i’d like to hike section A this December (when I can get time off). Does anyone know where I can find historical weather information for that area? I’d like to know how cold it can get and how much rain- if any- I might expect.
If anyone has first hand experience they would like to share, that would be greatly appreciated as well.
Thanks!
Rios4
No first hand info…but check NOAA.gov/weather/local climate services should help you out.
kneepaw
rios4 I googled your moniker.because it sounded familiar.are you sure your not a weather satalite?Because I just listen to a music track on u-tube that sounded alot like what I hear when my short wave radio is at the top end of the electromagnetic spectrum.very cool.
kneepaw
Here are a couple of sources you might find useful:
From weather.com punch in the city you’re interested in, then when the current info comes up click on the “monthly” tab. They show average and records for highs and lows.
At wunderground.com, again, punch in the city you’re interested in. Then scroll down looking carefully for the “History and Almanac” section. In that section look for the “seasonal weather average” link. Looks like highs, lows and precip data.
Token Civilian
What Token Civilian said. You can find history for “Campo” (the beginning) “Mount Laguna” (the highest point) and “Ramona” or “Julian” near the end of the section.
To summarize though, typically your highs will be in the 60s at lower elevations and the 50s up higher, and lows will be upper 20s to lower 40s. Your odds are in favor of nothing but sun, but snow squalls and rain do come through sometimes that time of year.
I hiked in January a few years ago and saw nothing but sunshine and temps between 25 and 65. And not a soul on the trail.
markv
Kneepaw- nah. That’s not me. Though that song was pretty cool. I’m afraid you won’t find much about me by googling my handle. I don’t have a very prolific web presence.
Thanks for the info. That helps out a lot. Mostly I guess i just wanted reassurance that I’m not crazy for hiking to warner springs in the winter.
Rios4
I live only 50 to 60 miles away from the border. I know that section WELL. Generally in December I use a 32*F bag and sometimes it rains. It is the desert after all and you never know when it will rain. That’s a great time of year to hike this section. We did however get a lot of rain this weekend. Which means the few springs are running again.
Hippie Long Stockings
Oh, thanks for the heads up! I’ve only done a few other hikes ranging in the 20-25 mile range and I’ve never hiked in the rain. From what I’ve read, the major problem with S. California sections is getting from one water source to the next. It will make it much easier if there are more springs.
Do you know of where I can find out more about these winter-rain water sources? The books I have don’t really mention them (I think they’re more geared for the thru-hikers that leave in the spring).
Anybody have any thoughts on Rain Gear? I’m torn between trying to go minimalist/lightweight or comfortable/heavy…I think I really could go either way, since I’m only going for six days maximum and can afford a casual pace. I don’t think weight will really be an issue (especially, if it’s wet and I don’t have to carry as much water).
rios4
Yogi’s PCT handbook is a great book for the pct. It will list all your water sources in that area. Also feel free to email me, I got a great deal of information about that section of trail. Remember it is always best to go light weight out here. You never know when you will have to carry lots of water. The first water source from the border is 16 miles in if it’s running. It’s raining right now so that should be a good source. The Mount Laguna area you can always find water from somewhere along the road but you might be in for snow up there.
As far as rain gear I always have my Sierra Design Hurricane jacket and pants with me. It’s great for the wind too. Good luck
Hippie Long Stockings
I’m slightly concerned (disagreeing) with the above advice. Yogi’s is not ever going to be up to date regarding water sources. There is in fact very often a water source about 4 or 5 miles in from the border. The creek at 16 miles that Hippie mentions has been dry i believe at all times since 2006. Some Mt. Laguna campground and picnic area faucets are off for the winter (a couple are on, if you know which ones). As you’ll see, conditions and info change.
:cheers
markv
I don’t know why, but half my post got eaten. Anyway, i recommend:
http://www.4jeffrey.net/pct/a.htm
Check the dates on the reports. Some are a couple months old, but it’s the best and most up to date water info you’ll find. Be sure to email in your reports when you’re done hiking.
If you have gear choices already bought, wait for the forecast to decide what to bring. Ultralight is the best, until weather hits and it’s not anymore.
markv