Mount Baden-Powell via Vincent Gap

A masterfully engineered PCT section that scales a 9,396-foot peak via 40 relentless switchbacks through a rare forest of 1,500-year-old Limber Pines. Summit views span the Mojave Desert and the full San Gabriel range.

Trail Overview

Forty switchbacks sounds brutal and they are — but they are well-engineered and the gradient is consistent. The Limber Pine forest is genuinely remarkable — the oldest specimens near the summit have lived 1,500 years. The summit monument honors Lord Baden-Powell, founder of the Boy Scout movement. Views are outstanding in every direction. Snow is common October through May.

This Hike Is For You If…

Fit hikers comfortable with significant sustained elevation gain. Anyone targeting the PCT. Good training objective for Whitney.

Skip This Hike If…

Skip without checking snow conditions October through May. Skip in summer without a very early start — upper switchbacks are exposed.

What to Expect on Trail

Terrain: Well-maintained PCT with consistent switchbacks. Rocky near summit. Snow possible October through May.

Shade: Partial

Water: None — Carry All Water. No water on trail. Carry 2.5 liters minimum.

Views: Outstanding

Crowds: Popular PCT trail. Summit sees hikers from multiple approach routes.

Dogs: Yes, dogs are welcome on this trail.

Best Arrival: Before 8am on summer and fall weekends.

This is a Tier 1 sourced review. Trail information is based on published sources and research. Andrew has not personally hiked this trail yet. Photos and firsthand sensory detail will be added when upgraded to Tier 2.