Three Hikers Found Dead on California’s Mount Baldy
San Bernardino County authorities say three hikers were found dead Monday near the Devil’s Backbone trail on Mount Baldy in Southern California after being spotted in treacherous winter conditions that have hampered recovery efforts. Sheriff Shannon D. Dicus issued an emergency order temporarily closing all Mount Baldy hiking trails through 11:59 p.m. Wednesday, warning that snow, ice and high winds make the terrain extremely dangerous even for experienced hikers and that violators face fines up to $5,000 for individuals, $10,000 for groups and up to six months in jail.
📌 Key Facts
- Three hikers were confirmed dead near the Devil’s Backbone trail on Mount Baldy after their bodies were spotted Monday.
- The San Bernardino County Sheriff’s Department temporarily closed all Mount Baldy hiking trails until 11:59 p.m. Wednesday due to dangerous conditions.
- Violating the closure order can bring fines up to $5,000 for individuals, $10,000 for groups, and up to six months in jail.
- A friend told responders that one victim was a 19-year-old man who fell about 500 feet while hiking.
📊 Relevant Data
There have been at least 10 deaths on Mount Baldy since 2020.
Mt. Baldy danger: More than 100 rescue, 10 deaths in recent years — Los Angeles Times
Over 100 hikers have required rescue on Mount Baldy since 2020.
Mt. Baldy danger: More than 100 rescue, 10 deaths in recent years — Los Angeles Times
Mount Baldy has claimed approximately 15 to 20 lives over the last 10 years, with a spike in deaths during the severe winters of 2023.
3 hikers die on Mt. Baldy after 1 falls 500 feet; recovery underway — KTLA
Common causes of fatalities on Mount Baldy include falls from steep terrain, hypothermia due to extreme weather, and getting lost in poor visibility.
What Makes Mount Baldy So Dangerous — Outside Online