Baldy Hill located just east of Enumclaw is not a very well known summit considering it is located right off of 410. The major reason for that is that a large part of the land is private and therefore while much of the mountain allows for daily foot travel, the area to the east of the final path to the true summit does not. Luckily the true summit is accessible legally and has views that are excellent compared neighboring and much more popular Mount Pete (Pinnacle Peak) which views have become overgrown with exception to the east side which still has some views out to the Cascades. However it should be known that much of this area is private land please respect the rules of the different landowners.

In 1895 there was reports of a very serious smoke and fire incident on the summit of Mount Baldy in which it was rumored that this was a volcanic eruptions on the summit. Some newpapers even reported lava coming from this little summit. But despite the fact that Mount Baldy was volcanic at one time there is major evidence that show this to be the case. The smoke and fire incident was so large though that it could be seen from the hills of Seattle.

Most of the legal ways up this mountain involve mostly walkups although there is some scrambling that can be done on the western side. As for the views on top they are excellent for the scale of summit climbed. Rainier really comes out here as well as neighboring Mount Pete (Pinnacle Peak) and much of the plains of Enumclaw. It is basically a 180 degree panorama to the south which for 1600 foot mountain with 600 feet of elevation gain is quiet the bang for the buck.

The most popular way of getting to the summit of Baldy Hill is from the north via from the horse parking area. There is no humting, fishing, overnight camping or ATV's allowed on the road. From there walkup a number of roads being mindful of any signs on the side. Continue to take the roads all the way to any area where there is a trail going to the top. There is actually one (and the only) trespassing sign on the other side of the road and trail that lead to the top. Do not walk east of the road or you will be an unwanted guest.

Getting There

VIA THE HORSE CAMP: Take 410 out of Enumclaw east 2.5 miles. There will be a well established parking area on your right hand side where there is horse parking. Note this parking area is solely for day travel!!