It’s rare to have rain in Los Angeles let alone snow. March of 2023 had some wild and unusual weather and was raining buckets for days. It was bone-chilling cold for those of us who are used to Southern California’s mild weather. I stayed indoors most of the time, but the aftermath was quite spectacular.
I live in the foothills of the San Gabriel Mountains in Altadena. The peaks of the San Gabriel Mountains were capped with snow, which was exciting to see. We had one morning of sunshine during the 5-day deluge so I set off to shoot some photos to document its magnificence. It turned out everyone else had the same idea.
People were out with cameras in droves. It was pretty hilarious. Most used their smartphones, but I saw many who had professional cameras. They all shared their shots on Facebook and Instagram. It was almost like a competition.
Los Angelenos get giddy when we have weird weather events. I’m sure Eastern transplants were laughing at us. I felt like I was living in my birth city of Denver that I left when I was three years old.
Enjoy my photos below. They were so fun to shoot.
My first stop was the Cobb Estate at the top of Lake Ave. It has hiking trails that go up to Mt Lowe where there was a resort from 1893 – 1938.
Hikers were up there with walking sticks, and many made their way up to the snow as far as they could go. I didn’t because I was only wearing sneakers and was carrying my purse. I didn’t want to end up missing as so many have in the Angeles National Forest during inclement weather. Actor Julian Sands is still up there and may never be found.
I love how the palm trees on Midlothian Dr. in Altadena are set against the snow-capped peaks.
My next stop was the Pasadena Jet Propulsion Laboratory (JPL) in Arroyo Seco. It was founded in 1930 by Caltech researchers and is owned by NASA. That’s where they construct robotic spacecraft.
It’s also a favorite area for hikers and dog owners as it is the location of the Gabrielino Trail. You have to watch out for wildlife as there are many coyotes and some bobcats.
I couldn’t resist shooting the snowy peak in the background with this red vintage car in front of it.
Thank you rain Gods but were are good now!
Find the best hiking trails in Los Angeles by clicking here.
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