on Mountain Ave. Drive 5 miles to Mt. Baldy Road. Turn right (north) and after 5 miles you pass the Angles National Forest Mt. Baldy Visitor Center in Mt. Baldy Village.

You will need a Forest Adventure Pass ($5 a day or $30 annual) and wilderness permit (free), available at the Mt. Baldy Visitor Center.

Continue a few miles up to Manker Flat. Park at upper end of Manker Flat Campground in one of the dirt areas near the gated road on the left (if you reach the ski lift parking lot, you've gone too far). Your hike will proceed up this road. (Lat:34.2661 Lon:-117.62676)

Trail Guides for Telegraph Peak via Manker Flat and Baldy Notch:
Dan's Hiking Pages - Telegraph Peak
by Dan Simpson  (More detailed description of this hike)

Trails of the Angeles
by John W. Robinson  (Wilderness Press)

Best Seasons: Fall, Spring, Summer,
User Groups: Hikers, Dogs, Horses,
Ranger Contact: Angeles NF, Mt. Baldy Visitor Center: 909-982-2829. District Off: 626-335-1251
Localhikes Reporter: This hike was submitted by Dan Simpson, who has posted  4 other hikes on this site. To visit this reporters web site, click here.
Trail Reviews  Submit your own review
Reviewed by Rocketman58 on 5/26/2006
I have been up Mt Baldy via the dirt road at manker flat over a dozen times. Four times by Mt Bike in the early 1980's. Mt Bikes were not too common then, and it really amazed people I encountered on the trail. The 3rd time I ended up in the hospital after crashing on the road from the parking lot to the falls. I plan to take my 12 year old daughter up it next month. It will be her first major high altitude hike. We will make use of the ski lift since this is her first trip. Knowing her, she will enjot the hike as much as I do. It is one of the more unique wilderness experiences one can have in the crowded southern california basin.

Reviewed by SM on 3/19/2005
I like Mt. Whitney and Half Dome a lot, but this one is probably my next favorite, Although a little less challenging than both, it is still hard at times, but very worth it.


Notice: Traveling in the backcountry can be hazardous. You are responsible for informing yourself about these hazards and taking necessary precautions. Information on this web site comes from volunteer reporters and may contain errors or omissions. A current guidebook and proper equipment are essential for safe enjoyment of the hikes posted on this site.
Keys: California Hiking, California Trails, California Hikes, Los Angeles County Hiking, Los Angeles County Trails, Los Angeles County Hikes

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