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Three hikers found dead on Mt Baldy
Rescue teams recovered the bodies of three hikers from Mt Baldy, including a 19-year-old who fell approximately 500 feet (150 meters) during a climb on December 29, authorities confirmed.
Search and recovery efforts
The San Bernardino County Sheriff's Department located the 19-year-old's body and discovered two additional deceased hikers during the search. Officials stated the other two were not part of the teenager's group, and the duration of their time on the mountain remains unclear.
The 19-year-old had been hiking with a companion who called for help after witnessing the fall. The friend, uninjured, hiked away from the Devil's Backbone trail to an area with cell service and provided GPS coordinates to rescuers. High winds initially prevented helicopter recovery on Monday, but crews retrieved all three bodies by Tuesday.
Recent incidents and risks
Over the past five days, rescue teams have saved five other hikers from Mt Baldy, a peak notorious for its dangers. Standing at 10,064 feet (3,068 meters) in the San Gabriel Mountains, the mountain-officially named Mt San Antonio-has claimed more than 14 lives since 2020, including actor Julian Sands, whose remains were found five months after his disappearance in January 2023.
Despite its proximity to Los Angeles and its appeal to climbers of all experience levels, authorities warn that Mt Baldy's conditions can shift rapidly, particularly in winter. The Devil's Backbone trail, where the teenager fell, is considered one of the most hazardous routes in the region.
"We don't want novice hikers going up and hurting themselves," said Jenny Smith, a spokesperson for the San Bernardino County Sheriff's Department.
Jenny Smith, San Bernardino County Sheriff's Department
Weather conditions and warnings
While Southern California experienced rain and snow in the days leading up to the incident, December 29 offered clear skies and unobstructed visibility, with Mt Baldy visible from as far as Catalina Island. However, officials emphasize that weather on the mountain can change abruptly, creating hazardous conditions with snow and ice.
Climbers attempting the Devil's Backbone trail are advised to carry essential gear, including crampons and ice axes. Following the recent fatalities and repeated rescue operations, authorities have temporarily closed trails on Mt Baldy until the new year.
Identities withheld
Officials have not released the names of the deceased hikers pending notification of next of kin.
