Spring squall leaves a taste of winter in the woods

There won't be much except for memories left by the weekend, but for a few hours on Tuesday afternoon, the Angeles National Forest above 5,000 feet was wrapped in a soft blanket of white.

Four to six inches fell in the Chilao area, where temperatures are expected to reach the high sixties by Saturday. It is moisture much needed by all the forests' residents, as the San Gabriel Mountains remain critically drought-stricken.

The five thousand foot elevation has historically had an annual precipitation average hovering near 38 inches. In the past several years, that average has been four and five inches. it is a pattern that is changing the face of the forest.

Saturdays' weather is expected to be perfect for the opening of the recreation season and the activities going on in Chilao. The USFS Chilao Visitors' Center, in the heart of the Angeles National Forest, and Chilao School, are celebrating the official opening of the 2016 recreation season with events at both locations on Saturday, April 2.

The USFS Chilao Visitors' Center has a new display of work by local artists as well as a geology lecture and nature hike, live animal display, new exhibits and a touchable wildlife display on loan to the Visitors' Center by the non profit group Redbird, which owns and operates Chilao School.

Less than two miles from the Visitors' Center in the campground loop, Chilao School is hosting Bear and Butterfly, celebrating the Black Bear and Monarch Butterfly from the Native American cultural and spiritual perspective and the scientific/biological understanding. Live monarchs will be on display; the gathering will open with Native American ceremonial songs and a number of presenters will be sharing their knowledge and passion for these creatures throughout the day. There will also be artwork for sale and possibly butterfly-friendly plants from Hahamongna Native Plant Nursery if the all-volunteer nursery staff is able to come. Potluck style lunch and refreshments. The event is free; donations are always appreciated.

Directions to Chilao Visitors' Center and Chilao School:

We are located in the heart of the Angeles
National Forest, just off of Highway 2 in Chilao Campground.
Do Not rely on GPS or Google to reach Chilao School - we are off the grid.
From the 210 freeway in La Canada, take Angeles Crest Highway (Highway 2 North)
26 miles to Chilao Campground at mile marker 49.69. Turn left into campground and follow the Redbird/Chilao School signs.

From the Antelope Valley exit the 14 freeway at Angeles Forest Highway, turn left onto Angeles Forest Highway and proceed to Upper Big Tujunga Canyon where you will turn left (the only way you can turn) and drive 9 miles to Angeles Crest Highway. Turn left (look carefully for cross traffic) and proceed another 7 miles to Chilao Campground/Chilao Road and follow signs through the campground to Chilao School.

Also, forest use areas opening for the season on April 1:

1) Manzanita Campground
2) Horse Flats Campground
3) Coulter, Bandido, & Meadow Group Campgrounds
4) 3N17 between the Angeles Crest Christian Camp and the Alder
Saddle gate

To learn more about Bear and Butterfly:

https://www.facebook.com/events/1579209035630273/