Snow and trail update 1st May 2024

Our 27th storm of winter 2023/24 was no more than a light dusting of snow on the evening of Friday 26th which did not significantly impact tracks and trails. Any new snow had melted within 48 hours. Snow depth was 0.5 inch above 8500 ft all the way to San Jacinto Peak with a dusting down to 6800 ft. Idyllwild recorded 0.13 inch of rain.

Forecasts suggest a possibility of another very minor storm in the early morning of Sunday 5th May. Precipitation amounts are tentatively forecast to be minimal, similar to the storm of 26th April.

Daily survey hikes in the San Jacinto mountains include various routes to San Jacinto Peak multiple times per week (most recently on 23rd, 27th, and 29th April), Tahquitz Peak and area at least once per week (most recently on 1st May), plus a wide variety of other trails on intervening days.

I surveyed Fuller Ridge (PCT Miles 181.5-191) on the morning of Thursday 18th April and described conditions in a short video report available here on YouTube. Since then further melting has occurred, with trail conditions generally continuing to improve for PCT hikers.

With warm spring or even summer-like temperatures and major springtime melting for most of the past ten days, and with similar weather forecast for the foreseeable future, trail conditions continue to change rapidly.

It is now possible to bareboot all of the established trail routes, including the entire PCT through the San Jacinto mountains. However, that option is recommended only for hikers very comfortable and experienced hiking on icy snow and using especially grippy footwear. For most hikers, given variable conditions at present, carrying spikes remains recommended everywhere above about 7500 ft. Spikes tend to be especially useful for descending, even if rarely required for ascending. Crampons (and ice axe) continue to be required on the north side of Tahquitz Peak as discussed below.

Black Mountain Road is closed to vehicle traffic due to winter conditions at the gate 1.7 miles up from Highway 243. The new boulder in the road about 0.5 mile above that gate is expected to be removed by mid May. The road is clear of snow as far as the turning to Boulder Basin five miles from the highway. Limited patchy snow cover on the road has largely melted from there for the next three miles to the PCT crossing/Fuller Ridge campground.

South Ridge Road reopened for the season on 23rd April. The upper road is currently suitable only for high clearance AWD/4WD vehicles. Dark Canyon Road has been closed almost continuously for five years, but is expected to reopen in late May 2024. Black Mountain Fire lookout is tentatively scheduled to reopen for the season on 18th May, and Tahquitz Peak Fire lookout on or around 25th May.

WEATHER

Spring temperatures return to the San Jacinto mountains starting 30th April continuing until Sunday 5th May. After a colder day on 5th, temperatures quickly rise near or above seasonal. There is the possibility of minor precipitation overnight on Saturday 4th May, continuing into the morning of Sunday 5th. Impacts on trails are expected to be negligible at this time.

Newly available NWS San Diego data (linked here) indicates that rainfall in Idyllwild is at 77% of average so far this water year. My provisional data indicate snowfall in Idyllwild has been about 85% of seasonal, but well below average (c.70%) at San Jacinto Peak.

At San Jacinto Peak (3295m/10,810ft) on Monday 29th April 2024 at 0800 the air temperature was 40.2°F (5°C), with a windchill temperature of 30.3°F (-1°C), 16% relative humidity, and a light WNW wind sustained at 5 mph gusting to 11.1 mph.

At the Peak on Saturday 27th April 2024 at 0805 the air temperature was 25.8°F (-3°C), with a windchill temperature of 13.4°F (-10°C), 43% relative humidity, and a cool NNE wind sustained at 7 mph gusting to 11.1 mph.

At the Peak on Tuesday 23rd April 2024 at 0735 the air temperature was 37.3°F (3°C), with a windchill temperature of 26.1°F (-3°C), 23% relative humidity, and a steady WSW wind sustained at 12 mph gusting to 16.8 mph.

TRAIL CONDITIONS

Snow quality has deteriorated with generally warmer weather in the past two weeks, with associated rapid melting at all elevations. This trend will continue into May. Tracks have largely consolidated due to freeze-thaw cycles and hiker traffic, and can still be hard and icy in places especially early morning. Icy snow travel requires considerably more caution than soft, postholing snow, but can be much faster and more reliable underfoot for hikers experienced with such conditions.

Carrying spikes remains recommended everywhere above about 7500 ft. Icy compacted snow – following many freeze-thaw cycles and now that most trails have been well-traveled – is largely ideal for spikes. Crampons are essential for the north side of Tahquitz Peak (discussed below) and can be used as an alternative to spikes anywhere on compacted trails above about 9000 ft for the next week or two until bare patches start to become widespread.

Snowshoes are now only valuable away from compacted tracks above about 9000 ft elevation. On very warm days, especially later in the day on sunny slopes, they may become increasingly helpful. They are no longer useful for on-trail travel as the established tracks are firm and compacted.

Trails completely clear of snow include Ernie Maxwell, Spitler Peak, and Cedar Springs.

Devil’s Slide Trail is almost clear of snow. The trail is functionally clear below 7700 ft with just a few isolated patches remaining. Some extended icy snow patches remain between 7700 ft and Saddle Junction, especially around 7700-7900 ft where icy conditions remain around switchbacks 6-8. Some hikers may find spikes useful for the snow patches on this trail, especially for descending. The Trail Report has undertaken extensive trail maintenance work since February to remove many tree limbs in and over the trail damaged by storms this winter.

South Ridge Trail is now functionally clear of snow to Tahquitz Peak, with only a few tiny icy drifts remaining on the uppermost switchbacks. Few hikers will find spikes are required. The Trail Report cleared this winter’s accumulated treefall hazards from South Ridge Trail in April and has also undertaken extensive trail trimming in the past month.

The 0.4 mile section of South Ridge Trail between Chinquapin Flat/PCT MIle 177 and Tahquitz Peak has no track to follow at this time [surveyed most recently on 1st May] through feet of angled ice and icy snow. This ice slope is notoriously treacherous. Neither snowshoes nor spikes are helpful at this time, due to the angled slope and structure of the snow, respectively. Crampons with an ice axe are required on this section at this time, along with the necessary skills and experience to use that equipment in icy, angled terrain with considerable exposure.

The Peak Trail track has been well-traveled and fairly accurately follows the true trail route. However near Miller Peak at about 10,400 ft the track ascends directly up the East Ridge route, rather than following the Peak Trail switchback, as is traditional in winter conditions. Steady melting should make the uppermost Peak Trail route accessible by early May. Wellman Trail is already rapidly clearing of snow, and the track almost entirely follows the true trail route.

Deer Springs Trail is clear of snow to Strawberry Junction. Above Strawberry Junction snow cover is increasingly sparse to about 8500 ft, close to the top of Marion Mountain Trail. A well-traveled but largely uneven posthole track, that does not accurately follow the trail route in many places, continues through almost continuous snow thereafter. Above the Fuller Ridge Trail junction the track only occasionally follows the trail route, and at times diverges into two or even three options. All of them ultimately get to Little Round Valley however. The tracks largely coalesce through Little Round Valley. From the upper end of Little Round Valley to San Jacinto Peak there are several relatively lightly-traveled posthole tracks that all climb directly up the slope, none approximating the true trail route. Spikes are helpful, especially for descending the upper trail, along with cautious navigation.

Marion Mountain Trail is clear of snow below about 7500 ft elevation. Above that the trail averages only about 30% snow cover but has a surprisingly lightly-traveled and uneven posthole track through the snow patches generally following close to the true trail route. Spikes are useful for descending the upper trail.

Spitler Peak Trail suffered badly during ice storms in early February, and I found 34 new treefall hazards down during my surveys earlier this winter, almost all in the upper half. Most are relatively small and readily passable, but a few are larger, and the combined effect is to make for a slower and scrappier hike.

Despite limited snow this season and being readily passable with the appropriate skills and equipment for angled icy snow (currently crampons plus ice axe recommended), the State Park closed the uppermost section of Skyline Trail in their jurisdiction (above about 5600 ft) starting 21st February due to perceived unsafe conditions.

The upper end of Little Round Valley (9800 ft), mid morning 29th April 2024. Although snow depth averages 2-3 feet, some bare patches are starting to appear, while in heavily drifted areas (traditionally around the vault toilets!) snow remains four feet deep.

PACIFIC CREST TRAIL

Snow cover on the PCT is minimal from Miles 151 (Highway 74) to about 174.5. Old icy snow is now very patchy and largely confined to north- and east-facing slopes. Note that these patches can be still be icy (depending on time of day) and require caution. Apache Peak (Mile 169.5) is now functionally clear of snow. The posthole track on the north side of Red Tahquitz (175-177) does not accurately follow the PCT route.

Snow cover is then extensive, but with snow-free patches increasing every day, between Miles 175-192. The south-facing slopes at Miles 179-180 and 181-183 are now largely clear of snow.

There is now a relatively reliable posthole track to follow on Fuller Ridge (Miles 185.5-191). Although it does not accurately the PCT route in several places, following the main track is the safest way to traverse these miles. Traversing this section is possible barebooting but spikes are recommended. Also useful are patience, cautious navigation, and an adequate comfort level with hiking on angled icy snow slopes. I thoroughly surveyed Fuller Ridge on the morning of Thursday 18th April and reported on conditions in a short video report available here on YouTube.

Hikers wanting to avoid Fuller Ridge until the snow conditions improve can use the Black Mountain Road alternate. Black Mountain Road is open to hikers but not to vehicle traffic at this time. Spikes are no longer required on the upper three miles of Black Mountain Road.

PCT hikers should not attempt to use South Ridge Trail from the PCT at Chinquapin Flat (roughly Mile 177.7) to Idyllwild via Tahquitz Peak, even though this looks temptingly simple on apps and maps. There are no steps to follow through a lengthy section of steeply angled (and notoriously treacherous) ice slopes (photo below). Crampons, always with an ice axe, and expert knowledge of how to use this equipment on high angle terrain, are critical. Even in below average snow years like 2024 these slopes always take many weeks longer to clear of ice than adjacent areas, and they will remain challenging into late April this year, possibly even May.

PCT hikers are politely reminded that overnight stays are not permitted at or near San Jacinto Peak, including in the historic shelter. Mt. San Jacinto State Park regulations do not permit overnight stays in the shelter, which is dedicated for emergency, SAR, and ranger use.

The southern end of Fuller Ridge Trail (PCT Mile 185.5) where the PCT (left) diverges from Deer Springs Trail (right), mid morning 29th April 2024. Snow cover remains functionally continuous here, but is thinning rapidly on both trails.

While all time and labor is volunteered, the San Jacinto Trail Report uses small private donations to help cover operating costs. Every year seems to have its unique challenges, and clearly 2024 will be no exception. Your contribution keeps the Report available to all, free from advertising or paywalls, and independent from agencies. If you have found this Report useful, please consider using this link to the Donate page. Thank you very much for your support.

SNOW DEPTHS measured on 27th (east slope trails) and 29th April 2024 (Deer Springs Trail) are as follows. The first number gives current average total depth, which also accounts for substantial melting between and since recent storms. The number in brackets is the greatest depth at that location this winter (where known). Note that averages are given; due to strong winds during and after most storms there has been considerable drifting, plus often very uneven melting during warm interludes. Altitudes and PCT mileages are approximate.

San Jacinto Peak (10810 ft): 28-32 inches [60 inches on 1st April]

Little Round Valley (9800 ft): 28 inches, ranging from 0-50 inches, photo above

Wellman Divide (9700 ft): 6 inches, ranging from 0-20 [41-43 inches on 8th February] photos below

Annie’s Junction/approx. PCT Mile 181.8 (9070 ft): 25-35 inches [55 inches on 1st April]

Seven Pines Trail junction with Deer Springs Trail/PCT Mile 184.9: 10 inches, photo below

Long Valley (8400 ft): 0 inch, a few limited snow patches persist [24 inches on 8th February]

Strawberry Junction/PCT Mile 183 (8100 ft): 0 inch

Saddle Junction/PCT Mile 179.9 (8070 ft): 6 inches, ranging from 0-18 [32 inches on 1st April]

Devil’s Slide Trail at Humber Park (6550 ft): 0 inch [15 inches on 8th February]

Idyllwild (at 5550 ft): 0 inch [9 inches on 8th February]

The top of Seven Pines Trail where it reaches Deer Springs Trail at PCT Mile 184.9, mid morning 29th April 2024. Snow cover on both trails is continuous at this elevation (c.8700 ft), but a few small cleared patches are expanding daily.

Above and below, Wellman Divide (9700 ft), where the Wellman, Round Valley, and Peak trails meet. Above, early morning on 27th April 2024 following a light overnight dusting of 0.5 inch of snow, and below, the same view roughly four weeks earlier on 1st April 2024. A sun-exposed location like the Divide has lost at least three feet of snow to melting so far this month.

Snow and trail update 25th April 2024

UPDATE Saturday 27th April 2024: a very light dusting of snow yesterday evening has not significantly affected the tracks and trails. Snow depth is only 0.5 inch above 8500 ft all the way to San Jacinto Peak, and dusted down to 6800 ft on Devil’s Slide Trail. Idyllwild recorded 0.13 inch of rain. By late this morning the snow had already largely melted from sun-exposed trails below 9000 ft.

——————

For only the second time in the past four months we have gone more than ten days without a storm system. With recent summer-like temperatures and major springtime melting, trail conditions have changed dramatically, but should stabilize somewhat for a few days with cooler temperatures expected.

Daily survey hikes in the San Jacinto mountains include various routes to San Jacinto Peak multiple times per week (most recently on 14th, 15th, 19th, and 23rd April), Tahquitz Peak and area at least once per week (most recently on 22nd April), Apache Peak and Fuller Ridge areas regularly during nobo PCT season, plus a wide variety of other trails on intervening days. I surveyed Fuller Ridge (PCT Miles 181.5-191) on the morning of Thursday 18th April and described conditions in a short video report available here on YouTube.

Decisions regarding traction devices are currently not necessarily straightforward, as temperatures in the high country fluctuate around freezing, and relatively firm early morning snow often softens dramatically within hours as temperatures climb. It is currently possible to bareboot all of the established trail routes, including the entire PCT through the San Jacinto mountains. However, that option is recommended only for hikers very comfortable and experienced hiking on angled icy snow and using excellent, appropriate footwear. For most hikers, given variable conditions at present, spikes are recommended everywhere above about 7500 ft. Crampons (and ice axe) are required on the north side of Tahquitz Peak as discussed below.

Black Mountain Road is closed to vehicle traffic due to winter conditions at the gate 1.7 miles up from Highway 243. The road is clear of snow as far as the turning to Boulder Basin five miles from the highway. Patchy snow cover (40%) on the road is steadily melting from there for the next three miles to the PCT crossing/Fuller Ridge campground. Spikes are not required for hiking the road.

South Ridge Road reopened for the season on 23rd April. Dark Canyon Road has been closed almost continuously for five years, but is expected to reopen May 2024. Humber Park reopened on 24th April following another brief closure for tree maintenance work.

WEATHER

Following near-summer-like temperatures in the San Jacinto mountains over the past week, a brief cooling trend is underway. Temperatures will be near (or even briefly below) seasonal until Sunday 28th, when very warm temperatures return for the last few days of April into May. Another cooling trend is predicted in the middle of the first week of May.

Partly cloudy and cooler conditions are expected for 25th-27th April, with possibilities for light precipitation, especially rain at mid elevations (below 8000 ft). Showers are most likely in the afternoon and evening of Friday 26th, when a dusting of snow – perhaps an inch around the highest peaks – is tentatively forecast for the high country. Rainfall is expected to be limited, with <0.25 inch forecast for Idyllwild.

At San Jacinto Peak (3295m/10,810ft) on Tuesday 23rd April 2024 at 0735 the air temperature was 37.3°F (3°C), with a windchill temperature of 26.1°F (-3°C), 23% relative humidity, and a steady WSW wind sustained at 12 mph gusting to 16.8 mph.

At the Peak on Friday 19th April 2024 at 0820 the air temperature was 36.2°F (2°C), with a windchill temperature of 24.1°F (-4°C), 22% relative humidity, and a moderate WNW wind sustained at 9 mph gusting to 16.4 mph.

Looking south from San Jacinto Peak across the San Jacinto high country, early morning 23rd April 2024. Very dense marine layer cloud at about 4000 ft elevation is completely obscuring the western flatlands.

TRAIL CONDITIONS

Snow quality has deteriorated with a strong warming trend since 15th April and very rapid melting at all elevations. Nevertheless on cooler mornings old snow is locally firm and icy. Icy snow travel requires considerably more caution than soft, postholing snow.

Snow quality has deteriorated rapidly in recent days but should stabilize with a few cooler days forecast. Tracks have largely consolidated due to freeze-thaw cycles and hiker traffic and can still be hard and icy in places, especially early morning.

Snowshoes may be useful above about 9000 ft elevation on warm days (from 28th April) as snow softens rapidly, especially on less well defined trails such as upper Deer Springs. They are no longer helpful where tracks have been well-traveled and compacted (and hence increasingly suited to spikes and/or crampons). However, snowshoes continue to be valuable for off-trail travel above about 8000 ft through softening snow.

Almost all major tracks have reliable tracks through the remaining snow at this time including all of the PCT through the San Jacinto mountains, South Ridge Trail (south of Tahquitz Peak), Devil’s Slide Trail, onward via the PCT, Wellman, Peak, and East Ridge trails to San Jacinto Peak, the Round Valley Trail from Long Valley through to Wellman Divide, Marion Mountain Trail, and all of Deer Springs Trail (although the track does not accurately follow the trail route above Marion Mountain Trail junction).

Carrying spikes remains strongly recommended everywhere above about 7500 ft. Icy compacted snow – following many freeze-thaw cycles and now that most trails have been well-traveled – is largely ideal for spikes. Crampons are essential for the north side of Tahquitz Peak (discussed below) and can be used as an alternative to spikes anywhere on compacted trails above about 9000 ft.

Snowshoes can be valuable away from compacted tracks above about 8000 ft elevation. On very warm days, especially later in the day on sunny slopes, they may become increasingly helpful. They are generally no longer useful for on-trail travel below 9000 ft as the established tracks are firm and compacted.

Devil’s Slide Trail is largely clear of snow. The trail is almost completely clear below 7700 ft with just a few isolated patches remaining. Some extended icy snow patches remain between 7700 ft and Saddle Junction, especially around 7700-7900 ft where icy conditions remain around switchbacks 6-8. Some hikers will find spikes useful for the snow patches on this trail, especially for descending. The Trail Report undertook extensive trail maintenance work in February to remove many damaged tree limbs in and over the trail resulting from an early February ice storm.

Trails clear of snow include Ernie Maxwell, Spitler Peak, and Cedar Springs.

South Ridge Trail is clear of snow to Old Lookout Flat (7500 ft), and functionally clear of snow from there to about 8400 ft (switchback 9), with only a few minor icy drifts remaining. Snow cover is only about 50% on the final nine switchbacks up to Tahquitz Peak, but many of the snow patches are icy and most hikers will find spikes useful on the uppermost trail. The Trail Report cleared this winter’s treefall hazards from South Ridge Trail in mid April.

The 0.4 mile section of South Ridge Trail between Chinquapin Flat/PCT MIle 177 and Tahquitz Peak has no track to follow at this time [surveyed multiple times in April] through several feet of heavily drifted and angled ice and icy snow. This ice slope is notoriously treacherous. Neither snowshoes nor spikes are helpful at this time, due to the angled slope and structure of the snow, respectively. Crampons with an ice axe are essential on this section at this time, along with the necessary skills and experience to use that equipment in icy, angled terrain with considerable exposure.

Deer Springs Trail is clear of snow to Strawberry Junction. Above Strawberry Junction snow cover is increasingly sparse to about 8400 ft. A well-traveled but largely uneven posthole track, that does not accurately follow the trail route in many places, continues through almost continuous snow thereafter. Above the Fuller Ridge Trail junction the track rarely follows the trail route, and often diverges into two or even three options. All of them ultimately get to Little Round Valley however. The tracks largely coalesce briefly through Little Round Valley. From the upper end of Little Round Valley to San Jacinto Peak there are several lightly-traveled posthole tracks that all climb directly up the slope, none even approximating the true trail route. Spikes can be helpful, especially for descending the upper trail, along with cautious navigation.

Marion Mountain Trail is largely clear of snow below 7200 ft elevation. Above that the trail has a surprisingly lightly-traveled and uneven posthole track that generally follows the true trail route through extended icy snow (c.60% snow cover). Spikes are useful, especially for descending.

The Peak Trail posthole track at 10,300 ft looking south toward Jean Peak, early morning 23rd April 2024, giving a feel for high country hiking conditions at present.

PACIFIC CREST TRAIL

Snow cover on the PCT is minimal from Miles 151 (Highway 74) to about 163. Old icy snow is now very patchy and largely confined to north- and east-facing slopes, until about Mile 174.5. Note that many of these patches can be icy (depending on time of day) and require caution. See comments below regarding specific conditions around Apache Peak (Mile 169.5). The posthole track on the north side of Red Tahquitz (175-177) does not accurately follow the PCT route.

Snow cover is then extensive, but with snow-free patches increasing every day, between Miles 175-192. The south-facing slopes at Miles 179-180 and 181-183 are now largely clear of snow.

At this time, nobo hikers unfamiliar with hiking across areas of angled icy snow may want to consider taking the alternate at Spitler Peak Trail (Mile 168.5) to avoid the worst of the snow slopes from Miles 169-178, and the 100+ downed treefall hazards in the same section.

There is now a relatively reliable posthole track to follow on Fuller Ridge (Miles 185.5-191). Although it does not accurately the PCT route in several places, following the main track is the safest way to traverse these miles. Traversing this section is possible barebooting but spikes are strongly recommended. Also useful are patience, cautious navigation, and an adequate comfort level with hiking on angled icy snow slopes. I thoroughly surveyed Fuller Ridge on the morning of Thursday 18th April and reported on conditions in a short video report available here on YouTube.

Only a small and patchy icy snow slope remains on the north-east side of Apache Peak. Spikes are recommended (but not essential) to traverse this short section using the PCT route. Another option for nobo hikers is to go up and over the saddle between the double peaks of Apache for those wanting to avoid this traverse.

SNOW DEPTHS measured on 23rd April 2024 are as follows. The first number gives current average total depth, which also accounts for substantial melting between and since recent storms. The number in brackets is the greatest depth at that location this winter (where known). Note that averages are given; due to strong winds during and after most storms there has been considerable drifting, plus often very uneven melting during warm interludes. Altitudes and PCT mileages are approximate.

San Jacinto Peak (10810 ft): 30-40 inches [60 inches on 1st April]

Wellman Divide (9700 ft): 12 inches, ranging from 0-24 [41-43 inches on 8th February] photos below

Annie’s Junction/approx. PCT Mile 181.8 (9070 ft): 30-36 inches [55 inches on 1st April]

Long Valley (8400 ft): 0 inch, some snow patches persist [24 inches on 8th February]

Strawberry Junction/PCT Mile 183 (8100 ft): 0 inch, some snow patches persist

Saddle Junction/PCT Mile 179.9 (8070 ft): 8 inches, ranging from 0-24 [32 inches on 1st April]

Devil’s Slide Trail at Humber Park (6550 ft): 0 inch [15 inches on 8th February]

Idyllwild (at 5550 ft): 0 inch [9 inches on 8th February]

Above and below, Wellman Divide (9700 ft), where the Wellman, Round Valley, and Peak trails meet. Above, late morning on 23rd April 2024, and below, the same view three-and-a-half weeks earlier on 1st April 2024. A sun-exposed location like the Divide has lost nearly three feet of snow to melting so far this month.

Another day of sandstorms in the Coachella Valley, as seen from San Jacinto Peak, 23rd April 2024. Ever since Tropical Storm Hilary in August 2023, the hundreds (thousands?) of tons of material deposited at the north end of the valley during the dramatic flooding is stirred up whenever there is a moderate or strong west wind blowing through San Gorgonio Pass.

Snow update 19th April 2024

I surveyed Fuller Ridge (PCT Miles 181.5-191) on the morning of Thursday 18th April and detailed conditions in a short video report available here on YouTube. A special thank you to PCT hiker “Sarge” who I met on Friday 19th at Humber Park.

The latest storm system of winter 2023/24 was no more than a light dusting of snow above 7000 ft late on Saturday 13th, increasing to 0.5 inch above 8000 ft and peaking at one inch above 10,000 ft elevation, with barely 0.03 inch of rain in Idyllwild (at 5550 ft).

The second phase of the system late afternoon on Sunday 14th was a little cooler but largely confined to the western slope below 9500 ft, with the highest peaks and the eastern slope remaining above the cloud. There was a dusting of 0.25 inch of snow down to 6500 ft on Deer Springs Trail and at Humber Park, increasing to one inch at Wellman’s Cienega (9300 ft) and on Fuller Ridge.

Early on Monday 15th April we ascended San Jacinto Peak via Devil’s Slide, PCT, Wellman, Peak, and East Ridge trails, descending via Deer Springs Trail. The previous day I had also ascended the Peak Trail route, but descending the same way. Although on both mornings the fresh drifting snow had largely obscured the pre-existing track, especially above 10,000 ft, I was able to bareboot to San Jacinto Peak (I carried spikes and crampons, and most hikers will prefer to use the former). Descending Deer Springs Trail on 15th, I found spikes were invaluable down to about 9000 ft.

Survey hikes every day in the San Jacinto mountains include different routes to San Jacinto Peak multiple times per week (most recently on 14th, 15th, and 19th April), Tahquitz Peak and area at least once per week (most recently on 12th April), Apache Peak and Fuller Ridge areas regularly during nobo PCT season, plus a wide variety of other trails on intervening days.

Decisions regarding traction devices are currently not straightforward, as temperatures in the high country fluctuate around freezing, and firm early morning snow softens dramatically within hours as temperatures climb. It is currently possible to bareboot all of the established trail routes, including the entire PCT through the San Jacinto mountains. However, that option is only for those hikers very experienced hiking on angled icy snow and using excellent, grippy footwear. For most hikers, given the highly variable conditions at present, spikes are recommended everywhere above about 7500 ft. Crampons are required on the north side of Tahquitz Peak as discussed below.

Snow quality is deteriorating rapidly this week, especially by mid morning and anywhere exposed to direct sun. Tracks have largely consolidated due to freeze-thaw cycles and hiker traffic and can be hard and icy in places, especially early morning. Snowshoes can be useful above about 9000 ft elevation on warm days (from 16th April) as snow softens rapidly, especially on less well defined trails such as upper Deer Springs. They are generally unhelpful where tracks have been well-traveled and compacted and hence increasingly suited to spikes and/or crampons. However, snowshoes continue to be invaluable for off-trail travel above about 8000 ft through softening snow.

Black Mountain Road is closed to vehicle traffic due to winter conditions at the gate 1.7 miles up from Highway 243. The road is clear of snow as far as the turning to Boulder Basin five miles from the highway. Patchy snow cover (c.50%) on the road is steadily melting from there for the next three miles to the PCT crossing/Fuller Ridge campground. Spikes are not required for hiking the road.

Humber Park reopened on 10th April following tree maintenance work. South Ridge Road remains closed due to winter conditions but is clear of snow and should reopen soon. Dark Canyon Road has been closed almost continuously for the past five years, but is expected to reopen May 2024.

Strawberry Junction (8050 ft, approx. PCT Mile 183) with increasingly patchy and sparse snow cover, late morning 15th April 2024.

WEATHER

Temperatures rapidly warm to well above seasonal for April starting Tuesday 16th, lasting throughout the weekend. Temperatures at mid elevations will be more typical of May (even early June for the overnight lows). Melting will be very rapid everywhere, especially below 9000 ft and on sun-exposed slopes at higher elevations.

Temperatures are expected to be far above freezing even around the highest peaks from 17th April onwards, extremely warm for mid April at those elevations, with associated dramatic melting. Temperatures are forecast to cool to seasonal for Wednesday 24th to Saturday 27th April, before rising once again.

At San Jacinto Peak (3295m/10,810ft) on Friday 19th April 2024 at 0820 the air temperature was 36.2°F (2°C), with a windchill temperature of 24.1°F (-4°C), 22% relative humidity, and a moderate WNW wind sustained at 9 mph gusting to 16.4 mph.

At the Peak on Monday 15th April 2024 at 0850 the air temperature was 23.4°F (-5°C), with a windchill temperature of 5.0°F (-15°C), 64% relative humidity, and a variable NW wind sustained at 11 mph gusting to 24.8 mph.

At the Peak on Sunday 14th April 2024 at 0810 the air temperature was 16.5°F (-9°C), with a windchill temperature of -8.3°F (-22°C), 48% relative humidity, and a strong and steady SW wind sustained at 28 mph gusting to 37.0 mph.

The Peak Trail route at 9800 ft elevation north of Wellman Divide, early morning 14th April 2024, after a light overnight dusting of snow mixed with freezing rain. The compacted track is ideal for spikes (or indeed barebooting) especially when firm before mid morning.

TRAIL CONDITIONS

Snow quality will quickly deteriorate with a strong warming trend after 15th April and widespread rapid melting at all elevations. Under any remaining fresh powder, deeper old snow is locally firm and icy. Icy snow requires considerably more caution plus specialist equipment (and different physical and mental skillsets) than soft, postholing snow.

Most major tracks have been broken through the snow at this time including all of the PCT through the San Jacinto mountains, South Ridge Trail (south of Tahquitz Peak), Devil’s Slide Trail, onward via the PCT, Wellman, Peak, and East Ridge trails to San Jacinto Peak, the Round Valley Trail from Long Valley through to Wellman Divide, the PCT from Highway 74 north to Saddle Junction, Marion Mountain Trail, and all of Deer Springs Trail (although the track does not accurately follow the trail route above the Marion Mountain Trail junction).

Carrying spikes is strongly recommended everywhere above about 7500 ft. Icy compacted snow – following many freeze-thaw cycles and now that most trails have been well-traveled – is largely ideal for spikes. Crampons are essential for the north side of Tahquitz Peak (discussed below) and can be useful as an alternative to spikes anywhere on compacted trails above about 9000 ft.

Snowshoes can be valuable everywhere away from compacted tracks above about 8000 ft elevation. On warm days (notably 16th April onwards) and later in the day on sunny slopes they can become increasingly helpful. They will quickly become less useful for on-trail travel below 9000 ft as the established tracks become well compacted.

Devil’s Slide Trail is almost clear of snow below 7700 ft with just a few isolated patches remaining. Icy snow cover is about 75% in the last 0.6 mile up to Saddle Junction. The track is very well-defined. Note that at about 7700-7900 ft especially icy conditions remain around switchbacks 6-8. Spikes can be useful for the snow patches on this trail, especially for descending, although they are no longer essential. The Trail Report undertook extensive trail maintenance work in February to remove many damaged tree limbs in and over the trail resulting from an early February ice storm.

The Ernie Maxwell Trail is clear of snow. A few tiny snow patches remain near the upper (Humber Park) end. Spikes are not required.

South Ridge Trail is clear of snow to Old Lookout Flat (7500 ft). Snow cover is about 30% on the traverse to 7800 ft but is then 70% to Tahquitz Peak with cleared patches increasing daily. There is a well-traveled posthole track to 8500 ft (switchback 12, for those very familiar with this trail) at which point the track largely goes directly to the Peak, rarely following the established trail route. Most hikers will find spikes and/or an ice axe very useful on the upper trail. The Trail Report cleared the significant treefall hazards on South Ridge Trail in mid April.

The Peak Trail track that I broke on 6th April has been well-traveled and fairly accurately follows the true trail route. However near Miller Peak at about 10,400 ft the track ascends directly up the East Ridge route, rather than following the Peak Trail switchback, as is traditional in winter conditions. The East Ridge section gets covered over regularly by light spindrift whenever winds are strong (such as 13th-14th April), but the underlying track remains largely visible.

Deer Springs Trail is clear of snow to the Suicide Rock junction, and largely clear from there to Strawberry Junction, with just a few snow patches increasing in frequency close to the latter. Spikes are not needed to that point. Above Strawberry Junction snow cover is largely continuous, with just a few small patches starting to clear just north of the junction. There is a relatively well-traveled but uneven posthole track to the junction with Marion Mountain Trail. From there the route is largely an ugly posthole track that does not accurately follow the trail route in many places. Above the Fuller Ridge Trail junction the track rarely follows the trail route, and often diverges into two or even three options. All of them will ultimately get you to Little Round Valley however. The tracks largely coalesce briefly through Little Round Valley. From the upper end of Little Round Valley to San Jacinto Peak there are several indistinct posthole tracks that all climb directly up the slope, and none closely approximate to the true trail route. Spikes are recommended, especially for descending the upper trail, along with cautious navigation.

Marion Mountain Trail is largely clear of snow below 7200 ft elevation. Above that the trail has a lightly-traveled and uneven posthole track that largely follows the true trail route through largely continuous icy snow (c.80% snow cover). Spikes are useful, especially for descending.

Spitler Peak Trail suffered badly during ice storms in early February, and I found 34 new treefall hazards down during my surveys in late February, almost all in the upper half. Most are relatively small and readily passable, but a few are larger, and the combined effect is to make for a slower and scrappier hike.

South Ridge “Trail”, at about 8600 ft just below Tahquitz Peak, is little more than a subtle series of partial footprints in icy snow, early morning 12th April 2024. The snow is soft, but not necessarily any easier-going, by late morning.

PACIFIC CREST TRAIL

Snow cover on the PCT is minimal from Miles 151 (Highway 74) to about 163. Old icy snow is now very patchy and largely confined to north- and east-facing slopes, until about Mile 174.5. Note that many of these patches remain icy and require considerable caution. See comments below regarding specific conditions around Apache Peak (Mile 169.5). The posthole track on the north side of Red Tahquitz (175-177) does not accurately follow the PCT route.

Snow cover is then extensive, but with snow-free patches increasing every day, between Miles 175-192. The south-facing slopes at Miles 179-180 and 181-183 are now largely clear of snow.

There is now a relatively reliable posthole track to follow on Fuller Ridge (Miles 185.5-191). Although it does not accurately the PCT route in several places, following the main track is the safest way to traverse these miles. Traversing this section is possible barebooting but spikes are strongly recommended. Also useful are patience, cautious navigation, and an adequate comfort level with hiking on angled icy snow slopes. I thoroughly surveyed Fuller Ridge on the morning of Thursday 18th April and reported on conditions in a short video report available here on YouTube.

It is recommended that hikers wanting to avoid Fuller Ridge until the ice conditions improve (now likely in the next week or two) use the Black Mountain Road alternate. Black Mountain Road is open to hikers but not to vehicle traffic at this time. Spikes are no longer required on the upper three miles of Black Mountain Road.

Only a small and patchy icy snow slope remains on the north-east side of Apache Peak. Spikes are recommended to traverse this short section using the PCT route. Another option for nobo hikers is to go up and over the saddle between the double peaks of Apache for those wanting to avoid this traverse.

Although just outside the region covered by the Trail Report (and my area of expertise) I understand that northbound hikers are experiencing significant problems due to storm damaged trail in the Mission Creek area of roughly Miles 225-250. More details are available at this link.

Tahquitz Peak, early morning 8th April 2024. A steep and icy direct posthole track comes up from upper South Ridge Trail (in an unconventional direction for those very familiar with hiking this trail in winter). Spikes and/or an ice axe are strongly recommended.

SNOW DEPTHS measured on 15th April 2024 are as follows. The first number gives current average total depth, which also accounts for substantial melting between recent storms. The number in parentheses gives new snow recorded in the minor storm on 13th-14th April, while the number in brackets is the greatest depth at that location this winter (where known). Note that averages are given; due to strong winds during and after most storms there has been considerable drifting, plus often very uneven melting during warm interludes. Altitudes and PCT mileages are approximate.

San Jacinto Peak (10810 ft): 50-52 inches (1.0 inch new snow 13th April)[60 inches on 1st April]

Little Round Valley (9750 ft): 35-40 inches (1.0 inch new on 13th April)

Wellman Divide (9700 ft): 31-33 inches (0.75 inch new 13th April) [41-43 inches on 8th February]

Annie’s Junction/approx. PCT Mile 181.8 (9070 ft): 46 inches (1.0 inch new on 13th-14th April)[55 inches on 1st April]

Long Valley (8400 ft): 0-8 inches, very uneven melting (0.5 inch new 13th April)[24 inches on 8th February]

Strawberry Junction/PCT Mile 183 (8100 ft): 0-5 inches, rapidly melting (1.0 inch new on 13th-14th April)

Saddle Junction/PCT Mile 179.9 (8070 ft): 22-24 inches (1.0 inch new on 13th-14th April)[32 inches on 1st April]

Devil’s Slide Trail at Humber Park (6550 ft): 0-2 inches (0.25 inch new on 14th April)[15 inches on 8th February]

Idyllwild (at 5550 ft): 0 inch (no new snow on 13th April)[9 inches on 8th February]

Above and below, Wellman Divide (9700 ft), where the Wellman, Round Valley, and Peak trails all intersect. Above, early morning on 14th April 2024, and below, the same view two weeks earlier on 1st April 2024. Despite a fresh dusting of less than an inch of snow on 13th April, a sun-exposed location like the Divide has lost some 12-15 inches of snow to melting in the first half of April.

Upper end of Little Round Valley (9800 ft) under an average of 3+ feet of snow, 15th April 2024. The sign normally visible in that location is buried in the snow in the immediate foreground.

PCT Mile 185.5, at the junction of the southern end of Fuller Ridge Trail (to the left) with Deer Springs Trail (to the right), late morning 15th April 2024.

The north face of Tahquitz Peak as seen from just below the peak, 12th April 2024. Although this slope currently looks ominous for those inexperienced in crampons and ice axe terrain, this area will rapidly melt throughout April now that it is in direct springtime sun.

Above and below, a before-and-after example of post-winter trail maintenance conducted by the Trail Report, in this case on South Ridge Trail at about 6800 ft, 12th April 2024.

Snow storm update 12th April 2024

This is a summary of conditions since the 25th storm system of winter 2023/24 on Friday 5th April. First published on 6th April, this Report has been updated daily as I survey additional trails.

As often the case in this unusual winter, two distinct phases characterized the storm. The first, in the morning of Friday 5th, produced light powder everywhere above about 4000 ft, starting in the early hours and continuing steadily all morning, adding up to about 2.5 inches in Idyllwild. I measured at 1.5 inches by 0930 at Saddle Junction on a recon hike (which evidently increased to about three inches by midday).

After clearing at about noon on Friday, it appeared that the storm was over. However the second phase materialized later in the afternoon, when an intense thunderstorm – with minimal actual thunder – deposited an inch or more of graupel snow throughout the mountains in the space of less than an hour.

Total new snow accumulations were five inches at San Jacinto Peak, about four each at elevations from Wellman Divide down to Saddle Junction, 3.5 inches in Idyllwild, and 1-2 inches as low as 4500 ft. Especially above about 6000 ft the impacts of the storm were very significant on the tracks and trails due to the combination of very mobile graupel plus strong winds completely erasing pre-existing tracks. Wind loading was especially striking on the East Ridge of San Jacinto Peak, powered by wild westerly winds, with two feet depth of fresh powder in places generated from only a few inches of actual snowfall.

On Saturday 6th April I broke trail snowshoeing – through delightfully frigid “bluebird” conditions – all the way to San Jacinto Peak via Devil’s Slide, PCT, Wellman, Peak, and East Ridge trails to assess the snowfall and impact to the tracks. A warm spring sun by late morning started rapid melting below 8000 ft. I discussed current conditions, especially for PCT hikers, in a short video report recorded at San Jacinto Peak mid morning on Saturday 6th April following my early morning ascent (linked here).

We repeated that route early on Tuesday 9th. With a well-traveled and demarcated track, I was able to comfortably bareboot all the way to and from San Jacinto Peak (I carried spikes and crampons, and most hikers will prefer to use the former).

Yet another storm system, expected to be minor in terms of expected precipitation, is forecast for 13th-14th April. Snowfall in the high country – about 1-2 inches on both Saturday 13th and Sunday 14th – is not expected to be sufficient to completely eliminate current broken tracks.

Survey hikes every day in the San Jacinto mountains include different routes to San Jacinto Peak multiple times per week (most recently on 1st, 6th, and 9th April), Tahquitz Peak and area at least once per week (most recently on 4th, 8th, and 12th April), Apache Peak area regularly during PCT season, plus a wide variety of other trails on intervening days.

Tracks remain very icy in places under the fresh powder and have now consolidated due to freeze-thaw cycles and hiker traffic. For the next few days at least – until extensive thawing is expected to be well underway – spikes at a minimum (preferably crampons in some areas) are recommended everywhere above 7500 ft. Crampons are required on the north side of Tahquitz Peak and strongly recommended on Fuller Ridge, as discussed below.

Snowshoes are useful above about 9000 ft elevation, especially on warm days as snow softens rapidly. They have quickly become less useful as tracks have become compacted and increasingly suited to spikes and/or crampons. However, snowshoes will continue to be invaluable for any off-trail travel above about 8000 ft throughout April at least.

Black Mountain Road is closed to vehicle traffic due to winter conditions at the gate 1.7 miles up from Highway 243. The road will very quickly clear of snow as far as the turning to Boulder Basin five miles from the highway. Snow cover on the road will more slowly melt from there for the next three miles to the PCT crossing/Fuller Ridge campground during April.

Humber Park reopened on 10th April following tree maintenance work. Even when closed there are nine legal parking spaces just below the gate (Adventure Pass or equivalent still required). South Ridge Road remains closed due to winter conditions but is clear of snow and should reopen soon. Dark Canyon Road has been closed almost continuously for the past five years.

WEATHER

Temperatures quickly warm to well above seasonal for 10th-11th April, with sunny days also forecast, so melting will be very rapid everywhere below 9000 ft and on sun-exposed slopes at higher elevations. Temperatures are expected to be at or above freezing even >10,000 ft from 9th April onwards, which is unusually warm for mid April. A minor storm is tentatively forecast for Saturday-Sunday 13th-14th April, although snow/rain quantities are not now expected to be significant. Temperatures are expected to again rise to above seasonal for April after passage of that storm.

At San Jacinto Peak (3295m/10,810ft) on Tuesday 9th April 2024 at 0745 the air temperature was 21.1°F (-6°C), with a windchill temperature of -2.0°F (-19°C), 29% relative humidity, and a frigid NNE wind sustained at 29 mph gusting to 36.2 mph.

At the Peak on Saturday 6th April 2024 at 0950 the air temperature was 17.2°F (-8°C), with a windchill temperature of 0.9°F (-18°C), 25% relative humidity, and a light but cool NNW wind sustained at 7 mph gusting to 11.1 mph.

A classic “bluebird day”, perhaps the last best one of this winter given rapid melting is expected over the next few weeks. Looking north-west towards the San Bernardino range from San Jacinto Peak, mid morning Saturday 6th April 2024.

TRAIL CONDITIONS

There was largely continuous snow cover on all trails above about 4500 ft on the morning of 6th April, but with rapid melting it has already largely disappeared below 7500 ft on the most sun-exposed slopes. Under the fresh powder, the remaining deeper old snow is locally firm and icy. Icy snow requires considerably more caution plus specialist equipment (and different physical and mental skillsets) than soft, postholing snow. Snow quality will improve with cold conditions over the weekend, but then generally deteriorate with a strong warming trend after 15th April and widespread rapid melting at all elevations.

Many major tracks have been broken through the snow at this time including South Ridge Trail (south of Tahquitz Peak), Devil’s Slide Trail, onward via the PCT, Wellman, Peak, and East Ridge trails to San Jacinto Peak, the Round Valley Trail from Long Valley through to Wellman Divide, the PCT from Highway 74 north to Saddle Junction, Marion Mountain Trail, and all of Deer Springs Trail (although the track does not accurately follow the trail route above the Marion Mountain Trail junction).

Carrying spikes is strongly recommended everywhere above about 7000 ft. Icy compacted snow – once the trails become well-traveled – will be largely ideal for spikes, although as discussed above crampons can be an excellent option until next week at least, especially in some locations above about 7700 ft. Crampons are strongly recommended if attempting Fuller Ridge and essential for the north side of Tahquitz Peak (discussed below).

Snowshoes can be valuable everywhere away from compacted tracks above about 8000 ft elevation. On warm days (10th-12th April and after 15th) and later in the day on sunny slopes they will become increasingly helpful. They will quickly become less useful for on-trail travel below 9000 ft as the established tracks become well compacted. Snowshoes are recommended for any significant off-trail travel away from the defined tracks in the high country throughout April.

Although covered with light to moderate depth virgin snow early on the morning of Saturday 6th, Devil’s Slide Trail [resurveyed 9th April] is already largely clear below 7300 ft (just below Middle Spring). Icy snow cover is about 80% from there to Saddle Junction. The track is already very well-defined. Note that at about 7700-7900 ft especially icy conditions remain around switchbacks 6-8. Spikes are useful for the snow patches on this trail, especially for descending, although they are not essential. The Trail Report undertook extensive trail maintenance work in February to remove many damaged tree limbs in and over the trail resulting from an early February ice storm.

The Ernie Maxwell Trail [surveyed 7th April] is largely clear of snow. Some lengthy snow patches remain throughout the trail’s length, but most hikers will find that spikes are not required.

South Ridge Trail [surveyed 8th and 12th April] is clear of snow to Old Lookout Flat (7500 ft). Snow cover is about 50% on the traverse to 7800 ft but is then largely continuous to Tahquitz Peak with small cleared patches increasing daily. There is a well-traveled posthole track to 8500 ft (switchback 12, for those very familiar with this trail) at which point the track largely goes directly to the Peak, rarely following the established trail route. Most hikers will find spikes and/or an ice axe very useful on the upper trail. The Trail Report cleared the significant treefall hazards on South Ridge Trail in mid April.

The Peak Trail track that I broke on 6th April was well-traveled that weekend and fairly accurately follows the true trail route. However near Miller Peak at about 10,400 ft the track ascends directly up the East Ridge route, rather than following the Peak Trail switchback, as is traditional in winter conditions. The East Ridge section gets covered over regularly by light spindrift whenever winds are strong, but the underlying track remains largely visible.

The imposing ice slope on the north face of Tahquitz Peak as seen from just below the peak, 12th April 2024. Currently crampons and ice axe terrain for the experienced, this will rapidly melt throughout April now that it is in direct sun.

PACIFIC CREST TRAIL

Snow cover on the PCT has already largely melted from Miles 151 (Highway 74) to about 163. Underlying snow is then thin, with old snow largely confined to north- and east-facing slopes, until about Mile 174. Note that many of these patches remain icy and require considerable caution, especially when obscured by overlying new snow. See comments below regarding specific conditions around Apache Peak (Mile 169.5). Snow cover is then largely continuous between Miles 174-193. There are currently no reliable tracks to follow on Fuller Ridge (Miles 185.5-191) and traversing this section requires crampons, an ice axe, and appropriate snow skills.

At this time, nobo hikers may want to consider taking the alternate at Spitler Peak Trail (Mile 168.5) to avoid the worst of the icy snow slopes from Miles 169-177, and the 100+ downed treefall hazards in the same section. This situation is improving daily with warming and rapid melting expected most days.

It is recommended that hikers wanting to avoid Fuller Ridge until the ice conditions improve (now unlikely before mid April) use the Black Mountain Road alternate. Black Mountain Road is open to hikers but not to vehicle traffic at this time. Spikes can be useful (but not essential) on the upper three miles of Black Mountain Road.

A small but significant icy snow slope remains on the north-east side of Apache Peak. Spikes at a minimum, but preferably crampons, plus an ice axe, and crucially the skills and experience to use this equipment on angled icy snow, are required to traverse this short section using the PCT route. At this time the best option for nobo hikers is to go up and over the saddle between the double peaks of Apache to avoid this traverse, but note that there are some additional icy chutes and slopes in the next few miles, especially at present around Red Tahquitz (Miles 174-175.5), some of which have proven to be equally problematic in past seasons. The alternate at Mile 168.5 is recommended if you are not completely comfortable traversing some moderate angled snow terrain.

PCT hikers should not attempt to use South Ridge Trail from the PCT at Chinquapin Flat (roughly Mile 177.7) to Idyllwild via Tahquitz Peak, even though this looks temptingly simple on apps and maps. There are no steps to follow through a lengthy section of steeply angled (and notoriously treacherous) ice slopes. Crampons, always with an ice axe, and expert knowledge of how to use this equipment on high angle terrain, are critical. Even in low-to-moderate snow years like 2024 these slopes always take many weeks longer to clear of ice than adjacent areas, and they will remain challenging into late April this year, possibly even May.

The Peak Trail at 9800 ft elevation just north of Wellman Divide, early morning 8th April 2024. The well-defined and compacted track is ideal for spikes (or barebooting) especially when firm before mid morning.

SNOW DEPTHS measured on 6th April 2024 are as follows. The first number gives current average total depth, which also accounts for significant melting between recent storms. The number in parentheses gives new snow recorded in the storm on 5th April, while the number in brackets is the greatest depth at that location this winter (where known). Note that averages are given; due to strong winds during and after most storms there has been considerable drifting, plus often very uneven melting during warm interludes. Altitudes and PCT mileages are approximate.

San Jacinto Peak (10810 ft): 60 inches (5 inches new snow 5th April)[60 inches on 1st April]

Wellman Divide (9700 ft): 39 inches (4 inches new 5th April) [41-43 inches on 8th February]

Annie’s Junction/approx. PCT Mile 181.8 (9070 ft): 52-54 inches (4 inches new on 5th April)[55 inches on 1st April]

Long Valley (8400 ft): 0-14 inches, very uneven melting (4 inches new 5th April)[24 inches on 8th February]

Saddle Junction/PCT Mile 179.9 (8070 ft): 30 inches (4.5 inches new on 5th April)[32 inches on 1st April]

Devil’s Slide Trail at Humber Park (6550 ft): 0-6 inches, already largely melted (4 inches new on 5th April)[15 inches on 8th February]

Idyllwild (at 5550 ft): 0-2 inches, already largely melting (3.5 inches new on 5th April)[9 inches on 8th February]

Mountain Center (4400 ft): 0-1 inch, melted (2-3 inches new on 5th April)[3 inches on 9th February and 25th March]

My snowshoe tracks breaking the Peak Trail route at 10,300 ft looking south towards Jean Peak, mid morning Saturday 6th April 2024. Experienced snowshoers may notice the amount of lateral slippage in my tracks where I struggled to get a good grip into the firm icy snow below the fresh powder, a problem not uncommon when breaking lateral traverses on the exposed upper slopes of San Jac Peak.

Saddle Junction (8100 ft, approx. PCT Mile 179), mid morning 5th April 2024 during a minor snow storm, with roughly 2.5 feet of total snow accumulation at that time.

Tahquitz Peak and Tahquitz Rock as seen looking south from about PCT Mile 180 shortly after sunrise on Saturday 6th April 2024 immediately following the 25th storm (and 19th minor storm) of winter 2023/24. Note how little snow accumulated on the trees, especially down in Strawberry Valley where Idyllwild is located (to the right). Graupel, the snow equivalent of hail, comprises dense polystyrene-like balls that simply don’t stick in the vegetation in the way that larger, wetter snowflakes typically do.

Above (before) and below (after), an example of post-winter trail maintenance conducted by the Trail Report, in this case on South Ridge Trail at about 6800 ft, 12th April 2024.

Snow storm update 2nd April 2024

UPDATED 5th April 2024: light snow in the early hours added up to 0.75 inch in Idyllwild. Our morning hike of Devil’s Slide Trail through the snow found 1.5 inches of fresh powder at Saddle Junction (now likely increased to 2-3 inches). Long Valley (8500 ft) added about two inches this morning. Idyllwild had reached 2.5 inches of snow by noon when it abruptly stopped and brightened up. While more snow is possible, it looks likely that total snowfall will be below most forecasts at all elevations. Pre-existing tracks, and their underlying ice, have nevertheless been at least partly obscured, and cautious navigation is required.

UPDATED 4th April 2024: the storm coming in this evening is forecast to be relatively minor and brief – just over 24 hours duration – but will be unusually cold, especially for April. Snow expectations are broadly similar everywhere above 5000 ft, with 3-5 inches possible in Idyllwild and 6-7 inches forecast around the highest peaks. A dusting of snow as low as 3500 ft elevation is possible.

—————————

The 24th storm system of winter 2023/24 started in the early hours of Saturday 30th March and continued until the morning of Monday 1st April. As with so many of this winter’s storms, the bulk of the energy of this system passed tantalizingly close to the San Jacinto mountains but largely just to our west. Consequently the snowfall on Saturday 30th March – 11 inches at San Jacinto Peak – ended up significantly under the 15-20 inches forecast for that day for the high country. Conversely, the snowfall in Idyllwild (5.5 inches on 30th at 5550 ft) accurately matched forecasts.

As has been the case so often in this fascinating winter, two phases characterized this storm. The first, from early morning to late afternoon of 30th, produced moderate powder everywhere above 4000 ft, ranging from 11 inches at San Jacinto Peak (10,810 ft), to 8.5 inches at Saddle Junction (8100 ft), and an impressive 5 inches in Idyllwild (at 5550 ft). With the system coming up from the south-west, as is often the case the eastern side of the mountain experienced a “rain shadow” effect, with only 5 inches in Long Valley (8500 ft) and 8 inches in Round Valley (9100 ft) over a comparable time period.

The second phase on Sunday 31st March ultimately produced limited settled snow, but was periodically spectacular, with intense snow of large, wet flakes at times throughout the day throughout Strawberry Valley (where Idyllwild is located). Had temperatures been a little colder, many inches would have settled, but I estimated an accumulation of about 2.5 inches in town. An additional four inches fell at San Jacinto Peak, for a storm total of 15 inches, ranging down to 3.5 inches at Humber Park (storm total of 10 inches).

At all elevations, but especially above 7000 ft, the impacts of the storm were very significant on the tracks and trails due to very strong and gusty winds completely erasing pre-existing tracks. Near blizzard conditions dominated for much of Saturday 30th above 9500 ft, as both Kyle Eubanks and I witnessed firsthand, with our tracks eliminated within minutes of passing through an area.

On Monday 1st April I broke trail – through delightfully foggy conditions – to San Jacinto Peak via Devil’s Slide, PCT, Wellman, Peak, and East Ridge trails to assess the snowfall and impact to the trails. The mountain remained largely in thick cloud all morning, with very light snow still falling until late morning, but patchy sun and blue skies by the afternoon started very rapid melting.

I discussed the current conditions, principally for PCT hikers, in a short video report recorded at Annie’s Junction (9050 ft, approx. PCT Mile 180.8) at the tail end of the intense storm in the late afternoon of Saturday 30th (linked here). I recorded a further short report at San Jacinto Peak mid morning on Monday 1st April, summarizing the conditions I found on my early morning ascent (video linked here).

Survey hikes every day in the San Jacinto mountains include different routes to San Jacinto Peak multiple times per week (most recently on 24th, 25th, 29th, 30th March, and 1st April), Tahquitz Peak and area at least once per week (most recently on 23rd and 28th March), Apache Peak area regularly during PCT season, plus a wide variety of other trails on intervening days.

Snowshoes are very useful everywhere above about 8000 ft elevation (locally lower). This elevation may rise rapidly to 9000 ft on sun-exposed trails with melting expected this week. They become less useful as tracks become compacted and increasingly suited to spikes and/or crampons. However, snowshoes will continue to be invaluable for any off-trail travel above about 8000 ft for the next month at least.

Tracks remain very icy in places under the fresh powder. For the next 1-2 weeks – until thawing is expected to be partly underway – spikes at a minimum (preferably crampons in some areas) are recommended everywhere above 7500 ft. Crampons are required on the north side of Tahquitz Peak and strongly recommended on Fuller Ridge, as discussed below, and may become increasingly useful everywhere in the high country throughout early April (at least).

PCT hikers in particular should note that many high country trails pose greater risks in 2024 – due to underlying ice from prior rain-on-snow – than they did at the same time in 2023 when snow depths were generally double (locally even quadruple) those of this year.

Despite warmer temperatures on days between storms, hikers should generally be prepared for temperatures below freezing at higher elevations, and often well below freezing when considering wind chill effects. See Weather section below for some of my recent observations from San Jacinto Peak. The next storm, expected on 4th-5th April, is forecast to be brief but also unusually cold for April.

Black Mountain Road is closed to vehicle traffic due to winter conditions at the gate 1.7 miles up from Highway 243. The road will quickly clear of snow as far as the turning to Boulder Basin five miles from the highway. Snow cover on the road will remain largely continuous from there for the next three miles to the PCT crossing/Fuller Ridge campground into late March.

Humber Park closed again on 30th March. Even when closed there are nine legal parking spaces just below the gate (Adventure Pass or equivalent still required). South Ridge Road remains closed due to winter conditions. Dark Canyon Road has been closed almost continuously for the past five years.

The snow-plastered north and west faces of Tahquitz Rock as seen from lower Devil’s Slide Trail during a short sunny interlude in the storm system, evening of Saturday 30th March 2024.

WEATHER

Temperatures quickly warm to about seasonal for 2nd-3rd April, with sunny days forecast, so melting may be very rapid everywhere below 7500 ft and on sun-exposed slopes at higher elevations. The next storm system is expected starting the evening of Thursday 4th April continuing until the early hours of Saturday 6th. The system is forecast to be very cold, unusually so for April, with freeze levels possibly as low as 4000 ft and hence snow (rather than rain) throughout the San Jacinto mountains. Forecast precipitation amounts include 8-12 inches of snow in the high country above 10,000 ft, 3-5 inches at mid elevations (e.g., Idyllwild), and a dusting possibly as low as 3500 ft. At this time, temperatures are tentatively forecast to rise significantly again from 9th April onwards.

At San Jacinto Peak (3295m/10,810ft) on Monday 1st April 2024 at 0955 the air temperature was 18.1°F (-8°C), with a windchill temperature of -1.3°F (-19°C), 100% relative humidity, and a variable NNE wind sustained at 9 mph gusting to 19.5 mph.

At the Peak on Friday 29th March 2024 at 1840 the air temperature was 20.3°F (-7°C), with a windchill temperature of -1.8°F (-19°C), 51% relative humidity, and a bitter SW wind sustained at 20 mph gusting to 31.3 mph.

At the Peak on Monday 25th March 2024 at 0955 the air temperature was 16.3°F (-9°C), with a windchill temperature of -2.6°F (-19°C), 61% relative humidity, and a fresh WNW wind sustained at 11 mph gusting to 19.1 mph.

TRAIL CONDITIONS

There was largely continuous snow cover on all trails above about 5500 ft on the morning of 1st April, but with rapid melting it is already becoming increasingly patchy to 7000 ft on the most sun-exposed slopes. Under the fresh powder, the remaining deeper old snow is locally firm and icy. Icy snow requires considerably more caution plus specialist equipment (and different physical and mental skillsets) than soft, postholing snow. Snow quality will deteriorate rapidly this week with a warming trend and locally rapid melting at all elevations, before hardening again during a brief but very cold storm on 4th-6th April.

Only a few major tracks are known to have been broken through the snow at this time including Devil’s Slide Trail, onward via the PCT, Wellman, Peak, and East Ridge trails to San Jacinto Peak, and the Round Valley Trail from Long Valley through to Wellman Divide.

Carrying spikes is strongly recommended everywhere above about 7000 ft. Icy compacted snow – once the trails become well-traveled – will be largely ideal for spikes, although as discussed above crampons are an excellent option until next week at least, especially in some locations above about 7700 ft. Crampons are essential if attempting Fuller Ridge and the north side of Tahquitz Peak (discussed below).

Snowshoes can be valuable everywhere above about 7500 ft elevation at present. On warm days (most likely 2nd-3rd April and from 9th April onwards) and later in the day on sunny slopes they will become increasingly helpful. They will quickly become less useful for on-trail travel below 9000 ft as the established tracks become well compacted. Snowshoes are recommended for any significant off-trail travel away from the defined tracks in the high country throughout April.

Devil’s Slide Trail is already thinning of snow below 7000 ft – and becoming very slushy – but is otherwise snow-covered above that elevation. It will largely clear of snow up to 6800 ft in the next two days, with patchy clearing to 7500 ft, and a few bare patches appearing as high as 8000 ft. The track is already very well-defined. Note that at about 7700-7900 ft there are very icy conditions around switchbacks 6-8 (and I saw clear sign of a significant hiker fall of about 25 ft at switchback six from 31st March). Spikes are ideal for this trail, although they are not essential. The Trail Report undertook extensive trail maintenance work in February to remove many damaged tree limbs in and over the trail resulting from an early February ice storm.

The Peak Trail snowshoe track that I broke on 1st April fairly accurately follows the true trail route. However near Miller Peak at about 10,400 ft the track ascends directly up the East Ridge route, rather than following the Peak Trail switchback, as is traditional in winter conditions.

The 0.4 mile section of South Ridge Trail between Chinquapin Flat/PCT MIle 177 and Tahquitz Peak has no track to follow at this time [surveyed multiple times in late March] through several feet of heavily drifted and angled ice and icy snow. This ice slope is notoriously treacherous. Neither snowshoes nor spikes are helpful at this time, due to the angled slope and structure of the snow, respectively. Crampons with an ice axe are essential on this section at this time, along with the necessary skills and experience to use that equipment in icy, angled terrain with considerable exposure.

Suicide Rock (center) and Strawberry Valley as seen looking west from upper Devil’s Slide Trail, evening of Saturday 30th March 2024.

PACIFIC CREST TRAIL

Snow cover on the PCT [updated 3rd April] has already largely melted from Miles 151 (Highway 74) to about 163. Underlying snow is then thin, with old snow largely confined to north- and east-facing slopes, until about Mile 174. Note that many of these patches are icy and require considerable caution, especially when obscured by overlying new snow. See comments below regarding specific conditions around Apache Peak (Mile 169.5). Snow cover is then functionally continuous between Miles 174-193. There are currently no reliable tracks to follow on Fuller Ridge (Miles 185.5-191) and traversing this section requires crampons, an ice axe, and appropriate snow skills.

At this time, nobo hikers should consider taking alternates at either Fobes Trail (Mile 166) or Spitler Peak Trail (Mile 168.5) to avoid the worst of the icy snow slopes from Miles 169-177, and the 100+ downed treefall hazards in the same section. This situation will continue to change over the coming days and weeks with a mix of rapid warming and melting either side of a cold storm in early April.

It is recommended that hikers wanting to avoid Fuller Ridge until the ice conditions improve (now unlikely until mid April) use the Black Mountain Road alternate. Black Mountain Road is open to hikers but not to vehicle traffic at this time. Spikes can be useful (but not essential) on the upper three miles of Black Mountain Road.

A small but significant icy snow slope remains on the north-east side of Apache Peak. Spikes at a minimum, but preferably crampons, plus an ice axe, and crucially the skills and experience to use this equipment on angled icy snow, are required to traverse this section using the PCT route. At this time the best option for nobo hikers is to go up and over the saddle between the double peaks of Apache to avoid this traverse, but note that there are some additional icy chutes and slopes in the next few miles, especially at present around Red Tahquitz (Miles 174-175.5), some of which have proven to be equally problematic in past seasons. Alternates at Miles 166 and 168.5 are recommended as mentioned above.

PCT hikers should not attempt to use South Ridge Trail from the PCT at Chinquapin Flat (roughly Mile 177.7) to Idyllwild via Tahquitz Peak, even though this looks temptingly simple on apps and maps. There are no steps to follow through a lengthy section of steeply angled (and notoriously treacherous) ice slopes. Crampons, always with an ice axe, and expert knowledge of how to use this equipment on high angle terrain, are critical. Even in low-to-moderate snow years like 2024 these slopes always take many weeks longer to clear of ice than adjacent areas, and they will remain challenging into late April this year, possibly May.

An example of the current state of the PCT – where the track has been broken – in the San Jacinto high country. Mile 180 at about 8600 ft elevation at midday on 1st April 2024. My snowshoe tracks mark the trail route (lower right) and Idyllwild is in the valley below (left).

While all time and labor is volunteered, the San Jacinto Trail Report uses small private donations to help cover operating costs. Every year seems to have its unique challenges, and it is already clear that 2024 will be no exception. Your contribution keeps the Report available to all, free from advertising or paywalls, and independent from agencies. If you have found this Report useful, please consider using this link to the Donate page. Thank you very much for your support.

SNOW DEPTHS measured on 1st April 2024 are as follows. The first number gives current average total depth, which also accounts for rapid melting between recent storms. The number in parentheses gives new snow recorded in the storm on 30th-31st March, while the number in brackets is the greatest depth at that location this winter (where known). Note that averages are given; due to strong winds during and after most storms there has been considerable drifting, plus often very uneven melting during warm interludes. Altitudes and PCT mileages are approximate.

San Jacinto Peak (10810 ft): 60 inches (15 inches new snow 30th-31st March)[60 inches on 1st April]

Wellman Divide (9700 ft): 40 inches (12 inches new 30th-31st March) [41-43 inches on 8th February]

Annie’s Junction/approx. PCT Mile 181.8 (9070 ft): 55 inches (11 inches new on 30th-31st March)[55 inches on 1st April]

Long Valley (8400 ft): 8-14 inches, very uneven melting (9 inches new 30th-31st March)[24 inches on 8th February]

Saddle Junction/PCT Mile 179.9 (8070 ft): 32 inches (12 inches new on 30th-31st March)[32 inches on 1st April]

Devil’s Slide Trail at Humber Park (6550 ft): 4-8 inches, already rapidly melting (10 inches new on 30th-31st March)[15 inches on 8th February]

Idyllwild (at 5550 ft): 0-2 inches, already rapidly melting (8 inches new on 30th-31st March)[9 inches on 8th February]

Mountain Center (4400 ft): 0-1 inch, largely melted (4 inches new on 30th-31st March struggled to accumulate)[3 inches on 9th February and 25th March]

Wellman Divide (9700 ft), with an average snow depth just over three feet, in near-blizzard conditions mid afternoon 30th March 2024, as modeled by Kyle Eubanks who was about to break trail down to Mountain Station via Round and Long valleys. By comparison, on the same date in 2023 the sign and boulder were completely buried in snow an additional 2-3 feet deep.

Saddle Junction (8100 ft, approx. PCT Mile 179), early afternoon 1st April 2024, with a fresh blanket of about 12 inches of snow from 30th-31st March, on top of roughly 20 inches of old icy snow remaining from prior storms, for its greatest total depth of this winter so far.

Above and below, Tahquitz Peak and Tahquitz Rock as seen looking south from about PCT Mile 180. Above, late afternoon Saturday 30th March 2024 following nearly one foot of fresh snowfall at that elevation and a dusting clearly visible on distant hills as low as 4000 ft in places. Below, the same view the previous day, Friday 29th March 2024.

Storm report 30th-31st March 2024

The 24th storm system of winter 2023/24 – but only the second major storm in terms of expected precipitation – is forecast to move slowly across the San Jacinto mountains throughout Saturday 30th and Sunday 31st March 2024.

Please check this page for periodic updates – the most recent is at the top – throughout the multiple day storm sequence. The next comprehensive Report update is planned for the evening of Monday 1st April.

UPDATE Monday 1st April at 1030

The mountain remains largely in thick cloud this morning, with very light snow still falling, but sun and blue skies are forecast by this afternoon. New snow that fell on Sunday 31st was about 3.5 inches at Humber Park (storm total of 10 inches) increasing to 4 inches at San Jacinto Peak (storm total 15 inches).

I recorded a short video report at San Jacinto Peak mid morning on Monday 1st April, summarizing the conditions I found on my early morning ascent (video linked here).

Wellman Divide (9700ft) at about 0830 on 1st April 2024. Only 3-4 inches of new snow had been added since late on Saturday 30th March.

UPDATE Sunday 31st March at 1915

Idyllwild added an additional 0.5 inch of snow last night. Periodic snow continued to fall all day. Flakes are often huge and wet, but are struggling to accumulate, with net melting today below 6000 ft. Ultimately perhaps 2.5 inches accumulated, although perhaps it would have been 6+ if it had been a couple of degrees cooler. Likewise Long Valley (8500 ft) added little more than two inches of new accumulation. Little or no new snow is now forecast for mid and upper elevations for the remainder of today, and with much more benign winds in the high country expected, rather than the blizzard conditions of yesterday, fresh broken tracks should largely survive until the next storm (expected on the night of Thursday 4th).

UPDATE Saturday 30th March at 1930

The first phase of the storm has passed. Fresh snow depths recorded on our descending hike were San Jacinto Peak 11 inches, Wellman Divide (9700 ft) 9 inches, Annie’s Junction (PCT Mile 180.8, 9050 ft) 10 inches, Saddle Junction (PCT Mile 179, 8100 ft) 8.5 inches, Humber Park (6500 ft) 6.5 inches, Idyllwild 5 inches. Kyle Eubanks kindly reported 7 inches at Round Valley and 5 inches at Long Valley.

Total snow depth is now about 55-60 inches at San Jacinto Peak. Kyle put in a snowshoe track to/from Long Valley and Wellman Divide, and I broke trail between Wellman Divide and Humber Park. However our tracks between Wellman Divide and San Jacinto Peak will likely have lasted only a few minutes due to very strong winds and drifting snow in near-blizzard conditions. By comparison, total snow depth at Saddle Junction is about 28-30 inches.

I recorded a short video from PCT Mile 180.8 a.k.a. Annie’s Junction late this afternoon, giving a feel for conditions at that time (available here). Several more inches of snow are expected on Sunday 31st.

Suicide Rock and Strawberry Valley as seen looking west from upper Devil’s Slide Trail, early evening 30th March 2024.

While all time and labor is volunteered, the San Jacinto Trail Report uses small private donations to help cover operating costs. Your contribution keeps the Report available to all, free from advertising or paywalls, and independent from agencies. If you have found this Report useful, please consider using this link to the Donate page. Thank you very much for your support.

UPDATE Saturday 30th March at 1130

Immediately after my last post, snow got heavier in the high country, now falling at about two inches per hour, with 4 new inches at San Jacinto Peak this morning, a depth likely to increase rapidly. Accompanied by gusty winds, broken tracks are now largely gone.

Light rain in Idyllwild this morning totaled about 0.2 inch, before transitioning through sleet to snow in the past hour. About one inch of snow has already settled at 5550 ft elevation.

UPDATE Saturday 30th March at 0830

Light rain started in Idyllwild at about 0730 with no significant accumulation so far. The storm is coming up from the south-west and is largely just west of the San Jacinto mountains at this time.

About one inch of fresh fine powder has accumulated at San Jacinto Peak this morning. The underlying old snow (average depth about 45 inches) is very hard and icy, ideal conditions for using crampons.

The USFS gate at Humber Park was closed again early this morning.

On my ascent I was struck by the rapid melting this past week. Large parts of Devil’s Slide Trail were clear of snow. At Wellman Divide the snow level had dropped at least six inches in the four days since I last passed that way. The southern California sun is potent after the spring equinox, regardless of elevation.

Storm update 25th March 2024

UPDATE Thursday 28th March 2024: the next storm rolls in before dawn on Saturday 30th and continues for roughly 48 hours into the early hours of Monday 1st April (no fooling). Current forecasts suggest a relatively cold system, with a dusting of snow possible throughout Garner Valley including even the lowest parts of the PCT in the San Jacinto mountains, several inches of snow perhaps mixed with some rain expected at Idyllwild elevation (5000-6000 ft), and up to 12-18 inches of snow above 10,000 ft. Temperatures will be well below freezing everywhere above 6000 ft, potentially lower. Hikers should be prepared for challenging conditions – much as described in the Report below – into the first week of April (at least).

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This is a summary of conditions following the 23rd storm system of this winter. Like 17 of this winter’s storms before it, this system was minor in terms of snow production, although this time the impacts were very significant on the tracks and trails due to high winds and snow type.

Two phases characterized this storm. The first, from the afternoon of 23rd into the morning of 24th, produced light powder, with the most I measured being four inches at Annie’s Junction (9070 ft, PCT Mile 180.8) and generally 2-3 inches from Idyllwild (at 5500 ft ) to San Jacinto Peak (10,810 ft). However strong winds accompanied the snowfall, and the drifting fine powder had completely eliminated tracks all the way down to about 6000 ft.

I discussed the conditions and current challenges for PCT hikers in a video report recorded just below San Jacinto Peak late that morning (available here). I also uploaded a very brief panorama video from the Peak (available here) on what was an especially pretty morning even by San Jac standards. It is worth noting that the windchill temperature at the Peak that morning was a brisk -12.5°F (-25°C).

The second phase was a spectacular series of thunderstorm cells that came in from the north-west and passed right over the mountains in the early evening of Sunday 24th March. As is typical with winter thunderstorms, the precipitation produced was graupel, the snow equivalent of hail. In a period of 1.5 hours, 2.5 inches of graupel fell in town from 1645-1815. The lightning reflecting off the fresh snow in Idyllwild was especially dramatic. On my survey hike on 25th I found a remarkably even cover of 2-3 inches of graupel throughout the mountain everywhere above 5000 ft.

Daily survey hikes in the San Jacinto mountains include various routes to San Jacinto Peak multiple times per week (most recently on 16th, 19th, 24th, and 25th March), Tahquitz Peak and area at least once per week (most recently on 18th and 23rd March), Apache Peak area regularly during PCT season, plus a wide variety of other trails on intervening days.

On Sunday 24th I broke trail – through moderate blizzard conditions up to 9100 ft – to San Jacinto Peak via Devil’s Slide, PCT, Wellman, Peak, and East Ridge trails to assess the snowfall and impact to the trails. On Monday 25th I found those tracks had all been erased again by the fresh graupel, so re-broke the same route. Those tracks should now last until the weekend. The graupel on 24th made for excellent snowshoeing conditions the following day, but already by late morning on 25th the rapidly warming temperatures were turning the surface snow soft and clumpy.

Snowshoes remain invaluable everywhere above about 8000 ft elevation (see photos below). This elevation may rise rapidly to 9000 ft on sun-exposed trails with melting expected this week, and as tracks become compacted and increasingly suited to spikes and/or crampons.

Tracks remain very icy in places under the fresh powder. For the next two weeks – until thawing is expected to be partly underway – spikes at a minimum (preferably crampons in some areas) are recommended everywhere above 7500 ft. Crampons are required on the north side of Tahquitz Peak and on Fuller Ridge, as discussed below, and may become increasingly useful everywhere in the high country into early April (at least).

Details of snow depths measured at various locations on the trail system are given at the foot of this posting. Note however that snow depth itself is very rarely indicative of the difficulty (or ease) of hiking a particular track or trail. For example a well-traveled and defined track across deep snow is often much easier hiking than a lightly traveled track across just a few inches of angled icy snow. PCT hikers in particular should note that many high country trails potentially pose greater risks in 2024 (due to underlying ice from prior rain-on-snow) than they did at the same time in 2023 when snow depths were generally double or locally even quadruple those of this year.

Despite generally warming temperatures for the next few days, hikers should be prepared for temperatures below freezing at higher elevations, and often well below freezing when considering wind chill effects. See Weather section below for some of my recent observations from San Jacinto Peak.

Humber Park reopened again on the afternoon of 25th March having been largely plowed. Even when closed – possible again this coming weekend – there are nine legal parking spaces just below the gate (Adventure Pass or equivalent still required). South Ridge Road is closed due to winter conditions. Azalea Drive – access to Marion Mountain trailhead – is clear of snow. Dark Canyon Road has been closed almost continuously for the past five years.

My snowshoe tracks at about 10,300 ft elevation on the Peak Trail route, mid morning 24th March 2024. Note the especially dense and deep marine layer (producing light snow) covering the spine of the San Jacinto mountains and everything to the west. Jean Peak is in the foreground to the right. Although these tracks has gone by 25th, I replaced them that morning, and they should now persist until the next forecast snow on 30th March.

WEATHER

Temperatures rapidly warm to near seasonal for 26th-28th March, with sunny days forecast, so melting will be rapid everywhere below 7500 ft plus on sun-exposed slopes at higher elevations. The next storm system is expected around Saturday 30th March to Tuesday 2nd April. The system will be relatively mild, with freeze levels generally staying above 6000 ft. Precipitation amounts at various elevations remain unclear, but 10-30 inches of snow may be possible in the high country and predominantly rain with some light snow at mid elevations (e.g., Idyllwild). At this time, temperatures are tentatively forecast to rise again from 3rd April onwards.

At San Jacinto Peak (3295m/10,810ft) on Monday 25th March 2024 at 0955 the air temperature was 16.3°F (-9°C), with a windchill temperature of -2.6°F (-19°C), 61% relative humidity, and a fresh WNW wind sustained at 11 mph gusting to 19.1 mph.

At the Peak on Sunday 24th March 2024 at 1010 the air temperature was 11.1°F (-12°C), with a windchill temperature of -12.5°F (-25°C), 85% relative humidity, and a bitter due West wind sustained at 15 mph gusting to 25.3 mph.

At the Peak on Tuesday 19th March 2024 at 1020 the air temperature was 23.2°F (-5°C), with a windchill temperature of 5.9°F (-14°C), 92% relative humidity, and a gusty due North wind sustained at 14 mph gusting to 21.1 mph.

Saturday 23rd March will live long in the memory as a great day for cloud spotting, as air masses shifted with an approaching storm system. Stunning *lenticular* clouds were over the Coachella Valley, as seen looking south-east from Tahquitz Peak, early morning 23rd March 2024.

TRAIL CONDITIONS

There was largely continuous snow cover on all trails above about 4500 ft on the morning of 25th, but with rapid melting it is already becoming increasingly patchy to 7000 ft on the most sun-exposed slopes. Under the shallow fresh powder, the remaining deeper old snow is locally firm and icy. Icy snow requires considerably more caution plus specialist equipment (and different physical and mental skillsets) than soft, postholing snow. Snow quality will deteriorate rapidly this week with a warming trend and locally rapid melting at all elevations.

Only a few major tracks have been broken through the snow at this time including Devil’s Slide Trail, onward via the PCT, Wellman, Peak, and East Ridge trails to San Jacinto Peak.

Carrying spikes is strongly recommended everywhere above about 6500 ft. Icy compacted snow – once the trails become well-traveled – will be largely ideal for spikes, although as discussed above crampons are an excellent option until next week at least, especially in some locations above about 7700 ft. Crampons are essential if attempting Fuller Ridge and the north side of Tahquitz Peak (discussed below).

Snowshoes can be valuable everywhere above about 7500 ft elevation at present. On warm days (most likely 19th-22nd March) and later in the day on sunny slopes they will become increasingly helpful. They will quickly become less useful for on-trail travel below 9000 ft as the established tracks become well compacted. Snowshoes will be recommended for any significant off-trail travel away from the defined tracks in the high country into April.

Devil’s Slide Trail is already thinning below 7000 ft but is otherwise snow-covered above that elevation. It will largely clear of snow up to 6800 ft this week, with patchy clearing to 7500 ft, and a few bare patches appearing as high as 8000 ft. The track is already well-defined, but compacted only below 7700 ft. Note that at about 7700-7900 ft there can be very icy conditions around switchbacks 6-8 (for those familiar with this trail). Spikes are ideal for this trail, although they are not essential. The Trail Report undertook extensive trail maintenance work on 15th February to remove many damaged tree limbs in and over the trail resulting from an early February ice storm.

The Peak Trail snowshoe track that I broke on 25th March quite accurately follows the true trail route. However near Miller Peak at about 10,400 ft the track ascends directly up the East Ridge route, rather than following the Peak Trail switchback, as is traditional in winter conditions.

The 0.4 mile section of South Ridge Trail between Chinquapin Flat/PCT MIle 177 and Tahquitz Peak has no track to follow at this time [surveyed 18th March] through several feet of heavily drifted and angled ice and icy snow. This ice slope is notoriously treacherous. Neither snowshoes nor spikes are helpful at this time, due to the angled slope and structure of the snow, respectively. Crampons with an ice axe are essential on this section at this time, along with the necessary skills and experience to use that equipment in icy, angled terrain.

Spitler Peak Trail suffered badly during the ice storms in early February, and I found 34 new treefall hazards down during my surveys in late February, almost all in the upper half. Most are relatively small and readily passable, but a few are larger, and the combined effect is to make for a slower and scrappier hike.

PACIFIC CREST TRAIL

Current snow cover on the PCT is widespread but rapidly melting from Miles 151 (Highway 74) to about 163. Underlying snow is then thin, with old snow largely confined to north- and east-facing slopes, until about Mile 174. Note that many of these patches are icy and require considerable caution. See comments below regarding specific conditions around Apache Peak (Mile 169.5). Snow cover is then functionally continuous between Miles 174-195. There are currently no reliable tracks to follow on Fuller Ridge (Miles 185.5-191) and traversing this section requires crampons, an ice axe, and appropriate snow skills (a track that was put in on 17th-18th March is now covered in drifted snow).

At this time, nobo hikers should consider taking alternates at either Fobes Trail (Mile 166) or Spitler Peak Trail (Mile 168.5) to avoid the worst of the icy snow slopes from Miles 169-175. This situation will continue to change over the coming days and weeks with a mix of rapid melting then more precipitation expected in the remainder of March.

It is recommended that hikers use the Black Mountain Road alternate to avoid Fuller Ridge until the ice conditions improve (likely in early-mid April). Black Mountain Road is open to hikers but not to vehicle traffic at this time. Spikes are useful (but not essential) on the upper three miles of Black Mountain Road.

A significant icy snow slope remains on the north-east side of Apache Peak (photo in prior Report linked here). At this time spikes at a minimum, but preferably crampons, plus an ice axe, and crucially the skills and experience to use this equipment on angled icy snow, are required to traverse this section. While one option for nobo hikers is to go up and over the saddle between the double peaks of Apache to avoid this traverse, there are further very icy chutes and slopes in the next few miles, especially at present around Red Tahquitz (Miles 174-175.5), some of which have proven to be equally problematic in past seasons. Alternates at Miles 166 and 168.5 are recommended, as mentioned above.

PCT hikers should not attempt to use South Ridge Trail from the PCT at Chinquapin Flat (roughly Mile 177.7) to Idyllwild via Tahquitz Peak, even though this looks temptingly simple on apps and maps. There are no steps to follow through a lengthy section of steeply angled (and notoriously treacherous) ice slopes. Crampons, always with an ice axe, and expert knowledge of how to use this equipment on high angle terrain, are critical. Even in low snow years like 2024 these slopes always take many weeks longer to clear of ice than adjacent areas, and they will remain challenging into April this year.

Although just outside the region covered by the Trail Report (and my area of expertise) I understand that northbound hikers are experiencing significant problems due to storm damaged trail in the Mission Creek area of Miles 225-250. More details are available at this link.

While all time and labor is volunteered, the San Jacinto Trail Report uses small private donations to help cover operating costs. Every year seems to have its unique challenges, and it is already clear that 2024 will be no exception. Your contribution keeps the Report available to all, free from advertising or paywalls, and independent from agencies. If you have found this Report useful, please consider using this link to the Donate page. Thank you very much for your support.

Saddle Junction (8100 ft, approx. PCT Mile 179), early afternoon 25th March 2024, with a fresh blanket of about five inches of snow from 23rd-24th March, on top of roughly 20 inches of old icy snow remaining from prior storms.

SNOW DEPTHS measured on 25th March 2024 are as follows. The first number gives current average total depth. The number in parentheses gives new snow from the storm on 23rd-24th March, while the number in brackets is the greatest depth at that location this winter (where known). Note that averages are given; due to strong winds during and after most storms there has been considerable drifting, plus often uneven melting. Altitudes and PCT mileages are approximate.

San Jacinto Peak (10810 ft): 48-50 inches (4 inches new snow 23rd-24th March)[55-60 inches on 8th February]

Wellman Divide (9700 ft): 33-35 inches (4 inches new 23rd-24th March) [41-43 inches on 8th February]

Annie’s Junction/approx. PCT Mile 181.8 (9070 ft): 48-52 inches (6 inches new on 23rd-24th March)[48-50 inches on 8th February]

Long Valley (8400 ft): 2-12 inches, very uneven melting (4 inches new 23rd-24th March)[24 inches on 8th February]

Saddle Junction/PCT Mile 179.9 (8070 ft): 23-25 inches (5 inches new on 23rd-24th March)[31 inches on 8th February]

Devil’s Slide Trail at Humber Park (6550 ft): 0-5 inches, already rapidly melting (3.5 inches new on 23rd-24th March)[15 inches on 8th February]

Idyllwild (at 5550 ft): 0-3 inches, already rapidly melting (5 inches new on 23rd-24th March)[9 inches on 8th February]

Mountain Center (4400 ft): 0-2 inch, largely melted (3 inches new on 23rd-24th March)[3 inches on 9th February and 25th March]

Wellman Divide (9700 ft), with an average snow depth a little under three feet, late morning 25th March 2024. My ascending and descending snowshoe tracks are visible to the left.

In the early morning of Saturday 23rd March 2024, I found myself inside a perfect cap cloud while at the summit of Tahquitz Peak. It only lasted for about 20 minutes. Above, looking east along the Tahquitz Ridge, and below, looking south down South Ridge towards Mountain Center. In all directions there was a well-defined edge to the cloud well below me, without the peak itself being in the cloud. A surreal effect.

Storm update 19th March 2024

UPDATE Sunday 24th March 2024: starting yesterday we have had a minor storm roll through as forecast. Today I broke trail – through moderate blizzard conditions up to 9100 ft – to San Jacinto Peak via Devil’s Slide, PCT, Wellman, Peak, and East Ridge trails to assess the snowfall and impact to the trails. New snow quantities were limited, with the most being four inches at Annie’s Junction (9070 ft, PCT Mile 180.8) and generally 2-3 inches from Idyllwild (at 5500 ft ) to San Jacinto Peak (10,810 ft). However strong winds accompanied the snowfall, and the drifting fine powder had completely eliminated tracks all the way down to 6500 ft. I discussed the conditions and current challenges for PCT hikers in a short video report recorded just below San Jacinto Peak late this morning (available here). I also uploaded a very brief panorama video from the Peak (available here) on what was an especially pretty morning. It is worth noting that the windchill temperature at the Peak was a brisk -12.5°F (-25°C). With the forecast of further light snow tonight, the next comprehensive Report update is planned for the evening of Monday 25th March.

UPDATE Friday 22nd March 2024: as forecast a minor storm rolls in tomorrow, Saturday 23rd. Two storm phases are expected, on Saturday afternoon/night, and again on Sunday afternoon/night. Both phases are expected to bring similar precipitation, with cold temperatures and hence a relatively low snow level near 5000 ft. A mixture of light rain and an inch or two of snow is possible in Idyllwild, with 1-3 inches of snow tentatively forecast for both Saturday and Sunday. In combination with strong winds, drifting snow may largely obscure tracks in the high country (>8000 ft especially). Suitable equipment and cautious navigation will be required throughout 23rd-25th at least.

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This is a summary of conditions following an unusual and lengthy storm that has impacted the San Jacinto mountains from 14th-19th March 2024. A stationary low pressure system centred over the Arizona/California border produced most precipitation on 14th-15th, but then periodic thunderstorms, most notably on 18th, have continued for days.

For the main storm on 14th-15th, the forecasts greatly underestimated the volume of snow that actually fell. The greatest depth I measured on 16th March was 12 inches at Wellman Divide (9700 ft), but locations ranging from Humber Park (6500 ft) to San Jacinto Peak (10,810 ft) all had at least nine inches. Even Idyllwild reached six inches (almost fully melted by 16th), and it dusted as low as 4000 ft in Anza.

On Monday 18th March there were periodic graupel storms throughout the mountains, with a dusting as low 6800 ft, and on 19th I measured about one inch of new snow above 7500 ft, and two inches above 9500 ft all the way to San Jacinto Peak.

The snow from the first wave on 14th-15th was probably the lightest powder I have ever experienced in these mountains, with an extremely low water content. With the storm coming in, unusually, from the north-east, the snow was dry “continental” powder, in contrast to the “maritime” (high water content) snow we typically get from westerly directions. This made for superb snowshoeing conditions. It also meant there was no ice from rain on trees at mid elevations, nor any rime at higher elevations, so there will not be the usual hazards of ice falling from trees nor fallen ice obscuring tracks once melting is underway.

Snow depths initially eliminated all pre-existing tracks above 6000 ft. Tracks put in over the weekend were erased again by drifting snow and the fresh graupel by Tuesday 19th. On Saturday 16th I broke trail up Devil’s Slide Trail and onward from Saddle Junction to San Jacinto Peak via the Wellman, Peak, and East Ridge trails. On Tuesday 19th I found those tracks had survived well as far as 9000 ft, but I had to break trail (snowshoeing) from Annie’s Junction (9070 ft) through to San Jacinto Peak again. On 18th we finished breaking trail to Tahquitz Peak via South Ridge Trail, but those tracks may not have survived the minor snow storms and winds of later that day.

On the morning of Tuesday 19th March I recorded a rambling video discussion of the situation at that time from San Jacinto Peak (available here).

Snowshoes remain invaluable everywhere above about 8000 ft elevation (see photos below). This elevation may rise rapidly to 9000 ft with melting expected this week, and as trails become compacted and increasingly suited to spikes and/or crampons.

Tracks remain very icy in places under the fresh powder. I had confirmation from PCT hikers (with considerable mountaineering experience) of dangerous ice under powder on Fuller Ridge on 17th-18th. On 10th and 11th I saw widespread evidence of significant hiker falls throughout the high country trails (example photos in previous Report linked here).

For the next week – until thawing is expected to be partly underway – spikes at a minimum (preferably crampons in some areas) are recommended everywhere above 7500 ft. Crampons are required on the north side of Tahquitz Peak and on Fuller Ridge, as discussed below, and may become increasingly useful everywhere in the high country for the remainder of March (at least).

Daily survey hikes in the San Jacinto mountains include various routes to San Jacinto Peak multiple times per week (most recently on 10th, 11th, 16th, and 19th March), Tahquitz Peak and area at least once per week (most recently on 12th and 18th March), Apache Peak area at least weekly (during PCT season), plus a wide variety of other trails on intervening days.

Details of snow depths measured at various locations on the trail system are given at the foot of this posting. Note however that snow depth itself is very rarely indicative of the difficulty (or ease) of hiking a particular track or trail. For example a well-traveled and defined track across snow several feet deep is often much easier hiking than a lightly traveled track across just a few inches depth of angled icy snow. PCT hikers in particular should note that many high country trails potentially pose greater risks in 2024 (due to underlying ice from prior rain-on-snow) than they did at the same time in 2023 when snow depths were triple those of this year.

Black Mountain Road is closed to vehicle traffic due to winter conditions at the gate 1.7 miles up from Highway 243. The road is quickly clearing as far as the turning to Boulder Basin five miles from the highway. Snow cover on the road will remain largely continuous from there for the next three miles to the PCT crossing/Fuller Ridge campground into late March.

Humber Park closed again on 15th March. Even when closed, there are nine legal parking spaces just below the gate (Adventure Pass or equivalent still required). South Ridge Road is closed due to winter conditions. Azalea Drive – access to Marion Mountain trailhead – is clear of snow. Dark Canyon Road has been closed almost continuously for the past five years.

Panoramic view of the northern Desert Divide as a snow storm rolled in from the north-east, as seen from about 7300 ft on South Ridge Trail, 18th March 2024. Antsell Rock is in the centre of the image, with Red Tahquitz to the extreme left, and Garner Valley to the right.

WEATHER

Temperatures rapidly warm to near or above seasonal for 19th-22nd March, and melting will be rapid everywhere below 7500 ft plus on sun-exposed slopes at higher elevations. The next minor storm system is expected around 23rd-25th March. Precipitation amounts at various elevations are currently unclear, but may be limited to 1-6 inches of snow in the high country and a mix of light rain and snow at mid elevations (e.g., Idyllwild). At this time, temperatures are tentatively forecast to rise again from 26th onwards.

At San Jacinto Peak (3295m/10,810ft) on Tuesday 19th March 2024 at 1020 the air temperature was 23.2°F (-5°C), with a windchill temperature of 5.9°F (-14°C), 92% relative humidity, and a gusty due North wind sustained at 14 mph gusting to 21.1 mph.

At the Peak on Saturday 16th March 2024 at 1005 the air temperature was 17.4°F (-8°C), with a windchill temperature of -1.3°F (-19°C), 93% relative humidity, and a bitter due North wind sustained at 12 mph gusting to 19.5 mph.

At the Peak on Monday 11th March 2024 at 0850 the air temperature was 23.6°F (-5°C), with a windchill temperature of 4.8°F (-15°C), 55% relative humidity, and a stiff due West wind sustained at 19 mph gusting to 23.7 mph.

A sunny interlude on an early morning ascent on 19th March 2024. The imposing north faces of Tahquitz Peak and Tahquitz Rock as seen looking south from about PCT Mile 180 just north of Saddle Junction.

TRAIL CONDITIONS

There is largely continuous snow cover on all trails above about 6800 ft, with rapidly melting and increasing patchy snow locally to 8000 ft on the most sun-exposed slopes. Under the moderate depth fresh powder, the remaining old snow is firm and icy. Icy snow requires considerably more caution plus specialist equipment (and different physical and mental skillsets) than soft, postholing snow. Snow quality will start to deteriorate this week with a warming trend and locally rapid melting at all elevations.

Some major tracks have been broken through the snow at this time including South Ridge Trail south of Tahquitz Peak, Devil’s Slide Trail, onward via the PCT, Wellman and Peak trails to San Jacinto Peak, from Long and Round valleys up to Wellman Divide.

Devil’s Slide Trail is clearing below 7000 ft but is otherwise snow-covered above that elevation. However melting is underway on 16th and it will largely clear of snow up to 6800 ft this week, with patchy clearing to 7500 ft, and some bare patches appearing as high as 8000 ft. The track is already well-defined and compacted. Note that at about 7700-7900 ft there can be very icy conditions around switchbacks 6-8 (for those who are very familiar with this trail). Spikes are ideal for this trail, although they are not essential. The Trail Report undertook extensive trail maintenance work on 15th February to remove many damaged tree limbs in and over the trail resulting from an early February ice storm.

The Peak Trail track that I broke on 16th and 19th March quite accurately follows the true trail route. However near Miller Peak at about 10,400 ft the track ascends directly up the East Ridge route, rather than following the Peak Trail switchback, as is traditional in snow conditions.

South Ridge Trail [surveyed 18th March] now has a broken track through light to moderate snow to Tahquitz Peak. Snow cover is about 90% and generally thin to Old Lookout Flat at 7500 ft. This will melt rapidly and will probably be only 20% by the weekend. From there snow cover is continuous, and will remain at least 90% for at least the next week. The posthole track up the switchbacks is relatively rough and uneven, but almost exactly follows the trail route. Barebooting is fine at present, but with freeze-thaw cycles and compaction spikes (at least) will become increasingly useful. South Ridge Road (gate closed) is rapidly clearing of snow and the few remaining patches are very thin.

My snowshoe tracks ascending the East Ridge route of San Jacinto Peak at about 10,400 ft, as seen on my descent late morning 16th March 2024, with a hint of milky sunshine casting shadows.

PACIFIC CREST TRAIL

Current snow cover on the PCT is limited and rapidly melting from Miles 151 (Highway 74) to about 163. Underlying snow is then thin and patchy, largely confined to north- and east-facing slopes, until about Mile 174. Note that many of these patches are icy and require considerable caution. See comments below regarding specific conditions around Apache Peak (Mile 169.5). Snow cover is then functionally continuous between Miles 174-194. There are currently no reliable tracks to follow on Fuller Ridge (Miles 185.5-191) and traversing this section requires crampons, an ice axe, and appropriate snow skills (a track that was put in on 17th-18th March is probably largely covered in drifted snow at this time).

At this time, nobo hikers should strongly consider taking alternates at either Fobes Trail (Mile 166) or Spitler Peak Trail (Mile 168.5) to avoid the worst of the icy snow slopes from Miles 169-175. This situation will continue to change over the coming days and weeks with steady (or even rapid) melting expected in the remainder of March.

It is recommended that hikers use the Black Mountain Road alternate to avoid Fuller Ridge until the ice conditions improve (likely by the end of March). Black Mountain Road is open to hikers but not to vehicle traffic at this time. Spikes are useful (but not essential) on the upper three miles of Black Mountain Road.

Although outside the region covered by the Trail Report (and my area of expertise) I understand that northbound hikers are experiencing significant problems due to storm damaged trail in the Mission Creek area of Miles 225-250. More details are available at this link.

Saddle Junction (8100 ft, approx. PCT Mile 179), early afternoon 19th March 2024, with a fresh blanket of about 11 inches of snow from 14th-15th March, plus another inch from 18th March, all on top of a similar amount of old icy snow remaining from prior storms.

SNOW DEPTHS measured on 16th March 2024 are as follows. The first number gives current average total depth. The number in parentheses gives new snow from the storm on 14th-15th March, while the number in brackets is the greatest depth at that location this winter (where known). Note that averages are given; due to strong winds during and after most storms there has been considerable drifting, plus often uneven melting. Altitudes and PCT mileages are approximate.

San Jacinto Peak (10810 ft): 45-46 inches (9 inches new snow 14th-15th March)[55-60 inches on 8th February]

Wellman Divide (9700 ft): 30-34 inches (12 inches new 14th-15th March) [41-43 inches on 8th February]

Annie’s Junction/approx. PCT Mile 181.8 (9070 ft): 45 inches (11 inches new on 14th-15th March)[48-50 inches on 8th February]

Long Valley (8400 ft): 8-12 inches (8 inches new 14th-15th March)[24 inches on 8th February]

Saddle Junction/PCT Mile 179.9 (8070 ft): 20 inches (10.5 inches new on 14th-15th March)[31 inches on 8th February]

Devil’s Slide Trail at Humber Park (6550 ft): 5-10 inches, already rapidly melting (9 inches new on 14th-15th March)[15 inches on 8th February]

Idyllwild (at 5550 ft): 0-2 inches, already largely melted (6 inches new on 14th-15th March)[9 inches on 8th February]

Mountain Center (4400 ft): 0 inches, melted (2 inches new on 14th-15th March)[3 inches on 9th February]

While all time and labor is volunteered, the San Jacinto Trail Report uses small private donations to help cover operating costs. Every year seems to have its unique challenges, and it is already clear that 2024 will be no exception. Your contribution keeps the Report available to all, free from advertising or paywalls, and independent from agencies. If you have found this Report useful, please consider using this link to the Donate page. Thank you very much for your support.

The Peak Trail at 9800 ft just north of Wellman Divide, late morning 19th March 2024, with my ascending and descending snowshoe tracks marking the approximate trail route. The solid cloudbase at about 10,200 ft visible above the blue sky covered the highest peaks all morning.

Wellman Divide (9700 ft), with an impressive 12 inches of new snow in this latest storm, for an average snow depth a little under three feet, early morning 16th March 2024.

Looking east from Tahquitz Peak along Tahquitz Ridge with stormy weather approaching, mid morning 18th March 2024.

Anabel breaking trail on the final 100m up to Tahquitz Peak, 18th March 2024. The relatively firm powder did not support my weight like it supported hers, but I was rarely postholing deeper than 6-12 inches.

Above and below, an extremely fresh set of Mountain Lion tracks that I crossed and paralleled multiple times on my pre-dawn ascent of Devil’s Slide Trail on 16th March 2024. They were especially striking in the exceptional powder. The lion had been descending the trail, and I was subsequently able to follow the tracks sufficiently to determine it had come from the Willow Creek area. Above, at 7550 ft, below, at 8000 ft (in the latter the knife is 3.7 inches long for scale).

Snow and trail update 12th March 2024

UPDATE Saturday 16th March 2024: This morning I broke trail to San Jacinto Peak from Devil’s Slide Trail. Snow depths are impressive, with 10.5 inches at Saddle Junction, 12 inches at Wellman Divide, and nine inches at the Peak. The light powder makes for great snowshoeing, but there is hard icy snow underneath. I hope to fully update the Report this evening.

Looking north-east into a cloudy Coachella Valley from 9800 ft on the Peak Trail, mid morning 16th March 2024.

UPDATE Friday 15th March 2024: A “surprise” snowstorm hit the San Jacinto mountains overnight, coming in, unusually, from the north-east. Idyllwild had 5.25 inches of fresh powder this morning, with about 7 inches in Long Valley (8400 ft), and a dusting of snow as low as 4000 ft near Anza. We hiked lower Devil’s Slide Trail early this morning, where there were 7 inches at Humber Park (6500 ft) and 8-9 inches at 7000 ft. Another check this afternoon found that two more inches had accumulated at Humber. It is some of the lightest powder I have ever experienced in these mountains, with an extremely low water content. To be fair the storm wasn’t a complete surprise, but the forecasts changed dramatically late yesterday, and even then percentage probabilities of precipitation remained low. Further light snow is likely this afternoon and evening. Snow depths are sufficient to have eliminated pre-existing tracks above 6000 ft. While snowshoes are now useful above about 6000 ft, underlying old snow remains very icy and crampons will be preferable in most areas. Humber Park closed again this morning to vehicle traffic.

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The most recent storm – remarkably our 21st of this winter, although almost all have been minor – was on 6th-7th March. A colder system than most this season, it distributed light snow quite evenly everywhere above about 5000 ft, with an inch in Idyllwild (which melted within a day) increasing to just three inches at San Jacinto Peak. Although tracks below 9000 ft remained largely visible, even such a thin covering of powder greatly complicated snow conditions underfoot by obscuring very hard, icy layers underneath (originating from widespread freezing rain in a prior storm a few days earlier). In gorgeous post-storm conditions on Thursday 7th March I recorded a short video discussion of the conditions at that time from San Jacinto Peak (available here).

Tracks remain dangerously icy in places under the thin fresh powder. On Monday 11th I saw widespread evidence of significant hiker falls from the previous day (example photos below). For at least the next week – until thawing is expected to be well underway – spikes at a minimum (preferably crampons in many locations) are strongly recommended everywhere above 7500 ft. Even well-known mid elevation trails can be tricky, for example some of the upper switchbacks on Devil’s Slide Trail (at 7700-7900 ft) had obvious signs of significant hiker falls from 8th-9th March.

Daily survey hikes in the San Jacinto mountains include various routes to San Jacinto Peak multiple times per week (most recently on 4th, 7th, 10th, and 11th March), Tahquitz Peak and area at least once per week (most recently on 12th March), Apache Peak area at least weekly (during PCT season), plus a wide variety of other trails on intervening days.

Snow conditions have become more predictable with cooler weather this week, especially above 7500 ft, in contrast to the soft snow of prior weeks. However hard, icy snow requires considerably more caution plus specialist equipment (and different physical and mental skillsets) than soft, postholing snow. Snow quality should remain largely stable at higher elevations this week with temperatures remaining cool on most days until about Sunday 17th March when a potent warming trend is forecast to start.

Details of recommended traction devices are given below under Trail Conditions. In summary, carrying spikes is recommended everywhere above about 6500 ft, even if using other traction devices as well. Crampons (in combination with an ice axe) are currently very useful everywhere in the high country above about 7500 ft over the next week as described above. Crampons are required on the north side of Tahquitz Peak (details below) and on Fuller Ridge. Snowshoes are generally not recommended for use on the established, compacted, icy tracks this week. They will become more useful above about 8000 ft elevation on warmer, sunnier days from late morning onwards as snow softens on sun-exposed slopes (i.e. from about 18th March onwards). They remain valuable for any off-trail travel above 8000 ft once snow softens, increasingly so in the warm weeks ahead (this week such areas generally require crampons).

Details of snow depths measured at various locations on the trail system are given at the foot of this posting. Note however that snow depth itself is very rarely indicative of the difficulty (or ease) of hiking a particular track or trail. For example a well-traveled and defined track across snow several feet deep is often much easier hiking than a lightly traveled track across just a few inches depth of angled icy snow. Many high country trails currently pose much greater risks this year (due to underlying ice) than they did at the same time in 2023 when snow depths were at least triple those of 2024.

Hikers should be prepared for temperatures below freezing at higher elevations, and well below freezing when considering wind chill effects. See Weather section below for some of my recent meteorological observations from San Jacinto Peak.

Black Mountain Road is closed to vehicle traffic due to winter conditions at the gate 1.7 miles up from Highway 243. The road is clear of snow until the turning to Boulder Basin five miles from the highway [surveyed 14th March]. Snow cover on the road averages about 70% from there for the next three miles to the PCT crossing/Fuller Ridge campground.

Humber Park reopened in Saturday 9th March having been closed since 31st January. South Ridge Road is closed due to winter conditions. Azalea Drive – access to Marion Mountain trailhead – is clear of snow. Dark Canyon Road has been closed almost continuously for the past five years.

Looking north-west from San Jacinto Peak towards the San Bernardino Mountains immediately following the last minor storm, 7th March 2024, with a thick, high “marine layer” enshrouding everything west of the mountain ranges, a feature expected to persist into mid March.

WEATHER

The next few days will remain relatively cool at mid elevations, with chances for light precipitation especially on the western (marine) slope of the mountains every day, most likely on 15th-16th. The pattern in the high country may be more complex, generally above the “lifted marine layer” cloud with lower risk of precipitation (although a dusting of snow is forecast on both 15th and 16th). From 17th March onwards, all elevations are expected to experience a warming trend, although light drizzle remains a possibility at mid elevations every afternoon throughout next week.

At San Jacinto Peak (3295m/10,810ft) on Monday 11th March 2024 at 0850 the air temperature was 23.6°F (-5°C), with a windchill temperature of 4.8°F (-15°C), 55% relative humidity, and a stiff due West wind sustained at 19 mph gusting to 23.7 mph.

At the Peak on Sunday 10th March 2024 at 0905 the air temperature was 31.1°F (-0.5°C), with a windchill temperature of 18.1°F (-8°C), 10% relative humidity, and a steady SW wind sustained at 12 mph gusting to 15.5 mph.

At the Peak on Thursday 7th March 2024 at 1020 the air temperature was 17.8°F (-8°C), with a windchill temperature of 1.4°F (-17°C), 89% relative humidity, and a steady due North wind sustained at 9 mph gusting to 14.5 mph.

TRAIL CONDITIONS

There is increasingly patchy thin icy snow cover on all trails between 6400-7000 ft, becoming largely continuous above about 6800 ft (except on the most sun-exposed trails such as lower Deer Springs). Some of the warmest and most sun-exposed areas and trails as high as 8700 ft (e.g., Long Valley) are steadily clearing of snow, but the snow that remains tends to be very icy due to hiker compaction and freeze-thaw cycles.

Compacted tracks are now in place for some of the major trails (details below) however these are less distinct than last week due to drifting light powder in the minor storm last week. Snow depths measured at specific locations are given below.

Carrying spikes is strongly recommended everywhere above about 6500 ft. Icy compacted snow on the well-traveled trails is largely ideal for spikes at this time, although crampons are an excellent option until next week at least, especially above about 9000 ft.

Crampons are essential if attempting Fuller Ridge and the north side of Tahquitz Peak (discussed below) and are very useful everywhere in the high country especially for the relatively cool next week above 9000 ft (lower in shaded areas that will melt slowly, if at all, this week).

Snowshoes can be valuable everywhere above about 8000 ft elevation on warm days (most likely after about 17th March) and later in the day on sunny slopes. They are currently less useful on the established tracks which are well compacted. On the Peak Trail on 10th March I saw clear evidence of hikers struggling in snowshoes across the angled icy traverses (for which spikes or crampons were ideal). Snowshoes are recommended for any significant off-trail travel only away from the defined tracks in the high country, other than on cold mornings when all high elevation snow is currently very firm.

Some major tracks have been broken through the snow at this time including South Ridge Trail to Tahquitz Peak on the south side of the peak, Devil’s Slide Trail, onward via the PCT, Wellman and Peak trails to San Jacinto Peak, from Long and Round valleys up to Wellman Divide, Deer Springs Trail to Little Round Valley, and Marion Mountain Trail.

There are currently no tracks to follow on Fuller Ridge Trail and Seven Pines Trail.

Devil’s Slide Trail is largely clear of snow up to 6800 ft (switchback 3). Thereafter snow cover is largely continuous to 7500 ft, becoming continuous thereafter. The track is well-defined and compacted to about 7700 ft, at which point very icy conditions are treacherous around switchbacks 6-8 (for those who are very familiar with this trail). Spikes are ideal for this trail, some hikers will prefer crampons above 7700 ft. The Trail Report undertook extensive trail maintenance work on 15th February to remove many damaged tree limbs in and over the trail resulting from an early February ice storm.

Ernie Maxwell Trail [surveyed 11th March by Anne] is functionally clear of snow.

There are very lightly traveled tracks around the Tahquitz area meadows, but not generally accurately following the established trail routes. These have become somewhat obscured in the recent fresh snow. As of late February, a lightly-traveled mixed posthole/snowshoe track is in place on Willow Creek Trail as far as the “King Trail”, continuing from there down to Laws.

The Peak Trail track that I broke on 7th March has been heavily traveled and now quite accurately follows the true trail route. However near Miller Peak at about 10,400 ft the track ascends directly up the East Ridge route, rather than following the Peak Trail switchback, as is traditional in snow conditions.

Deer Springs Trail is functionally clear of snow up to the Suicide Rock junction (near 7000 ft), and then is largely clear of snow through to Strawberry Junction (8100 ft), with snow patches increasing in size and frequency near the junction. North from Strawberry Junction snow cover is largely continuous, with a few cleared patches starting to develop, and the PCT has a moderately traveled track through to the top of Marion Mountain Trail (8700 ft). Above Marion Mountain Trail, the boot track largely follows the PCT to the Fuller Ridge junction, but there are multiple meandering tracks in places.

Above the Fuller Ridge junction, there are multiple boot tracks, only occasionally and vaguely following the Deer Springs Trail route up to Little Round Valley, but they will get you there. There is a reasonable track to follow through Little Round Valley, but on the ascent above the valley to San Jacinto Peak the handful of boot tracks going directly upslope are obscure and none even remotely follow the trail. Following any given route is made much harder by the large volume of ice chunks on the slope that have fallen from trees, often obscuring tracks.

Marion Mountain Trail has a compacted track to follow up to Deer Springs Trail, ideal for spikes. Snow is becoming very patchy in the first mile up to about 7000 ft, but is largely continuous thereafter. Although the track does not accurately follow the trail route in a few minor places, it gets you up to the Deer Springs Trail junction directly.

The 0.4 mile section of South Ridge Trail between Chinquapin Flat/PCT MIle 177 and Tahquitz Peak has no track to follow at this time through 2-5 feet of heavily drifted and angled ice and icy snow. This ice slope is notoriously treacherous. Neither snowshoes nor spikes are helpful at this time, due to the angled slope and structure of the snow, respectively. Crampons with an ice axe are essential on this section at this time, along with the necessary skills and experience to use that equipment in icy, angled terrain.

South Ridge Trail above South Ridge Road is almost clear of snow to Old Lookout Flat at 7600 ft, with just a handful of small icy patches remaining (no spikes required to that point). Unfortunately three new treefall hazards are down on that section. Snow cover averages 80% thereafter to Tahquitz Peak, becoming continuous in the upper switchbacks. The angled snow is very icy above 8300 ft with a very poorly defined track, requiring an ice axe with spikes (for the most experienced) or crampons (recommended for most hikers).

Spitler Peak Trail is clear of snow, however it suffered badly during the ice storms in early February, and I found 34 new treefall hazards down during my surveys in late February, almost all in the upper half. Most are relatively small and readily passable, but a few are larger, and the combined effect is to make for a slower and scrappier hike.

Fobes Trail is clear of snow. There is one major stump down and half-a-dozen new minor treefall hazards, but none are significant obstructions for hikers.

PACIFIC CREST TRAIL

Current snow cover on the PCT is minimal from Miles 151 (Highway 74) to about 163. Snow is then thin and patchy, largely confined to north- and east-facing slopes, until about Mile 174. Note that many of these patches are icy and require considerable caution. See comments below regarding specific conditions around Apache Peak (Mile 169.5). Snow cover is then functionally continuous between Miles 174-194. There are currently no reliable tracks to follow on Fuller Ridge (Miles 185.5-191) and traversing this section requires crampons, an ice axe, and appropriate snow skills.

At this time, nobo hikers should consider taking alternates at either Fobes Trail (Mile 166) or Spitler Peak Trail (Mile 168.5) to avoid the worst of the icy snow slopes from Miles 169-175. This situation will continue to change over the coming days and weeks with steady (or even rapid) melting expected into late March (at least).

It is recommended that hikers use the Black Mountain Road alternate to avoid Fuller Ridge until the ice conditions improve (likely in the next week or two). Black Mountain Road is open to hikers but not to vehicle traffic at this time. Spikes are useful (but not essential) on the upper three miles of Black Mountain Road.

The Peak Trail track at 10,300 ft, 10th March 2024, with Jean Peak directly south. With such firm icy snow close to the surface, there is no significant postholing, and caution (plus suitable equipment) is required to avoid a potentially lengthy slide downhill.

SNOW DEPTHS measured on 10th and 11th March 2024 are as follows. The first number gives current average total depth. The number in parentheses gives new snow from the storm on 6th-7th March (measured on 7th), while the number in brackets is the greatest depth at that location this winter (where known). Note that averages are given; due to strong winds during and after most storms there has been considerable drifting, plus often uneven melting. Altitudes and PCT mileages are approximate.

San Jacinto Peak (10810 ft): 36-38 inches (3.0 inches new snow 6th-7th March)[55-60 inches on 8th February]

Little Round Valley (9800 ft): 32-36 inches

Wellman Divide (9700 ft): 26 inches (2.5 inches new 6th-7th March) [41-43 inches on 8th February]

Annie’s Junction/approx. PCT Mile 181.8 (9070 ft): 36 inches (4.0 inches new on 6th-7th March)[48-50 inches on 8th February]

Long Valley (8400 ft): 2-5 inches, ranging from 0-10 (1.0 inch new 6th-7th March)[24 inches on 8th February]

Strawberry Junction/PCT Mile 183 (8100 ft): 4 inches, ranging from 0-10 (2 inches new 6th-7th March)

Saddle Junction/PCT Mile 179.9 (8070 ft): 11 inches (1.5 inches new on 6th-7th March)[31 inches on 8th February]

Devil’s Slide Trail at Humber Park (6550 ft): 0-1 inch (1.5 inches new on 6th-7th March)[15 inches on 8th February]

Idyllwild (at 5550 ft): 0 inch (1.0 inch new on 6th-7th March)[9 inches on 8th February]

Mountain Center (4400 ft): 0 inch (no new snow 6th-7th March)[3 inches on 9th February]

The current state of the San Jacinto high country under an average depth of 2-3 feet of snow, as seen looking south from San Jacinto Peak, mid morning 10th March 2024. Footprints only penetrate the surface 2-3 inches of fresh powder, with hard icy snow beneath.

While all time and labor is volunteered, the San Jacinto Trail Report uses small private donations to help cover operating costs. Every year seems to have its unique challenges, and it is already clear that 2024 will be no exception. Your contribution keeps the Report available to all, free from advertising or paywalls, and independent from agencies. If you have found this Report useful, please consider using this link to the Donate page. Thank you very much for your support.

Above and below, obvious evidence of significant hiker falls the previous day, photographed 11th March 2024. Above, a 60 feet slide off the Wellman Trail immediately north of Annie’s Junction (PCT Mile 180.8). Below, a shorter but steeper 15 feet fall off the PCT/Deer Springs Trail near Mile 185. In both cases, a couple of inches of fresh powder obscured solid ice beneath, the latter a consequence of rain on top of snow in a prior storm. Many other similar falls were apparent throughout the trail system above 7700 ft on 10th and 11th March.

Upper end of Little Round Valley (9800 ft) with an average depth of at least three feet of snow, 11th March 2024.

Wellman Divide (9700 ft), currently with an average snow depth of about two feet, early morning 10th March 2024.

A useful illustration of how a low snow winter (this season) compares with a historically normal winter (last year) at San Jacinto Peak. Above, the summit hut at 10,700 ft on 4th March 2024, and below, roughly the same view one year earlier on 3rd March 2023, with snow averaging 5-6 feet deeper at that time.

Snow and trail update 4th March 2024

UPDATE Thursday 7th March 2024 at 1530: Following yet another minor storm overnight, I broke trail through light snow from Humber Park to San Jacinto Peak this morning and have uploaded a short video discussion from there (linked here), where there were three inches of fresh snow. Most snow fell in the early hours of this morning, at least on the western slope, with one inch in Idyllwild (now melted), 1.5 inches at Humber Park (largely melted), 3.5 inches at Saddle Junction, four inches at 9000 ft, but only 2.5 inches at Wellman Divide. Existing tracks were largely visible below 9000 ft, and this should be true throughout the mountains. Tracks are dangerously icy in places under the thin fresh powder. For at least the next 24-48 hours until thawing is well underway, crampons are strongly recommended (or spikes at a minimum) everywhere above 7500 ft. Tracks above 9000 ft have been largely erased by drifting snow. I put in a reliable track on the Wellman, Peak and East Ridge trail routes this morning, but saw no other tracks on any other trails today. I will not be doing a full update until next week as melting will be very rapid in the next few days, and conditions will soon revert to those described in the Report below. Humber Park reopens on Saturday 9th March.

UPDATE Wednesday 6th March 2024 at 1830: Contrary to forecasts – that had predicted rain initially at mid elevations – it abruptly started snowing across the San Jacinto mountains this afternoon, starting at 1540 in Idyllwild. Although heavy at times, it has struggled to settle, with a patchy 0.25 inch accumulating in Idyllwild in three hours, and about the same at 8600 ft in Long Valley. More is expected over the next 2-3 hours, before tailing off, with now less than an inch total expected at mid elevations, and only 1-2 inches in the high country.

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In keeping with the theme of this winter – in which many storms have frustratingly passed by the San Jacinto mountains to the north or west – the latest storm system on 2nd-3rd March produced moderate rain at mid elevations rather than the very heavy snowfall widely reported further north. Conditions in the upper atmosphere were such that the San Jacinto high country remained largely above the cloud, with no significant new snow added. Idyllwild (at 5550 ft) received 1.31 inches of rain over the two day period.

Most striking on our hike up South Ridge Trail yesterday and to San Jacinto Peak this morning was how everything below 9800 ft was plastered with ice from freezing rain (see photos below). The clear ice indicative of rain transitioned between 9000-10,000 ft into rime ice (formed by supercooled water droplets in clouds) (visible in the Peak photo near the foot of this posting).

Daily survey hikes in the San Jacinto mountains include various routes to San Jacinto Peak multiple times per week (most recently on 26th and 29th February, and 4th March), Tahquitz Peak and area at least once per week (most recently on 3rd March), Apache Peak area at least weekly at this time of year (most recently on 25th February), plus a wide variety of other trails on intervening days.

Snow conditions have improved with cooler weather this week, especially above 7500 ft, in contrast to the soft, unpredictable snow of last week. However hard, icy snow requires considerably more caution (and a different skill set) than soft, postholing snow. Snow quality should stabilize with temperatures remaining cool until about Saturday 9th March when a spring-like warming trend is expected.

Both the ice and strong winds associated with the storm have significantly hardened tracks, and consequently for the next 24-48 hours (at least) until thawing is well underway, spikes at a minimum, but preferably crampons, are recommended everywhere above 7000 ft.

Details of recommended traction devices are given below under Trail Conditions. In summary, carrying spikes is recommended everywhere above about 6500 ft, even if using other traction devices as well. Crampons are currently useful everywhere in the high country above about 7500 ft (possibly lower) over the next week as the pre-existing snow firms up in colder temperatures and following both freeze-thaw cycles and compaction. Crampons are required on the north side of Tahquitz Peak (details below). Snowshoes can be useful above about 8000 ft elevation, especially on warmer, sunnier days (i.e. from 9th March onwards), and from late morning as snow softens on sun-exposed slopes. They will be invaluable for any off-trail travel above 8000 ft once snow softens (currently such areas generally require crampons).

Details of snow depths measured at various locations on the trail system are given at the foot of this posting. Note however that snow depth itself is very rarely indicative of the difficulty (or ease) of hiking a particular track or trail. For example a firm, well-defined track across snow several feet deep is often much easier hiking than a lightly traveled track across just a few inches depth of angled icy snow.

Light precipitation is forecast for 6th-7th March. It is tentatively forecast to be another relatively mild system, with rain in the afternoon/evening of both Wednesday 6th and Thursday 7th. Currently 2-6 inches of snow are possible at the uppermost elevations.

Temperatures will be relatively cool for the first week or so of March. Hikers should be prepared for temperatures below freezing at higher elevations, and well below freezing when considering wind chill effects. See Weather section for some of my recent observations from San Jacinto Peak.

Humber Park closed on 31st January but is expected to reopen Saturday 9th March (per USFS). Even when closed, there are nine legal parking spaces just below the gate (Adventure Pass or equivalent still required). South Ridge Road is closed due to winter conditions. Azalea Drive – access to Marion Mountain trailhead – is clear of snow. Dark Canyon Road has been closed almost continuously for the past five years.

Despite limited snow this season and being readily passable with the appropriate skills and equipment for angled icy snow (currently crampons and ice axe), the State Park closed the uppermost section of Skyline Trail in their jurisdiction (above about 5600 ft) starting 21st February due to perceived unsafe conditions.

Spectacular thick ice plastering all west-facing surfaces, including the trail, from freezing rain that fell on 2nd-3rd March, at 8900 ft elevation about one mile north of Saddle Junction (the top of “Angel’s Glide”), late morning 4th March 2024.

WEATHER

Temperatures remain below seasonal this week and then drop further when the next storm comes through on 6th-7th March. This system is again forecast to be very minor, with light rain expected throughout the mid elevations and the possibility of very light snow above about 5500 ft. Upper elevations may receive 2-6 inches of snow. The precipitation is expected in two waves, mainly on Wednesday evening, and then Thursday afternoon.

Temperatures then rise abruptly to above seasonal starting Friday 8th March, and are forecast to be spring-like for the middle two weeks of March. Air temperatures above 10,000 ft may be near or above freezing day and night, resulting in rapid melting and significant deterioration in snow conditions.

At San Jacinto Peak (3295m/10,810ft) on Thursday 7th March 2024 at 1020 the air temperature was 17.8°F (-8°C), with a windchill temperature of 1.4°F (-17°C), 89% relative humidity, and a steady due North wind sustained at 9 mph gusting to 14.5 mph.

At the Peak on Monday 4th March 2024 at 0830 the air temperature was 23.3°F (-5°C), with a windchill temperature of 5.7°F (-15°C), 67% relative humidity, and a brisk NW wind sustained at 12 mph gusting to 23.7 mph.

At the Peak on Thursday 29th February 2024 at 0830 the air temperature was 24.4°F (-4°C), with a windchill temperature of 7.9°F (-13°C), 38% relative humidity, and a steady WSW wind sustained at 15 mph gusting to 19.5 mph.

TRAIL CONDITIONS

There is increasingly patchy light snow cover on all trails between 6400-7000 ft, becoming largely continuous above about 6800 ft (except on the most sun-exposed trails such as lower Deer Springs) and then continuous everywhere and significantly deeper above about 7900 ft. Compacted tracks are now in place for most of the major trails (details below) however these are less distinct that last week due to drifting snow in strong winds at the weekend, and rain heavily icing the tracks. Snow depths measured at specific locations are given below.

Carrying spikes is recommended everywhere above about 7000 ft. The well-traveled trails are largely ideal for spikes at this time, although crampons are an excellent option until late morning at least, especially above about 9000 ft. It is possible for hikers with exceptional experience on angled icy snow to ascend above 9500 ft using only spikes (in conjunction with an ice axe), but crampons are the recommended option for most hikers.

Crampons are required on the north side of Tahquitz Peak (discussed below) and are now increasingly useful everywhere in the high country – especially for the relatively cool next 5-6 days – following freezing rain and as the snow undergoes freeze-thaw cycles and further compaction.

Snowshoes can be valuable everywhere above about 8000 ft elevation on warm days (i.e. starting 8th-9th March) and later in the day on sunny slopes. They are currently less useful on the established tracks which are well compacted, but that may change if new snowfall is sufficiently deep and/or warmer, sunnier weather. Snowshoes are recommended for any significant off-trail travel away from the defined tracks in the high country, other than on cold mornings when all high elevation snow is currently very firm.

Tracks known to be broken through the snow at this time include South Ridge Trail to Tahquitz Peak on the south side of the peak, Devil’s Slide Trail, onward via the PCT, Wellman and Peak trails to San Jacinto Peak, from Long and Round valleys up to Wellman Divide, Deer Springs Trail, and Marion Mountain Trail. There are currently no reliable tracks on Fuller Ridge Trail and Seven Pines Trail.

Devil’s Slide Trail is now clear of snow up to 6800 ft (switchback 3). Thereafter snow cover is largely continuous, with a well-defined, compacted track, best for either barebooting or for spikes all day. The Trail Report undertook extensive trail maintenance work on 15th February to remove many damaged tree limbs in and over the trail resulting from an early February ice storm.

Ernie Maxwell Trail is now functionally clear of snow, with just a handful of tiny patches remaining close to Humber Park.

There are very lightly traveled snowshoe tracks around the Tahquitz area meadows, but not generally accurately following the established trail routes. These have become somewhat obscured in the recent fresh snow. As of 29th February, a mixed posthole/snowshoe track is in place on Willow Creek Trail as far as the “King Trail”, continuing from there down to Laws.

The Peak Trail track now quite accurately follows the true trail route. However near Miller Peak at about 10,400 ft the track ascends directly up the East Ridge route, rather than following the Peak Trail switchback, as is traditional in snow conditions. Following strong winds on 2nd-3rd March, and rime ice fall under trees, the track is partly obscured in places and good route-finding skills are required.

Deer Springs Trail is functionally clear of snow up to the Suicide Rock junction (near 7000 ft). For the next 0.5 mile snow cover is about 40%, and then abruptly becomes about 90% snow covered above 7400 ft through to Strawberry Junction. This section has not been heavily traveled, so there is no well-compacted route but rather a postholed track through – on warm days and most afternoons – soft and locally deep snow on this largely sun-exposed slope. North from Strawberry Junction, the PCT initially has a lightly traveled posthole track, but after a mile most tracks disappear and only a barely traveled posthole track continues through to the top of Marion Mountain Trail (8700 ft).

Above Marion Mountain Trail, there is a well-traveled and compacted track mixing snowshoe, crampon, and spike tracks, and this solid track is currently ideal for spikes and/or crampons. The route largely follows the PCT to the Fuller Ridge junction. Thereafter the track only vaguely follows the Deer Springs Trail route up to Little Round Valley, but it gets you there. Above Little Round Valley the diminishing number of tracks fragments into a mess of at least half-a-dozen routes, none of which remotely follow the trail and all of which head more-or-less directly upslope (as is traditional in decent snow conditions).

Marion Mountain Trail has a compacted track to follow up to Deer Springs Trail, ideal for spikes. Snow is becoming very patchy in the first mile up to about 7000 ft, but is largely continuous thereafter. Although the track does not accurately follow the trail route in a few minor places, but again, it gets you up to the Deer Springs Trail junction.

The 0.4 mile section of South Ridge Trail between Chinquapin Flat/PCT and Tahquitz Peak has no track to follow at this time through 2-5 feet of heavily drifted and angled ice and icy snow. Neither snowshoes nor spikes are especially helpful at this time, due to the angled slope and structure of the snow, respectively. Crampons (always with an ice axe) are recommended on this section at this time, along with the necessary skills and experience to use that equipment in icy, angled terrain.

South Ridge Trail above South Ridge Road has only about 20% icy snow cover to Old Lookout Flat at 7600 ft. Unfortunately four new treefall hazards are down on that section. Snow cover is largely continuous thereafter to Tahquitz Peak. The angled snow is very icy above 8400 ft with a poorly defined track, requiring an ice axe with spikes (for the most experienced) or crampons (recommended for most hikers).

Spitler Peak Trail is clear of snow, however it suffered badly during the ice storms in early February, and I found 34 new treefall hazards down during my survey on 25th February, almost all in the upper half. Most are relatively small and readily passable, but a few are larger, and the combined effect is to make for a slower and scrappier hike.

Fobes Trail [surveyed 28th February] is completely clear of snow. There is one major stump down and half-a-dozen new minor treefall hazards, but none are significant obstructions for hikers.

Current snow cover on the PCT is minimal from Miles 151 (Highway 74) to about 163. Snow is then thin and patchy, largely confined to north- and east-facing slopes, until about Mile 174. See comments below regarding specific conditions around Apache Peak (Mile 169.5). Snow cover is then functionally continuous between Miles 174-194. There are currently no reliable tracks on Fuller Ridge (Miles 185.5-191). At this time, nobo hikers should consider taking alternates at either Fobes Trail (Mile 166) or Spitler Peak Trail (Mile 168.5) to avoid the worst of the icy snow slopes from Miles 169-175. This situation will continue to change over the coming days and weeks with a sequence of melting periods and minor storms alternating into mid March (at least).

A significant icy snow slope remains on the north-east side of Apache Peak (photo below). At this time spikes at a minimum, but preferably crampons, plus an ice axe, and crucially the skills and experience to use this equipment on angled icy snow, are required to traverse this section. While one option for nobo hikers is to go up and over the saddle between the double peaks of Apache to avoid this traverse, there are further very icy chutes and slopes in the next few miles, especially at present around Red Tahquitz (Miles 174-175.5), some of which have proven to be equally problematic in past seasons. Alternates at Miles 166 and 168.5 are recommended, as mentioned above.

PCT hikers should not attempt to use South Ridge Trail from the PCT at Chinquapin Flat (roughly Mile 177.7) to Idyllwild via Tahquitz Peak, even though this looks temptingly simple on apps and maps. There are no steps to follow through a lengthy section of steeply angled (and notoriously treacherous) ice slopes. Crampons, always with an ice axe, and expert knowledge of how to use this equipment on high angle terrain, are critical. Even in low snow years like 2024 these slopes always take many weeks longer to clear of ice than adjacent areas, and they are likely to remain treacherous into April this year.

SNOW DEPTHS measured on 4th March 2024 are as follows. The first number gives current average total depth. Reductions in totals since the last Report are due to melting and compaction. The number in parentheses gives the greatest depth at that location this winter (where known). Note that averages are given; due to strong winds accompanying most storms this winter there has been considerable drifting, plus considerable uneven melting. Altitudes and PCT mileages are approximate.

San Jacinto Peak (10810 ft): 38-40 inches (was 55-60 inches on 8th February)

Little Round Valley (9800 ft): 32-36 inches

Wellman Divide (9700 ft): 26-28 inches (was 41-43 inches on 8th February)

Annie’s Junction/approx. PCT Mile 181.8 (9070 ft): 36 inches (was 48-50 inches on 8th February)

Long Valley (8600 ft): 8 inches (was 24 inches on 8th February)

Strawberry Junction/PCT Mile 183 (8100 ft): 6 inches, ranging from 0-12.

Saddle Junction/PCT Mile 179.9 (8070 ft): 10 inches (was 31 inches on 8th February)

Devil’s Slide Trail at Humber Park (6550 ft): 0 inches (was 15 inches on 8th February)

Idyllwild (at 5550 ft): 0 inch (was 9 inches on 8th February)

Mountain Center (4400 ft): 0 inch (was 3 inches on 9th February)

The PCT at Mile 169.5, the north-east slope of Apache Peak, 25th February 2024. Although snow is shallow, it is hard and icy, and will remain that way at least into early March given the forecast for cold temperatures and largely cloudy skies. Use alternates described above if you do not have the necessary skills and equipment to tackle this type of terrain.

While all time and labor is volunteered, the San Jacinto Trail Report uses small private donations to help cover operating costs. Every year seems to have its unique challenges, and it is already clear that 2024 will be no exception. Your contribution keeps the Report available to all, free from advertising or paywalls, and independent from agencies. If you have found this Report useful, please consider using this link to the Donate page. Thank you very much for your support.

Another example of freezing rain plastering everything with ice, 8800 ft near Mile 181 on the PCT, late morning 4th March 2024.

The sign at Wellman Divide (9700 ft), early morning 4th March 2024. Note the remarkably thick ice from freezing rain only on the south face of the sign (the prevailing wind direction at that location during the storm the previous two days). All the ice had melted by late morning.

Poor air quality in the Coachella Valley on 4th March 2024 from sand blowing west-to-east was exacerbated by smoke from a grass fire, both clearly visible looking east mid morning from San Jacinto Peak.

Another comparison of this winter with last winter, Above and below, the summit rock at San Jacinto Peak (10,810 ft). Above, on 4th March 2024, and below one year earlier on 3rd March 2023, when the summit rock was buried under snow averaging 4-5 feet deeper at the Peak than this season.

Snow and weather update 29th February 2024

UPDATE 3rd March 2024 at 1115: most striking on our hike up South Ridge Trail to Tahquitz Peak this morning was how icy everything was, plastered with freezing rain, even dirt sections of trail. For the next 24-48 hours until thawing is well underway, spikes at a minimum, but preferably crampons, are recommended everywhere above 6500 ft. While it continues to drizzle in Idyllwild, it is dry above 7000 ft (albeit very windy), and sunny above about 8500 ft. Storm total for Idyllwild is currently 1.19 inches of rain. No significant snow accumulation is now forecast at any elevation.

UPDATE 2nd March 2024 at 1715: a mix of rain and drizzle overnight continued throughout Saturday at mid elevations, with 0.95 inch of rain in Idyllwild by 1700, and multiple locations on the west and north slopes between 3800-6800 ft elevation ranging from 0.5-1.0 inch. This has not translated into significant new snow in the high country however, where it was largely sunny on Saturday with the cloud top around 9000 ft on the west slope, and patchy around 8500 ft on the east side.

_______________________

This winter has seen storm after storm, but with 14 of the 18 systems being minor (<6 inches of snow above 10,000 ft), snow depths are poor for late February. This is especially notable below 7000 ft, as many of the storms have been warm, with high freeze levels and consequently rain (rather than snow) at mid elevations. By 20th January, we were on target for the driest winter in the San Jacinto mountains in recorded history. Although such a disastrous season has been avoided with some solid precipitation in late January and the first half of February, it remains a well-below-average winter, with snowfall in Idyllwild only about 55% of seasonal so far, and high country snowfall only 40-50%.

Daily survey hikes in the San Jacinto mountains include various routes to San Jacinto Peak multiple times per week (most recently on 21st, 26th, and 29th February), Tahquitz Peak and area at least once per week (most recently on 3rd February), Apache Peak area at least weekly at this time of year (most recently on 25th February), plus a wide variety of other trails on intervening days. The 18th storm of winter 2023/24 last week was described in detail in the previous Report (available here).

On 26th and 29th February I ascended San Jacinto Peak via Devil’s Slide, PCT, Wellman and Peak trails, descending via Deer Springs Trail on 26th. On both days I was able to use spikes all the way to San Jacinto Peak and back down to about 7500 ft, with snow quality having improved significantly this week.

Under cloudy skies, I had a few snowflakes in the air around me three brief times on 26th, but as forecast the minor storm passed by just to the north (see photo below). Rainfall in Idyllwild was 0.43 inch (at 5550 ft) by the early morning of Tuesday 27th February, but there was no significant new snowfall in the high country, with evidence of freezing rain all the way to San Jacinto Peak visible on 29th.

Snow conditions have greatly improved with cooler weather this week, especially above 7500 ft, in contrast to the soft, unpredictable snow of last week. Snow quality should stabilize with temperatures cooling on average, until about Saturday 9th March when a spring-like warming trend is expected. On Thursday 29th it was striking that reliable, hard, icy snow in the morning was already softening rapidly by 0900 on my descent, and below 9000 ft snow conditions were deteriorating steadily late morning. Even under cloudy skies lightly traveled sections below 8000 ft (e.g., Deer Springs Trail below Strawberry Junction) can be soft and challenging underfoot by mid morning.

Details of recommended traction devices are given below under Trail Conditions. In summary, carrying spikes is recommended everywhere above about 6500 ft, even if using other traction devices as well. Crampons are increasingly useful everywhere in the high country above about 8500 ft (possibly lower) over the next week or two as the pre-existing snow firms up in colder temperatures and following both freeze-thaw cycles and compaction. Crampons are required on the north side of Tahquitz Peak (details below). Snowshoes can be useful above about 8000 ft elevation, especially on warmer, sunnier days, and from late morning onwards as snow softens on sun-exposed slopes. They are generally invaluable for any off-trail travel above 8000 ft.

The next storm system is forecast for 2nd-3rd March. It is tentatively forecast to be colder than other recent storms, with light snow possibly as low as 4000 ft and some rain mixed with 1-3 inches of snow at the elevation of Idyllwild. High country forecasts have ranged from 0-12 inches of snow, now with an increasing likelihood that upper elevations may be above the cloud altogether. Another system may bring light precipitation around 5th-7th March, with a few inches of snow at most in the high country and limited light rain likely at mid elevations.

Temperatures will be relatively cold for the first week or so of March, near seasonal (in the high country) or below seasonal (mid elevations). Hikers should be prepared for temperatures below freezing at higher elevations, and well below freezing when considering wind chill effects. See under Weather below for my recent observations from San Jacinto Peak.

Be bear aware. Although rarely reported, up to three Black Bears have been in the San Jacinto mountains since 2017. I crossed bear tracks at 9100 ft on the PCT on 12th February 2024 (photo in the previous Report linked here). While Southern California studies have found that hibernation is integral to gestation for pregnant female bears, adult males and younger bears of both sexes generally don’t hibernate this far south. I have seen at least one bear annually for six years, most recently in September 2023 on Marion Mountain Trail, and on Devil’s Slide Trail in July 2022 and September 2021 (a poor quality video from the latter observation is available here).

Humber Park closed on 31st January and remained closed as of Thursday 29th February, even though it is now functionally clear of snow. Even when closed, there are nine legal parking spaces just below the gate (Adventure Pass or equivalent still required). South Ridge Road is closed due to winter conditions. Azalea Drive – access to Marion Mountain trailhead – has been periodically plowed by USFS.

Despite shallow snow this season (<18 inches) and being readily passable with the appropriate skills and equipment for angled icy snow, the State Park closed the uppermost section of Skyline Trail in their jurisdiction (above about 5600 ft) starting 21st February due to perceived unsafe conditions.

WEATHER

Temperatures rise briefly before the next storm comes through on 2nd-3rd March. This system is forecast to be colder than most recent storms, with a freeze level as low as 4500 ft, with light snow expected throughout the mid elevations (possibly 1-2 inches in Idyllwild). Upper elevations may be above the cloud, or may receive light snow, and forecasts have ranged from 0-12 inches for high country snowfall (most recently at the lower end of that range). Another minor storm is tentatively forecast for 5th-7th March, before temperatures rise to above seasonal yet again from 9th March.

At San Jacinto Peak (3295m/10,810ft) on Thursday 29th February 2024 at 0830 the air temperature was 24.4°F (-4°C), with a windchill temperature of 7.9°F (-13°C), 38% relative humidity, and a steady WSW wind sustained at 15 mph gusting to 19.5 mph.

At the Peak on Monday 26th February 2024 at 0840 the air temperature was 28.6°F (-2°C), with a windchill temperature of 12.2°F (-11°C), 89% relative humidity, and a sharp due West wind sustained at 13 mph gusting to 23.0 mph.

At the Peak on Wednesday 21st February 2024 at 1205 the air temperature was 23.3°F (-5°C), with a windchill temperature of 3.2°F (-16°C), 100% relative humidity, and a bitter WSW wind sustained at 14 mph occasionally gusting to 24.4 mph.

Looking north-north-west from Apache Peak towards the San Jacinto high country, mid morning 25th February 2024. Although overall relatively snow-free for late February, note that the snow slopes on the east side of Red Tahquitz (the prominent dark triangular peak in the upper centre) are traversed by the PCT, one of several short sections for which significant snow hiking skills are currently recommended.

TRAIL CONDITIONS

There is increasingly patchy light snow cover on all trails between 6000-6800 ft, becoming continuous above about 6800 ft (except on the most sun-exposed trails such as lower Deer Springs) but continuous everywhere and significantly deeper above about 7500 ft. Excellent well-traveled and compacted tracks are now in place for most of the major trails (details below). Snow depths measured at specific locations are given below.

Crampons are required on the north side of Tahquitz Peak (discussed below) and are becoming increasingly useful everywhere in the high country – especially for the relatively cool next week or two – as the snow undergoes freeze-thaw cycles and compaction.

Snowshoes can be valuable everywhere above about 8000 ft elevation on warm days and later in the day on sunny slopes. They are currently less useful on the established tracks which are well compacted, but that may change with new snowfall and/or warmer, sunnier weather. Snowshoes are recommended for any significant off-trail travel away from the defined tracks in the high country, other than on cold early mornings when all high elevation snow is firm.

Tracks known to be broken through the snow at this time are the Ernie Maxwell Trail, South Ridge Trail to Tahquitz Peak on the south side of the peak, Devil’s Slide Trail, onward via the PCT, Wellman and Peak trails to San Jacinto Peak, from Long and Round valleys up to Wellman Divide, Deer Springs Trail, and Marion Mountain Trail. As of 26th February there were no reliable tracks on Fuller Ridge Trail and Seven Pines Trail.

Ernie Maxwell Trail [surveyed 27th February] is now functionally clear of snow, with just a handful of tiny patches remaining close to Humber Park.

The Peak Trail track now quite accurately follows the true trail route. However near Miller Peak at about 10,400 ft the track ascends directly up the East Ridge route, rather than following the Peak Trail switchback, as is traditional in snow conditions. Following the freezing rain on 27th, and subsequent ice fall, the track is partly obscured by ice above 10,350 ft, and good route-finding skills are required.

Deer Springs Trail is largely clear of snow up to the Suicide Rock junction (near 7000 ft). For the next 0.5 mile snow cover is about 50%, and then abruptly becomes 90% snow covered above about 7300 ft through to Strawberry Junction. This section has not been heavily traveled, so there is no compacted route but rather a heavily postholed track through soft and locally deep snow on this largely sun-exposed slope (not very pleasant). North from Strawberry Junction, the PCT initially has a lightly traveled posthole track, but after a mile most tracks disappear and only a barely traveled posthole track continues through to the top of Marion Mountain Trail (8700 ft).

Above Marion Mountain Trail, there is a well-traveled and compacted track mixing snowshoe, crampon, and spike tracks, and this solid track is ideal for spikes. The route largely follows the PCT to the Fuller Ridge junction. Thereafter the track only vaguely follows the Deer Springs Trail route up to Little Round Valley, but it gets you there. Above Little Round Valley the diminishing number of tracks fragments into a mess of at least half-a-dozen routes, none of which remotely follow the trail and all of which head more-or-less directly upslope (as is traditional in decent snow conditions).

Marion Mountain Trail has an excellent compacted track to follow up to Deer Springs Trail, ideal for spikes. Snow is becoming patchy in the first mile up to about 7000 ft, but is continuous thereafter. Although the track does not accurately follow the trail route in a few minor places, but again, it gets you up to the Deer Springs Trail junction.

Fobes Trail [surveyed 28th February] is completely clear of snow. There is one major stump down and half-a-dozen new minor treefall hazards, but none are significant obstructions for hikers.

Current snow cover on the PCT is minimal from Miles 151 (Highway 74) to about 163. Snow is then thin and patchy, largely confined to north- and east-facing slopes, until about Mile 174. See comments below regarding specific conditions around Apache Peak (Mile 169.5). Snow cover is then functionally continuous between Miles 174-194. There are currently no reliable tracks on Fuller Ridge (Miles 185.5-191). At this time, nobo hikers should consider taking alternates at either Fobes Trail (Mile 166) or Spitler Peak Trail (Mile 168.5) to avoid the worst of the icy snow slopes from Miles 169-175. This situation will continue to change over the coming days and weeks with a sequence of melting periods and minor storms alternating into mid March (at least).

A significant icy snow slope remains on the north-east side of Apache Peak (photo below). At this time spikes at a minimum, but preferably crampons, plus an ice axe, and crucially the skills and experience to use this equipment on angled icy snow, are required to traverse this section. While one option for nobo hikers is to go up and over the saddle between double peaks of Apache to avoid this traverse, there are further significant icy chutes and slopes in the next few miles, especially at present around Red Tahquitz (Miles 174-175.5), some of which have proven to be equally problematic in past seasons. Alternates at Miles 166 and 168.5 are recommended as mentioned above.

SNOW DEPTHS measured on 26th February 2024 are as follows. The first number gives current average total depth. Reductions in totals since the last Report are due to melting and compaction. The number in parentheses gives the greatest depth at that location this winter (where known). Note that averages are given; due to strong winds accompanying most storms this winter there has been considerable drifting, plus considerable uneven melting. Altitudes and PCT mileages are approximate.

San Jacinto Peak (10810 ft): 44 inches (was 55-60 inches on 8th February)

Little Round Valley (9800 ft): 36-40 inches

Wellman Divide (9700 ft): 28 inches (was 41-43 inches on 8th February)

Annie’s Junction/approx. PCT Mile 181.8 (9070 ft): 36-38 inches (was 48-50 inches on 8th February)

Long Valley (8600 ft): 10-12 inches (was 24 inches on 8th February)

Strawberry Junction/PCT Mile 183 (8100 ft): 8 inches, ranging from 0-12.

Saddle Junction/PCT Mile 179.9 (8070 ft): 11-12 inches (was 31 inches on 8th February)

Devil’s Slide Trail at Humber Park (6550 ft): 0-4 inches (was 15 inches on 8th February)

Idyllwild (at 5550 ft): 0 inch (was 9 inches on 8th February)

Mountain Center (4400 ft): 0 inch (was 3 inches on 9th February)

While all time and labor is volunteered, the San Jacinto Trail Report uses small private donations to help cover operating costs. Every year seems to have its unique challenges, and it is already clear that 2024 will be no exception. Your contribution keeps the Report available to all, free from advertising or paywalls, and independent from agencies. If you have found this Report useful, please consider using this link to the Donate page. Thank you very much for your support.

Above and below, Wellman Divide (9700 ft). Above, mid morning 29th February 2024, with the sign now fully exposed following 15 inches of melting. Below, three weeks earlier on 8th February 2024, at the tail end of the only major storm so far this winter.

The Peak Trail at 9800 ft looking roughly north, less than a mile north of Wellman Divide, early morning 29th February 2024. A cold, firm trail now following my tracks from prior ascents made spikes (or even crampons) a far easier option than snowshoeing for traversing these slopes.

Upper end of Little Round Valley (9800 ft) under a depth of three-plus feet of snow, mid morning 26th February 2024. My poles mark the location of the sign (the top of which is just visible).

South end of Fuller Ridge Trail (8950 ft, PCT Mile 185.5) where it splits from Deer Springs Trail. As of 26th February, the latter has a well-defined track, but there were no reliable tracks visible on Fuller Ridge.

Strawberry Junction (8050 ft, PCT Mile 183), 26th February 2024, with a very unevenly distributed average of about eight inches of snow.

Anabel thoroughly unimpressed by the superb vista from Apache Peak on a calm, lightly overcast morning, 25th February 2024. To be fair, she’s seen it dozens of times before. Looking south-east, Martinez Mountain, Rabbit Peak and Toro Peak punctuate the far skyline in front of the Salton Sea.

Minor storm update 23rd February 2024

This is a summary of conditions following the 18th storm (but 14th minor storm) of winter 2023/24 to impact our region. In keeping with the theme of this winter, most precipitation passed just to the west of the San Jacinto mountains, and a storm system that could have produced feet of snow ultimately disappointed with only three inches at San Jacinto Peak and less than an inch below 7500 ft.

At mid elevations it rained steadily throughout the morning of Tuesday 20th (0.78 inch in Idyllwild) before the storm track shifted just a few miles west again and Tuesday afternoon was largely dry. In the early hours of the storm it rained all the way to San Jacinto Peak, judging by the freezing rain plastered on all the vegetation in the high country. It cooled enough to turn to snow above 8000 ft by late morning Tuesday, but with no significant accumulation until after dark.

In the early hours of Wednesday 21st the freeze level fell to about 7000 ft and consequently it dusted (<0.25 inch) down to 6600 ft just above Humber Park, but with no significant snow accumulation below about 7500 ft.

On Wednesday 21st I ascended San Jacinto Peak via Devil’s Slide, PCT, Wellman and Peak trails. Despite carrying spikes and snowshoes, I was able to bareboot all the way to San Jacinto Peak, despite generally poor quality, soft, warm snow, especially below 9000 ft. The minimal depth of new snow meant that snowshoe and posthole tracks from the past couple of weeks remained largely visible. Much of the ascent was in patchy sunshine, but the clouds rolled in again as I neared the Peak late morning, and then it lightly snowed on me for the rest of the day until I was on lower Devil’s Slide Trail (although with almost no measurable new accumulation since I had ascended many hours earlier).

I recorded a short(ish) video report at San Jacinto Peak at noon on Wednesday 21st February (available here) that discusses conditions at that time.

The storm sequence on 4th-9th February (described in detail in a prior Report here) has been the only major one of this winter to date, and along with three moderate storm between 20th January and 2nd February, accounts for almost all of the snow depth currently on the mountains at this time.

Snow conditions are generally currently poor at all elevations, and will likely deteriorate further with warm temperatures over the next few days. Especially below 9000 ft which has been largely above freezing for several days and heavily rained on, snow is soft, slushy in places, and unreliable underfoot, even in the morning. Higher up, snow quality is a little better, but in particular on the sun-exposed slopes there are unpredictable patches where deep postholing is always a possibility.

Snowshoes are now valuable everywhere above about 8000 ft elevation, especially on the various warm days expected soon, and in late morning and afternoons as snow softens on sun-exposed slopes (see also photos below for sample conditions). They are especially invaluable for any off-trail travel everywhere above 7000 ft.

Carrying spikes remains recommended everywhere above about 6000 ft, even if using other traction devices as well. Crampons are required on the north side of Tahquitz Peak, as discussed below, and will become increasingly useful everywhere in the high country above roughly 9500 ft (possibly lower) over the next few days and weeks as the expected deep snow firms up following freeze-thaw cycles and compaction.

The next two storm systems are already on the way, forecast for 26th-27th February and 2nd-3rd March. The first of these is expected to be another mild, minor system, with rain at mid elevations less than 0.5 inch, and snow at the highest elevations only a few inches at most. Freeze levels may be near or even above 7500 ft. The storm in early March is expected to be much colder, with light snow possibly as low as 4000 ft, and as much as 1-2 feet of snow above 9000 ft.

At present snow depths are too shallow for any avalanche risk anywhere in the vicinity of the established trail system, and snow in the Snow Creek drainage/north face of San Jacinto Peak is both shallow and has consolidated sufficiently to have no significant avy risk.

Humber Park closed on 31st January, has not yet been plowed, and remained closed as of Wednesday 21st. Even when closed, there are nine legal parking spaces just below the gate (Adventure Pass or equivalent still required). South Ridge Road is closed due to winter conditions. Azalea Drive – access to Marion Mountain trailhead – has been periodically plowed by USFS.

The posthole track at 7200 ft elevation on Devil’s Slide Trail, mid afternoon 21st February 2024, giving a feel for current trail conditions.

WEATHER

Temperatures may be on something of a rollercoaster ride for the next week or two. Immediately after passage of this latest storm, temperatures rapidly rise to well above seasonal on 23rd-25th, forecast to reach 60°F in Idyllwild and above freezing even at the highest peaks. The next minor storm is expected on 26th-27th February, with the bulk of the (light) precipitation expected overnight on Monday 26th into the Tuesday morning, and temperatures dropping accordingly. Very light snowfall is forecast to be limited to the upper elevations, with only 0.25-0.5 inch rain at mid elevations.

Temperatures rise steadily shortly after passage of that storm, again to above seasonal, around the turn of the month, with possibly several days at or above freezing over 10,000 ft elevation. Forecasts are tentatively suggesting another storm system around 2nd-3rd March. While details remain unclear this far in advance, it may be cold enough to snow throughout the mid elevations, with possibly 1-4 inches in Idyllwild and 1-2 feet in the high country. After passage of that storm, temperatures may again warm steadily.

At San Jacinto Peak (3295m/10,810ft) on Wednesday 21st February 2024 at 1205 the air temperature was 23.3°F (-5°C), with a windchill temperature of 3.2°F (-16°C), 100% relative humidity, and a bitter WSW wind sustained at 14 mph occasionally gusting to 24.4 mph.

At the Peak on Wednesday 14th February 2024 at 0910 the air temperature was 25.9°F (-3°C), with a windchill temperature of 12.0°F (-11°C), 62% relative humidity, and a steady due West wind sustained at 9 mph occasionally gusting to 13.6 mph.

TRAIL CONDITIONS

There is increasingly patchy light snow cover on all trails between 6000-6800 ft, becoming continuous above about 6800 ft and significantly deeper above about 7500 ft. Snow depths measured at specific locations are given below.

Snow depths in this latest storm were insufficient to impact the tracks in place with the exception of a few short sections above 9800 ft. The mild rainfall below 8000 ft accelerated melting of snow in mid elevation areas.

Snowshoes remain valuable everywhere above about 8000 ft elevation, especially on warm days and later in the day on sunny slopes. They are strongly recommended for any off-trail travel away from the defined tracks.

Carrying spikes is recommended everywhere above about 5500 ft. Crampons are required on the north side of Tahquitz Peak, as discussed below, and will become increasingly useful everywhere in the high country over the next few days and weeks as the expected deep snow undergoes freeze-thaw cycles and compaction.

Tracks known to be broken through the snow at this time are the Ernie Maxwell Trail, South Ridge Trail to Tahquitz Peak on the south side of the peak, Devil’s Slide Trail, onward via the PCT, Wellman and Peak trails to San Jacinto Peak, from Long and Round valleys up to Wellman Divide and more directly up from Tamarack Valley joining the Peak Trail at about 10,000 ft and also at 10,350 ft just below the Miller Peak area. There is also evidence of a track approximately following the Deer Springs Trail route up from Little Round Valley to San Jacinto Peak.

Devil’s Slide Trail has about 60% snow cover up to 6800 ft. Thereafter snow cover is continuous, has been well-traveled and is suitable for barebooting, for snowshoes (especially later in the day as snow softens) despite some significant postholes, or for spikes all day. The Trail Report undertook extensive trail maintenance work on 15th February to remove the many damaged tree limbs in and over the trail resulting from the early February ice storm.

Ernie Maxwell Trail has a well-traveled and compacted track through largely continuous light snow along its entire length. Spikes are useful on colder mornings when snow is icy.

The track following the PCT north of Saddle Junction to Annie’s Junction, and then beyond on the Wellman Trail, accurately follows those trails. Unfortunately the tracks(s) north from Wellman Divide only roughly follow the established trail routes at best. But they will get you to San Jacinto Peak with patience. The formerly well-defined snowshoe track above 10,350 ft has been erased by recent snow, but a fresh posthole track (21st February) now follows the East Ridge directly up to the Peak.

Current snow cover on the PCT is minimal from Miles 151 (Highway 74) to about 156. Snow is then thin and patchy, largely confined to north-facing slopes, until about Mile 165. Snow cover is then continuous and moderately deep between Miles 165-194. Based on my recent survey hikes there are currently no tracks through snow on the PCT north of Fobes Saddle (Mile 166) until about Mile 177. There are currently no tracks on Fuller Ridge (Miles 185.5-191). At this time, nobo hikers should consider taking alternates at either Fobes Trail (Mile 166) or Spitler Peak Trail (Mile 168.5) to avoid the worst of the icy snow slopes from Miles 169-175. This situation will continue to change over the coming days with a sequence of rapid melting periods and minor storms alternating into early March at least.

The Peak Trail route at 10,300 ft, early afternoon 21st February 2024, during a protracted snow flurry at the tail end of the latest storm. After hundreds of winter ascents many of the individual trees on these slopes have become my trusted friends, making navigation by eye relatively straightforward even in poor visibility.

SNOW DEPTHS measured on 21st February 2024 are as follows. The first number gives current average total depth. Reductions in totals since the last Report are due to significant melting in the intervening 10-14 days since prior storms. The numbers in parentheses give the new snow from the storm on 20th-21st February (plus rainfall, where known). Note that average depth is given; due to strong winds accompanying most storms this winter there has been considerable drifting. Altitudes and PCT mileages are approximate.

San Jacinto Peak (10810 ft): 48-50 inches (3.0 inches new on 20th-21st February)

Wellman Divide (9700 ft): 31 inches (2.0 inches new on 20th-21st February)

Annie’s Junction/approx. PCT Mile 181.8 (9070 ft): 38-40 inches (2.0 inches new on 20th-21st February)

Long Valley (8600 ft): 12-14 inches (1.5 inches new on 20th-21st February, preceded by 0.30 inch rain on 20th)

Saddle Junction/approx. PCT Mile 179.9 (8070 ft): 14 inches (1.5 inches new on 20th-21st February)

Devil’s Slide Trail at Humber Park (6550 ft): 2-5 inches (<0.25 inch new on 21st February)

Idyllwild (at 5550 ft): 0-1 inch (no new snow, storm total 1.18 inches of rain 20th-21st February)

While all time and labor is volunteered, the San Jacinto Trail Report uses small private donations to help cover operating costs. Every year seems to have its unique challenges, and it is already clear that 2024 will be no exception. Your contribution keeps the Report available to all, free from advertising or paywalls, and independent from agencies. If you have found this Report useful, please consider using this link to the Donate page. Thank you very much for your support.

Above and below, Wellman Divide (9700 ft). Above, late morning 21st February 2024, with the sign now well exposed following at least 12 inches of melting, with the addition of two inches of fresh snow overnight. Below, roughly two weeks earlier on 8th February 2024, during the tail end of the only major storm so far this winter.

Saddle Junction (8100 ft, PCT Mile 179.5), late afternoon 21st February 2024. At least six inches had been lost to melting in the previous few days, prior to the addition of about 1.5 inches overnight in the minor storm on 20th-21st.

The Peak Trail at 9800 ft looking roughly north, less than a mile north of Wellman Divide, late morning 21st February 2024. Photo taken before I put in my tracks through the couple of inches of fresh overnight snow to mark the trail route, but my old snowshoe tracks from two ascents the previous week are still just visible in the foreground. The underlying snow just averaged firm enough to make bareboot postholing a marginally easier option than snowshoeing.

Snow update 15th February 2024

UPDATE Tuesday 20th February 2024 at 1610: steady light rain overnight totaled 0.45 inch in Idyllwild by 0700, with another 0.3 inch added by 1000, after which it largely stopped raining. It rained to at least 9000 ft overnight, with drizzle totaling just 0.08 inch in Long Valley (8600 ft) until 0930, when it turned to light snowfall, but with no significant settling by late afternoon. Our road run to Humber Park this morning was wet but warm, and the parking area is being slowly clearing of snow due to the mild rain.

UPDATE Monday 19th February 2024: The 18th and 19th storm systems of this winter are on the way. The first of these arrives in the early hours of tomorrow morning, Tuesday 20th, continuing into Wednesday 21st February. A mild storm, the freeze level is not expected to drop significantly below 7000 ft, with 0.5-1.0 inch of rain forecast for mid elevations with the possibility of a dusting of snow, and 6-8 inches of snow at the highest elevations of the San Jacinto mountains. The subsequent storm is nearly a week away, tentatively forecast for 25th-26th February. It may have similar snowfall in the high country (i.e. 6-12 inches) but is expected to be a colder system, with a lower freeze level and consequently a higher likelihood of 1-2 inches of snow at mid elevations in addition to light-to-moderate rainfall. The next comprehensive Report update is not expected before Wednesday 21st February, although I plan to post brief storm updates here on Tuesday 20th.

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The 16th and 17th storms of winter 2023/24 impacted the San Jacinto mountains on 4th-9th February, the vast majority of the precipitation coming from the first of these, a very slow-moving system spread across 4th-8th February (described in detail in the previous Report available here). Although ultimately the snow quantities in the high country were at the lower end of the range of forecasts, the impact of 2-3 feet of snow on the trail system was of course significant, and freezing rain as high as San Jacinto Peak at the start of the storm sequence has medium-term implications for snow quality.

On 12th and 14th February we hiked to San Jacinto Peak from Humber Park via Devil’s Slide, Wellman, Peak, and East Ridge trails to assess changes in the snow and trails since my multiple stormy hikes the previous week. With an Alpine start on both days I was able to bareboot to 9000 ft north of Saddle Junction on very firm icy snow before switching to snowshoes on 12th, but with a better track all the way to San Jacinto Peak on 14th. On both days snowshoes became especially useful on the descent as snow was softening rapidly by late morning. On 12th I ultimately wore snowshoes all the way back down to Humber Park, and most of the way down Devil’s Slide Trail on 14th.

I recorded a short(ish) video report at San Jacinto Peak late morning on Monday 12th February (available here) that discusses conditions up there at that time.

The next storm system is already on its way, tentatively forecast for 19th-21st February. Snow estimates for the high country have literally ranged across an order of magnitude, from three to 50 inches. At this time, the low end of that range seems most likely, but as has been the case throughout this winter forecasts probably won’t improve in accuracy until the storm is only 24-48 hours away. Moderate rainfall is expected at mid elevations as the storm is forecast to be relatively warm, with freeze levels likely near or even above 7000 ft.

Snowshoes are now valuable everywhere above about 6500 ft elevation, especially above 8000 ft and in late morning and afternoons as snow softens in the warm weather (see also photos below for sample conditions). Carrying spikes is recommended everywhere above about 5000 ft. Crampons are required on the north side of Tahquitz Peak, as discussed below, and will become increasingly useful everywhere in the high country above roughly 9700 ft (possibly lower) over the next few days and weeks as the expected deep snow firms up following freeze-thaw cycles and compaction.

At present snow depths are too shallow for any avalanche risk anywhere in the vicinity of the established trail system, and snow in the Snow Creek drainage/north face of San Jacinto Peak has now consolidated sufficiently to have no significant avy risk.

Be bear aware. Although rarely reported, up to three Black Bears have been in the San Jacinto mountains since 2017. I crossed bear tracks at 9100 ft on the PCT on 12th February 2024 (photo below, one of many I took). While Southern California studies have found that hibernation is integral to gestation for pregnant female bears, adult males and younger bears of both sexes generally don’t hibernate this far south. I have seen at least one bear annually for six years, most recently in September 2023 on Marion Mountain Trail, and on Devil’s Slide Trail in July 2022 and September 2021 (a poor quality video from the latter observation is available here). I saw a different “blond” individual on Devil’s Slide Trail in August 2020 and had previously filmed that same bear walking past our house in Idyllwild in 2018 (video here).

Humber Park closed on 31st January, has not yet been plowed, and remained closed as of Saturday 17th. Even when closed, there are nine legal parking spaces just below the gate (Adventure Pass or equivalent still required). South Ridge Road is closed due to winter conditions. Azalea Drive – access to Marion Mountain trailhead – has been periodically plowed by USFS.

Palm Springs Aerial Tramway closed 12th-14th February for repairs on the flood-damaged access road to Valley Station. It is scheduled to reopen on Thursday 15th, but check their website (available here). (The tram previously closed twice earlier this month due to the same problem.)

The view north-west from San Jacinto Peak, mid morning 12th February 2024. The San Bernardino Mountains are centre image, and the San Gabriel Mountains in the far distance to the left. No shortage of rime ice accumulated on the trees at the Peak in the past week.

WEATHER

Temperatures are rising to well above seasonal this week, up to and including Saturday 17th, with steady melting of snow at all elevations, especially on sun-exposed slopes. Temperatures on 15th-16th will be especially warm, including above freezing as high as San Jacinto Peak (very rare for mid February at that elevation).

Another storm system is expected around 19th-21st February, although not now expected to be a major system to impact the San Jacinto mountains. Forecasts remain in flux, and as we saw with the previous storm event, can change at short notice. Nevertheless, the storm is initially expected to be relatively warm, with freeze levels above 7000 ft, and consequently with 0.5-2 inches of rain (rather than snow) at mid elevations. Freeze levels may drop to 5000 ft by 20th-21st February, at which point mid elevations (e.g., Idyllwild) could experience a mix of rain and snow. Snowfall in the high country may be concentrated on 21st, and as mentioned in the introduction forecasts have recently ranged from several inches to several feet for possible snowfall accumulations across the multiple storm days. At this time, somewhere under 12 inches seems most probable for the high country.

After the passage of that storm, another spell of rapid warming to well-above-average temperatures is tentatively forecast.

At San Jacinto Peak (3295m/10,810ft) on Wednesday 14th February 2024 at 0910 the air temperature was 25.9°F (-3°C), with a windchill temperature of 12.0°F (-11°C), 62% relative humidity, and a steady due West wind sustained at 9 mph occasionally gusting to 13.6 mph.

At the Peak on Monday 12th February 2024 at 0955 the air temperature was 30.3°F (-1°C), with a “windchill” temperature of 23.9°F (-4.5°C), 41% relative humidity, and a barely discernable NE breeze sustained at 4 mph occasionally gusting to 5.0 mph.

At the Peak on Thursday 8th February 2024 at 0815 the air temperature was 6.9°F (-14°C), with a windchill temperature of -18.4°F (-28°C), 100% relative humidity, and a bitter WNW wind sustained at 11 mph gusting to 24.9 mph.

A gorgeously snow-clad north face of Tahquitz Peak (and Tahquitz Rock to the right), early morning 12th February 2024, as seen looking south from approx. PCT Mile 181.

TRAIL CONDITIONS

There is largely continuous light snow cover on all trails above about 5500 ft, becoming continuous above 6500 ft and heavy (>20 inches) above about 7500 ft. Patchy thin snow is locally present to 4500 ft. Snow depths measured at specific locations are given below.

Snowshoes are now valuable everywhere above about 7000 ft elevation, although less so only heavily traveled trails that are now well compacted. Carrying spikes is recommended everywhere above about 5500 ft. Crampons are required on the north side of Tahquitz Peak, as discussed below, and will become increasingly useful everywhere in the high country over the next few days and weeks as the expected deep snow undergoes freeze-thaw cycles and compaction.

Tracks known to be broken through the snow at this time are the Ernie Maxwell Trail, South Ridge Trail to Tahquitz Peak on the south side of the peak, Devil’s Slide Trail, onward via the PCT, Wellman and Peak trails to San Jacinto Peak, from Long and Round valleys up to Wellman Divide and more directly up from Tamarack Valley joining the Peak Trail at about 10,000 ft and also at 10,350 ft just below the Miller Peak area. There is also evidence of a track approximately following the Deer Springs Trail route up from Little Round Valley to San Jacinto Peak.

Devil’s Slide Trail has continuous snow cover, has been well-traveled and is suitable for snowshoes (especially later in the day as snow softens) despite some significant postholes, or for spikes all day. A few snow-free patches were starting to develop by 15th below 6800 ft. The Trail Report undertook extensive trail maintenance work on 15th February to remove the many damaged tree limbs in and over the trail resulting from the early February ice storm.

Ernie Maxwell Trail has a well-traveled and compacted track through continuous light snow along its entire length. Spikes are useful.

There are very lightly traveled snowshoe tracks around the Tahquitz area meadows, but not generally accurately following the established trail routes.

The track following the PCT north of Saddle Junction to Annie’s Junction, and then beyond on the Wellman Trail, accurately follows those trails. Unfortunately the tracks(s) north from Wellman Divide put in over the weekend by tram traffic are a mess across the open slopes and only roughly follow the established trail routes at best. But they will get you to San Jacinto Peak with patience. The very well-defined snowshoe track above 10,350 ft does not follow the Peak Trail route, but follows the East Ridge directly up to the Peak.

The 0.4 mile section of South Ridge Trail between Chinquapin Flat/PCT and Tahquitz Peak has no track to follow at this time through 23-5 feet of heavily drifted and angled ice and icy snow. Neither snowshoes nor spikes are especially helpful at this time, due to the angled slope and structure of the snow, respectively. Crampons (always with an ice axe) are recommended on this section at this time, along with the necessary skills and experience to use that equipment in icy, angled terrain.

Current snow cover on the PCT is minimal from Miles 151 (Highway 74) to about 156. Snow is then thin and patchy, largely confined to north-facing slopes, until about Mile 165. Snow cover is then continuous and moderately deep between Miles 165-194. Based on my survey hike on 16th February, there are currently no tracks through snow on the PCT north of Fobes Saddle (Mile 166) until about Mile 177. There are currently no tracks on Fuller Ridge (Miles 185.5-191). At this time, nobo hikers should consider taking alternates at either Fobes Trail (Mile 166) or Spitler Peak Trail (Mile 168.5) to avoid the worst of the icy snow slopes from Miles 169-175. This situation will change over the coming days with another minor storm next week, likely followed by rapid melting into early March.

Looking south along the route of the Peak Trail at 10,300 ft, 14th February 2024. Jean Peak dominates the view to the near right. The track is relatively well-defined and compacted, fine for barebooting or spikes in the early-to-mid morning, but getting soft by late morning.

SNOW DEPTHS measured on 12th February 2024 are as follows. The first number gives current average total depth. Reductions in totals since the last Report are due to melting. The numbers in parentheses gives the new snow from the double storm sequence on 4th-9th February. Note that average depth is given; due to strong winds there has been considerable drifting, often especially accumulating in trails. Altitudes and PCT mileages are approximate.

San Jacinto Peak (10810 ft): 55 inches (28-30 inches new on 4th-8th February)

Wellman Divide (9700 ft): 38 inches (24 inches new on 4th-8th February)

Annie’s Junction/approx. PCT Mile 181.8 (9070 ft): 46 inches (24-25 inches new on 4th-8th February)

Long Valley (8600 ft): 20 inches (16 inches new on 5th-8th February)

Saddle Junction/approx. PCT Mile 179.9 (8070 ft): 26 inches (17 inches new on 5th-8th February)

Devil’s Slide Trail at Humber Park (6550 ft): 8-10 inches (13 inches new on 5th-8th February)

Idyllwild (at 5550 ft): 4 inches (8 inches new on 5th-8th February)

Mountain Center (4400 ft): 0 inch (2-3 inches from 7th-9th February now melted)

While all time and labor is volunteered, the San Jacinto Trail Report uses small private donations to help cover operating costs. Every year seems to have its unique challenges, and it is already clear that 2024 will be no exception. Your contribution keeps the Report available to all, free from advertising or paywalls, and independent from agencies. If you have found this Report useful, please consider using this link to the Donate page. Thank you very much for your support.

Tracks of Black Bear that I crossed at 9100 ft about 1.5 trail miles north of Saddle Junction, 12th February 2024. These tracks were not present here just four days earlier. The knife is 3.7 inches long for scale. The tracks had partially filled with spindrift and were partly melted out. Typical of bear, the tracks are slightly pigeon-toed (toes tend to point inwards), and the tracks alternate between shorter front paws (that averaged roughly four inches long) and longer back paws (at least six inches long).

Above and below, Wellman Divide (9700 ft). Above, late morning 14th February 2024, with the sign more exposed following 6-8 inches of melting, and with abundant evidence of weekend tracks. Below, six days earlier on 8th February 2024, during the tail end of the first major storm of the winter.

The Peak Trail at 9800 ft less than a mile north of Wellman Divide, 12th February 2024. My tracks mark the trail route, one of the meandering weekend tracks throughout these slopes is visible further upslope.

My snowshoe tracks from Thursday 8th February had just about survived the ravages of four days of wind, drifting snow, and melting, here on the PCT roughly 1.3 trail miles north of Saddle Junction, early morning 12th February 2024. Seeing my old tracks allows me to spend more time enjoying the scenery and less time mentally navigating.

Major snow storm update 8th February 2024

UPDATE Saturday 10th February 2024: in the minor storm system that followed the major storm described below, Idyllwild added another inch of snow overnight on 8th, and a further 2.25 inches of snow on 9th, most of it overnight. Additional new snow appeared to be similar throughout the high country across the same time period.

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The 16th storm system of winter 2023/24 to impact the San Jacinto mountains was by far the greatest in terms of precipitation produced. Although the rainfall and snowfall were both significant, ultimately we did not experience the dramatic numbers and images seen from areas immediately to our west and north. Indeed for the first 24 hours of the storm system’s passage across southern California, it largely missed the San Jacinto mountains, consistently tracking from the south-west to the north-east, but frustratingly always just a few miles to the west.

Consequently we missed out on inches of potential rain. For example by the middle of Tuesday 5th January, most locations in the San Jacinto mountains at 4000-6000 ft had received 1.5-2.0 inches of rain, roughly half that of multiple locations under 2000 ft elevation just 10-30 miles further west in Riverside County.

The early phase of the storm system was very mild, with clear evidence of freezing rain all the way to San Jacinto Peak (which obviously further reduced the potential snow volumes in the high country). We hiked up Devil’s Slide Trail to Saddle Junction on Monday 5th February in a failed attempt to find the freeze level, at a time when it was evidently raining at least to 9000 ft (as discussed in the video embedded in an earlier Report linked here). With the benefit of hindsight, it was raining much higher up than I appreciated!

The storm turned steadily cooler across the four days, becoming dramatically cold on 8th February. The temperature of 6.9°F (-14°C) I recorded at San Jacinto Peak that morning is the eighth coldest air temperature I have ever recorded at the Peak. The snow level dropped as low as 3900 ft near Garner Valley and to 5000 ft on Skyline Trail on the desert side of the mountain (thank you to Florian Boyd for that information).

To adequately assess the storm’s impacts in the high country, I hiked to San Jacinto Peak on both 7th and 8th February. The snow was largely fine rounded grains (“sugar snow”) which has accumulated and compacted sufficiently to make for excellent snowshoeing conditions. Above about 9800 ft, there were traversing sections that had a hard icy layer close to the surface (likely a consequence of the earlier freezing rain) for which crampons could have been an option. Snow depths measured on 8th at various locations are detailed below. See also photos below.

I recorded a short video report from San Jacinto Peak mid-morning on Thursday 8th (linked here) giving a feel for the conditions at that time.

Snowshoes are now invaluable everywhere above about 6000 ft elevation (see photos below). Carrying spikes is recommended everywhere above about 5000 ft. Crampons are required on the north side of Tahquitz Peak, as discussed below, and will become increasingly useful everywhere in the high country above 10,000 ft (possibly lower) over the next few days and weeks as the expected deep snow firms up as it undergoes freeze-thaw cycles and compaction.

Following my hike on 8th there is now a reliable snowshoe track broken on Devil’s Slide Trail, and between Saddle Junction and San Jacinto Peak via the Wellman and Peak trails. There is no evidence of any tracks elsewhere on the high country trails although there will likely be significant high country hiking activity this weekend. Note that my tracks above Wellman Divide, and possibly lower in places, will be compromised by the strong winds and severe spindrift that were still active above 9500 ft as I descended. There is also the possibility of further minor snows later on 8th and on 9th February.

There is currently a significant avalanche risk for the north face of San Jacinto Peak, specifically the Snow Creek drainage. I see avalanches, typically wind slab types, in this drainage every winter, even in low snow years like 2024. Poorly structured underlying layers have now been well laden with 2-4 feet of fresh powder. Although snowfall rates peaked in the early hours of Thursday 8th, wind loading onto a snowpack with a weak base may continue to create dangerous avalanche conditions for at least 1-2 more days. At present snow depths are too shallow for any avalanche risk anywhere in the vicinity of the established trail system.

Humber Park closed on 31st January, has not yet been plowed, and remained closed when last checked on Saturday 10th. Even when closed, there are nine legal parking spaces just below the gate (Adventure Pass or equivalent still required). South Ridge Road is closed due to winter conditions. Azalea Drive – access to Marion Mountain trailhead – has been periodically plowed by USFS.

Palm Springs Aerial Tramway will be closed 12th-14th February for repairs on the flood-damaged access road to Valley Station. It is scheduled to reopen on Thursday 15th, but check their website (available here). The tram previously closed twice earlier this month due to the same problem.

The Peak “Trail” at 10,300 ft elevation, noon 7th February 2024. Generally superb showshoeing conditions. My tracks through an average depth, at that time, of about three feet of snow, of which half had fallen during the previous two days.

WEATHER

Temperatures remain below seasonal for February until Saturday 10th (high country) or Sunday 11th (mid elevations), before then steadily rising to above seasonal throughout next week. Melting of snow will initially be slow but then will accelerate throughout next week, especially on sun-exposed slopes and below 8500 ft (elevations which received more rain than snow in the latest storm).

There is the possibility of further light snow in the high country on Friday 9th February. The next Pacific storm systems are tentatively forecast for 17th-22nd February, another potentially significant double storm sequence, but details are vague at this time.

At San Jacinto Peak (3295m/10,810ft) on Thursday 8th February 2024 at 0815 the air temperature was 6.9°F (-14°C), with a windchill temperature of -18.4°F (-28°C), 100% relative humidity, and a bitter WNW wind sustained at 11 mph gusting to 24.9 mph.

At the Peak on Friday 2nd February 2024 at 0820 the air temperature was 15.6°F (-9°C), with a windchill temperature of -5.6°F (-21°C), 100% relative humidity, and a bitter WNW wind sustained at 12 mph gusting to 18.9 mph.

My snowshoe tracks on the route of the Pacific Crest Trail at about Mile 181, 8th February 2024, on the switchback section colloquially known as “Angel’s Glide” just north of Saddle Junction.

TRAIL CONDITIONS

There is continuous light snow cover on all trails above about 4500 ft, becoming moderate above 6000 ft, and heavy (>20 inches) above about 7500 ft. Patchy snow is present to 4000 ft or even slightly lower. Snow depths measured at specific locations are given below.

Snowshoes are now invaluable everywhere above about 6000 ft elevation (see photos above and below). Carrying spikes is recommended everywhere above about 5000 ft. Crampons are required on the north side of Tahquitz Peak, as discussed below, and will become increasingly useful everywhere in the high country over the next few weeks as the expected deep snow undergoes freeze-thaw cycles and compaction.

The only tracks known to be broken through the snow at this time are up Devil’s Slide Trail, onward via the PCT, Wellman and Peak trails to San Jacinto Peak, although higher up these may have been eliminated by spindrift, wind, and further light snow.

Devil’s Slide Trail has only a single snowshoe track to Saddle Junction (photo below). Snow cover averages a foot deep for much of the trail, increasing to two feet higher up. The upper switchbacks are heavily drifted and require some snow hiking experience.

Devil’s Slide Trail at about 7800 ft elevation, early afternoon 8th February 2024, giving a feel for current conditions in a section of that trail especially prone to drifting snow. Although average snow depth at that elevation is roughly two feet, drifts average 3-4 feet deep.

SNOW DEPTHS measured on 8th February 2024 (unless otherwise stated) are as follows. The first number gives current average total depth. The numbers in parentheses gives the new snow from the storm on 4th-8th February, with comments on additional rainfall (where known). Note that average depth is given; due to strong winds there has been considerable drifting, often especially accumulating in trails. Altitudes and PCT mileages are approximate.

San Jacinto Peak (10810 ft): 55-60 inches (26-28 inches new on 4th-8th February)

Wellman Divide (9700 ft): 41-43 inches (23-24 inches new on 4th-8th February)

Annie’s Junction/approx. PCT Mile 181.8 (9070 ft): 48-50 inches (23-25 inches new on 4th-8th February)

Long Valley (8600 ft): 24 inches (16 inches new on 5th-8th February, plus 1.54 inches of rain on 4th-5th February)

Saddle Junction/approx. PCT Mile 179.9 (8070 ft): 31 inches (17 inches new on 5th-8th February, plus estimated 2 inches of rain on 4th-5th).

Devil’s Slide Trail at Humber Park (6550 ft): 15 inches (13 inches new on 5th-8th February, plus estimated 2 inches of rain on 4th-5th).

Idyllwild (at 5550 ft): 9.0 inches (8 inches new on 5th-8th February, plus 1.95 inches of rain on 4th-5th February prior to turning to snow on 5th)

Mountain Center (4400 ft): 2-3 inches (all new 7th-9th February)[measured 9th February]

Devil’s Slide trailhead at Humber Park (6520 ft), early afternoon Thursday 8th February 2024, showing my snowshoe tracks through roughly one foot of snow, almost all of it fresh in the previous 2-3 days.

While all time and labor is volunteered, the San Jacinto Trail Report uses small private donations to help cover operating costs. Every year seems to have its unique challenges, and it is already clear that 2024 will be no exception. Your contribution keeps the Report available to all, free from advertising or paywalls, and independent from agencies. If you have found this Report useful, please consider using this link to the Donate page. Thank you very much for your support.

Above and below, Wellman Divide (9700 ft). Above, late morning 8th February 2024, with the sign now only exposed by 7-8 inches, below late morning, 2nd February 2024. On the upper image, note the ice from freezing rain, then covered by later rime and fresh snow.

Saddle Junction (8100 ft, PCT Mile 180). Above, on 8th February 2024, with 17 inches of fresh snow since 4th, and below, the same view on 1st February 2024 with an average of just five inches of snow remaining from storms in January.

Above and below, Annie’s Junction (9070 ft, PCT Mile 181.8). Above, with an average depth of at least four feet of snow, almost obscuring the sign, 8th February 2024, and below, an average depth of about two feet of snow on 2nd February 2024. Obviously losing signs under the snow increases navigational challenges.

Fobes Ranch Road (6S05) at 4950 ft elevation under three inches of snow, looking north-east towards the Desert Divide, 9th February 2024.

Storm updates 5th-8th February 2024

The 16th storm system of winter 2023/24 – but the first major one in terms of expected precipitation – is forecast to move slowly across the San Jacinto mountains between Monday 5th and Thursday 8th February 2024.

Please check this page for periodic updates – the most recent is at the top – throughout the multiple day storm sequence. I tentatively plan to issue the next comprehensive Report update on 8th February.

UPDATE Thursday 8th February at 0700

San Jacinto Peak added another 8 inches of snow overnight, for a storm total of 26-28 inches, and a current total depth of four-and-a-half to five feet (with considerable drifting throughout).

Idyllwild (at 5550ft) added another 3.5 inches of snow overnight, for a cumulative 5.25 inches in the past 24 hours. It had stopped snowing down there by dawn.

UPDATE Wednesday 7th February at 2030

Although it seemingly snowed all day in Idyllwild it barely accumulated, adding only another 0.5 inch all afternoon. My San Jacinto Peak measurement actually bizarrely decreased, as scouring by the wind removed the top inch, so no net increase up there either.

UPDATE Wednesday 7th February at 1330

I hiked to San Jacinto Peak this morning, breaking trail all the way from Humber Park through moderate depth powder. It snowed on me much of the morning, but generally very lightly and tiny fine rounded grains. The periods of sun, especially throughout Wellman Trail, were a bonus. There was abundant evidence of heavy freezing rain to 10,000 ft elevation, and locally even higher.

New snow accumulation since 4th at San Jacinto Peak is 18-20 inches, for a total depth of 51 inches, at Wellman Divide also 20 inches (total depth 35), at Saddle Junction 11 inches (total 25), and 6 inches at Humber Park (total 8), but those numbers continue to climb very slowly.

Idyllwild added 2.5 inches overnight plus a slowly accumulating 1.5 inches so far today, for a current storm total of 6 inches (at 5550 ft).

My showshoe tracks traversing the Peak “Trail” at about 10,300 ft, noon on 7th February 2024

Wellman Divide (9700ft), late morning 7th February 2024, with about 20 inches of fresh snow since 4th February. Note the freezing rain plastering the submerged sign and on the trees behind.

UPDATE Tuesday 6th February at 1830

It has snowed for most of the past eight hours since the last update at all elevations above about 5000 ft, but largely stopping in the past hour or so. In Idyllwild the new snow has struggled to settle, rarely accumulating to more than an inch of wet snow before partially melting. Two inches of new snow have accumulated at Humber Park (6500 ft) for a storm total of about five inches (total depth near 7 inches), with four new inches in Long Valley (8600 ft) for a storm total of 8-9 inches and a total depth near 16 inches. The Palm Springs Aerial Tramway has completed emergency road work early, and will reopen tomorrow, 7th February.

UPDATE Tuesday 6th February at 1050

Relatively little further precipitation has fallen this morning. My survey of several trailhead areas found two inches of snow had fallen in Pine Cove (6100 ft) overnight, with three inches at Marion Mountain trailhead (6300 ft). Three new inches had also fallen on top of the 1-2 inches of slush at Humber Park (6500 ft, photo below). In all these locations, the new snow had a very wet, heavy consistency. USFS had plowed Azalea Drive all the way to the Marion Mountain trailhead. On our hike on lower Marion Mountain Trail mid morning it drizzled on us, but then at Humber Park it was snowing gently. In Idyllwild we have added just 0.07 inch of rain (occasionally sleet) in the past four hours, and Long Valley (8600 ft) has added only another inch of snow.

The forecasts have shifted significantly this morning, with relatively little further precipitation expected over the next 24 hours, but with a substantial second wave expected on Wednesday night. Up to six inches of snow are now tentatively forecast for Idyllwild, with at least that amount expected in the high country, between late Wednesday afternoon and early Thursday morning, 7th-8th February.

Devil’s Slide trailhead at Humber Park, mid morning 6th February 2024, with three inches of fresh snowfall overnight.

UPDATE Tuesday 6th February at 0700

Steady overnight rain in Idyllwild (at 5550 ft) added another 0.76 inch, for a current storm total of 1.79 inches. It briefly turned to snow in the early hours, leaving a dusting of barely 0.25 inch, before turning back to spotty rain by dawn even though the air temperature remains at freezing. The dropping freeze level meant that Long Valley (8600 ft) added four inches of snow overnight. On the west side of the mountain, Poppet Flat (3800 ft) leads storm rainfall totals at 2.24 inches, with most locations reporting 1.4-1.9 inches.

UPDATE Monday 5th February at 2020

Light rain has continued all day at elevations up to about 9000 ft. Idyllwild has recorded 0.96 inch since 0700 this morning, Long Valley (8600 ft) just over 1.4 inches since last night, and most locations in the San Jacinto mountains around one inch, other than a few locations around Pine Cove led by Dutch Flat (5800 ft) at 1.7 inches. The notable exception is a station on the north-west side of the mountains, at 6800 ft roughly a mile north of Fuller Ridge campground, which had measured 4.65 inches by late this evening. This demonstrates how the storm system is largely to our north and west, only brushing (relatively speaking) the San Jacinto mountains at this time. Forecasts suggest this may change tonight and tomorrow, by which time temperatures will have dropped and consequently areas above about 5500 ft are expected to be receiving snow rather than rain.

UPDATE Monday 5th February at 1040

I recorded the following short video at a soggy Saddle Junction this morning (it is cut short as the camera got so wet it appeared to malfunction). Although Idyllwild (at 5550 ft) recorded only 0.07 inch of rain overnight, since 0700 we have already had an additional 0.55 inch. Long Valley (8600 ft) is reporting 0.66 inch of rain, with no new snow accumulation yet although the precipitation there is periodically sleety. Radar suggests we remain at the fringe of the main system, which has been heavily impacting areas immediately north and west of the San Jacinto mountains since yesterday evening.

Humber Park was a sea of slush early this morning, Monday 5th February 2024.

UPDATE Sunday 4th February 2024 at 1945

Palm Springs Aerial Tramway will be closed 5th-7th February to complete repairs on the flood-damaged access road to Valley Station. It is scheduled to reopen on Thursday 8th. (The Tram was previously closed on 1st-2nd February due to the same problem.)

Snow storm update 2nd February 2024

UPDATE 4th February 2024: the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway will be closed 5th-7th February to complete repairs on the flood-damaged access road to Valley Station. It is scheduled to reopen on Thursday 8th. (The Tram was previously closed on 1st-2nd February due to the same problem.)

————————

This is a brief summary of the most significant storm to impact the San Jacinto mountains so far this winter which started early on Thursday 1st February. This report is intentionally brief as conditions are forecast to change dramatically over the next few days due to a major slow-moving storm system expected on 4th-9th February, forecast to bring moderate-to-heavy precipitation to all elevations (details under Weather below).

It started raining in Idyllwild and snowing in the high country at about 0745 on Thursday 1st February. On my high country hike that morning I was impressed by the speed of accumulation – at least an inch per hour – with very heavy drifting a consequence of strong (>30 mph) gusty winds above 8000 ft. It snowed all day in the high country, although generally lighter later than in the morning, accumulating about ten inches at San Jacinto Peak by dusk, and (contrary to forecasts) it snowed lightly all night into the 2nd, adding another five inches for a storm total of about 15 inches.

Idyllwild received 1.23 inches of rain (at 5500 ft) on 1st, before the snow level dropped overnight to about 5000 ft. Idyllwild had about an inch of snow overnight, and then it lightly snowed on/off most of Friday 2nd, but was also melting at the same time, with little net accumulation that day in town.

I recorded a short video report from San Jacinto Peak mid-morning on Friday 2nd (linked here) giving a feel for the conditions at that time. Snowshoe conditions were ideal on my descending hike, with a nice dry, firm powder, and rarely did my snowshoes go in more than a few inches deep.

Snow depths measured on 2nd at various locations are detailed below. See also photos below. Note however that depths are extremely variable even within a small area, due to heavy drifting, especially in trails.

Snowshoes are now invaluable everywhere above about 7500 ft elevation (see photos below). Carrying spikes is recommended everywhere above about 5000 ft. Crampons are required on the north side of Tahquitz Peak, as discussed below, and will become increasingly useful everywhere in the high country over the next few weeks as the expected deep snow firms up as it undergoes freeze-thaw cycles and compaction.

Following my hike on 2nd there is now a reliable snowshoe track broken on Devil’s Slide Trail, and between Saddle Junction and San Jacinto Peak via the Wellman and Peak trails. There was no evidence of any tracks elsewhere on the high country trails, including up from Long Valley to Wellman Divide. Note that tracks may be quickly removed due to the large volume of spindrift and accompanying strong winds, especially above about 9000 ft.

There is now a significant avalanche risk for the north face of San Jacinto Peak, specifically the Snow Creek drainage. In my experience this drainage avalanches every winter, even in the lowest snow years. The pre-existing underlying snow layers were very icy, and have now been well laden with 12-18 inches of fresh powder. These layers will have little or no opportunity to consolidate before an even heavier snow load falls over the next week. At present snow depths are far too shallow for any avalanche risk anywhere on the established trail system (but it is possible that may change over the next week, depending on the volume of snowfall received).

Humber Park closed on 31st January, has not been plowed, and is expected to remain closed for at least the next few days. Even when closed, there are nine legal parking spaces just below the gate (Adventure Pass or equivalent still required). South Ridge Road is closed due to winter conditions.

WEATHER

Temperatures remain below seasonal for February until at least Saturday 10th. After a brief sunny day on Saturday 3rd, a major precipitation-producing, slow-moving storm system will impact the San Jacinto mountains on 4th-7th, immediately followed by a minor storm on 9th February.

The initial system will be relatively warm, with a freeze level as high as 8000 ft, and will be heavily laden with moisture, with 3-6 inches of rain expected at mid elevations, and 1-2 feet of snow above 10,000 ft. The system turns colder around Tuesday 6th, with the freeze level dropping as low as 5500 ft, with a further 6-18 inches of snow in the high country, and 2-6 inches of snow in upper parts of Idyllwild, and a mix of snow, sleet , and rain as low as 4500 ft. There remains uncertainty regarding exact timing, precipitation amounts, and freeze levels across the duration of this major storm system, so considerable caution is recommended for hiking or other outdoor activities in this period.

A minor storm system comes through on the evening of Thursday 8th and throughout Friday 9th, with 4-10 inches of snow tentatively forecast for the high country, and a mix of light rain and possibly 1-2 inches of snow at mid elevations.

At San Jacinto Peak (3295m/10,810ft) on Friday 2nd February 2024 at 0820 the air temperature was 15.6°F (-9°C), with a windchill temperature of -5.6°F (-21°C), 100% relative humidity, and a bitter WNW wind sustained at 12 mph gusting to 18.9 mph.

The Peak Trail at 10,200 ft elevation, late morning 2nd February 2024. Superb showshoeing conditions! My tracks through an average depth of just over two feet of snow, of which more than half had fallen during the previous 24 hours.

TRAIL CONDITIONS

There is continuous light snow cover on all trails above about 5500 ft, becoming moderate (>10 inches) above 7500 ft, and heavy (>20 inches) above about 9000 ft. Snow depths measured at specific locations are given below.

Snowshoes are now invaluable everywhere above about 7000 ft elevation (see photos above and below). Carrying spikes is recommended everywhere above about 5000 ft. Crampons are required on the north side of Tahquitz Peak, as discussed below, and will become increasingly useful everywhere in the high country over the next few weeks as the expected deep snow undergoes freeze-thaw cycles and compaction.

The only tracks known to be broken through the snow at this time are up Devil’s Slide Trail, onward via the PCT, Wellman and Peak trails to San Jacinto Peak.

Devil’s Slide Trail has only a single snowshoe track to Saddle Junction (photo below). Snow cover is generally only a few inches deep at most below 7000 ft which will start to melt fast on 3rd February.

Devil’s Slide Trail at about 7800 ft elevation, midday 2nd February 2024, giving a feel for current conditions in a section of that trail especially prone to drifting snow.

SNOW DEPTHS measured on 2nd February 2024 are as follows. The first number gives current average total depth. The number in parentheses gives the new snow from the storm on 1st-2nd February. Note that average depth is given; due to strong winds there has been considerable drifting, often especially accumulating in trails. Altitudes and PCT mileages are approximate.

San Jacinto Peak (10810 ft): 31 inches (15 inches new on 1st-2nd February)

Wellman Divide (9700 ft): 18 inches (11 inches new on 1st-2nd February)

Annie’s Junction/approx. PCT Mile 181.8 (9070 ft): 25 inches (13 inches new on 1st-2nd February)

Long Valley (8600 ft): 9 inches (8 inches new on 1st-2nd February)

Saddle Junction/approx. PCT Mile 179.9 (8070 ft): 14 inches (9 inches new on 1st-2nd February, plus an unknow quantity of rain judging by an ice layer under upper five inches of snow)

Devil’s Slide Trail at Humber Park (6550 ft): 3.5 inch (all new on 1st-2nd February, plus some rain)

Idyllwild (at 5550 ft): 1 inch (all new on 2nd February, with 1.23 inches rain on 1st February)

While all time and labor is volunteered, the San Jacinto Trail Report uses small private donations to help cover operating costs. Every year seems to have its unique challenges, and it is already clear that 2024 will be no exception. Your contribution keeps the Report available to all, free from advertising or paywalls, and independent from agencies. If you have found this Report useful, please consider using this link to the Donate page. Thank you very much for your support.

Saddle Junction (8100 ft, PCT Mile 180). Above, midday on 2nd February 2024, with nine inches of fresh snow, and below, the same view just over a day earlier on 1st February 2024 with an average of about five inches of snow remaining from storms in January.

The Peak Trail at about 9800 ft. Above, on 2nd February 2024, with my snowshoe tracks marking the trail route through a fresh foot of powder. Below, the same view on 29th January 2024.

Annie’s Junction (9070 ft, PCT Mile 181.8) with an average depth of about two feet of snow, 2nd February 2024.

Wellman Divide (9700 ft), late morning, 2nd February 2024.

Weather and snow update 29th January 2024

UPDATED Friday 2nd February 2024 at 0655: it continued to snow lightly all night at San Jacinto Peak, adding another four inches for a storm total of about 14 inches (total depth 29 inches). Long Valley added a couple of inches for a total of about 8 inches. Snow level overnight was down to 5000 ft, with one inch in Idyllwild at 5550 ft (in addition to 1.2 inches of rain yesterday).

UPDATED Thursday 1st February 2024 at 1655: it started raining in Idyllwild and snowing in the high country at about 0745. On my high country hike I was impressed by the speed of accumulation – at least an inch per hour – with heavy drifting already above 9000 ft. Current new snow accumulation at San Jacinto Peak is 9.5 inches (for a current average total depth of 25 inches), accumulation having slowed in the past hour. Snow depth is about five inches in Long Valley (8600ft), and 1.17 inches of rain at 5550 ft in Idyllwild.

———————

Variable and unpredictable weather looks set to continue well into February. A mild double storm between Saturday 20th and Monday 22nd January produced two-and-a-half inches of rain in Idyllwild and snow above about 6000 ft with 16 inches at San Jacinto Peak (as described in the previous Report available here). Warm, potent Santa Ana winds brought temperatures far above seasonal for January on 27th-29th, melting and softening snow throughout the mountains.

The first half of February is forecast to be unsettled and dominated by colder air and multiple precipitation-producing storm systems. At this time a significant double storm is predicted on 1st-2nd then 4th-9th February.

Forecasts have a high degree of confidence for the storm on 1st-2nd February, with 8-12 inches of snow likely at the highest elevations, and rain all day on Thursday 1st at mid elevations turning to snow overnight and into Friday 2nd (1-3 inches possible in Idyllwild with a snow level near 5000 ft).

Forecast confidence is steadily increasing for a major and slow-moving second storm on 4th-8th February. Predictions suggest an initially warmer system (“pineapple express”), with a snow level starting well above 6000 ft, but producing more rain and snow than earlier storms at mid and upper elevations, respectively, with 2-4 feet of snow possible in the high country. The freeze level may eventually drop to (or even below) 5000 ft by 7th-9th February.

Judging by my hike to San Jacinto Peak on 29th January, recent very warm air temperatures have had a detrimental effect on current snow quality, especially below 10,000 ft elevation. Although the snow was firm in the early morning, by mid morning melting was already well underway and snow everywhere was relatively soft and “greasy” on the surface. Of course snow conditions (and depths) are expected to change significantly over the next few weeks starting on 1st February.

Tracks have been broken on most major trails at this time, but bear in mind these will disappear under new snowfall starting Thursday 1st February.

Spikes are useful everywhere above about 7000 ft, especially for descending well-compacted trails. Crampons are required on the north side of Tahquitz Peak, as discussed below. Snowshoes are no longer especially useful on-trail, which are now generally too well-traveled and compacted, but they remain useful everywhere above about 8000 ft elevation for off-trail travel at this time. Snowshoes will likely be strongly recommended from 2nd February onwards.

Humber Park is open and is clear of snow. South Ridge Road remains open at this time.

One of my favourite vistas of the San Jacinto mountains, as seen looking north-west from Martinez Mountain in the Santa Rosa range, 25th January 2024. The snow-capped San Jacinto high country is on the central horizon, with a dense marine layer of cloud pouring through the San Gorgonio Pass to the right (north) and also over the Desert Divide to the left (south). The distinctive Sugarloaf is in the middle distance on the far left, and the aptly named Sheep Mountain is in the foreground on the far right.

WEATHER

Temperatures plunge dramatically over the next week, from their current level well above seasonal for January, to well below seasonal starting 1st February. The next storm to impact our region is expected on 1st-2nd February, and will be relatively cold, with moderate snow currently forecast everywhere above about 5000 ft, with 10-12 inches of snow likely at the highest elevations. Rain on Thursday 1st at mid elevations will quickly turn to snow overnight and into Friday 2nd (with potentially 1-4 inches in Idyllwild and perhaps a dusting in Garner Valley).

At this time a second, warmer, protracted, system is forecast for 4th-7th February. Forecast confidence is steadily increasing for this system to be warmer than the storm at the beginning of the month, with moderate snow down to 7000 ft, and more snow at higher elevations, likely 1-3 feet across the high country (depending on elevation).

The second and third weeks of February remain unsettled, with another cold storm (or two) tentatively forecast in the middle of the month.

At San Jacinto Peak (3295m/10,810ft) on Monday 29th January 2024 at 0850 the air temperature was 38.1°F (3°C), with a windchill temperature of 26.2°F (-3°C), 46% relative humidity, and a steady SE wind sustained at 13 mph gusting to 17.9 mph.

At the Peak on Tuesday 23rd January 2024 at 0630 the air temperature was 19.9°F (-7°C), with a windchill temperature of 5.6°F (-15°C), 86% relative humidity, and a light NW wind sustained at 5 mph gusting to 10.9 mph.

Sunrise near the Salton Sea as seen from about Mile 180 of the PCT just north of Saddle Junction, 29th January 2024.

TRAIL CONDITIONS

There is largely continuous light snow cover on all trails above about 7500 ft, becoming moderate (>6 inches) above about 8000 ft. Snow depths measured at specific locations are given below.

Tracks known to be broken through the snow at this time are up Devil’s Slide Trail, onward via the PCT, Wellman and Peak trails to San Jacinto Peak, from Long Valley through to Wellman Divide, around the Tahquitz area meadows, the PCT from Saddle south to Chinquapin Flat and north to Annie’s Junction, and South Ridge Trail from South Ridge Road to Tahquitz Peak. Deer Springs Trail is broken to about Little Round Valley, but there is no track through from there to San Jacinto Peak.

Ernie Maxwell Trail is functionally clear of snow, with just a handful of tiny icy snow patches remaining near the upper (Humber Park) end of the trail.

Devil’s Slide Trail has been heavily traveled to Saddle Junction. The trail is largely clear of snow below 7500 ft, and icy snow patches are thin until very close to Saddle Junction. Spikes can be useful for descending the upper trail.

I finished breaking trail up South Ridge Trail to Tahquitz Peak on Friday 26th. Snow has largely cleared up to about 7300 ft (just below Old Lookout Flat) and what remains is very patchy and softening rapidly by late morning. From Old Lookout Flat (7600 ft) to Tahquitz Peak, icy snow is functionally continuous. There is a relatively well-broken track to within six switchbacks of Tahquitz Peak, however above that the snow is very icy with limited posthole tracks. Spikes are strongly recommended to complete the uppermost switchbacks to the peak, ideally in conjunction with hiking poles or even an ice axe. South Ridge Road is completely clear of snow and ice.

The 0.4 mile section of South Ridge Trail between Chinquapin Flat/PCT and Tahquitz Peak has no track to follow at this time through 2-4 feet of heavily drifted and angled ice and icy snow (photo below). Neither snowshoes nor spikes are especially helpful at this time, due to the angled slope and structure of the snow, respectively. Crampons (always with an ice axe) are recommended on this section at this time, along with the necessary skills and experience to use that equipment in icy, angled terrain.

Icy snow slope on the north side of Tahquitz Peak across the South Ridge Trail route, 26th January 2024. Crampons, ice axe, and an appropriate skill set are currently recommended for crossing this section of trail.

SNOW DEPTHS measured on 29th January 2024. The first number gives current average depth, followed (in parentheses) by the depth following the last storm on 23rd January. The snow lost in those six days is due to melting in unusually warm temperatures. Note that average depth is given; due to strong winds accompanying several storms this January, there has been considerable drifting, often especially accumulating in trails. Altitudes and PCT mileages are approximate.

San Jacinto Peak (10810 ft): 16 inches (20 inches on 23rd January)

Wellman Divide (9700 ft): 8 inches (14 inches on 23rd January)

Annie’s Junction/approx. PCT Mile 181.8 (9070 ft): 13 inches (15 inches on 23rd January)

Long Valley (8600 ft): 2 inches (6 inches on 23rd January)

Saddle Junction/approx. PCT Mile 179.9 (8070 ft): 6 inches (12 inches on 23rd January)

Devil’s Slide Trail at Humber Park (6550 ft): 0 inch (1 inch on 23rd January)

Idyllwild (at 5550 ft): 0 inch (0 inch on 23rd January)

Above and below, Wellman Divide (9700 ft). Above, on 29th January 2024 with an average snow depth of about 8 inches, nearly half melted since the last storm on 22nd January. Below, the same view on 23rd January 2024.

Above and below, the Peak Trail at about 9800 ft elevation. Above, on 29th January 2024, giving a feel for current snow and trail conditions. Below, the same view on 23rd January, immediately after at least 12 inches of fresh snow on 20th-22nd January, with my snowshoe tracks marking the trail route.

Above and below, Mountain Lion tracks on Cactus Spring Trail, 25th January 2024. There were many excellent lion tracks preserved near Martinez Mountain in the moist dirt following recent rains. Above, likely 1-2 days old at 4800 ft, below, very fresh track at 4990 ft probably from just a few hours before we hiked through. The knife is 3.6 inches (92mm) long for scale.

Relatively fresh Mountain Lion scat, at about 4600 ft on Cactus Spring Trail near Cactus Spring itself, 25th January 2024. The knife is 3.6 inches (92mm) long for scale. While Mule Deer probably accounts for 90% of lion diet in the San Jacinto mountains, some lions in the Santa Rosa range probably specialize on hunting Bighorn Sheep more than deer (there were many sheep tracks in the area).

Snow storms update 26th January 2024

It may have taken until late January to arrive, but finally we have had our first significant snow-generating storm (actually two back-to-back storms) of the 2023/24 winter. The two storms on Saturday 20th and Monday 22nd January ultimately produced very similar quantities of snow (at upper elevations) and of rain (at mid elevations), and had the combined effect of one moderate storm. The day in between the two storms, Sunday 21st, remained overcast at all elevations, and it drizzled intermittently as high as San Jacinto Peak that day, effectively merging the impacts of the two storms into one. Across the three days combined, Idyllwild received two-and-a-half inches of rain, and San Jacinto Peak 16 inches of fresh snow.

Both storms were relatively warm, with periodic drizzle at high elevations even among and between snow falls. With a probe it was surprisingly easy to detect multiple layers within the snow, the admixed ice layers a consequence of rain freezing on top of snow. At both Wellman Divide and Saddle Junction on 23rd, six layers were readily apparent (from bottom to top): a couple of inches of hard icy snow from earlier storms in January, a few inches of snow from 20th, a layer of ice from rain on 21st, a few inches of snow from 22nd, another layer of ice from rain in the afternoon of 22nd, and finally an inch of graupel from a thundersnow event in the evening of 22nd.

The rain has unfortunately had a very detrimental effect on the snow quality, mainly below 10,000 ft elevation. The layering makes for uneven and inconsistent snowshoeing (or postholing), with most steps giving way underfoot only after each step has been fully weighted. This should improve over the next few days as these layers consolidate. By the time I descended below 9000 ft on the afternoon of 23rd, melting was already well underway, and the thin snow had the consistency of soft-serve ice cream, which did not make snowshoeing any more enjoyable.

I hiked to San Jacinto Peak on four of the five days between 19th-23rd January to document the complex pattern of weather, and recorded a short video report from San Jacinto Peak just after sunrise on Tuesday 23rd (linked here) giving a feel for the conditions at that time.

Snow depths measured at various locations are detailed below. Note however that depths are extremely variable even within a small area, due to differential melting and drifting during the unusual sequence of minor storms this January. For example, while there is an average depth of about 12 inches at Saddle Junction on 23rd, within sight of the junction I measured a depth of 20 inches, and just 0.2 mile down Devil’s Slide Trail from the junction there are sun-exposed sections with only a sparse inch of rapidly melting snow in the trail.

Following my hike on 23rd there is now a reliable snowshoe track broken from Saddle Junction through to San Jacinto Peak via the Wellman and Peak trails. There is a well-traveled track on Devil’s Slide Trail, and a posthole track south from Saddle Junction through to Chinquapin Flat. The track put in by Kyle Eubanks late on 22nd is still largely visible from Long Valley through Round Valley to Wellman Divide.

Snowshoes are now very useful (although not essential) everywhere above about 8000 ft elevation. Carrying spikes is recommended everywhere above about 6000 ft, especially as conditions will change significantly over the next few days. Crampons are required on the north side of Tahquitz Peak, as discussed below.

Humber Park is open and is largely plowed.

My snowshoe tracks passing through 10,000 ft elevation on the Peak Trail, with 15-18 inches of average snow depth, 23rd January 2024.

WEATHER

Temperatures rapidly rise to well above seasonal for the remainder of this month, with conditions more typical of March or even early April at both mid and upper elevations until about Wednesday 31st January. There will be rapid melting at all elevations, especially on sun-exposed slopes. The next storm to impact our region is expected on 1st-3rd February with moderate snow currently forecast everywhere above about 5000 ft.

At San Jacinto Peak (3295m/10,810ft) on Tuesday 23rd January 2024 at 0630 the air temperature was 19.9°F (-7°C), with a windchill temperature of 5.6°F (-15°C), 86% relative humidity, and a light NW wind sustained at 5 mph gusting to 10.9 mph.

Sunrise over the north end of the Salton Sea, as seen from San Jacinto Peak, 23rd January 2024. A dense, high marine cloud layer continued to pour west-to-east over the Desert Divide even long after the passage of the most recent storm.

TRAIL CONDITIONS

There is continuous light snow cover on all trails above about 6500 ft, becoming moderate (>10 inches) above 8000 ft, and locally heavy above 10,000 ft. Snow depths measured at specific locations are given below.

Ernie Maxwell Trail (surveyed 24th January) is almost entirely clear of snow, with just a handful of tiny icy snow patches remaining near the upper (Humber Park) end of the trail.

Devil’s Slide Trail has already been well traveled to Saddle Junction. Snow cover is generally only a few inches deep at most, and below 7000 ft melting was already extensive by the afternoon of 23rd. Large sections of the trail will melt clear in the next few days, especially below 7500 ft.

I finished breaking trail up South Ridge Trail to Tahquitz Peak on Friday 26th. Snow has largely cleared up to about 7300 ft (just below Old Lookout Flat) and what remains is patchy and softening rapidly by late morning. From Old Lookout Flat (7600 ft) to Tahquitz Peak, icy snow is continuous. There is a relatively well-broken track to within six switchbacks of Tahquitz Peak, however above that the snow is very icy with just a single set of posthole tracks. Spikes are strongly recommended to complete the uppermost switchbacks to the peak, ideally in conjunction with hiking poles or even an ice axe. South Ridge Road is completely clear of snow and ice.

Carrying spikes is recommended everywhere above about 6000 ft at this time. This elevation will rise steadily over the next few days due to melting especially in sun-exposed areas. Snow depths are now excellent for snowshoes above about 8000 ft (see discussion above).

Remnant tracks from preceding days remained at 10,400 ft elevation on the Peak Trail, as seen on my descending hike on 23rd January 2024, demonstrating the relatively shallow overall depth of snow that persists in the high country even after recent storms. Miller Peak is in the middle distance to the right.

SNOW DEPTHS measured on 23rd January 2024 (and on 21st for the first of the two storms) are as follows. The first number gives average total depth. The numbers in parentheses detail the new snow in each of the two storms, which largely occurred on 20th and 22nd January. Note that average depth is given; due to strong winds accompanying several storms this January, there has been considerable drifting, often especially accumulating in trails. Altitudes and PCT mileages are approximate.

San Jacinto Peak (10810 ft): 20 inches (8 inches new snowfall on both 20th and 22nd January)

Wellman Divide (9700 ft): 14 inches (6 inches new snowfall on both 20th and 22nd January)

Annie’s Junction/approx. PCT Mile 181.8 (9070 ft): 15 inches (6 inches new snowfall on 20th, 5 inches on 22nd January)

Long Valley (8600 ft): 6 inches (c.3 inches new snowfall on both 20th and 22nd January)[many thanks to Kyle Eubanks for measurements from Long Valley]

Saddle Junction/approx. PCT Mile 179.9 (8070 ft): 12 inches (5 inches new snowfall on 20th, 4 inches on 22nd January)

Devil’s Slide Trail at Humber Park (6550 ft): 1 inch but already very patchy by afternoon of 23rd (mixture of light snow and rain throughout 20th-22nd)

Idyllwild (at 5550 ft): 0 inches snow (2.49 inches rainfall 20th-22nd January; 0.92 inch on 20th, 0.36 inch on 21st, 1.21 inches on 22nd).

Above and below, Wellman Divide (9700 ft). Above, on 23rd January 2024 with an average snow depth of about 14 inches, including about six that fell on 20th and another six that fell on 22nd January. Below, the same view on 19th January 2024, with a patchy 1-2 inches of icy snow remaining from storms earlier in January.

Above and below, the Peak Trail at about 9800 ft elevation. Above, on 23rd January 2024, giving a feel for current snow and trail conditions. Below, roughly the same view on 19th January, with a well-compacted icy snow track just a few inches deep at that time.

Storm updates 20-23 January 2024

It has taken until late January to get here, but finally the first significant snow-producing storm system of this winter – actually two back-to-back storms effectively merging into one – is forecast between Saturday 20th into the early morning of Tuesday 23rd January 2024.

Please check this page for periodic updates – the most recent is at the top – throughout the multiple day storm sequence. The next comprehensive Report update will be 23rd (or 24th) January.

UPDATE Tuesday 23rd January at 0800

With the additional two inches yesterday evening, San Jacinto Peak received a combined storm total of 16 inches of snow k(eight in each storm event). Including snow remaining from prior storms, total depth averages 20 inches, but is very heavily drifted in places.

Long Valley (8600 ft) has six inches, but Saddle Junction (8100 ft) nearly 12 inches.

Snow level was around 6000 ft, with 2.45 inches of rain in Idyllwild (at 5550 ft) over the past three days.

Snowshoes are now very useful above about 8000 ft, and spikes are recommended everywhere above 6000 ft, lower in places.

Sunrise at San Jacinto Peak, 23rd January 2024.

UPDATE Monday 22nd January at 1930

After a five hour hiatus, it started snowing again at San Jacinto Peak. Snowfall has generally been very light, but there was some intense graupel associated with a brief but spectacular lightning and thunder storm. New accumulation this evening has been two inches.

Long Valley added 3.5 inches of snow today, on top of two inches from the storm on Saturday, for a total depth near six inches. Round Valley added four inches, doubling the average depth there. [Many thanks to Kyle Eubanks for Long and Round Valley information.]

UPDATE Monday 22nd January at 1130

The second storm in 48 hours has so far produced six inches of fresh snow at San Jacinto Peak, on top of 8 inches in the first storm, and 3-4 inches remaining from prior storms. However that 18 inches is heavily drifted, at least 2-3 feet deep in places.

Rainfall in Idyllwild has added up to 0.7 inch since 0700 this morning, for a combined storms total of 2.26 inches since Saturday night.

San Jacinto Peak summit hut at 1120 on Monday 22nd January 2024, with 14 inches of new snow in the past 36 hours.

UPDATE Monday 22nd January at 0930

Total rainfall accumulation since 20th in Idyllwild is now 1.86 inches, of which 0.3 inch has fallen in the last two-and-a-half hours. It is turning slushy, so freeze level is likely around 6000 ft.

On my hike this morning snow started falling at about 0700, and is accumulating steadily at roughly an inch per hour everywhere above at least 8000 ft. All of yesterday’s well-defined tracks are starting to disappear.

UPDATE Sunday 21st January at 1830

New snow totals from the storm on 20th-21st that I measured on my hike today are: 8 inches San Jacinto Peak (total depth 11-12 inches), 6 inches Wellman Divide (total 8), 5 inches Saddle Junction (total 7), 0.5 inch Humber Park (total 1 but patchy).

With that storm coming in from the south-west, there was a striking “rain shadow” and the western side of the mountain range received much more snow comparing similar elevations. Saddle Junction at 8100 ft had five inches by midday today, compared to two inches at Long Valley (at 8600 ft).

Total rainfall in Idyllwild is now at 1.20 inches, with light drizzle persisting up to 9000 ft all day on Sunday 21st.

Wellman Divide (9700 ft) with a fresh coating of six inches of snow, 21st January 2024.

UPDATE Sunday 21st January at 1030

Rain accumulation by 0700 was 0.92 inch in Idyllwild, with two inches of snow in Long Valley, four inches in Round Valley, and five inches of snow at San Jacinto Peak {many thanks to Kyle Eubanks for the latter data). Snow level last night was at 7500 ft on South Ridge and Devil’s Slide Trail, but this morning it has accumulated to a patchy 0.5 inch at 6300 ft in Pine Cove and there have even been occasional flakes in Idyllwild (at 5550 ft).

UPDATE Saturday 20th January at 1900

It started drizzling in Idyllwild (5550 ft) at 1100 and in Long Valley (8600 ft) at about 1145. Very light, intermittent snow started by about noon in the high country, with a snow level down to 7500 ft. Current accumulation 0.5 inch snow in Long Valley, and 1-2 inches of snow at San Jacinto Peak. Rainfall total by dusk was 0.51 inch in Idyllwild.

Snow and trail update 17th January 2024

UPDATED Sunday 21st January 2024 @ 0905: Light rain started yesterday at 1100 in Idyllwild, and at about 1140 in Long Valley (8600 ft), quickly turning to very light, intermittent snow at the latter elevation. Current accumulation is 0.92 inch rain in Idyllwild, 2-3 inches of snow in Long Valley, 4 inches at Wellman Divide, and 4-5 inches of snow at San Jacinto Peak. Snow level last night was at 7500 ft on South Ridge and Devil’s Slide Trail, but this morning it has accumulated to 0.5 inch at 6300 ft in Pine Cove and there are occasional flakes in Idyllwild (at 5550 ft). The second, more significant, storm system comes through in the early hours of Monday 22nd with the precipitation expected to last nearly 24 hours.

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Warm afternoons in recent days have generated strong freeze-thaw cycles which have led to very icy conditions in the thin snow cover. This is especially impacting elevations between 5500-8000 ft at this time, where traction devices such as spikes are strongly recommended for all hikers on trails and even on parts of some dirt roads.

It has taken until late January to get here, but finally the first significant snow-producing storm system of this winter is forecast this weekend (actually back-to-back storms) with 1-2 inches of rain forecast at mid elevations for 20th-22nd January. Light-to-moderate snow in the high country in the storms on 20th and 22nd could total 12 inches or more. The storms are predicted to be relatively warm, with a freeze level near 7000 ft.

In the early hours of 11th January we had our 12th minor storm of this winter, with a consistent 0.5 inch of fresh snow between 5500-10,000 ft, dusting down to 4700 ft, but with only limited evidence of 0.25 inch at San Jacinto Peak.

Remarkably these 12 storms have combined to only produce 16.5 inches total snow fall at San Jacinto Peak this winter (with only half that currently on the ground due to melting between storms). This is certainly an all-time record low for the time of year.

Strong winds associated with the storm on 11th initially erased all existing tracks and caused major drifting redistributing the snow. Some areas in the high country are now at least two feet deep, while others are just 1-2 inches deep and will melt rapidly. A strong warming trend over this week will lead to rapid melting at all elevations, especially on sun-exposed slopes.

On the morning of Thursday 11th I broke trail again from Humber Park via Devil’s Slide, Wellman, and Peak trails to San Jacinto Peak. I chose to posthole, although snow is heavily drifted in places. Around noon I recorded a short video at San Jacinto Peak (linked here) giving a feel for weather and snow conditions today. The only hiker I saw all day on 11th January was “Secretariat”, the first northbound PCT hiker of the season.

Humber Park has reopened and is largely plowed, South Ridge and Black Mountain roads remain open but are very icy in places.

Wellman Divide (9700 ft) now melted to a depth of about 4-5 inches of snow, 15th January 2024. By 19th January, large bare areas were exposed and average snow depth was nearer two inches.

WEATHER

Temperatures will rise rapidly to well-above seasonal at all elevations after Friday 12th. There is now a reliable forecast of moderate rainfall (1-2 inches) at mid elevations on 20th-22nd January. Snowfall in the high country is generally forecast to be light-to-moderate, with 3-5 inches falling in the first, colder, storm on Saturday night 20th January, but lighter snow, 2-3 inches at the highest elevations, falling throughout the day during the second storm on Monday 22nd. Temperatures are then forecast to rise again to well above seasonal starting Thursday 25th.

Air temperatures above 10,000 ft elevation will be in the 30s Fahrenheit (0° to 4°C) starting Friday 12th January, far above seasonal for these elevations in January. Cooler air temperatures below freezing are expected during the passage of storms on 20th-25th, with windchill temperatures approaching 0°F (-18°C).

At San Jacinto Peak (3295m/10,810ft) on Monday 15th January 2024 at 0905 the air temperature was 34.1°F (1°C), with a windchill temperature of 16.3°F (-9°C), 28% relative humidity, and a very gusty WNW wind sustained at 18 mph gusting to 32.9 mph.

At the Peak on Thursday 11th January 2024 at 1200 the air temperature was 19.0°F (-7°C), with a windchill temperature of -5.4°F (-21°C), 28% relative humidity, and a bitter NNE wind sustained at 17 mph gusting to 26.9 mph.

At the Peak on Sunday 7th January 2024 at 1240 the air temperature was 8.4°F (-13°C), with a windchill temperature of -14.4°F (-26°C), 67% relative humidity, and a fresh WNW wind sustained at 7 mph gusting to 16.1 mph.

Peak Trail at 9800 ft just above Wellman Divide, 15th January 2024, showing a well-traveled track through light snow.

TRAIL CONDITIONS

There is light snow cover on all trails above about 5500 ft, becoming locally moderate (>5 inches) above 8000 ft, but heavily drifted in some higher elevation areas and consequently ranging from 0-25 inches deep. Snow depths measured at specific locations are given below.

Most major trails have broken tracks through the snow at this time, including the entire PCT through the San Jacinto mountains. However, as of the morning of Monday 15th, there was no track up from Little Round Valley to Summit Junction (just below San Jacinto Peak).

Carrying spikes is recommended everywhere above about 6000 ft at this time. This elevation will rise steadily over the next week or two due to melting especially in sun-exposed areas. Spikes will become increasingly valuable over the next few days and weeks as snow becomes icy from freeze-thaw cycles and compacted due to hiker traffic. Spikes tend to be especially valuable for descending, even when not seemingly needed for ascending.

Snow depths are temporarily adequate for snowshoes above about 8000 ft in some locations where snow has drifted deeper than average (before melting this week will lead to thinning snow cover in many areas). However most well-traveled trails are now too compact for comfortable snowshoe use.

Devil’s Slide Trail has now been well traveled. Icy snow cover [updated 19th January] is only 40% and patchy below 7500 ft elevation, and is largely continuous above that to Saddle Junction.

Deer Springs Trail has a moderately traveled track to Little Round Valley, with a single posthole track continuing up to Summit Junction (0.3 mile from San Jacinto Peak).

South Ridge Trail on both north and south sides of Tahquitz Peak has a well-defined track through the light snow. South from Tahquitz Peak snow cover averages 70% decreasing to 30% below Old Lookout Flat (7600 ft). Spikes are useful, especially for descending the upper trail. South Ridge Road is largely clear of ice but the few remaining sections are treacherous and 4WD/AWD is required.

The 0.4 mile section of South Ridge Trail between Chinquapin Flat/PCT and Tahquitz Peak has a clear posthole track to follow at this time through 12-30 inches of heavily drifted icy snow. Many hikers will find spikes are helpful but they are not required for those experienced with icy snow travel. Hiking poles are useful.

The Ernie Maxwell Trail (surveyed 13th January) has a continuous, well-traveled track through very thin snow. It is icy in places and some hikers may find spikes are useful.

Wellman Trail at about 9150 ft just south of Wellman’s Cienega, looking NNW, afternoon of Thursday 11th January 2024. My ascending and descending tracks are visible through an average depth of 4-5 inches of snow.

SNOW DEPTHS measured on 11th January 2024 are as follows. Note that average depth is given; due to strong winds accompanying the storm on 11th, and the mobile nature of the light, dry snow of recent storms, there has been exceptional drifting. Altitudes and PCT mileages are approximate. Some measurements are equal to or shallower than those on 7th January, due to melting on 8th-10th.

San Jacinto Peak (10810 ft): 8 inches (0.25 inch new snowfall on 11th January) but exceptionally drifted, ranging from 0-25 inches.

Wellman Divide (9700 ft): 7 inches (0.5 inches new snow on 11th, see photo below)

Annie’s Junction/approx. PCT Mile 181.8 (9070 ft): 8 inches (0.5 inch new snow on 11th), heavily drifted

Tahquitz Peak (8836 ft): 6-7 inches around the Peak itself [measured 9th January]

Saddle Junction/approx. PCT Mile 179.9 (8070 ft): 6 inches (0.5 inch new snow on 11th)

Old Lookout Flat (7600 ft on South Ridge Trail): 4 inches [measured on 9th January]

Devil’s Slide Trail at Humber Park (6550 ft): 3 inches (0.5 inch new snow on 11th)

Idyllwild (at 5550 ft): 1.0 inch, already largely melted by 12th (0.5 inches new snow on 11th)