The best time to visit Huayang is spring (April–May) or autumn (September–October). These months bring comfortable temperatures, clear mountain air, and the best chances of seeing wildlife in the lower forest zones — pandas descend to lower elevations when bamboo is most accessible in spring.
Summer is warm and can be wet. The forest is at its most lush and green, but leeches are a nuisance on forest paths and cloud cover is frequent. Winter brings snow to the mountains and the village has the feel of a place largely cut off from the outside world. The reserve's activities are limited and road access can be difficult after heavy snowfall.
October is arguably the best single month — the forest colour is spectacular, the weather is dry, and the wildlife is active before winter. Chinese national holiday (first week of October) brings more visitors than usual; the week before or after is quieter.