If not for the leafless trees across Claremont, this week, with temperatures in the upper 70s, could pass for early spring. This after a series of storms dumped up to five feet of snow in Southern California’s mountains last week, much to the delight of local skiers and snowboarders.

Despite the warm temperatures, heavy snow remains in the higher elevations and hiking in the Mt. Baldy area continues to be quite dangerous, especially along Devil’s Backbone en route to the 10,064-foot summit. Officials urge caution and recommend checking conditions before heading out. Traffic delays are likely, even on weekdays.

Courier photos/Peter Weinberger

Looking east from Claremont on February 21, snow-covered peaks in Big Bear and Lake Arrowhead glow under fading sunset light.

The San Gabriel Mountains remain blanketed in snow above 5,500 feet in this image from February 21, including Mt. Baldy Notch at 7,800 feet, center.

Cloud dappled winter skies frame the setting sun as it slips below the horizon February 21, offering a silhouette of downtown Los Angeles. Only during winter does the sun set this far south and align so closely with the skyline when viewed from above Base Line Road in Claremont.