Icy Mt. Baldy Claims Three Lives Amid Extreme Hiking Dangers
Officials have confirmed the deaths of three hikers on Mt. Baldy, including 19-year-old Marcus Muench Casanova from Seal Beach. Casanova fell 500 feet while trekking along the Devil’s Backbone trail on a Monday. The San Bernardino County Sheriff’s Department reported that high winds hindered rescue efforts, making recovery difficult.
The bodies of Casanova and two unidentified hikers were later found by an air rescue team. The timing of their deaths and their hiking status before the discovery remain unclear. Casanova worked part-time as a seasonal employee for Long Beach’s Parks, Recreation and Marine division and was known for his ability to connect with those around him.
Extreme Hiking Conditions on Mt. Baldy
The adverse conditions on Mt. Baldy pose serious risks to hikers, particularly during winter. This season can transform popular trails into hazardous paths. According to Kyle Fordham, an experienced hiker, what is accessible in warmer months becomes treacherous with snow and ice.
Popular Hiking Routes
- Devil’s Backbone: Typically considered an easier route, it can turn into a dangerous “death slide” in winter conditions.
- Baldy Bowl Trail: Offers more stability, making it a safer choice for inexperienced hikers.
Allen Giernet, director of the So Cal Snow Avalanche Center, warns that Mt. Baldy often experiences weather changes that can create unpredictable conditions. These can obscure hazardous ice beneath fresh snow. Rescues on Devil’s Backbone are not uncommon; Giernet recalls an alarming frequency of incidents in previous winters.
The Importance of Experience
Veteran hikers emphasize the necessity of understanding the terrain. George Rojas, who lives near Mt. Baldy, notes that many hikers overlook the changing conditions and take risks that can lead to accidents. He believes that a strong awareness of when to turn back is crucial for safety.
Momo Dovalina, another experienced hiker, recognizes winter hiking as a significantly more challenging endeavor. She refrains from winter hikes due to the heightened technical demands of snowy trails.
Community Warnings
Local hikers often warn others about the dangers presented by the trails in poor conditions. Loura Favis encountered groups of hikers inadequately prepared for the challenges they faced. Even in good weather, the trails can become treacherous with sudden weather changes.
Favis urges caution, particularly on the exposed Devil’s Backbone trail, where a strong gust can easily knock someone off balance. Her experiences reflect a growing concern in the hiking community about less experienced adventurers placing themselves in harm’s way.
As the hiking community mourns the recent losses, conversations about safety and preparedness continue. The duality of Mt. Baldy’s beauty and danger serves as a stark reminder of the risks inherent in outdoor adventures.
