Several Mt. Baldy Trails Are Now Open, But Watch Out for Icy Conditions
Trails Reopen at Mount Baldy After Recent Tragedies
Trails in the Mount Baldy region have reopened following the tragic deaths of three hikers last month, who fell victim to the hazardous snow and ice conditions on popular routes. The San Bernardino County Sheriff’s Department announced this development on Thursday, marking a cautious return to outdoor activities.
Among those present during the announcement were two hikers, Manuel Vasquez and Daniel Ortiz Gutierrez, who were rescued from the San Gabriel Mountains last year after encountering perilous circumstances. Their experience highlights the risks that hikers face, especially in unpredictable conditions.
"Mt. Baldy is not your day hike after storms," said Eric Vetere, West Valley search and rescue commander. He emphasized the need for proper equipment, advising that climbers use microspikes and carry an ice axe.
Reflecting on his own experience, Vasquez admitted he hadn’t fully grasped the danger of the trek. "Since it was in our backyard, we thought we were going to be OK," he remarked. He recounted how he and Gutierrez believed they were embarking on a straightforward hike until they fell off the side of the trail. "I fell first. My cousin came in and tried to help me. We both ended up stranded up there," Vasquez explained.
Gutierrez suffered severe injuries during their ordeal, including hypothermia, a collapsed lung, and multiple fractures. "I was bleeding within my skull, blunt head trauma. Pretty long recovery, and I was really close to death," he said.
The parents of 19-year-old Marcus Muench Casanova, who perished while hiking on Mt. Baldy, have echoed similar concerns. They urge hikers to refrain from attempting the climb during winter months unless they possess significant experience and training. "After a certain date, Mt. Baldy stops being a hike. It’s no longer a hike," said Ken Casanova, emphasizing that his son’s death was "entirely preventable."
The family is advocating for the implementation of a permit system aimed at regulating winter hiking on Mt. Baldy to enhance safety for those who venture into the region.
