Mt. Baldy Road Climb: Claremont to the Lifts

Overview

Mt. Baldy Road is one of the toughest climbs in Southern California. From Claremont it climbs steadily to Baldy Village, then the final five miles to the ski lifts kick up to brutal grades. It has hosted Tour of California stage finishes, and it remains a bucket-list climb for serious riders.

The lower climb to Baldy Village is long but moderate, and many riders make the Village their goal. The real test is the final five miles to the lifts: a climb that, as OC Rides puts it, even pros were visibly suffering on during the Tour of California stage finishes.

The route in plain words

Start in Claremont near Mills Avenue and ride north on Mt. Baldy Road into San Antonio Canyon. The road climbs steadily to Mt. Baldy Village. From the Village, continue on Mt. Baldy Road past the Icehouse Canyon turnoff, then into switchbacks, past Manker Flats, and finally the steep last pitch to the ski lift parking area. Return the same way.

OC Rides notes the Icehouse Canyon turnoff about a mile above the Village is a busy hiking area, so use care where cars are parking. Above Manker Flats, the grade becomes extremely steep; OC Rides says not to be ashamed if you have to zigzag across the road (watching for cars) on the last crushing pitch.

Distance and elevation

Bikemap lists the climb from Mills to Baldy Village at about 12.9 km (8.0 miles) with about 900 m (about 2,950 ft) of gain. OC Rides describes the five miles from the Village to the lifts as averaging about 11%, with a final 1,500 ft around 18%. The full Glendora to Baldy lifts ride on OC Rides is 53 miles with 7,604 ft of climbing.

Best time to ride

Late spring through fall is best. Winter brings snow and ice at the top. Weekends can be busy with hikers and snow visitors. Early mornings help avoid traffic and heat.

OC Rides notes the weather can differ dramatically between the Village and the lifts: sunny in the Village while cold and misty higher up, or the reverse. Bring layers.

Water and coffee stops

OC Rides recommends watering up at the Mt. Baldy Lodge in the Village. Water is scarce above the Village. There is a little shop at the lifts that is open occasionally.

Safety notes

The descent is steep and fast, with cars and other cyclists. Watch for wet patches, gravel and wildlife. Weather changes quickly; bring a jacket. Parking areas at Icehouse Canyon and Manker Flats can be busy with cars.

Which bike and setup

Low gearing is essential: a compact crankset with a 34 tooth or larger cassette cog. A light bike helps. Strong brakes are essential for the descent.

Before you go

Planning a Baldy attempt? Our tune-ups and gearing advice can help. Call Veloaded at (714) 760-4908.

Quick facts

County: Los Angeles / San Bernardino County
Start: Mt. Baldy Rd at Mills Ave, Claremont
Distance: About 8 miles (12.9 km) Mills Ave area to Baldy Village; about 5 more miles from the Village to the ski lifts
Climbing: About 2,950 ft (900 m) to Baldy Village; the final 5 miles to the lifts average about 11% with the last 1,500 ft around 18%
Surface: Paved mountain road
Difficulty: Very hard; final miles are extremely steep

Pair it with

Approach from Glendora Mountain Road and Glendora Ridge Road for the classic loop. If you live further south, Palomar Mountain is a steadier test of similar length.

Frequently asked questions

How hard is the Mt. Baldy climb?

Claremont to Baldy Village is about 8 miles and 2,950 ft. The final 5 miles to the ski lifts average about 11%, with the last 1,500 ft around 18%, per OC Rides.

Is there water on Mt. Baldy Road?

OC Rides recommends refilling at the Mt. Baldy Lodge in the Village; water is scarce above it.

Sources

Distances and climbing are from the published sources listed above and are approximate; roads, closures and conditions change. Check current conditions before you ride.

More San Bernardino County ride guides

All guides: Southern California ride guides. Veloaded Cyclery has one location, at 3420 W MacArthur Blvd Suite B, Santa Ana, CA 92704: service menu, bike fitting.