The trailhead is on the side of Dinkey Creek Road before Rock Creek Road. The first part of the hike is a steep incline to the top of a mountain. The trail is well-marked, so watch for trail signs and markers. There is a ranger that will live at the ranger station on the top of the mountain year round. The stairs are blocked for a reason. The ground will feel loose on the way back down, so be careful. Take lots of water, it can be exhausting. It's about a 9.2 mile loop, and the reward at the top of Bald Mountain is most definitely worth the work. (See photos: http://alltrails.com/trail/us/california/bald-mountain)