Old Mount Baldy to Three T’s Loop

This is a very strenuous hike that combines the Old Mount Baldy Trail, the Devil's Backbone, the Three T's Trail, and the Icehouse Canyon Trail into one giant loop totaling 20 miles and 8,000 feet of elevation gain. It is a very challenging, scenic, and rewarding trek that could be used as a training hike for Mount Whitney or the Cactus to Clouds. Starting from the Icehouse Canyon parking lot, travel down Mount Baldy Road for 1.5 miles toward the village of Mount Baldy. Shortly after the visitors center, turn right into the church parking lot and continue onto Bear Canyon Drive. Hike uphill until the road ends at the Bear Canyon/Old Mount Baldy Trailhead. Take the trail uphill for a mile or so until you hit Bear Flats. After the Bear Flats camping area, the trail gets significantly steeper for the next three miles. This is the most difficult part of the entire hike. At about 9,000 feet, the trail becomes less steep, and you will be able to see the top of Mount Baldy. From Baldy, take the Devil's Backbone Trail east toward Baldy Notch. This will be the most crowded leg of the hike as this is the most popular route up to Baldy. At Baldy Notch, you can refill your water at the Top of the Notch restaurant (if it is open), and then continue southeast toward Thunder Mountain, the first of the Three T's. After Thunder Mountain, you soon enter the Cucamonga Wilderness. The climb up to Telegraph Peak is nicely graded with several switchbacks. At the final switchback, there is a sign for the Three T's Trail--be sure to turn left and continue up the spur that takes you to the summit. At almost 9,000 feet in elevation, Telegraph Peak is easily the most scenic of the Three T's. This is a great place to rest and take pictures. Continue south to bag Timber Mountain, and then the rest of the hike is all downhill as you descend the Icehouse Canyon Trail for the final leg of the loop. This hike requires a permit for the Three T's Trail in the Cucamonga Wilderness. You can grab one from the Icehouse Canyon trailhead before you begin the hike. An Adventure Pass is also required for your vehicle.