Ice House Canyon Trail
Icehouse Canyon Trail is a 7.2-mile out-and-back hike in the San Gabriel Mountains near Mt. Baldy Village, California. With a moderate difficulty rating, it offers hikers a serene journey through a shaded canyon with historic cabin ruins. The trail eventually reaches the Icehouse Saddle at 7,632 feet.
The route combines peaceful woodland scenery with challenging elevation gain, making it ideal for those seeking an immersive mountain experience with options to extend to nearby peaks. Due to recent wildfire closures, check if the trail is open.
Trail Details
| Trail Type | Out-and-back |
| Difficulty | Difficult |
| Length | 7.2 miles (round trip) |
| Elevation Gain | 2,600 feet |
| Trailhead Coordinates | 34.250131, -117.636362 |
| Location | Angeles National Forest |
| Season | Year-round (conditions permitting) |
| Information | Baldy Ranger Station |
Getting to Ice House Canyon Trailhead
To reach the Ice House Canyon Trailhead, go to Mount Baldy Road and follow it past Mount Baldy Village until you reach the Icehouse Canyon parking area. The trailhead is accessible from here. Be aware that parking is limited, and an Adventure Pass is required to park in the forest.
Trail Overview
The hike begins at the Icehouse Canyon trailhead in a tranquil, shaded canyon alongside a small creek that flows through most of the year. The first half mile is relatively gentle, winding past historical cabins—some still intact, others weathered remnants—evoking memories of the early 20th century when the area was a popular recreation spot.
As the trail ascends, it encounters a series of switchbacks lined with lush, shady forests. Massive boulders scattered along the way, likely deposited during past floods, mark the trail. These geological features and the mix of firs, pines, and oak trees offer a sense of solitude and immersion in the natural world.
After about 2.5 miles, the incline steepens as you tackle a series of switchbacks. The terrain shifts here, with taller alpine trees giving way to lower shrubs and rocky outcrops. The final stretch toward Icehouse Saddle offers expansive views of the Cucamonga Wilderness area. At the saddle, 3.6 miles in, you’ll reach 7,632 feet, with sweeping views of the San Gabriel Mountains.
For experienced hikers, Icehouse Saddle is a gateway to longer hikes up to Ontario Peak, Bighorn Peak, or Cucamonga Peak. Beyond this point, a free wilderness permit is required on weekends, obtainable at the trailhead’s brown permit box or the Mt. Baldy Visitor Center.
It’s not a bad idea to check in at the Mount Baldy ranger station to check on the trail’s status before heading out.
