So Cal Resources in October and November

imported
#1

I have heard many conflicting reports about what to expect in Southern California for a SOBO hiker in October or November. The theory is that there will be less water available from both natural sources and water caches, and that Trail Angels will not be around to help a Sobo hiker; but this report is mostly from the NOBO hikers who have not experienced So Cal in October and November.

I plan to hike SOBO this year and be in So Cal in October and November. Being the ever optimist that I am I have a different theory, please correct me if this is too far from reality:

I’m planning to be at Kennedy Meadows right about the first week of October. I’m expecting to have fewer water sources in the Southern California part of my hike, but the cooler temps will help me hike the 50-60 miles between the worst stretches. I should also be pretty trail hardened by this point and be able to do 30+ days as needed. I also think that I would be welcomed by trail angels who haven’t seen hikers for a couple months. I read a couple journals from other past SOBO’s who surprised by the wonderful treatment they received from trail angels in So Cal during the last part of the trip. Not that I plan to be overly dependent on trail angels, but it’s nice to know they are there as an insurance policy.

Brett

#2

Your theory is pretty much 100% correct. So Cal should be pretty cruisy after the Sierras. I know the Saufleys are open for sure for SouthBounders and towns aren’t that far apart down there with many road options if you get into trouble.
Best part of the trail too.

Heaps

#3

As a local resident this is what fall is like in SOCAL. You can expect cooler temps in October then the summer. But in the lower elevations, you still are likely to have hot temperatures. October is also when we often have Santa Ana Winds (very strong wind gusts that can be over 50mph in the deserts and canyons) which means high fire danger (yes fire season will still be going on as the Fall is when everything is driest and when most of our fires burn).

Water sources are even more dry in October then they are in August since most of SOCAL rain happens in the winter months. Your advantage is, by now, you should be able to make more miles/day and thus not need to carry as much water to the next source. November will be more pleasant temperature wise though there will be a small chance of a snow storm in the mountains dumping a few inches.

Miner

#4

Brett, when do you plan on leaving Manning? The webcams at the passes in Washington are melting with some day temperatures in the mid 40s.

wildbill

#5

Hey Wildbill,

I teach until June 19th. Two days ago I booked my flight to Seattle for June 22nd a Tuesday. I plan to visit my sister and pack a couple resupply boxes for her to mail, then hit the trail before the weekend. Not sure the exact date. I am in touch with another guy who was talking about starting on Friday the 25th. I’m still unsure about traveling from Seattle to the trail head. My sister’s passport is out of date and I’m not sure she will get around to renewing it by the time I get there.

Brett