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High-Elevation Hiking
While the serene, snow-covered peaks beckon us, it's important to exercise caution when venturing into higher elevations. The conditions can be unpredictable and treacherous, demanding respect and careful preparation. Rapid weather changes, avalanches, and limited visibility are just a few of the hazards that can escalate quickly.
This is a wild place! Adjust your plans accordingly and be willing to turn back if conditions become unsafe.
Conditions may look mild at the start of your hike, but that could change further down the trail.
Remember, your well-being is paramount, and there will always be more opportunities to explore the beauty of the snow-covered landscape. You assume the risk of injury and are responsible for your own actions.
Before making your trek, please consider:
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Serious injuries and deaths have occurred on the Mt. Baldy Trail, Ice House Canyon Trail, and in other high-elevation areas.
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Extremely hazardous conditions exist on the trail.In Case of Emergency: Cell coverage can be very limited to non-existent within the forest, so you should not expect to depend on your cell phone in an emergency. If you are in a location with cell phone service, dial 911.
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Please check Alerts & Notices for any forest updates / restrictions / closures.
- Do not travel alone.
- Don't be a statistic. Take our advice.
- Share your plans. Tell others where you are going and when you plan to return.
- Please visit Outdoor Safety & Ethics for general winter safety tips.
- Hiking at high elevations requires additional preparation, equipment, and training, especially during winter conditions.
- Check out the weather and dress appropriately. To check local conditions, visit Los Angeles, CA (weather.gov) and pay close attention to references to mountainous areas. Take extra clothing and the necessary equipment. The time of year will help determine your needs for your trip.
- Most main roads into the Angeles National Forest and San Gabriel Mountains National Monument are not managed or maintained by the USDA Forest Service. This includes State Route 2 (Angeles Crest Highway), State Route 39 (San Gabriel Canyon Road), Mt. Baldy Road, Glendora Mountain Road, Glendora Ridge Road, Big Pines Highway, and more. For access to information about road conditions, visit: Angeles National Forest - Alerts & Closures (usda.gov)
- There are NO gas stations in the Angeles National Forest. Make sure your vehicle has a full tank of gas, you could be stuck in traffic on the way to the forests most popular destinations for several hours.
- Rescue may be difficult or impossible. Be prepared to spend the night, if necessary.
- Hiking at high elevations can take much longer than anticipated, so plan extra time.
- Expect rapid and severe weather changes along high-elevation trails all year-round.
- Snow that may have started to melt along your hiking route could refreeze long before dusk or nightfall.
- North-facing slopes do not receive much sunlight and can be very icy/snowy.
- Keep yourself and rescuers out of danger by not taking unnecessary risks.
One of the keys to high elevation hiking is layering. The weather and temperature can fluctuate greatly during a high-elevation hike, from hail to heavy snow and severe winds. Having the right equipment with you will make your summit experience successful. Know your equipment and how to use it!
- Compass and paper maps
- Winter mountaineering requires crampons.
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- Crampons are equipped for high-elevation hiking (alpine conditions), reduce your chance of sliding down icy/snowy terrain, and require being attached to a mountaineering boot with a nonflexible sole. Microspikes not great for steep terrain, are best used on flat terrain, and should not be worn in alpine conditions.
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- Extra food, water, and clothing
- Mountaineering boots
- Helmet and ice axe
- Winter mountaineering training
- Do not forget the 10 essentials!
Alerts & Warnings
- NEW! Office & Visitor Center Updates - Need Info or Passes?
- UPDATED Closure: Small Section of the Forest Still Closed due to Bobcat Fire
- Fire Danger Increases to ‘MODERATE’ at the Angeles National Forest
- Advisory: Hiking at High Elevations
- Driving to the Forest?
- Forest Service Road Closures
- Closure: West Fork Road to recreationists on weekdays thru Dec. 1, 2024
- Closure: San Gabriel Reservoir Area thru June 30, 2024
- Planning to Camp? (Stay Limits/Dispersed Camping Restrictions) til Dec. 15, 2024