Considered the steepest trail up to Mount Baldy, Register Ridge is a tough one. You'll hike straight up the spine of a ridge between the Ski Hut and Notch trails, climbing about 2600 feet in 1.5 miles. The views are incredible on Register Ridge, and it emerges onto the Devil's Backbone Trail, where you've probably been before. In this guide, we'll take Register Ridge up to the barren summit of Mount Harwood and then hike over to the Baldy Summit since we put all this work in on the climb.
In this Guide:
Video and Turn-by-Turn Directions for Register Ridge to Mount Hardwood & Baldy
This hike starts from the familiar Manker Flats / San Antonio Falls trailhead used for the other popular Mt Baldy hikes. You've probably been here before. Use this trailhead address: Manker Flat, 901-993 Falls Rd, Mt Baldy, CA 91759
Although signs at the parking area say you need an Adventure Pass, this seems to no longer be enforced, and you can park for free.
Gear For the Hike
Trekking poles are essential on the steep slopes of Register Ridge.
If there's any snow or ice on the mountain, give Register Ridge a skip. I wouldn't feel comfortable climbing it with micro-spikes and poles; I'd want something that is more of a mountaineering system because the trail is so steep.
Otherwise, this is a standard backcountry hike to Mt Baldy. Bring plenty of water, snacks, and backcountry hiking gear.
Gear That I Love Right Now
Nothing is sponsored or promoted, just the actual gear that I use.
Register Ridge is not an official trail but it gets enough use that it's well-defined and easy to follow. It's a Class 1 experience, but very steep. I would not return down Register Ridge. It's so steep that descending, even with poles, involves some sliding. In this guide I'll show you how to get up to Mt Harwood and then Baldy. From there you can descend on the Baldy Bowl or Devil's Backbone trails to round out the loop back to the start.
Mount Harwood is named after Aurelia Harwood, an early conservationist and the first female president of the Sierra Club.
Need More Info?
Have a question about the guide or want to see what other people are saying/asking? View the Youtube comments for this video. Leave a comment and I will do my best to respond.
When planning, always check the park website and social media to make sure the trails are open. Similarly, check the weather and road conditions.