We wanted to try out a different route to Mount Baden-Powell, so we decided to start our hike from Dawson Saddle. It adds a little bit of extra mileage, but there are really great views along the route because much of this hike follows along the ridge once you reach the junction for the PCT. It's also less heavily trafficked then the route up from Vincent Gap. Since Baden-Powell was added to the Six Pack of Peaks Challenge, it's become increasingly popular. We actually only planned on hiking to Baden-Powell, but we had the time and decided to go up to Mount Burnham and Throop Peak which were close by. I should note that all of my photos were taken with my Android phone today. Somehow I managed to forget my camera which was a big disappointment because I love doing my photography along the way. I really enjoyed this route and trying out a new trail. After the hike we drove into Wrightwood for a bite to eat. On the way we passed by the trailhead at Vincent Gap and it was mobbed with cars! I couldn't believe how crowded it was. I was grateful we didn't go up that route today. Looks like we'll need to save the Vincent Gap route for a weekday when it's less busy. Baden-Powell is a lovely peak. It's also nice to say hello to the 1,500 year old Wally Waldron limber pine that sits on the ridge just below the summit. I'm sure he was pretty popular for photos today! It was another great day to be in the mountains!
Starting the hike at Dawson Saddle.
Very pretty route through the forest.
Looking over towards where we were headed.
Junction with the PCT.
The views along this route were incredible along the ridge.
Twisted trees. I guess they see a lot of weather up here.
Getting closer to the peak of Baden-Powell. Absolutely beautiful forest.
It's always nice to say hello to the Wally Waldron Tree, a 1,500 year old limber pine.
This is the junction where the PCT meets up with the trail coming up from Vincent Gap.
Summit register.
The Baden-Powell mounment at the summit.
I love the vies from up here.
Looking over at Mount San Antonio, aka Mount Baldy.
Baden-Powell USGS marker.
There's a sign up here now. Lots of people posing with it today.
Heading back and saying goodbye to Wally until next time.
The views continue through most of the hike on this route.
My husband looking up at Mount Burnham. Since it was along the way, we decided to go up.
Climbing up Burnham.
Looking over at Mount Baldy.
After descending Mount Burnham, we headed back down and on to Throop Peak which is directly ahead in this photo.
Looking back at where we just came from; Mount Burnham on the left and Mount Baden-Powell on the right.
Back at the junction with the PCT.
Up on Throop Peak.
Views from Throop.
South Mount Hawkins is behind the tree.
Heading back down from Throop.
Mount Lewis is off in the distance.
It was a very pleasant hike back.
Snow plant.
Back at the trailhead.
