Baldy has its challenges. It is a steep hike with good elevation gain. It isn't the prettiest mountain around, but it is a good acclimatizer that I use to get my legs ready. I plan on using Baldy this year to help my lungs acclimatize better. I get sick and start seeing double vision at around 12,000 feet. This summer, I plan on sleeping on top of Baldy on the weekends for a couple of weeks before I hike Whitney.
Another advantage of Baldy for the OC crowd, by the way, its easy freeway accesability. It is an hour drive for me to get there and I can always find a place to park.
Brent N
