Mt. Baden-Powell - Cahuilla Lodge # 127, Order of the Arrow, Boy Scouts of America

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Topographic Map: Crystal Lake Thomas Bros. Page Number: Total Roundtrip Mileage: 8 Miles Elevation Gain: 2,800 Feet Seasons: Spring Through Fall Named for the founder of the Boy Scout movement, Lord Robert Baden-Powell, this 9,399 foot peak was originally known as North Baldy. C.J. Carlson, a well-recognized Scouter in the 1920’s and 30’s, petitioned the government to make the name change. Incidentally, this was the same C.J. Carlson that was able to arrange for the donation of the original land that is now our own Camp Emerson in Idyllwild. This is more than just a hike; it is a pilgrimage. Atop the peak you will the cement monument dedicated to Scouting. The cement was carried on the backs of over 2,000 Scouts in the late fifties all the way from the trailhead at Vincent Gap. When you view it, take a moment to consider their dedication. The Hike About 5 miles from Big Pines, on the Angeles Crest Highway (Hwy. 2) you will find the Vincent Gap trailhead. The parking lot is quite large and parking should be no problem. The trail signs are highly visible. Take the trail that leads uphill, toward your right. You will soon hit the first of 41 switch backs which make this hike so interesting. After about 1.5 miles you will come to a sign that reads “Lamel Springs 1/4 mile.” Actually the distance is much less. This is the only water that you can count on along the trail. Soon you will begin to see breathtaking views of the Mojave Desert. At about 3.5 miles you will see the first of the Limber Pines (Pinus Flexilus) that maintain a foothold on the ridges. You will see a side trail leading to a forest of these trees about 350 years away. A little farther you will see the trail sign that leads to Little Jimmy and Crystal Lake. Keep to the left trail (the main one) and in just a couple of more switchbacks you will reach the summitt. This is where you will find the “hogback” wich can be quite narrow in places and windswept. Not a good place to be after the snows fall unless you are properly equipped, well-trained, mountaineer. The view from the top is grand! Look at the monument, read the inscriptions on the plaques, and enjoy this mountain-top experience. During the summer months you may even be “buzzed” by sailplanes as they soar and play in the thermal updrafts. This is one of the very best conditioning hikes you can utilize as it packs a substantial elevation gain in a relatively short hike. This is a real “calf-stretcher!”
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Type:
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Council Camping Facility
Hiking and Backpacking
Desert Camping
Local Camping

Directions:
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Special Notes:
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Maps:
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Permits Required:
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Equipment:
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