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Ascension Via Stoddard Peak Trek

Towering sentinel in the San Gabriels' forefront, Stoddard Peak maintains a distinctive vantage point, offering a sweeping panorama encompassing Mt Baldy and extending to Los Angeles' suburban landscapes.

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The Towering Stoddard Peak Watches Over the San Gabriel Front Range, Offering an Unique Panorama...
The Towering Stoddard Peak Watches Over the San Gabriel Front Range, Offering an Unique Panorama Reaching from Mt Baldy to LA Suburbs.

Ascension Via Stoddard Peak Trek

Hiking Stoddard Peak in the San Gabriel Mountains calls out to you! This epic adventure guards the front range, offering a breathtaking vista that spans from Mt. Baldy to the LA suburbs. Here's a no-nonsense guide on how to tackle the trail like a seasoned pro.

Where's the Stoddard Peak Hike Hideout?

You'll find the perfect spot for parking Stoddard Peak-bound vehicles on the right-hand side of Mt Baldy road, roughly 1.5 miles before reaching the lively Mt Baldy Village. Look for a quaint power sub-station and descend the paved driveway to your left to uncover a cozy parking area nestled beneath the road.

Finding the exact location? Hop in your trusty vehicle and punch the following coordinates into your GPS: 34.22270072861961, -117.66764360194466. Your mission is to reach the intersection of the Barret Stoddard (dirt) road and Mt Baldy Road.

Gear Up for the Journey

Remember, most of the hike unfolds on a tiny dirt road, which then morphs into a steep, narrow trail for the last half-mile. Throw trekking poles in your pack, and they'll be your best mates for that final section.

Osprey Hikelite 26 - My go-to daypack. Light, tough, and keeps my back dry with the trampoline mesh.

selfie-style shot of woman wearing long pants, using trekking poles, and wearing a backpack on a mountain trail

Why trekking poles, you ask? They will offer you the stability you need on this steep terrain, ensuring you reach the summit and capture those epic selfies in style. But beware, most of the hike exposes your skin to the elements, so bring at least 1L of water to keep yourself hydrated.

Norda 001 - Like a monster truck and a comfy pillow had a featherweight baby, for your feet.

And if you prefer to protect your legs from scratches, put on a pair of durable long pants.

Trusty Gear to Carry in Your Backpack

Garmin inReach Mini 2 - When I need 100% reliable SOS coverage, this is what I take in the backountry.

Whether you're a seasoned adventurer or a beginner looking to conquer Stoddard Peak, these reliable gear essentials have got your back.

  1. Osprey Hikelite 26 – This light, tough, and back-sweat-free daypack is my go-to for all my hiking escapades.
  2. Norda 001 – A featherweight marvel that combines the sturdiness of a monster truck and the comfort of a pillow for your feet.
  3. Garmin inReach Mini 2 – This lifesaver offers 100% reliable SOS coverage in backcountry situations.
  4. AllTrails Plus – Enjoy a 30% discount and access up-to-date trip reports. Offline maps, off-trail alerts, and Garmin sync enhance your outdoor experience.
  5. Garmin Fenix 8 – Sporty and functional, this watch serves up maps, tracking, and routing know-how.

AllTrails Plus - 30% off! Up-to-date trip reports. AllTrails+ adds offline maps, off-trail alerts, and Garmin sync.

For the full breakdown of these gear picks and why I love them, stop by my comprehensive gear page (last updated June 2025).

Stoddard Peak Trail Maps = Path to Glory

Garmin Fenix 8 - Took a few updates to get right, but now it's rock solid for me. I use it for maps, tracking, and routing.

Getting tangled up on the trail? View the Hike on CalTopo or download the GPX File to stay on route.

Elevation Profile

3D Map

Let's Hike Like a Boss!

Stoddard Peak Hike Directions

With these steps, you'll conquer the Stoddard Peak hike like a trail-blazing champ. Embrace the great outdoors and create unforgettable memories. Happy exploring!

Don't forget to breathe, stay safe, and thank yourself for making memories on the adventure of a lifetime!

  1. Park your vehicle on the right-hand side of Mt Baldy road, approximately 1.5 miles before reaching the lively Mt Baldy Village, and look for a power sub-station and a paved driveway to the left to find a parking area.
  2. Equip trekking poles for stability during the steep and narrow trail section of the hike.
  3. Use the Osprey Hikelite 26 daypack, Norda 001 hiking shoes, Garmin inReach Mini 2 for SOS coverage, AllTrails Plus for offline maps and trip reports, and Garmin Fenix 8 for maps, tracking, and routing.
  4. View the Stoddard Peak hike on CalTopo or download the GPX File for navigation.
  5. Follow the provided Stoddard Peak Hike Directions to conquer the hike like a trail-blazing champ and create unforgettable memories in the San Gabriel Mountains.

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