Hike to Old Baldy Mountain

Mount Baldy Hiking trail starts at the Wrinkled Rock Climbing Area parking lot about a mile west of Mount Rushmore on Highway 244. The hike to Mount Baldy is about 1.5 miles one way, but getting on the correct trail can be hard since the trails meander in and out of several rocky areas. Once you leave the Wrinkled Rock parking lot, try to keep Old Mount Baldy in view to guide you.

From the parking lot follow the trail until you get to the fence. Follow the fence to the end and walk down the stairs. Follow the large rock outcroppings and keep walking to the east. You will get to the forest and follow the trail. Once you reach the - You are entering Mount Rushmore, just follow the brown signs to Mount Baldy. Once you are there, go to the outcropping across from Old Mount Baldy for some amazing views.

We went a little bit further east on the trail for more exploring and the trail does continue, but we stopped eventually and turned around. The whole area was beautiful and one could explore there for several days.

From looking at others who have visited the area, it was noted that you could actually climb to the top of Old Baldy Mountain without ropes on the east side of the mountain. It was described as scrambling, and a little technical rock climbing. We did not know you could do this, nor did we check it out. Next time we are in the area, we are going to see if this is true or possible, or even too dangerous to accomplish. As always, be safe.