Ferrino

Have always wanted to do GMR->GRR->Baldy Skilifts and have an opportunity next week, as I'm heading to LAX. Assuming there's no storm activity before then, will this be ok/safe? Thanks!

calamarichris

According to this site, GMR was closed on 12/12 due to mudslides; "Reopen Date: TBD". Sorry.

If you end up going up Mount Baldy Road instead, please let us know the conditions. I've been wanting to get up there too.

socalrider

The snow on Baldy melts fast, since were are going to have some warmer days this week, Baldy to the lifts should be fine..

lowlife1975

if you decide to go, let me know.... i may be able to join you. if gmr is closed, you should still try to do it straight up from baseline up baldy road... not as scenic as GMR GRR but will give you the essence of what baldy is all about and one of the toughest 13 mile stretches youll find around. plus it wont take nearly as long especially if you're on traveling time constraints.

Garfield Cat

If you're a runner and rider, the run up from Manker Flats to the first notch where the cafeteria is at, is about 3.2 miles. That run will leave you breathless. Take the service road and it will take you up there. Bring your trail shoes. Running shoes just won't cut it. The average climb is well over 8.5 grade. Park where the riders stop at the big parking lot not far from the bottom of the ski lift.

Hollow_Cyclist

I think they are supposed to be doing some kind of construction up there? I went up via Mountain road so I didnt see that part until on my way down. This guy was walking up and down the road and I guess he thought it was safe cause he didnt hear any cars. I was going about 50mph and that worried me a little bit. Im not keen on applying the brakes abruptly while slightly turning because it caused me to fishtail before when I accidentally applied the rear brakes too much during downhill riding. I hate these turns where some guy randomly pops up on the road. I think they dont expect you because bikes dont make as much noise. Especially if you have Shimano wheelsets because they are especially quiet compared to other brands that make noises when free-wheeling.

Ferrino

Thanks all! Am considering doing Baldy Rd, as suggested.

Where's the safest place to park at the bottom and how long should I budget to get from Claremont to LAX in the afternoon?

Hollow_Cyclist

there is an airport in Ontario by the way if you didnt know. Its riding distance to mount baldy. From Ontario airport to Claremont would be only 30 minutes riding distance on a bike. you could park your car at the parking lot on mills ave right before the mount baldy road begins. thats the road right infront of the claremont mckenna college or whatever that university is called. there are so many universities there clumped together i really dont know what its called. morning hours are best. less cars but even then you might have a car pass you every 5 minutes. i have no idea what these folks are doing driving up that road at 10 in the morning. i guess they are joy riding?? afternoon hours will have more drivers but at the most in my experience one or two cars every two or three minutes. basically its scenic, less crowded and enjoyable. just watch out for slow riders when going downhill. occasionally you might pass someone that is doing only about 27mph while going downhill when you might be hitting close to 50mph.

Mr. Beanz

I just rode up to the tunnels this morning (Thurs, 17th). There is a ton of traffic on Baldy Rd. A car every 30 seconds atleast. Also a big sign (Caltrans trailer) at the top of Euclid/Mtn Ave that says "heavy traffic on Baldy rd, expect delays". Lots of fast cars and trucks on the way up. Not so bad on the way down cause of the speed on the descent. Climbing shoulder is filled with rocks and debris. Descending shoulder looks pretty clean (up to the tunnels anyways).

I love pictures

Tumbleweed

[QUOTE=Mr. Beanz;10159250]I just rode up to the tunnels this morning (Thurs, 17th). There is a ton of traffic on Baldy Rd. A car every 30 seconds atleast. Also a big sign (Caltrans trailer) at the top of Euclid/Mtn Ave that says "heavy traffic on Baldy rd, expect delays". Lots of fast cars and trucks on the way up. Not so bad on the way down cause of the speed on the descent. Climbing shoulder is filled with rocks and debris. Descending shoulder looks pretty clean (up to the tunnels anyways).

Busier than 330 in June?

socalrider

You should give yourself 1 - 1.5 hours for driving time.. Best place to park would be at the top of Mills Ave / Mt Baldy Rd.. There is a small parking lot located there to park..

The best way there is from 210 fwy.. Exit as Baseline Rd.. Left turn onto Baseline rd.. 1/2 mile to Mills Ave - Right Turn, follow for 1.5 miles to the stop sign at Mt. Baldy Rd.. The parking lot is on the right side

bigdraft

One thing to keep in mind traffic wise, is that Baldy has probably the best lift serviced skiable terrain in Southern California. So the early season dump like they just got, was more then likely the reason for the traffic. I would think, with the recent warm temps and the fact that early season snow storms get skied out quickly, you shouldn't have to much of a problem with the traffic, until the next storm hits, that is

jan nikolajsen 

GMR to Baldy open, dry, clean & free of debris as of today Saturday 19th. Very light traffic, off course, until the Village.