Training and acclimatization hike for a Sierra trip the next week. Started at the Bear Canyon Trail in Baldy Village but quickly left the trail WSW up the steep and rocky "Erv Bartlel" Canyon (HPS Route #3). Found the use trail and followed it to the saddle. Continued cross-country up the ridge to the summit.

After enjoying the shadeless summit, continued cross-country up the ridge to intersect the Bear Canyon Trail at ~8,400 ft, then up to Mount Baldy. Spent the night on the summit and enjoyed a cool, breezy night and a full moon.

6,000 ft of elevation gain, mostly cross-country, over less than 6 miles, with a full pack, in 90 degree heat! Was dead by the time I made it to the top.