The parts of Angeles National Forest have reopened following the Eaton Fire, nearly all areas and trails south of Angeles Crest Highway and Mount Wilson Road are closed. Therefore, due to a road closure at Red Box, the observatory is closed until further notice. Though the fire reached the radio towers and parking lot nearby, the observatory remained safe.
High up in the San Gabriel Mountains, Mount Wilson Observatory affords terrific views of the surrounding region. Look out for ticketed, daytime docent-led tours on weekends, as well as nighttime stargazing sessions. Admission to the grounds is free, but you’ll need to buy a Forest Service Adventure Pass in order to park at the site as it’s located within the Angeles National Forest; see the website for full details. Also, note that the road up to the observatory closes in the winter after it snows, but Angeles Crest Highway usually remains open.