I’m planning on hiking the Oregon section of the PCT this summer from early July to early August (the only window of free time that I have). However, I’m feeling a little intimidated by the PCTA trail reports from July of 2011. I know last year was a very high snow year for California, but was it for Oregon as well? Should I expect dangerous conditions?
funtimecool
Go northbound to let Jefferson and Hood melt out longer. Expect many mosquitos. But i’d estimate the snow you’ll encounter will only be in patches. Nuisance, but not dangerous.
markv
I hiked Oregon last year, early August. At Diamond Peak and north of Jefferson I spent a couple of hours on snow. Trail was still easy to follow (many footprints from other hikers). Definitely not dangerous.
bowlegs
I live in Southern Oregon and hiked up into Sky Lakes Wilderness this past Sunday. Hit snow at 5500ft, lost the trail shortly thereafter. Another month and some warm days, hiking should be a piece of cake.
chris
Last year was actually a very low snow year for California. I was just in Oregon this past week. It looks like it’s melting out quickly. Ditto what Markv and Chris said. Definitely bring a headnet and lots of mosquito repellent. They can be horrendous!
Garrett