Climate and Special Equipment Needs
The Inyo Mountain Wilderness is generally dry and rugged. Water sources are limited and difficult to access. The low elevation areas at the base of the mountains are very hot in summer; the high elevations and peaks are snow-covered in winter. Visitors to the Inyo Mountains Wilderness should be prepared for desert hiking and variable weather.
People who attempt to drive the Cerro Gordo-Swansea Road should be experienced with technical driving and have an appropriate vehicle and safety equipment.
Safety and Current Conditions
As of Fall 2012, the Swansea side of the road had been washed out in a flood and was impassable several miles from the bottom.