Big Baldy via Dry Canyon (Mt. Timpanogos)

Stats

Length:	7.00 miles
Difficulty:	Strenuous
Estimated Hike Time:	4 - 6 hours
Trail Type:	Out and Back
Elevation Low:	5,437 feet
Elevation High:	8,765 feet
Total Elevation Gain:	3,328 feet
Optimal Season:	Early Spring to Late Fall
Best Access Point:	Provo

Summary

A pretty day hike for those who want a chance to see a bit of the Wasatch Mountains, especially the western face of Mt. Timpanogos.

Hike Images

Overview

Big Baldy is often overlooked by the the majestic Mount Timpanogos, but the hike to Big Baldy through Dry canyon is surprisingly fun and scenic. The hike is moderately strenuous and has no year round source of water so make sure you bring enough supplies to last the whole hike. At the top you will see awesome views of Utah Valley.

Directions

gps coordinates of trailhead:

40.342000, -111.677119

Trail Information

Big Baldy shares its name with approximately 5 other peaks in Utah. This one, sometimes referred to as just "Baldy," is a medium-sized, prominent peak at the West face of Mt. Timpanogos. There are two main trails to get to Big Baldy; one of which follows the much steeper south ridge, but the one described here follows Dry Canyon to the east ridge of Big Baldy, the one which connects it to Timpanogos.

There are trail signs pointing the way at nearly every fork until you get to the east ridge – but the funny thing is, none of them mention Big Baldy. At the first fork, choose trail 049, Dry Canyon Trail; this will be the main trail you will need to follow. Just know that there is no sign marking where the trail splits to go up the east ridge of Big Baldy, but it is easy to spot this trail, because if you want to get to the top of Big Baldy, there's no other way to go. Just keep a lookout to your left; the trail will be marked 020 with a brown trail marker. If you continue on this trail, eventually you will reach the Timpooneke trailhead, which is one way to summit Mt. Timpanogos.

Additional information: Expect to travel through large fields of prairie grass, and on wet years, the prairie grass grows over the trail, so it feels like you're walking through the center of a meadow. Most of this is a very open hike, so take plenty of sunscreen and liquids. And, at sunrise, and sunset, be ready to see some wildlife, especially white tailed deer.

During the dead of winter, when the snow has hardened, there is a direct route to the summit of Mt. Timpanogos that experienced climbers use to train for big climbs in the Himalayas. This climb does require snow and ice gear as well as climbing equipment and we suggest only experienced climbers try this.

Download KMZ File

Posted By: James Meyer

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