From the new 210 Freeway extension, driving east: Exit Baseline Road in Claremont. Turn left on Baseline. In one block turn right unto Padua Avenue. In 1.7 miles turn right onto Mt. Baldy Road. After 7.2 miles you pass the Angles National Forest Mt. Baldy Visitor Center in Mt. Baldy Village.
From the new 210 Freeway extension, driving west: In Upland, exit Mountain Ave./Mt. Baldy Exit, Exit 54. Turn right and proceed north on Mountain Ave. Drive 5 miles to Mt. Baldy Road. Turn right (north) and after 5 miles you pass the Angles National Forest Mt. Baldy Visitor Center in Mt. Baldy Village.
You will need a Forest Adventure Pass ($5 a day or $30 annual) and wilderness permit (free), available at the Mt. Baldy Visitor Center.
Continue a few miles up to Manker Flat. Park at upper end of Manker Flat Campground in one of the dirt areas near the gated road on the left (if you reach the ski lift parking lot, you've gone too far). Your hike will proceed up this road.
Description
Telegraph Peak (8985') stands as the crowning glory of the celebrated Three T's, with Thunder Mountain (8587') to its north, and Timber Mountain (8303') to its south. This trio of peaks treats you to some of the most superb high country in the San Gabriels. For this hike, you'll be attaining just two of the Three T's, Thunder and Telegraph.
Walk the dirt road from Manker Flat 3.6 miles to Baldy Notch. Pick up the trail straight ahead on east edge of the notch and follow the road south 1.5 miles to the marked Three T's trailhead (on the west ridge .10 mile below the summit of Thunder Mt.). Descend southeast into the Cucamonga Wilderness using the single-track trail to the saddle then follow the trail as it steeply climbs the northwest face of Telegraph to the ridge, 1.2 miles. Turn left (east) at the signed trail and climb the ridge .25 mile to Telegraph.
You can cut 3.6 or 7.2 miles from your hike by riding the ski lift up and/or down, weekends and holidays.
Map / Directions:
Submit a correction for Telegraph Peak via Manker Flat and Baldy Notch