Least people, no snow

imported
#1

What time of year to hike with the least people, least snow? I am assuming early Sept. after labor day. Is the snow potential too high then yet?

gruel

#2

It can snow in any month. However, when it snows in the summer months (including September), it is generally just a light dusting, nothing to worry about. No bugs, fewer people . . . sounds like a great time!

Kanga

#3

Our JMT 1998 started the day after Labor Day. We saw very few people and no bugs. Glen and Forrester Passes had snow patches but trail was worn so deeply into the snow that the side had a snow handrail.
1998 was an El Nino heavy snow year so September was actually “spring” and we saw wildflowers at their best. No snow fell but we had one day of very heavy cold rain that was a snow dusting at higher elevations. This rain erased all footprints so we felt that we had the trail to ourselved. It was a magical trip.
YMMV and have a fantastic hike,
…GottaWalk the ADT in 2 weeks

Marcia

#4

I went last year in late June to early July. It was great!! Although there was some snow, I think it made the views more breathtaking. Although the bugs were horrible, with deet and long sleeves you learn to live with them. Also the flowers were great!! Personally I think people worry a little too much about snow, and besides the snow makes for more adventures! There weren’t too many people. There were many day hikers in Yosemite, but that is to be expected. Also there were many PCTers, but they were are all nice people and were fun to talk with.
Whenever you go it will be great!! :slight_smile:

rubik