This will sound like rookie questions to the SoCal folks here!
I've never climbed Baldy - For those who have climbed it, probably a large percentage of everyone here (!),
1. how is access in December (typically) and are there issues on the road to get to the trailhead?
2. I've never actually been to the area and read mixed reports online. Is this one of those trailheads that's accessible in a 2wd rental car even if its snowing higher up or does the road access close as does Whitney Portal Road? Or is this typical Socal weather and could be stormy one day and 70*F the next?
3. Is Manker Flats the "standard trailhead"? Is this the side with the "Devils backbone" Assume I should bring traction for this?
4. Is an "Adventure pass" or Parking Permit required here also?
Thanks in advance!
