Winter: Year by year, California’s “rainy” season comes and goes, sometimes dry, sometimes a deluge. But even average rainfall can lead to temporary closure of the Chantry Road and access to the trailhead, so call Adams Pack Station or the Manager before coming to hike (there may be options for coming into Camp from Mount Wilson—talk to the Manager first.) Winter weather is always cool, sometimes cold (sometimes there is even snow in Camp!) so prepare accordingly with warm clothes, rain jacket, etc. Also: there are a few spots along the trail that even in summer require stepping lightly on stones and logs to cross the stream; in heavy rain, this can be more challenging but is usually manageable, especially with friends to help and a walking stick. Note: wet weather means even more lovely waterfalls!
Spring: the best time of year, with sunny days but still cool temperatures and wildflowers coming out. (By June, be watching for the return of the rattlesnakes though.)
Summer: the Camp is usually closed briefly at the end of June/start of July, when the deerflies hatch. Bug spray and nets over hats can make it bearable, but most folks steer clear. Past that, the Camp is typically 10-15 degrees cooler than what is measured in downtown Los Angeles. Note: late August / early September is California’s fire season, and the Forest Service may close the canyon to the public; check with Adams Pack Station or the Manager for latest updates.
Fall: another great season for hiking; usually by Halloween the upper canyon is cool, even cold by Thanksgiving.
