I was wondering how much snow there will be on the PCT from Campo to Warner Springs during the 3rd-4th week of March. Looking to hike for 3-7 days during spring break, preferably somewhere near LA/San Diego. Any sections with less snow or will this be the best for this time period?
thasnks
A-Train
I have been snowed on just above the valley floor in Borrego Springs on March 22nd. At noon that day there was still 4" on the ground in Julian. At that time of year, it could vary from 95 degrees and hot sun to 35 degrees and wet snow. Chances are that it will be nice backpacking, but be prepared for wet and chilly. Less snow, try the Mojave desert, but that is a boring windy slog. The San Gabriels will have snow for a long time. At the moment parts are under 8-10 feet and after the last storm there was heavy rain, all the snow is now a massive frozen snow cone that will take a long time to melt
San Onofre Guy
Section E, further north, after the LA area, might be your best shot at snow free hiking. From Agua Dulce north to Mojave would be about 150 miles, which is very doable in 7 days in this area. You might have to worry about snow in the Tehachapi mountains toward the end, however, but I think it is possible to end run them by jumping off the PCT and staying on the aquaduct itself.
Suge