Tragic Discovery on Devil’s Backbone: 3 Lives Lost on Mount Baldy, CA

The San Gabriel Mountains are often seen as a sunny escape for those in the Los Angeles basin. However, recent events serve as a stark reminder that these peaks demand absolute respect. On December 29, 2025, a search for a missing 19-year-old hiker turned into a recovery operation for three separate individuals on the slopes of Mount San Antonio, commonly known as Mount Baldy.

The incident began Monday when authorities were alerted to a 19-year-old who had fallen 500 feet near the Devil’s Backbone trail. His companion was able to reach cellular service to provide GPS coordinates, which triggered an immediate response from the San Bernardino County Sheriff’s Search and Rescue team.

During the search for the teenager, crews discovered two additional deceased hikers nearby that were not part of the group. The discovery highlights the deceptive nature of the mountain, where multiple groups can find themselves in life-threatening situations simultaneously.

Rescue efforts were delayed by strong winds and a recent storm that dumped snow at higher elevations. While an air medic was eventually hoisted down to confirm the fatalities, the extreme conditions prevented an immediate recovery of the bodies.

The Devil’s Backbone is a narrow ridge that is challenging in summer but becomes more dangerous in winter. It is a sobering reminder that even the most familiar trails can turn deadly when the elements shift.

In response to the tragedy, the San Bernardino County Sheriff-Coroner has temporarily closed the trails to prevent further emergencies. With 14 deaths on the mountain since 2020 the message is clear: winter hiking in these ranges requires mountaineering skills and specialized gear.

At TGR, we live for the thrill of the mountains, but we also advocate for coming home safe. Before heading into the backcountry, always check weather reports, carry a satellite communication device, and know when to turn back.