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Mt. Baden Powell via Vincent's Gap

At a Glance:

Distance: 8 miles (one-way)
Difficulty: Medium
Total Climbing: 2,765 feet
Highest Elevation: 9,356 feet

What to Expect

This iconic Southern California hike intersects with two nationally recognized trails, the Pacific Crest Trail and the Silver Moccasin trail as it winds its way up towards the summit of Mt. Baden-Powell. 

The trail is the most difficult route to the summit but is the most popular way to reach the top. This 8-mile trek features 35 switchbacks up the north face of one of the tallest mountains in the San Gabriels. Those attempting this "must-do" hike will find the beginning part of the hike the most difficult with the rest being slightly easier. The trail will take backpackers under the spine of the ridge through stands of Jeffrey, Ponderosa, and Lodgepole pines. What's more, be sure to stop and admire the 1,500-year-old Limber pine at the timberline. 

Fun fact: Mt. Baden-Powell is named after Lord Robert Baden-Powell in 1931. He was the founder of the modern Boy Scouts and as such the trail is well

Current Conditions
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Specific Trail Information

Trail Number

2000

General Information

no potable water

A sign for Big Pines Visitor Center is next to a large Smokey Bear in front of an older building with a front porch

Address: 24537 CA-2 (Angeles Crest Highway) Wrightwood, CA 92397
Phone: (760) 249-3504
Hours: Open Saturday & Sunday: 10 a.m. - 4 p.m.

Getting There

Directions

Latitude: 34.37361111

Longitude: -117.7513889

Recreation Opportunities

Recreation Groups

Steep mountains at sunset with clouds

The Pacific Crest Trail, or the PCT, is arguably the most famous of the nation's designated National Scenic Trails.  Winding its way through spectacular vistas fr

Last updated August 21, 2025