We thought we’d try one of the other hikes in the Mount Baldy area this past Sunday, so we choose Stoddard Peak. This hike starts off as an easy hike along a scenic fire road, but once you arrive at Stoddard Flat, get ready to do some bushwhacking, rock scrambling and climb over two false summits to get to your final destination. Once you reach the peak, the views are awesome. We had a perfectly clear day and a spectacular view of our majestic Mount Baldy. Being this is not one of the more popular hikes in the area, we only saw a few other hikers along the way and had the peak to ourselves. It was a fun day!
Crossing over San Antonio Creek.
Looking down at the old Old Baldy Road which has been washed away by flooding and erosion.
Wildflowers.
Creek crossing.
A sign in front of one of the cabins that you'll pass.
Isn't this cabin amazing?
Following the road under these beautiful oaks.
Looking over at Mount Baldy.
Following along the road you can see fire damage from the Williams fire of 2002 on the left. There's a lot of wild lilac on the right.
Now getting our first view of Stoddard Saddle, the first false peak off to the right. Stoddard Peak is actually hidden behind it.
Now at Stoddard Flat. We took this rocky, steep use trail up thorough the tall brush. It wasn't so bad. There are some openings in between as you climb. I wouldn't hike this in shorts though.
My husband making his way through the brush.
Up we go!
On the ridge we see the first false summit just ahead.
Lots of wildlife activity; ladybugs, butterflies, bees.
Now on the second false summit. This is a really nifty outcropping. It's great for photos. You have to scramble across this one and you will be on a steep edge, so take your time. From what I can tell, this might actually be a bit taller then Stoddard Peak.
Looking back at the other side of the 2nd false summit.
Stoddard Peak in view just behind my husband.
Summit register.
Now we take a break and enjoy the views!
Mount Baldy.
Wild Lilac. Lots of critters on the peak too.
Old Baldy Road.
Time to make our way back.
Down we go.
Looking back at the rocks we just scrambled around to get back.
And back down through the brush again.
I thought this was an interesting view of Mount Baldy through the fire damage.
Almost back to the beginning.
Back at the cabin.
They had tulips blooming in their yard.
There were a lot of wildflowers in bloom.
Western Wallflower. This was a lovely hike!
