The last of three brief, weak low pressure systems across Southern California in May produced pleasantly cool conditions on 26th-30th, but sadly again there was no measurable accompanying precipitation above 5000 ft. Temperatures have now abruptly risen to above seasonal for the first few days of June at all elevations (especially overnight low temperatures). Temperatures are forecast to fluctuate either side of June averages in the second week of the month at mid elevations, but are tentatively forecast to be well above seasonal at higher elevations.

At this time main springs and creeks are flowing and water availability is not a significant issue for campers or long distance hikers (multiple example photos below). It is disconcerting however to see all ephemeral and many “perennial” water sources already at low flow rates, and the four very minor precipitation events since early March did nothing to improve medium- and long-term water conditions.

Fire lookouts at Tahquitz Peak and Black Mountain reopened on Sunday 17th May and Saturday 23rd May, respectively. Note that the railings at Tahquitz Peak lookout are in urgent need of repair work and should not be considered safe at this time.

Forest Service campgrounds at Boulder Basin, Marion Mountain, and Fern Basin reopened in late May. Dark Canyon campground is not expected to reopen this year due to staffing/budget issues, although Dark Canyon Road (the access to Seven Pines trailhead) remained open all winter. The State Park Stone Creek campground reopened in early May.

The gate 1.7 miles up from Highway 243 on Black Mountain Road (4S01) reopened on Wednesday 20th May. Following superficial grading late in 2025 the road is in better condition than last summer, but remains far rougher than in June 2020, the last time it was comprehensively graded. Picnic benches at many of the yellow post sites were replaced with new, immovable models in March.

Be rattlesnake aware. This year rattlesnakes became active 1-2 months earlier than normal at both mid and upper elevations. Above about 5000 ft elevation, the venom of Southern Pacific Rattlesnakes (Crotalus oreganus helleri) in the San Jacinto mountains is predominantly neurotoxic, almost always fatal for dogs and sometimes for humans (see my long read article linked here for further information describing our dogs’ survival after a July 2020 neurotoxic bite). Devil’s Slide Trail, lower Deer Springs and lower Marion Mountain trails, Suicide Rock, near Strawberry Cienega, and trails around Tahquitz Peak are frequent higher elevation locations for sightings, but rattlesnakes have been recorded up to 9350 ft.

Be bear aware. Although rarely reported, 5-6 individually identifiable Black Bears have been observed in the San Jacinto mountains since 2017, and I have seen at least one annually for the past seven years. One 10+ year-old dark chestnut-colored adult with a right ear tag was seen at least six times in multiple locations in Fern Valley and the Willow Creek drainage in July-September 2025 (see my video from 14th September available here, and images from late August in a prior Report linked here). This individual was relocated to the San Jacintos from Indio in May 2017. A smaller, paler, six-year-old individual was humanely trapped at the State Park Stone Creek campground in April 2026 and fitted with a satellite collar plus colored tags in both ears. In the past month it has ranged remarkably widely from 8500 ft on the north side of San Jacinto Peak to south of Highway 74 into the northernmost Santa Rosa Mountains (thank you to CDFW for this information). My brief videos from Devil’s Slide Trail in September 2021 (linked here) and one walking through our property in Idyllwild in 2018 (linked here) may show other individuals. There have been no reports of negative interactions with humans in the high country, at or near wilderness campsites, or on trails.

Daily survey hikes by the Trail Report year-round in the San Jacinto mountains include multiple routes to the highest peaks including San Jacinto Peak typically 2-3 times per week (but almost daily during and following storm conditions), Tahquitz Peak and area at least once per week, plus a wide variety of other trails on intervening days.

WEATHER

High pressure returned to the region by the second week of May, with temperatures consequently rising rapidly to above seasonal, and were far above seasonal for May on 10th-12th, before dropping markedly on 16th-18th as low pressure again briefly impacted Southern California. Temperatures were then around seasonal for a week before another brief trough of lower pressure cools conditions significantly on 26th-30th May. There is, unsurprisingly, no significant new precipitation in the forecasts. Above seasonal midsummer temperatures are forecast for the first week of June, with overnight low temperatures at mid elevations in particular well above seasonal for June. Thereafter temperatures closer to seasonal for the month are forecast until mid June.

Winter 2025/26 set a new low record for total snowfall for San Jacinto Peak, at a paltry 62.75 inches. Most regrettably, this breaks the prior record of 72.60 inches set just the previous 2024/25 winter. For reference, average annual snowfall at San Jacinto Peak in the past eight winters has been 104 inches. Average annual snowfall in Long Valley (at 8500 ft) was 119 inches in the 1970s (data for 1969-1980), at which time snowfall at San Jacinto Peak was approximately 180-200 inches annually.

At San Jacinto Peak (10,810 ft/3295 m) on Friday 5th June 2026 at 0815 the air temperature was 49.7°F (10°C), with a windchill temperature of 40.3°F (5°C), 29% relative humidity, and a stiff SW wind sustained at 19 mph gusting to 26.0 mph.

At the Peak on Monday 1st June 2026 at 0810 the air temperature was 42.5°F (6°C), with a windchill temperature of 36.1°F (2°C), 38% relative humidity, and a mild SE wind sustained at 7 mph gusting to 10.2 mph.

At the Peak on Friday 29th May 2026 at 0820 the air temperature was 31.0°F (-1°C), with a windchill temperature of 19.6°F (-7°C), 69% relative humidity, and a fresh NW wind sustained at 7 mph gusting to 10.1 mph.

TRAIL CONDITIONS

The Pacific Crest Trail and all high country trails are clear of snow (almost all were clear by late April).

Deer Springs Trail from the trailhead to Little Round Valley has already been cleared of the handful of blowdowns from this past winter by the Trail Report.

Trail maintenance work by USFS and State Park volunteers this spring has Willow Creek Trail clear of blowdowns from this past winter, with the final four trees remaining on the State Park side removed last week.

Spitler Peak Trail is clear of treefall hazards, despite having been decimated by about 65 new blowdowns in strong winds that accompanied mid February storms. In February-March the Trail Report cut almost all of these, bringing to 235 the number of trees we have removed from this trail in the past seven years. The remaining four large cedars were removed by Forest Service at the end of March.

The Caramba Trail from near Reeds Meadow through Laws Camp and on to Caramba, and the Cedar Trail from Willow Creek Trail to Laws, are euphemistically (and perhaps dangerously) described by the Forest Service as “not maintained”. In reality both trails have been abandoned for more than a decade and no longer exist. They are so heavily overgrown, largely with dense whitethorn which obscures several hundred downed trees, that hikers should not attempt to follow them (regardless of how much you may trust any particular app).

An informal use trail to Laws is much more direct, generally well maintained, and avoids the bushwhacking of the abandoned trails (some local Idyllwild hikers dubbed it the “King Trail” when I established the route in 2019). It leaves Willow Creek Trail exactly 1.0 mile from Saddle Junction, 0.46 mile from the Skunk Cabbage turning (trailhead at N 33.7796, W 116.6590). The route is marked with cairns (and subtle flagging to aid USFS work crews) and descends following former deer trails for 1.2 miles, meeting Willow Creek about 0.15 mile upstream from the site of the historic Laws Camp (the remains of which were destroyed by the 2013 Mountain Fire and subsequent flood and treefall damage). Blowdowns from this winter have already been removed by the Trail Report, and the huge pine tree that fell in late 2024 was kindly removed by Forest Service volunteers in May 2026.

East from Laws the old Caramba Trail is initially heavily obscured by blowdowns and thick regrowth, but the easternmost 1.5 miles closest to Caramba camp is often well marked with cairns placed by myself and others. Much of the old trail rock work is visible in places. The first mile east of Laws is currently marked along the former trail route with orange flagging, although it is not recommended to follow this in most areas as it goes directly through blowdowns and obstructive vegetation (not around them).

Work to rehabilitate the original Caramba Trail starts in June 2026 – combining the Trail Report, other volunteers, and Forest Service employees – almost exactly 13 years after it burned in the Mountain Fire. Two years of work may be required to fully rehabilitate the old trail route. Please do not remove, move, or attempt to follow, any flagging in this area which is critical for USFS work crews.

The Trail Report “adopted” Seven Pines Trail as a priority for maintenance work due to a disproportionate number of lost hiker rescues (with the agencies evidently no longer maintaining the route). In the past seven years we have removed 101 downed trees and the trail is largely trimmed and cleared annually. Thankfully only two large blowdowns affected the trail this past winter, and both now have very easy workarounds. Although our work has restored this delightful trail to its best condition in well over 20 years, Seven Pines remains a genuine wilderness trail very unlike the wider, bare, obvious routes of, for example, Devil’s Slide or Marion Mountain trails. Cautious navigation remains invaluable for those without extensive experience of hiking this trail.

The San Jacinto Trail Report celebrates ten years of operation in 2026. The Report has helped tens of thousands of hikers, and saved multiple lives, both directly and indirectly. Since the Report became established online, snow/ice rescues in the San Jacinto Mountains have dropped 82%, with an additional benefit of saving Riverside County hundreds of thousands of dollars. While all time is volunteered, the Report uses small private donations to help cover operating costs. Donations keep the Report available to all, free from advertising or paywalls, and independent from agencies. If you have found this Report useful, please consider using this link to the Donate page. Thank you very much for your support.

The brief passage of weak low pressure across Southern California in mid May produced pleasantly cool, spring-like conditions on 16th-18th May, but with no significant accompanying precipitation above 5000 ft. Temperatures returned to around seasonal starting Tuesday 19th May, and are forecast to remain broadly stable for the remainder of May (but coolest on 26th-28th).

High country trails, including the PCT, were clear of snow by the end of April. No traction devices have been required anywhere on the trail system in the San Jacinto mountains since late April.

At this time main springs and creeks are flowing and water availability is not a significant issue for campers or long distance hikers. It is disconcerting however to see all ephemeral and many “perennial” water sources already at low flow rates, and the four very minor precipitation events in April-May did nothing to improve the medium- and long-term water conditions.

The fire lookout at Tahquitz Peak reopened for the season on Sunday 17th May and Black Mountain fire lookout reopens on Saturday 23rd May. Note that the railings at Tahquitz Peak lookout are in urgent need of repair work and should not be considered safe at this time.

Forest Service campgrounds at Boulder Basin, Marion Mountain, and Fern Basin reopened by Thursday 21st May. There is no scheduled reopening date for Dark Canyon campground at this time, although Dark Canyon Road (the access to Seven Pines trailhead) has remained open all winter. The State Park Stone Creek campground reopened in early May.

The gate 1.7 miles up from Highway 243 on Black Mountain Road (4S01) reopened on Wednesday 20th May. Following superficial grading late in 2025 the road is in better condition than last summer, but remains far rougher than in June 2020, the last time it was comprehensively graded. Picnic benches at many of the yellow post sites were replaced with new, immovable models in March.

Be rattlesnake aware. This year rattlesnakes became active 1-2 months earlier than normal at both mid and upper elevations. Above about 5000 ft elevation, the venom of Southern Pacific Rattlesnakes (Crotalus oreganus helleri) in the San Jacinto mountains is predominantly neurotoxic, almost always fatal for dogs and sometimes for humans (see my long read article linked here for further information describing our dogs’ survival after a July 2020 neurotoxic bite). Devil’s Slide Trail, lower Deer Springs and lower Marion Mountain trails, Suicide Rock, near Strawberry Cienega, and trails around Tahquitz Peak are frequent higher elevation locations for sightings, but rattlesnakes have been recorded up to 9350 ft.

Be bear aware. Although rarely reported, 5-6 individually identifiable Black Bears have been observed in the San Jacinto mountains since 2017, and I have personally seen at least one annually for the past seven years. One large, dark chestnut-colored adult with a right ear tag was seen at least six times in multiple locations in Fern Valley and the Willow Creek drainage in July-September 2025 (see my video from 14th September available here, and images from late August in a prior Report linked here). This individual was relocated to the San Jacintos from Indio in May 2017. A smaller, much younger individual was humanely trapped at the State Park Stone Creek campground in April 2026, fitted with a satellite collar plus colored tags in both ears, and released elsewhere in the San Jacinto mountains. My brief videos from Devil’s Slide Trail in September 2021 (linked here) and one walking through our property in Idyllwild in 2018 (linked here) show two other individuals. There have been no reports of negative interactions with humans in the high country, at or near wilderness campsites, or on trails.

Daily survey hikes by the Trail Report year-round in the San Jacinto mountains include multiple routes to the highest peaks including San Jacinto Peak typically 2-3 times per week (but almost daily during and following storm conditions), Tahquitz Peak and area at least once per week, plus a wide variety of other trails on intervening days.

WEATHER

High pressure returned to the region by the second week of May, with temperatures consequently rising rapidly to above seasonal, and were far above seasonal for May on 10th-12th, before dropping markedly on 16th-18th as low pressure again briefly impacted Southern California. Temperatures are now forecast to rise and stabilize roughly around seasonal for the remainder of May under a moderate ridge of high pressure. Temperatures will be coolest on 26th-28th May under a brief trough of lower pressure. There is, unsurprisingly, no new precipitation in the forecasts.

Barring a highly improbable and very late snow, winter 2025/26 will set a new low record for total snowfall for San Jacinto Peak, at a paltry 62.75 inches. Most regrettably, this breaks the prior record of 72.60 inches set just the previous winter 2024/25. For reference, average annual snowfall at San Jacinto Peak in the past eight winters has now been 104 inches. Average annual snowfall in Long Valley (at 8500 ft) was 119 inches in the 1970s (data for 1969-1980), at which time snowfall at San Jacinto Peak was approximately 180-200 inches annually.

At San Jacinto Peak (10,810 ft/3295 m) on Friday 22nd May 2026 at 0800 the air temperature was 44.5°F (7°C), with a windchill temperature of 36.1°F (2°C), 44% relative humidity, and a very light NNE wind sustained at 3 mph gusting to 6.5 mph.

At the Peak on Monday 18th May 2026 at 0820 the air temperature was 33.2°F (1°C), with a windchill temperature of 23.5°F (-5°C), 47% relative humidity, and a light WSW wind sustained at 3 mph gusting to 7.6 mph.

At the Peak on Thursday 14th May 2026 at 1730 the air temperature was 49.2°F (10°C), with a windchill temperature of 41.9°F (5°C), 41% relative humidity, and a light NNE wind sustained at 4 mph gusting to 9.1 mph.

TRAIL CONDITIONS

The Pacific Crest Trail and all major high country trails are clear of snow. This includes the often-treacherous 0.4 mile section of South Ridge Trail from Chinquapin Flat to Tahquitz Peak which is completely clear of snow and ice.

The East Ridge Trail [surveyed 22nd May] route from near Miller Peak to San Jacinto Peak, traditionally the last of the established trails to clear of snow, is now functionally clear, with just a couple of tiny icy snow drifts persisting from February.

Deer Springs Trail from the trailhead to Little Round Valley has already been cleared of the handful of blowdowns from this past winter by the Trail Report.

Trail maintenance work by USFS and State Park volunteers this spring has Willow Creek Trail almost clear of blowdowns from this past winter. The final four trees remaining on the State Park side were scheduled to be removed this past week.

Spitler Peak Trail is clear of treefall hazards, despite having been decimated by about 65 new blowdowns in strong winds that accompanied mid February storms. In February-March the Trail Report cut almost all of these, bringing to 235 the number of trees we have removed from this trail in the past seven years. The remaining four large cedars were removed by Forest Service at the end of March.

The Caramba Trail from near Reeds Meadow through Laws Camp and on to Caramba, and the Cedar Trail from Willow Creek Trail to Laws, are euphemistically (and arguably dangerously) described by the Forest Service as “not maintained”. In reality both trails have been abandoned for more than a decade and no longer exist. They are so heavily overgrown, largely with dense whitethorn which obscures dozens of downed trees, that hikers should not attempt to follow them (regardless of how much you may trust any particular app).

An informal use trail to Laws is much more direct, generally well maintained, and avoids the bushwhacking of the abandoned trails (some local Idyllwild hikers dubbed it the “King Trail” when I established the route in 2019). It leaves Willow Creek Trail exactly 1.0 mile from Saddle Junction, 0.46 mile from the Skunk Cabbage turning (trailhead at N 33.7796, W 116.6590). The route descends following former deer trails for 1.2 miles, meeting Willow Creek about 0.15 mile upstream from the site of the historic Laws Camp (the remains of which were destroyed by the 2013 Mountain Fire and subsequent flood and treefall damage). Blowdowns from this winter have already been removed by the Trail Report, and the huge pine tree that fell in late 2024 was kindly removed by Forest Service volunteers in May 2026. There is some optimism that work to rehabilitate the Caramba Trail may start in 2026, so if you see any flagging in this area please leave it in place.

The San Jacinto Trail Report celebrates ten years of operation in 2026. The Report has helped tens of thousands of hikers, and saved multiple lives, both directly and indirectly. Since the Report became established online, snow/ice rescues in the San Jacinto Mountains have dropped 82%, with an additional benefit of saving Riverside County hundreds of thousands of dollars. While all time is volunteered, the Report uses small private donations to help cover operating costs. Donations keep the Report available to all, free from advertising or paywalls, and independent from agencies. If you have found this Report useful, please consider using this link to the Donate page. Thank you very much for your support.

The PCT and all major high country trails were clear of snow by 30th April. No traction devices have been required anywhere on the trail system in the San Jacinto mountains since late April.

Very light precipitation on the morning of 5th May included 0.22 inch of rain in Idyllwild (at 5550 ft), but nothing more than a hint of a dusting of snow everywhere above about 7500 ft (photo below). By mid morning, elevations above 9100 ft were above the cloud, with the emerging sunshine immediately melting any localized dustings of snow. High pressure returned to the region starting 7th May, with very warm and dry summer-like weather expected until 12th May, and above seasonal temperatures forecast to persist into late May.

At this time main springs and creeks are flowing and water availability is not a significant issue for campers or long distance hikers. It is disconcerting however to see most ephemeral and some “perennial” water sources already at low flow rates, and the four very minor precipitation events in April-May have not improved medium- and long-term water conditions.

Fire lookouts at Tahquitz Peak and Black Mountain reopen for the season on Sunday 17th May and Saturday 23rd May, respectively, having been functionally closed throughout 2025 for maintenance reasons. Note that the steps and railings at Tahquitz Peak lookout are in urgent need of major repair work, and should not be considered safe at this time. The State Park Stone Creek campground reopened this week.

The gate 1.7 miles up from Highway 243 on Black Mountain Road (4S01) remains closed, but will reopen mid month. Following superficial grading late in 2025 the road is in better condition than last summer, but remains far rougher than in June 2020, the last time it was comprehensively graded. Picnic benches at many of the yellow post sites were replaced with new, immovable models in March.

Be rattlesnake aware. This year rattlesnakes became active 1-2 months earlier than normal at both mid and upper elevations. Above about 5000 ft elevation, the venom of Southern Pacific Rattlesnakes (Crotalus oreganus helleri) in the San Jacinto mountains is predominantly neurotoxic, almost always fatal for dogs and sometimes for humans (see my long read article linked here for further information describing our dogs’ survival after a July 2020 neurotoxic bite). Devil’s Slide Trail, lower Deer Springs and lower Marion Mountain trails, Suicide Rock, near Strawberry Cienega, and trails around Tahquitz Peak are frequent higher elevation locations for sightings, but rattlesnakes have been recorded up to 9350 ft.

Be bear aware. Although rarely reported, 4-5 individually identifiable Black Bears have been observed in the San Jacinto mountains since 2017, and I have personally seen at least one annually for the past six years. One large, dark chestnut-colored adult with a right ear tag was seen at least six times in multiple locations in Fern Valley and the Willow Creek drainage in July-September 2025 (see my video from 14th September available here, and images from late August in a prior Report linked here). My brief videos from Devil’s Slide Trail in September 2021 (linked here) and one walking through our property in Idyllwild in 2018 (linked here) show two other individuals. There have been no reports of negative interactions with humans in the high country, at or near campsites, or on trails.

Daily survey hikes by the Trail Report year-round in the San Jacinto mountains include multiple routes to the highest peaks including San Jacinto Peak typically 2-3 times per week (but almost daily during and following storm conditions), Tahquitz Peak and area at least once per week, plus a wide variety of other trails on intervening days.

WEATHER

High pressure returns to the region this week, with temperatures consequently rising rapidly to above seasonal, and will be far above seasonal for May on 10th-12th, before dropping somewhat late next week (but remaining above seasonal). There is, predictably, no significant precipitation in the forecasts.

The last notable low pressure system impacted the region starting 25th April. Light precipitation fell primarily on the evening of 25th continuing into the early morning of 26th. A consistent accumulation of one inch of snow fell everywhere above 8000 ft elevation, with a dusting as low as 6400 ft. Rainfall in Idyllwild was an impressive 0.83 inch. Despite only modest warming, all snow from that storm had melted within a few days.

At San Jacinto Peak (10,810 ft/3295 m) on Thursday 14th May 2026 at 1730 the air temperature was 49.2°F (10°C), with a windchill temperature of 41.9°F (5°C), 41% relative humidity, and a light NNE wind sustained at 4 mph gusting to 9.1 mph.

At the Peak on Monday 11th May 2026 at 0810 the air temperature was 52.6°F (11°C), with a windchill temperature of 43.9°F (6°C), 21% relative humidity, and a gusty SSW wind sustained at 9 mph gusting to 15.6 mph.

At the Peak on Thursday 7th May 2026 at 0635 the air temperature was 37.4°F (3°C), with a windchill temperature of 25.2°F (-4°C), 50% relative humidity, and a steady NE wind sustained at 15 mph gusting to 19.7 mph.

TRAIL CONDITIONS

The Pacific Crest Trail and all major high country trails are clear of snow. This includes the often-treacherous 0.4 mile section of South Ridge Trail from Chinquapin Flat to Tahquitz Peak [surveyed 10th May] which is completely clear of snow and ice.

The East Ridge Trail [surveyed 11th May] route from near Miller Peak to San Jacinto Peak has only 10% cover of drifted snow persisting from much earlier in the season. Nevertheless in places the old trail is partly obscured by snow drifts, and cautious navigation is recommended.

Deer Springs Trail [surveyed 1st and 7th May] is clear of snow to San Jacinto Peak. Even in Little Round Valley, no significant snow remained by the beginning of May (photo below).

Spitler Peak Trail is clear of treefall hazards, despite having been decimated by about 65 new blowdowns in strong winds that accompanied mid February storms. In February-March the Trail Report cut almost all of these, bringing to 235 the number of trees we have removed from this trail in the past seven years. The remaining four large cedars were removed by Forest Service at the end of March.

The Caramba Trail from near Reeds Meadow through Laws Camp and on to Caramba, and the Cedar Trail from Willow Creek Trail to Laws, are euphemistically (and arguably dangerously) described by the Forest Service as “not maintained”. In reality both trails have been abandoned for more than a decade and no longer exist. They are so heavily overgrown, largely with dense whitethorn which obscures dozens of downed trees, that hikers should not attempt to follow them (regardless of how much you may trust any particular app).

An informal use trail to Laws is much more direct, generally well maintained, and avoids the bushwhacking of the abandoned trails (some local Idyllwild hikers dubbed it the “King Trail” when I established the route in 2019). It leaves Willow Creek Trail exactly 1.0 mile from Saddle Junction, 0.46 mile from the Skunk Cabbage turning (trailhead at N 33.7796, W 116.6590). The route descends following former deer trails for 1.2 miles, meeting Willow Creek about 0.15 mile upstream from the site of the historic Laws Camp (the remains of which were destroyed by the 2013 Mountain Fire and subsequent flood and treefall damage). Blowdowns from this winter have already been removed by the Trail Report, and the huge pine tree that fell in late 2024 was kindly removed by Forest Service volunteers in May 2026. There is some optimism that work to rehabilitate the Caramba Trail may start in 2026, so if you see any flagging in this area please leave it in place.

The San Jacinto Trail Report celebrates ten years of operation in 2026. The Report has helped tens of thousands of hikers, and saved multiple lives, both directly and indirectly. Since the Report became established online, snow/ice rescues in the San Jacinto Mountains have dropped 82%, with an additional benefit of saving Riverside County hundreds of thousands of dollars. While all time is volunteered, the Report uses small private donations to help cover operating costs. Donations keep the Report available to all, free from advertising or paywalls, and independent from agencies. If you have found this Report useful, please consider using this link to the Donate page. Thank you very much for your support.

UPDATE Tuesday 5th May 2026: light and localized precipitation this morning included 0.21 inch of rain in Idyllwild (largely between 0630-1130). Although we found it snowing very gently everywhere above about 7500 ft on our hike to San Jacinto Peak, there was no measurable accumulation at any elevation. By mid morning, elevations above 9100 ft were above the cloud, melting the few localized dustings of snow. No further precipitation is forecast for the afternoon, and temperatures rise rapidly over the remainder of the week.

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The PCT and all major high country trails were clear of snow by 30th April. No traction devices are required anywhere on the trail system. Hikers heading off trail to 10,000+ ft peaks other than San Jacinto Peak may find that spikes are useful in places as significant drifts persist on the north slopes of Jean and Shirley peaks, and Marion Mountain.

The third very minor storm of April impacted the San Jacinto mountains overnight on Saturday 25th, with light precipitation persisting into mid morning on Sunday 26th. I surveyed from Idyllwild to the highest peaks that morning, ascending in light rain to 7700 ft, and then through intermittent light snow for the remainder of the morning. Snow was largely limited to about one inch depth from 8000 ft to San Jacinto Peak, but locally averaging 1.5 inches deep between 9000-10,000 ft, indicating that the highest peaks were probably above the cloud for part of the storm. Snow dusted as low as 6400 ft in Fern Valley.

Following a brief cooling on 4th-5th, persistent high pressure is forecast to return to the region starting 7th May, with warm and dry summer-like weather consequently expected.

The gate 1.7 miles up from Highway 243 on Black Mountain Road (4S01) remains closed. Following superficial grading late in 2025 the road is in better condition than last summer, but remains far rougher than in June 2020, the last time it was thoroughly graded. Picnic benches at many of the yellow post sites were replaced with new, modern, immovable models in March.

Be rattlesnake aware. This year rattlesnakes became active 1-2 months earlier than normal at both mid and upper elevations. Above about 5000 ft elevation, the venom of Southern Pacific Rattlesnakes (Crotalus oreganus helleri) in the San Jacinto mountains is predominantly neurotoxic, almost always fatal for dogs and sometimes for humans (see my long read article linked here for further information describing our dogs’ survival after a July 2020 neurotoxic bite). Devil’s Slide Trail, lower Deer Springs and lower Marion Mountain trails, Suicide Rock, near Strawberry Cienega, and trails around Tahquitz Peak are frequent higher elevation locations for sightings, but rattlesnakes have been recorded up to 9350 ft.

Daily survey hikes by the Trail Report year-round in the San Jacinto mountains include multiple routes to the highest peaks including San Jacinto Peak typically 2-3 times per week (but almost daily during and following storm conditions), Tahquitz Peak and area at least once per week, plus a wide variety of other trails on intervening days.

WEATHER

A very weak low pressure system impacted the region starting 25th April. Light precipitation fell primarily on the evening of 25th continuing into the early morning of 26th April. A very consistent accumulation of just one inch of snow fell everywhere above 8000 ft elevation, with a dusting as low as 6400 ft. Snowfall reached a maximum of 1.5 inches at 8900-10,100 ft on the east slope. Snowfall was slightly lower at the highest elevations, as the peaks were above the cloud for large parts of the stormy weather. Rainfall in Idyllwild was an impressive 0.83 inch, almost all of which fell prior to 0700 on 26th.

Steady warming was a feature of the last few days of April, with temperatures peaking slightly above seasonal on 1st-2nd May. Temperatures then drop again rapidly as another minor low pressure system passes over the region on 4th-5th May, although at this time there is no significant further precipitation in the forecasts. High pressure is provisionally forecast to return by the second week of May, with the end of the “April showers” and temperatures returning to above seasonal.

At San Jacinto Peak (10,810 ft/3295 m) on Friday 1st May 2026 at 0815 the air temperature was 38.1°F (3°C), with a windchill temperature of 28.6°F (-2°C), 52% relative humidity, and a gentle NNE wind sustained at 4 mph gusting to 8.4 mph.

At the Peak on Tuesday 28th April 2026 at 0810 the air temperature was 34.5°F (1°C), with a windchill temperature of 23.2°F (-5°C), 17% relative humidity, and a light WSW wind sustained at 6 mph gusting to 10.8 mph.

At the Peak on Sunday 26th April 2026 at 0920 the air temperature was 19.9°F (-7°C), with a windchill temperature of 0.1°F (-18°C), 100% relative humidity, and a stiff due West wind sustained at 19 mph gusting to 25.8 mph.

TRAIL CONDITIONS

Trails below 8000 ft elevation are now functionally clear of snow (trails above 7000 ft were entirely under light snow cover as of the morning of 26th April, although nowhere was the average depth greater than 1.5 inches). Patchy, very thin, icy snow covers only about 10% of trails above that elevation, with rapid melting continuing over the next 2-3 days.

Spikes are not required anywhere on the PCT or high country trail system at this time.

The Pacific Crest Trail [surveyed 1st May] is now functionally clear of snow throughout the San Jacinto mountains. Snow cover is <10% between Miles 175-178. The remainder of the PCT is functionally clear of snow, including the Fuller Ridge Trail section (Miles 185.5 to 191.5).

The often-treacherous 0.4 mile section of South Ridge Trail from Chinquapin Flat to Tahquitz Peak [surveyed 2nd May] is now functionally clear of snow and ice.

South Ridge Trail [surveyed 2nd May] is completely clear of snow from the South Ridge Road trailhead to Tahquitz Peak.

Devil’s Slide Trail [surveyed 1st May] is clear of snow and ice.

The Wellman Trail [surveyed 1st May] is clear of snow.

The Peak Trail [surveyed 1st May] is functionally clear of snow, with just a handful of tiny patches in the forested section at 9900-10,100 ft.

The East Ridge Trail [surveyed 1st May] route above Miller Peak has only 40% cover of drifted snow persisting from earlier in the season (generally only a few inches deep).

Deer Springs Trail [surveyed 1st May] is clear of snow to San Jacinto Peak. Even in Little Round Valley, remarkably no significant snow remains (photo below).

Marion Mountain and Seven Pines trails [surveyed 1st May] are clear of snow.

The San Jacinto Trail Report celebrates ten years of operation in 2026. The Report has helped tens of thousands of hikers, and saved multiple lives, both directly and indirectly. Since the Report became established online, snow/ice rescues in the San Jacinto Mountains have dropped 82%, with an additional benefit of saving Riverside County hundreds of thousands of dollars. While all time is volunteered, the Report uses small private donations to help cover operating costs. Donations keep the Report available to all, free from advertising or paywalls, and independent from agencies. If you have found this Report useful, please consider using this link to the Donate page. Thank you very much for your support.

Light precipitation is forecast for mid elevations overnight on Saturday 25th extending into the morning of Sunday 26th, accompanied by strong winds at all elevations. The high country is expected to remain above the cloud, with minimal or no precipitation currently forecast above 9000 ft. Note also that temperatures are expected to fluctuate near freezing above 10,000 ft, with persistent windy conditions, until the end of April. This will produce freeze/thaw cycles at upper elevations, and what little snow remains may be firm and icy in the mornings (at least).

In keeping with the theme of this “winter”, melting of the minor but widespread snowfall from 12th-13th April has been very rapid. The PCT in the San Jacinto mountains, and the high country trails, have been functionally clear of snow since late last week, and spikes are not required on the trail system.

The absence of snow depth data in this report does not mean there is no snow in the high country, simply that remnant snow is so patchy and localized to the highest elevations that it no longer justifies detailed measurements.

At this time all of the main springs and creeks are flowing and water availability is not an issue for campers or long distance hikers. It was disconcerting by late March to see that many ephemeral and some “perennial” water sources were already at low flow rates, and two minor precipitation events in April have not significantly improved the medium- and long-term water conditions.

Be rattlesnake aware. This year rattlesnakes became active 1-2 months earlier than normal at both mid and upper elevations. Above about 5000 ft elevation, the venom of Southern Pacific Rattlesnakes (Crotalus oreganus helleri) in the San Jacinto mountains is predominantly neurotoxic, almost always fatal for dogs and sometimes for humans (see my long read article linked here for further information describing our dogs’ survival after a July 2020 neurotoxic bite). Devil’s Slide Trail, lower Deer Springs and lower Marion Mountain trails, Suicide Rock, near Strawberry Cienega, and trails around Tahquitz Peak are frequent higher elevation locations for sightings, but rattlesnakes have been recorded up to 9350 ft (the latter unlikely before midsummer).

The gate 1.7 miles up from Highway 243 on Black Mountain Road (4S01) remains closed. Following superficial grading late in 2025 the road is in better condition than last summer, but remains far rougher than in June 2020, the last time it was thoroughly graded. Picnic benches at many of the yellow post sites were replaced with new, modern, immovable models in March.

Daily survey hikes by the Trail Report year-round in the San Jacinto mountains include multiple routes to the highest peaks including San Jacinto Peak typically 2-3 times per week (but almost daily during and following storm conditions), Tahquitz Peak and area at least once per week, plus a wide variety of other trails on intervening days.

WEATHER

A weak low pressure system impacted the region on 10th-16th April. Light precipitation fell primarily on the evening of 12th and both afternoon and evening of 13th April. The former resulted in a very consistent accumulation of just 0.5 inch of snow everywhere above 9000 ft elevation, dusting as low as 6700 ft. The latter was heavier, with a freeze level near 5000 ft, but snowfall was still limited to a maximum of three inches at 8500-9500 ft on the east slope, and 9600-9900 ft on the west slope. Snowfall was slightly lower at the highest elevations, as the peaks were above the cloud for large parts of the stormy weather, especially on 13th.

Rainfall in Idyllwild was an impressive 0.67 inch by 0700 on 13th, and another 0.53 inch by the same time on 14th. The mid elevations on the western slope received some intense hail storms on the evening of 13th, down to 5000 ft (locally lower in places).

The last week of April will be somewhat unsettled, with strong winds in the high country and most days being partly or mostly cloudy, with temperatures generally below seasonal. Lifted marine layer cloud is expected to bring light rain (up to 0.3 inch in Idyllwild) to mid elevations overnight on Saturday 25th, continuing into Sunday 26th, and possibly also on 28th-30th April. The high country may remain largely above the cloud, with no meaningful precipitation forecast above 9000 ft.

High pressure is forecast to return in the first week of May, with temperatures starting to rise to near or even above seasonal.

At San Jacinto Peak (10,810 ft/3295 m) on Monday 20th April 2026 at 0840 the air temperature was 41.1°F (5°C), with a windchill temperature of 32.7°F (0°C), 23% relative humidity, and a light SSE wind sustained at 6 mph gusting to 9.4 mph.

At the Peak on Friday 17th April 2026 at 0840 the air temperature was 38.6°F (4°C), with a windchill temperature of 28.2°F (-2°C), 12% relative humidity, and a steady NW wind sustained at 8 mph gusting to 14.5 mph.

TRAIL CONDITIONS

Trails below 9000 ft elevation are now completely clear of snow, with all remaining high country trails now functionally clear of snow. Trails can be assumed to be clear of snow unless discussed below. Spikes are not required anywhere on the PCT or high country trail system at this time.

The Pacific Crest Trail [surveyed 17th and 20th April] is functionally clear throughout the San Jacinto mountains, with some extremely limited, patchy snow in places as follows. Snow cover is 10% between Miles 175-178. Snow cover around Mile 185 includes patches averaging 10% cover. The Fuller Ridge Trail section (Miles 185.5 to 191.5) is now almost completely clear of snow. Tiny, stubborn sections of snow remain around the crossing of the North Fork of the San Jacinto River (Mile 186), and on the northerly slopes (approx. Miles 187.3-187.8 and 188.6-190).

The often-treacherous 0.4 mile section of South Ridge Trail from Chinquapin Flat to Tahquitz Peak [surveyed 19th April] is now functionally clear of snow and it is easy to pass by the tiny remnant patches (photo above). Spikes are not required.

The Wellman and Peak trails [surveyed 20th April] are functionally clear of snow, with tiny patches persisting only in the most forested areas, but none posing any significant hazard and none requiring spikes. The East Ridge Trail [surveyed 20th April] route above Miller Peak has only 40% snow cover, and a couple of single sets of tracks can be followed through the snow drifts on the upper route.

Deer Springs Trail [surveyed 17th April] is functionally clear of snow to Little Round Valley. A few tiny patches persist lower down, most notably near the Deer Springs crossing. Snow cover is very thin and increasingly patchy at about 20% in Little Round Valley (photo below), but is already functionally clear from there to San Jacinto Peak.

Marion Mountain Trail [surveyed 17th April] is clear of snow to the PCT/Deer Springs Trail.

Seven Pines Trail [surveyed 17th April] is functionally clear of snow, although there are no fresh tracks to follow through the tiny snow patches persisting near the top of the trail.

Spitler Peak Trail is clear of treefall hazards, despite having been decimated by about 65 new blowdowns in strong winds that accompanied mid February storms. In four days of work since late February, the Trail Report cut almost all of these, bringing to 235 the number of trees we have removed from this trail in the past seven years. The remaining four large cedars were removed by Forest Service at the end of March.

The Caramba Trail from near Reeds Meadow through Laws Camp and on to Caramba, and the Cedar Trail from Willow Creek Trail to Laws, are euphemistically (and arguably dangerously) described by the Forest Service as “not maintained”. In reality both trails have been abandoned for more than a decade and no longer exist. They are so heavily overgrown, largely with dense whitethorn which obscures dozens of downed trees, that hikers should not attempt to follow them (regardless of how much you may trust any particular app).

An informal use trail to Laws is much more direct, generally well maintained, and avoids the bushwhacking of the abandoned trails (some local Idyllwild hikers dubbed it the “King Trail” when I established the route in 2019). It leaves Willow Creek Trail exactly 1.0 mile from Saddle Junction, 0.46 mile from the Skunk Cabbage turning (trailhead at N 33.7796, W 116.6590). The route descends following former deer trails for 1.2 miles, meeting Willow Creek about 0.15 mile upstream from the site of the historic Laws Camp (the remains of which were destroyed by the 2013 Mountain Fire and subsequent flood and treefall damage). One huge pine tree fell in late 2024 across the King Trail about midway down that requires a minor scramble underneath, but most additional blowdowns from this winter have already been removed. There is some optimism from the Forest Service that work to rehabilitate the Caramba Trail may start in 2026, so if you see any flagging in this area please leave it in place.

The San Jacinto Trail Report celebrates ten years of operation in 2026. The Report has helped tens of thousands of hikers, and saved multiple lives, both directly and indirectly. Since the Report became established online, snow/ice rescues in the San Jacinto Mountains have dropped 82%, with an additional benefit of saving Riverside County hundreds of thousands of dollars. While all time is volunteered, the Report uses small private donations to help cover operating costs. Donations keep the Report available to all, free from advertising or paywalls, and independent from agencies. If you have found this Report useful, please consider using this link to the Donate page. Thank you very much for your support.

Editorial note: In keeping with the theme of this “winter”, melting of the minor but widespread snowfall from 12th-13th April has been exceptionally rapid. Trail conditions discussed in this Report have consequently been heavily revised following further surveys on 16th-19th.

Much of the PCT in the San Jacinto mountains, and the high country trails, were functionally clear of snow by the afternoon of 16th, with some extended snow patches remaining in limited areas between PCT Miles 175-190, as described in Trail Conditions below.

Snow depths are so shallow, and tracks so well defined where there is snow, that spikes are not generally required anywhere on the PCT (or indeed elsewhere on the high country trails). Melting will continue to be rapid everywhere as temperatures rise markedly on 18th-20th.

Two minor bands of storms, on the afternoon/evenings of Sunday 12th and Monday 13th, with the bulk of the precipitation on the 13th, combined to produce 2-3 inches of snow everywhere above 7500 ft. Snow and hail dusted down to 5000 ft on 13th, but was functionally melted below 6500 ft by the afternoon of 14th.

I broke trail on the morning of 14th from Devil’s Slide Trail to San Jacinto Peak, and measured 1.5 inches of snow at Humber Park (6500 ft), 2.5 inches at Saddle Junction (8100 ft), three inches throughout 8500-9500 ft, but only 2.5 inches above 10,000 ft. I recorded a short video report late morning on Tuesday 14th at San Jacinto Peak (linked here).

I then broke trail down upper Deer Springs Trail, finally connecting with PCT hiker tracks near the Fuller Ridge junction. This was the same route that we hiked on 13th. Snow depths on Deer Springs Trail were already shallower by late morning than on the ascent on the other side of the mountains, with melting already well underway even under partly cloudy skies.

Note that temperatures are tentatively forecast to fluctuate near freezing above 10,000 ft into late April. This will result in freeze/thaw cycles at upper elevations, and remnant snow may be firm and icy in the mornings (at least).

Be rattlesnake aware. This year rattlesnakes became active 1-2 months earlier than normal at both mid and upper elevations. Above about 5000 ft elevation, the venom of Southern Pacific Rattlesnakes (Crotalus oreganus helleri) in the San Jacinto mountains is predominantly neurotoxic, almost always fatal for dogs and sometimes for humans (see my long read article linked here for further information describing our dogs’ survival after a July 2020 neurotoxic bite). Devil’s Slide Trail, lower Deer Springs and lower Marion Mountain trails, Suicide Rock, near Strawberry Cienega, and trails around Tahquitz Peak are frequent higher elevation locations for sightings, but rattlesnakes have been recorded up to 9350 ft (the latter unlikely before midsummer).

The gate 1.7 miles up from Highway 243 on Black Mountain Road (4S01) remains closed. Following superficial grading late in 2025 the road is in better condition than last summer, but remains far rougher than in June 2020, the last time it was thoroughly graded. Picnic benches at many of the yellow post sites were replaced with new, modern, immovable models in March.

Daily survey hikes by the Trail Report year-round in the San Jacinto mountains include multiple routes to the highest peaks including San Jacinto Peak typically 2-3 times per week (but almost daily during and following storm conditions), Tahquitz Peak and area at least once per week, plus a wide variety of other trails on intervening days.

WEATHER

A relatively weak low pressure system impacted the region starting 10th April. Light precipitation fell primarily on the evening of 12th and both afternoon and evening of 13th April. The former resulted in a very consistent accumulation of just 0.5 inch of snow everywhere above 9000 ft elevation, but a dusting as low as 6700 ft. The latter was heavier, with a lower freeze level to near 5000 ft, but snowfall was still limited to a maximum of three inches at 8500-9500 ft on the east slope, and 9600-9900 ft on the west slope. Snowfall was slightly lower at the highest elevations, as the peaks were above the cloud for large parts of the stormy weather, especially on 13th.

Rainfall in Idyllwild was an impressive 0.67 inch by 0700 on 13th, and another 0.53 inch by the same time on 14th. The mid elevations on the western slope received some intense hail storms on the evening of 13th, down to 5000 ft (locally lower in places).

Other than warmer days on 18th-19th, temperatures are forecast to be around seasonal at mid elevations for the remainder of April. Temperatures in the high country will also be roughly seasonal, i.e., near freezing, during the same period. There is currently no significant precipitation in the forecasts, although there is an increasing possibility of unsettled weather on 21st-22nd April. High pressure is forecast to return by the end of April, with temperatures rising to above seasonal at the end of the month and into early May.

At San Jacinto Peak (10,810 ft/3295 m) on Friday 17th April 2026 at 0840 the air temperature was 38.6°F (4°C), with a windchill temperature of 28.2°F (-2°C), 12% relative humidity, and a steady NW wind sustained at 8 mph gusting to 14.5 mph.

At the Peak on Tuesday 14th April 2026 at 0955 the air temperature was 26.3°F (-3°C), with a windchill temperature of 17.8°F (-8°C), 65% relative humidity, and a gentle NNE wind sustained at 4 mph gusting to 6.0 mph.

At the Peak on Monday 13th April 2026 at 0930 the air temperature was 18.1°F (-8°C), with a windchill temperature of -0.4°F (-18°C), 63% relative humidity, and a frigid SW wind sustained at 10 mph gusting to 16.8 mph.

TRAIL CONDITIONS

Trails below 8000 ft elevation are now completely clear of snow, with all remaining high country trails now functionally clear of snow, with no more than a handful of minor persistent patches as described below (trails above 6000 ft were entirely under light snow cover as of the morning of 14th April, although nowhere was the average depth greater than three inches).

Spikes are not generally required anywhere on the PCT or high country trail system at this time. In my interactions with more than 60 PCT and day hikers during lengthy high country survey hikes on 13th, 14th, 16th, and 17th April, not a single hiker was using any traction device. Of course hikers must make their own decisions regarding the need for spikes, based on knowledge of their own expertise, and their comfort level hiking on patchy, thin, icy snow.

The Pacific Crest Trail [surveyed 16th and 17th April] currently has very patchy, thin snow throughout Miles 175-190 in the San Jacinto mountains. However melting will continue to be rapid, and excellent tracks are already in place throughout remnant snow patches, so conditions are not notably hazardous anywhere, and few if any hikers are using spikes. Snow cover is 60% between Miles 175-178 but with a well-defined track. Snow cover is then only 10% to Mile 180.5, but 80% just south of Annie’s Junction at about Mile 180.8. Miles 181-185 are now functionally clear of snow. Snow cover increases around Mile 185, although spikes are not generally required. The Fuller Ridge Trail section (Miles 185.5 to 191.5) is now largely clear of snow. Short, patchy, stubborn sections of snow remain around the crossing of the North Fork of the San Jacinto River (Mile 186), and on the northerly slopes (approx. Miles 187.3-187.8 and 188.6-190), but nowhere are spikes required. North of Mile 190, the trail is functionally clear of snow.

The often-treacherous 0.4 mile section of South Ridge Trail from Chinquapin Flat to Tahquitz Peak [surveyed 19th April] is now functionally clear of snow and it is easy to pass by the remnant patches (photo above). Spikes are not required.

South Ridge Trail [surveyed 19th April] south from Tahquitz Peak is clear of snow.

Devil’s Slide Trail [surveyed 16th and 17th April] is clear of snow.

The Wellman and Peak trails [surveyed 17th April] are functionally clear of snow, with minor patches persisting in the most forested areas, but none posing any significant hazard and none requiring spikes. The East Ridge Trail [surveyed 17th April] route above Miller Peak is already 50% clear of snow, and a couple of single sets of tracks can be followed through the snow drifts on the upper route.

Deer Springs Trail [surveyed 16th and 17th April] is functionally clear of snow to Little Round Valley. A few patches persist lower down, most notably near the Deer Springs crossing. Snow cover is very thin and increasingly patchy at about 30% in Little Round Valley (photo below), but then even less from there to San Jacinto Peak.

Marion Mountain Trail [surveyed 17th April] is functionally clear of snow to the PCT/Deer Springs Trail, with just a handful of tiny snow patches remaining, mainly just below the PCT.

Seven Pines Trail [surveyed 17th April] is functionally clear of snow, although there are no fresh tracks to follow through the small snow patches persisting near the top of the trail.

The San Jacinto Trail Report celebrates ten years of operation in 2026. The Report has helped tens of thousands of hikers, and saved multiple lives, both directly and indirectly. Since the Report became established online, snow/ice rescues in the San Jacinto Mountains have dropped 82%, with an additional benefit of saving Riverside County hundreds of thousands of dollars. While all time is volunteered, the Report uses small private donations to help cover operating costs. Donations keep the Report available to all, free from advertising or paywalls, and independent from agencies. If you have found this Report useful, please consider using this link to the Donate page. Thank you very much for your support.

UPDATE Tuesday 14th April 2026 at 0730: brief update from San Jacinto Peak. Snow and hail yesterday evening dusted down to 5000 ft. I broke trail this morning from Devil’s Slide Trail to the Peak, and measured 1.5 inches of snow at Humber Park, 2.5 inches at Saddle Junction, three inches at 8500-9500 ft, but only 2.5 inches above 10,000 ft. Snow is soft and thin and most hikers will find spikes are not required at present. Melting will be very rapid on sun-exposed slopes today. I will have put in a fresh track on Deer Springs Trail by early afternoon, and hope to have a more detailed update to the Trail Report by this evening.

UPDATE Monday 13th April 2026 at 1430: Light snow started at 1030 as we descended upper Deer Springs Trail, and continued until about 1330 in Idyllwild. The latter received 0.12 inch of rain. Although heavy at times, temperatures were warm enough that snow struggled to accumulate below 8000 ft, and much of the high country was periodically above the cloud. Some sections of some trails (e.g., mid elevations of Deer Springs Trail) have a total accumulation of about one inch of snow, while sun-exposed trails (much of the Peak Trail) have already functionally cleared of snow. There are fresh tracks on much of the uppermost PCT, including Fuller Ridge (Miles 185.5-190.5), but regardless snow depths are so shallow throughout the PCT that spikes are not required.

UPDATE Monday 13th April 2026 at 0930: As forecast, periodic light rain yesterday afternoon totaled and impressive 0.66 inch in Idyllwild. The high country remained above the cloud on/off for much of the early afternoon, with just 0.5 inch of snow above 9000 ft but with a dusting as low as 6700 ft. Further minor rain and snow amounts are now forecast for today between 1030-1900. Obviously this precipitation has so far had no significant impact on Pacific Crest Trail conditions.

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A minor low pressure system is forecast to bring light precipitation on 11th-13th April, with the bulk of the rain at mid elevations now expected on Sunday 12th, with limited snow at higher elevations on 12th and 13th. Roughly 0.5-0.7 inch of rain is possible below 7000 ft, with a freeze level generally near 8000 ft on 12th dropping to 7000 ft on 13th. Snow forecasts for the high country have ranged from 1-10 inches above 10,000 ft, now regrettably favoring the lower end of that range, with no more than 1-2 inches of snow expected at the upper elevations of the PCT in these mountains (8000-9000 ft, possibly impacting PCT Miles 174-189).

All hikers, notably Pacific Crest Trail hikers, should be prepared for the likelihood of winter storm conditions on 10th-14th April. Temperatures are tentatively forecast to remain near freezing above 10,000 ft into late April.

In contrast, temperatures more typical of June-September persisted for most of March, resulting in an unprecedented rate of snowmelt (of snow dating back to storms on mid February). The high country trail system was functionally clear of snow by the end of March for the first time on record.

At this time all of the main springs and creeks are flowing and water availability is not an issue for campers or long distance hikers. It was disconcerting to see as early as late March that many ephemeral, and some “perennial”, water sources were already at low flow rates (more akin to early summer) and some may start to dry in the next month or two (depending upon whether there is further significant precipitation).

Be rattlesnake aware. Due to exceptionally warm temperatures in March, reliable sightings of rattlesnakes as high as 6000 ft on the Ernie Maxwell Trail started on 19th March, and on Devil’s Slide Trail at least to 7200 ft from 24th March. Activity will be suppressed by colder weather, but at this time rattlesnakes could be observed on any sunny, mild, day (see photo below). Above about 5000 ft elevation, the venom of Southern Pacific Rattlesnakes (Crotalus oreganus helleri) in the San Jacinto mountains is predominantly neurotoxic, almost always fatal for dogs and sometimes for humans (see my long read article linked here for further information describing our dogs’ survival after a July 2020 neurotoxic bite). Devil’s Slide Trail, lower Deer Springs and lower Marion Mountain trails, Suicide Rock, near Strawberry Cienega, and trails around Tahquitz Peak are frequent higher elevation locations for sightings, but rattlesnakes have been recorded up to 9350 ft.

The gate 1.7 miles up from Highway 243 on Black Mountain Road (4S01) remains closed. Following superficial grading late in 2025 the road is in better condition than last summer, but remains far rougher than in June 2020, the last time it was thoroughly graded. Picnic benches at many of the yellow post sites were replaced with new, modern, immovable models in March.

Daily survey hikes by the Trail Report year-round in the San Jacinto mountains include multiple routes to the highest peaks including San Jacinto Peak typically 2-3 times per week (but almost daily during storm conditions), Tahquitz Peak and area at least once per week, plus a wide variety of other trails on intervening days.

WEATHER

Weak low pressure replaced the persistent high pressure (“heat dome”), that brought weeks of exceptional warmth, over Southern California starting 30th March. Limited precipitation overnight on 31st March produced one inch of snow above 8900 ft, with a sparse dusting down to 8300 ft, and 0.13 inch of rain in Idyllwild. However by late morning on 1st April, snow had almost entirely melted below 9000 ft, and by 2nd April remnant snow had rapidly melted from sun-exposed trails (photos below). The low pressure was once again briefly replaced by weak high pressure on 4th-8th April, with temperatures rising to slightly above seasonal.

As described in more detail above, another relatively weak low pressure system impacts the region starting 10th April. Light precipitation is expected primarily on 12th and 13th April, with a relatively high freeze level confining a few inches (at most) of snow to above 6500 ft, and with rainfall at mid elevations (e.g., Idyllwild), perhaps as much as 0.5 inch on 12th, but light rain possible anytime between 10th-14th.

At San Jacinto Peak (10,810 ft/3295 m) on Tuesday 7th April 2026 at 0850 the air temperature was 41.6°F (5°C), with a windchill temperature of 34.2°F (1°C), 29% relative humidity, and a steady NNE wind sustained at 4 mph gusting to 6.5 mph.

At the Peak on Saturday 4th April 2026 at 1040 the air temperature was 41.0°F (5°C), with a windchill temperature of 32.2°F (0°C), 36% relative humidity, and a light due East wind sustained at 3 mph gusting to 5.9 mph.

At the Peak on Wednesday 1st April 2026 at 0855 the air temperature was 22.4°F (-5°C), with a windchill temperature of 3.0°F (-16°C), 64% relative humidity, and a bitter WNW wind sustained at 13 mph gusting to 25.7 mph.

At the Peak on Tuesday 24th March 2026 at 0900 the air temperature was 61.1°F (16°C), with a “windchill” temperature of 58.5°F (15°C), 31% relative humidity, and a barely discernable SSE breeze sustained at 1 mph gusting to 4.0 mph. The air temperature broke the all-time record high for the Peak in March, set multiple times in the preceding ten days, by more than 15 degrees Fahrenheit compared to the pre-2026 record.

TRAIL CONDITIONS

With a couple of very minor exceptions mentioned below, trails are now snow-free. Traction devices are no longer required on the trail system, although hikers venturing off-trail to 10,000+ ft peaks other than San Jacinto may find spikes useful for the next few days as remnant north slope snow fields firm up in the colder conditions.

Very light precipitation overnight on 31st March produced an average depth of one inch of snow above 8900 ft, however by 2nd April new snow had rapidly melted from sun-exposed trails (example photo below), and the fresh snow has now functionally all melted.

The Pacific Crest Trail is clear of snow throughout the San Jacinto mountains. A few tiny snow patches persist between Miles 175-177 but spikes are not required. The Fuller Ridge Trail section (Miles 185.5 to 191.5) has completely cleared of snow in the past two weeks.

The often-treacherous 0.4 mile section of South Ridge Trail from Chinquapin Flat to Tahquitz Peak is clear of icy snow. Spikes are no longer required.

Wellman Trail [surveyed 9th April] is clear of snow.

The Peak Trail [surveyed 9th April] is functionally clear of snow, with a couple of tiny icy patches around 10,000 ft elevation. Spikes are not required. Immediately around San Jacinto Peak patchy snow cover persists in drifts, but it is now easy to avoid all snow.

The East Ridge Trail route [surveyed 9th April] now has no discernable track due to melting, but on the plus side snow cover from near the Miller switchback (10,400 ft) to San Jacinto Peak averages only 40%. Drifted snow here is still up to 12 inches deep in places, and can be very soft by late morning.

Deer Springs Trail [surveyed 4th April] is functionally clear of snow to San Jacinto Peak. The few tiny snow patches in the trail through and above Little Round Valley pose no hazards. Spikes are no longer required. The remarkably small number of blowdowns on this trail this winter have already been removed by the Trail Report.

Fuller Ridge Trail [surveyed 30th March] is clear of snow. Two new large blowdowns from this winter on this trail were removed by Forest Service on 7th April.

South Ridge Trail to Tahquitz Peak [surveyed 27th March] is clear of snow to Tahquitz Peak. Four new blowdowns that came down on this trail in the mid February storms have already been removed by the Trail Report.

Spitler Peak Trail is now clear of treefall hazards, despite having been decimated by about 65 new blowdowns in strong winds that accompanied the mid February storms. In four days of work since late February, the Trail Report cut almost all of these (example photo below), bringing to 235 the number of trees we have removed from this trail in the past seven years. The remaining four large cedars were removed by Forest Service on 31st March.

The Caramba Trail from near Reeds Meadow through Laws Camp and on to Caramba, and the Cedar Trail from Willow Creek Trail to Laws, are euphemistically (and arguably dangerously) described by the Forest Service as “not maintained”. In reality both trails have been abandoned for more than a decade and no longer exist. They are so heavily overgrown, largely with dense whitethorn which obscures dozens of downed trees, that hikers should not attempt to follow them (regardless of how much you may trust any particular app).

An informal use trail to Laws is much more direct, generally well maintained, and avoids the bushwhacking of the abandoned trails (some local Idyllwild hikers dubbed it the “King Trail” when I established the route in 2019). It leaves Willow Creek Trail exactly 1.0 mile from Saddle Junction, 0.46 mile from the Skunk Cabbage turning (trailhead at N 33.7796, W 116.6590). The route descends following former deer trails for 1.2 miles, meeting Willow Creek about 0.15 mile upstream from the site of the historic Laws Camp (the remains of which were destroyed by the 2013 Mountain Fire and subsequent flood and treefall damage). One huge pine tree fell in late 2024 across the King Trail about midway down that requires a minor scramble underneath, but most additional blowdowns from this winter have already been removed. There is some optimism that the Forest Service, in collaboration with the Trail Report and other volunteers, will work to rehabilitate the former Caramba Trail in 2026, likely starting with the lower section from Laws down to Caramba camp. If you see any flagging in this area please leave it in place.

The San Jacinto Trail Report celebrates ten years of operation in 2026. The Report has helped tens of thousands of hikers, and saved multiple lives, both directly and indirectly. Since the Report became established online, snow/ice rescues in the San Jacinto Mountains have dropped 82%, likely saving Riverside County hundreds of thousands of dollars. While all time is volunteered, the Report uses small private donations to help cover operating costs. Donations keep the Report available to all, free from advertising or paywalls, and independent from agencies. If you have found this Report useful, please consider using this link to the Donate page. Thank you for your support.

As forecast, very light precipitation overnight on 31st March produced an average depth of one inch of snow above 8900 ft, with a sparse dusting down to 8300 ft, and 0.13 inch of rain in Idyllwild. However by late morning on 1st April, snow had almost entirely melted below 9000 ft, and by 2nd April remnant snow had rapidly melted from sun-exposed trails. For hikers remaining on the PCT, there was essentially no change to conditions. For hikers to San Jacinto Peak, I broke trail on the morning of 1st and my tracks were soon followed by others, through thin and rapidly melting snow on the Wellman, Peak, and upper Deer Springs trails. The fresh snow has now functionally melted, and few if any hikers will find that spikes are required on the high country trails.

Temperatures more typical of June-September averages for most of March resulted in an unprecedented rate of snowmelt (of snow dating back to storms on mid February), with the high country trail system being functionally clear of snow by the end of March for the first time on record.

Unsurprisingly flowers and spring migrant birds have been recorded weeks ahead of recent norms (which were already significantly earlier than 10-20 years ago), and rattlesnakes were active in late March at elevations where they are normally not seen before May.

The March air temperature record for San Jacinto Peak was shattered multiple times, ultimately by an almost incomprehensible 15.6 degrees of Fahrenheit compared to the pre-2026 record. Indeed the temperature recorded on 24th March 2026 (61.1°F) exceeded the known Peak record highs for April, May, and June as well.

In contrast, a minor low pressure system is forecast to impact the region on 9th-16th April. Light precipitation is tentatively forecast for 9th-11th April, with up to 0.5 inch of rain forecast at mid elevations, a freeze level around 7000 ft elevation, and the possibility of 4-8 inches of snow above 10,000 ft. Temperatures well below freezing in the high country may persist for a week or more, with windchills above 9000 ft around 0°F (-18°C) throughout that period (i.e. relatively cold for April).

The absence of snow depth data in this report does not mean there is no snow in the high country, simply that remnant snow is so patchy, thin, and localized to the highest elevations, that it no longer justifies detailed measurements.

At this time all of the main springs and creeks are flowing and water availability is not an issue for campers or long distance hikers (example photos below). It is disconcerting in late March to see that many ephemeral, and some “perennial”, water sources are already at low flow rates (more akin to early summer) and some will start to dry in the next month or so without further significant precipitation.

Be rattlesnake aware. It is astounding to have to include this paragraph so early in the year, but reliable sightings at 6000 ft on the Ernie Maxwell Trail started on 19th March, and on Devil’s Slide Trail at least to 7200 ft since 24th March (photo below). Above about 5000 ft elevation, the venom of Southern Pacific Rattlesnakes (Crotalus oreganus helleri) in the San Jacinto mountains is predominantly neurotoxic, almost always fatal for dogs and sometimes for humans (see my long read article linked here for further information describing our dogs’ survival after a July 2020 neurotoxic bite). Devil’s Slide Trail, lower Deer Springs and lower Marion Mountain trails, Suicide Rock, near Strawberry Cienega, and trails around Tahquitz Peak are frequent higher elevation locations for sightings, but rattlesnakes have been recorded up to 9350 ft (the latter hopefully not until midsummer).

The gate 1.7 miles up from Highway 243 on Black Mountain Road (4S01) remains closed. Following superficial grading late in 2025 the road is in better condition than last summer, but remains far rougher than in June 2020, the last time it was thoroughly graded.

Daily survey hikes by the Trail Report year-round in the San Jacinto mountains include multiple routes to the highest peaks including San Jacinto Peak typically 2-3 times per week (but almost daily during storm conditions), Tahquitz Peak and area at least once per week, plus a wide variety of other trails on intervening days.

WEATHER

Temperatures rose markedly starting 11th March, briefly stabilized above seasonal on 12th-15th, then rose even further, to near or even above midsummer averages, from 16th onward. A new all-time March record high for San Jacinto Peak was set four times between 13th-24th, with temperatures generally 25-30°F above seasonal in the high country throughout the latter three weeks of March 2026.

A weak low pressure trough replaces the persistent high pressure (“heat dome”) over Southern California starting 30th March. This is briefly replaced by weak high pressure on 4th-8th April, when temperatures rise to slightly above seasonal.

Another relatively weak low pressure system impacts the region on 9th-16th April. Light precipitation is tentatively forecast for 9th-11th April, with up to 0.5 inch of rain forecast at mid elevations, a freeze level around 7000 ft elevation, and the possibility of 4-8 inches of snow above 10,000 ft. Temperatures well below freezing in the high country may persist for a week or more, with windchills above 9000 ft around 0°F (-18°C) throughout that period (i.e. relatively cold for April).

At San Jacinto Peak (10,810 ft/3295 m) on Wednesday 1st April 2026 at 0855 the air temperature was 22.4°F (-5°C), with a windchill temperature of 3.0°F (-16°C), 64% relative humidity, and a bitter WNW wind sustained at 13 mph gusting to 25.7 mph.

At the Peak on Monday 30th March 2026 at 0820 the air temperature was 38.2°F (3°C), with a windchill temperature of 26.2°F (-3°C), 41% relative humidity, and a cool due West wind sustained at 13 mph gusting to 19.4 mph.

At the Peak on Tuesday 24th March 2026 at 0900 the air temperature was 61.1°F (16°C), with a “windchill” temperature of 58.5°F (15°C), 31% relative humidity, and a barely discernable SSE breeze sustained at 1 mph gusting to 4.0 mph. The air temperature again broke the all-time record high for the Peak in March, set multiple times in the preceding ten days, now by more than 15 degrees Fahrenheit compared to the pre-2026 record.

At the Peak on Thursday 19th March 2026 at 0850 the air temperature was 59.6°F (15°C), with a “windchill” temperature of 57.4°F (14°C), 10% relative humidity, and a very light SSE wind sustained at 2 mph gusting to 4.6 mph.

TRAIL CONDITIONS

With a couple of very minor exceptions mentioned below, all trails are now snow-free. Traction devices are no longer required on the trail system, although hikers venturing off-trail to 10,000+ ft peaks other than San Jacinto may find spikes useful for the next few days as remnant north slope snow fields firm up in the colder conditions.

The Pacific Crest Trail is now functionally clear of snow throughout the San Jacinto mountains. Snow cover is 10% between Miles 175-177 but spikes are not required. The Fuller Ridge Trail section (Miles 185.5 to 191.5) has completely cleared of snow extremely rapidly in the past week.

The 0.4 mile section of South Ridge Trail from Chinquapin Flat to Tahquitz Peak [most recently surveyed 27th March] is now functionally clear of icy snow. Spikes are no longer required.

Wellman Trail [surveyed 30th March] is now clear of snow.

The Peak Trail [surveyed 30th March] is functionally clear of snow, with only about 10% snow cover remaining in one 0.25 mile section around 10,000 ft elevation, but spikes are not required. Immediately around San Jacinto Peak patchy snow cover persists in drifts, but it is now possible to avoid almost all snow by rock-hopping.

The East Ridge Trail route [surveyed 30th March] now has no discernable track due to melting, but on the plus side snow cover from near the Miller switchback (10,400 ft) to San Jacinto Peak averages only 50%. Drifted snow here is still up to 18 inches deep in places, and is locally very soft by late morning.

Deer Springs Trail [surveyed eight times in March, most recently on 30th] is now, remarkably, functionally clear of snow to San Jacinto Peak. The few tiny snow patches in the trail through and above Little Round Valley pose no hazards. Spikes are no longer required. The remarkably small number of blowdowns on this trail this winter have already been removed by the Trail Report.

Fuller Ridge Trail [surveyed 30th March] is clear of snow. Two new large blowdowns from this winter are easily passed, at PCT Miles 188.9 and 189.9.

South Ridge Trail to Tahquitz Peak [surveyed 27th March] is clear of snow to Tahquitz Peak. Four new blowdowns that came down on this trail in the mid February storms have already been removed by the Trail Report.

Spitler Peak Trail [surveyed multiple times in March, most recently on 26th] is now clear of treefall hazards, despite having been decimated by about 65 new blowdowns in strong winds that accompanied the mid February storms. In four days of work since late February, the Trail Report cut almost all of these (example photo below), bringing to 235 the number of trees we have removed from this trail in the past seven years. The remaining four large cedars were removed by Forest Service on 31st March.

The Caramba Trail from near Reeds Meadow through Laws Camp and on to Caramba, and the Cedar Trail from Willow Creek Trail to Laws, are euphemistically (and arguably dangerously) described by the Forest Service as “not maintained”. In reality both trails have been abandoned for more than a decade and no longer exist. They are so heavily overgrown, largely with dense whitethorn which obscures dozens of downed trees, that hikers should not attempt to follow them (regardless of how much you may trust any particular app).

An informal use trail to Laws is much more direct, generally well maintained, and avoids the bushwhacking of the abandoned trails (some local Idyllwild hikers dubbed it the “King Trail” when I established the route in 2019). It leaves Willow Creek Trail exactly 1.0 mile from Saddle Junction, 0.46 mile from the Skunk Cabbage turning (trailhead at N 33.7796, W 116.6590). The route descends following former deer trails for 1.2 miles, meeting Willow Creek about 0.15 mile upstream from the site of the historic Laws Camp (the remains of which were destroyed by the 2013 Mountain Fire and subsequent flood and treefall damage). One huge pine tree fell in late 2024 across the King Trail about midway down that requires a minor scramble underneath, but most additional blowdowns from this winter have already been removed. There is some optimism from the Forest Service that work to rehabilitate the Caramba Trail may start in 2026, so if you see any flagging in this area please leave it in place.

The San Jacinto Trail Report celebrates ten years of operation in 2026. It is read by over 30,000 people each year, and will pass one million views in 2026. The Report has helped thousands of hikers, and saved multiple lives, both directly and indirectly. Since the Report became established online, snow/ice rescues in the San Jacinto Mountains have dropped 82%, also saving Riverside County tens, if not hundreds, of thousands of dollars. While all time is volunteered, the Report uses small private donations to help cover operating costs. Donations keep the Report available to all, free from advertising or paywalls, and independent from agencies. If you have found this Report useful, please consider using this link to the Donate page. Thank you for your support.

Record heat for March – essentially midsummer weather – has resulted in dramatic snowmelt in the past two weeks. Consequently I have been updating trail conditions daily to the greatest extent possible. I have never seen snow clear as rapidly in these mountains as in the past fortnight, in any month, even May or June, let alone in (initially) mid March. The March air temperature record for San Jacinto Peak has been broken four times, most recently by an almost incomprehensible 15.6 degrees of Fahrenheit compared to the pre-2026 record. Indeed the temperature recorded on 24th March 2026 (61.1°F) exceeded the known Peak record highs for April, May, and June as well. Sadly it is an overused word, but what we are currently witnessing is genuinely unprecedented.

Intense high pressure over the region will result in further remarkable heat until about 31st March, albeit slightly cooler this week than last. Daily and monthly temperature records were widely shattered throughout Southern California (and indeed the American West) throughout 17th-23rd March, with the temperatures for 19th and 20th in particular comparable the seasonal averages for July and August, which was beyond astonishing for mid March.

Obviously melting of what pitifully little snow remains has been dramatic, and the extent of snow remaining on high country trails declines daily. The San Jacinto mountains will be in the unprecedented state of being functionally snow-free by the end of March. There is a possibility for minor precipitation in the first week of April, although forecast volumes will have no significant impact on the worrisome water and fire situations.

Carrying spikes remains a useful option above about 9700 ft for some hikers, but they are generally not required on the trail system at this time. Spikes are no longer required for PCT hikers who remain on the PCT, but they remain useful for thru hikers who use alternates involving San Jacinto Peak, especially those hikers with minimal experience of snow hiking.

Snow depths are no longer given in this posting. This does not mean there is no snow in the high country, simply that snow is both generally localized to the highest elevations, and that it is rarely more than a few inches deep anywhere, especially on the established trails. As discussed elsewhere, melting – which has been exceptionally rapid for more than a week – will continue over the next week, so listing nominal snow depths that change daily serves little purpose.

Be rattlesnake aware. It is astounding to have to include this paragraph so early in the year, but there have been reliable sightings at 6000 ft on the Ernie Maxwell Trail starting on 19th March, and on Devil’s Slide Trail at least to 7200 ft since 24th March (photo below). Above about 5000 ft elevation, the venom of Southern Pacific Rattlesnakes (Crotalus [oreganus] helleri) in the San Jacinto mountains is predominantly neurotoxic, almost always fatal for dogs and sometimes for humans (see my detailed article linked here for further information describing our dogs’ survival after a July 2020 neurotoxic bite). Devil’s Slide Trail, lower Deer Springs and lower Marion Mountain trails, Suicide Rock, near Strawberry Cienega, and trails around Tahquitz Peak are frequent higher elevation locations for sightings, but rattlesnakes have been recorded up to 9350 ft (the latter in midsummer).

The gate 1.7 miles up from Highway 243 on Black Mountain Road (4S01) remains closed. Following superficial grading late in 2025 the road is in better condition than last summer, but remains far rougher than in June 2020, the last time it was thoroughly graded.

Daily survey hikes by the Trail Report year-round in the San Jacinto mountains include multiple routes to the highest peaks including San Jacinto Peak typically 2-3 times per week (but almost daily during winter storm weather), Tahquitz Peak and area at least once per week, plus a wide variety of other trails on intervening days.

WEATHER

The past six weeks or so, in common with the past six months, have seen a roller-coaster ride of temperatures and associated weather. Three snow storms in very quick succession impacted the region across four days on 16th-19th February, as described in detail in a prior Report (linked here).

Temperatures rose dramatically immediately after the passage of the last storm system, and were far above seasonal throughout the last week of February, before then cooling closer to seasonal in the first nine days of March. The latter was associated with the brief passage of a minor low pressure system on 6th-8th March, with accompanying strong winds and cold temperatures in the high country.

Temperatures rose yet again starting 11th March, briefly stabilized above seasonal on 12th-15th, then rose even further, to near or even above midsummer averages, on 16th-22nd. A new all-time March record high for San Jacinto Peak was set last week on Friday 13th, but was shattered again on both 18th and 19th (see data below).

The high pressure system persists over Southern California until at least 30th March, consequently with no precipitation in the forecasts before the end of the month. Forecast models remain unclear what may happen when a weak low pressure trough passes through the region around 31st March-7th April, with perhaps only a modest probability of minor precipitation at these latitudes.

NWS/NOAA data confirm that the four month period November-February this winter was the hottest for those four months combined on record for Riverside County (131 years of data). The same period was the second hottest all-time for the entire state of California, only behind November 2014-February 2015.

At San Jacinto Peak (10,810 ft/3295 m) on Tuesday 24th March 2026 at 0900 the air temperature was 61.1°F (16°C), with a “windchill” temperature of 58.5°F (15°C), 31% relative humidity, and a barely discernable SSE breeze sustained at 1 mph gusting to 4.0 mph. The air temperature again broke the all-time record high for the Peak in March, set multiple times in the previous ten days, now by more than 15 degrees Fahrenheit compared to the pre-2026 record.

At San Jacinto Peak (10,810 ft/3295 m) on Thursday 19th March 2026 at 0850 the air temperature was 59.6°F (15°C), with a “windchill” temperature of 57.4°F (14°C), 10% relative humidity, and a very light SSE wind sustained at 2 mph gusting to 4.6 mph.

At the Peak on Wednesday 18th March 2026 at 0900 the air temperature was 54.7°F (12°C), with a “windchill” temperature of 49.1°F (10°C), 16% relative humidity, and a steady ESE wind sustained at 7 mph gusting to 10.1 mph.

At the Peak on Friday 13th March 2026 at 0920 the air temperature was 47.3°F (8°C), with a “windchill” temperature of 40.8°F (5°C), 12% relative humidity, and a light NNW wind sustained at 6 mph gusting to 10.0 mph. This air temperature set a new all-time record high (briefly) for the Peak in March – by two degrees of Fahrenheit – a record that itself has been shattered three times in the next ten days.

TRAIL CONDITIONS

Trails above about 9700 ft remain about 10% snow-covered. Routes below 9000 ft are now largely functionally clear of snow. With temperatures forecast to remain hot (for March) until 30th, snow even at the highest elevations will not refreeze overnight, and melting will continue be fast and widespread, changing trail conditions daily.

Some hikers may find that carrying spikes remains useful above about 9700 ft even as snow softens and melts dramatically, as established trails are nonetheless somewhat consolidated by hiker traffic and weeks of freeze-thaw cycles.

The Pacific Crest Trail is now functionally clear of snow to about Mile 175 (Red Tahquitz). Snow cover is 40% between Miles 175-177. Snow cover is very patchy and averages just 10% between Miles 177 to 178.5, then it is clear to Mile 180.5, but about 20% just south of Annie’s Junction to about Mile 180.8. Miles 181-185 are clear. Snow cover averages 10% from Mile 185 to 185.5, although spikes are not required on the well-traveled snow track. The Fuller Ridge Trail section (Miles 185.5 to 191.5) has cleared of snow extremely rapidly this week and now averages only 10% snow cover. Stubborn sections remain around the crossing of the North Fork of the San Jacinto River (Mile 186, photo below), and on the northerly forested slopes (notably Miles 187.5-187.8 and 188.5-189). North of Mile 189, the trail is functionally clear of snow.

Carrying spikes is no longer required for PCT hikers in the San Jacinto mountains at this time, although some hikers may find that spikes continue to be useful if they (a) take any alternate routes off the PCT to San Jacinto Peak, and/or (b) have very limited experience of hiking on patchy icy snow.

The 0.4 mile section of South Ridge Trail from Chinquapin Flat to Tahquitz Peak [most recently surveyed 27th March] is now functionally clear of icy snow. Spikes are no longer required.

Devil’s Slide Trail is clear of snow.

Wellman Trail [surveyed 24th March] is functionally clear of snow averaging just 10% snow cover, which is confined to the forested 0.3 mile immediately north of Annie’s Junction. Spikes are not required.

The Peak Trail [surveyed 24th March] is largely clear of snow, with only about 10% snow cover remaining, almost entirely confined to the forested section around 10,000 ft elevation. Even there, most hikers will find that spikes are no longer required. Immediately around San Jacinto Peak patchy snow cover persists in drifts, but it is now possible to avoid almost all snow by rock-hopping. Some hikers may find spikes useful.

The East Ridge Trail route [surveyed 24th March] has a barely discernable posthole track through 90% snow cover from near the Miller switchback (10,400 ft) to San Jacinto Peak. Drifted snow here is still up to two feet deep in places, and is locally very soft, even early in the morning.

Deer Springs Trail [surveyed seven times in March, most recently on 24th] is now, remarkably, functionally clear to Little Round Valley. The dozen tiny snow patches in the trail above 9000 ft do not pose significant hazards. Little Round Valley is clearing remarkably rapidly, with average snow cover only 10%, a mix of extensive cleared areas interspersed with patchy drifts several inches deep. Above Little Round Valley snow cover also averages only 10%, and the trail route is now almost entirely visible, although some cautious navigation is required where drifts cover switchbacks. Spikes are no longer required on Deer Springs Trail, although some hikers may continue to find them useful for descending parts of the upper trail.

Marion Mountain Trail [surveyed 24th March] is clear of snow.

Seven Pines Trail [surveyed 24th March] is functionally clear of snow, with just 10% cover on the uppermost 0.5 mile of trail. There is a lightly traveled posthole track through the upper snow patches.

South Ridge Trail to Tahquitz Peak [surveyed 27th March] is clear of snow to Tahquitz Peak. Four new blowdowns that came down on this trail in the mid February storms have already been removed by the Trail Report.

Spitler Peak Trail [surveyed 15th, 23rd, and 26th March] was sadly decimated by more than 60 new blowdowns in strong winds that accompanied the mid February storms. In four days of work since late February, the Trail Report has cut almost all of these, bringing to 235 the number of trees we have removed from this trail in the past seven years (example photos below). Four large burned cedars remain obstructing the trail just above the main creek crossing (between 3.2-3.7 miles up from the trailhead) although most hikers will find they are passable with care.

The San Jacinto Trail Report celebrates ten years of operation in 2026. It is read by over 30,000 people each year, and will pass one million views in 2026. The Report has helped thousands of hikers, and saved multiple lives, both directly and indirectly. Since the Report became established online, snow/ice rescues in the San Jacinto Mountains have dropped 82%, also saving Riverside County tens, if not hundreds, of thousands of dollars. While all time is volunteered, the Report uses small private donations to help cover operating costs. Donations keep the Report available to all, free from advertising or paywalls, and independent from agencies. If you have found this Report useful, please consider using this link to the Donate page. Thank you for your support.

A week of pleasantly cool temperatures to start March included the coldest day of the winter to date in the high country on Saturday 7th (the air and windchill temperatures I recorded at San Jacinto Peak that morning were -12°C and -26°C, respectively).

Unfortunately temperatures were so high in the last eight days of February that the modest snow accumulation – it would be an exaggeration to use the word snowpack – had already been largely removed. Nevertheless the cooler weather did slow snowmelt rates, and perhaps more importantly established tracks in the high country remained firm and have been a genuine joy for hiking, with easy barebooting on ascents, and no more than spikes needed for descending.

Sadly that recent hint of seasonal winter temperatures has ended, and forecasts for the middle two weeks of March make for astonishingly grim reading. Temperatures rapidly climbed above seasonal by Thursday 12th, then threaten to be genuine midsummer temperatures, likely shattering myriad March records, from Monday 16th until Monday 23rd. Obviously melting of what little snow remains will be dramatic, and if the forecasts prove to be accurate, the mountain may be in the unprecedented state of being largely snow-free by late March.

Spikes remain recommended for most trails above about 8000 ft for the foreseeable future as established tracks are so well consolidated by hiker traffic. As tracks rapidly melt over the next two weeks they will become (briefly) even more slippery.

Snow depths measured at various locations on the trail system are given towards the end of this posting. Note however that snow depth itself is rarely indicative of the difficulty (or ease) of hiking a particular track or trail. For example a firm, well-compacted track across snow several feet deep may be much easier hiking than traversing across just a few inches depth of angled virgin icy snow.

The USFS gate at Humber Park reopened on 1st March. The gate 1.7 miles up from Highway 243 on Black Mountain Road (4S01) remains closed. Following superficial grading late in 2025 the road is in better condition than last summer, but remains far rougher than in June 2020, the last time it was thoroughly graded. South Ridge Road (5S11) reopened on 3rd March and is clear of snow.

Daily survey hikes by the Trail Report year-round in the San Jacinto mountains include multiple routes to the highest peaks including San Jacinto Peak typically 2-3 times per week (but almost daily during winter storm weather), Tahquitz Peak and area at least once per week, plus a wide variety of other trails on intervening days.

WEATHER

Temperatures rise dramatically starting 11th March, plateau at well above seasonal on 12th-14th, before rising even further, genuinely close to midsummer averages on 16th-22nd. Several daily high temperature records may be broken in the region during that period, and the all-time March record high for San Jacinto Peak could be shattered, which also happened in February this year.

With such a pronounced high pressure system stationed over Southern California, unsurprisingly there is no significant new precipitation in the forecasts.

Three snow storms in very quick succession impacted the region across four days on 16th-19th February, with the consequent snowfalls described in detail in a prior Report (linked here). Temperatures rose dramatically starting immediately after the passage of the last storm system, and were far above seasonal throughout the last week of February, before then cooling closer to seasonal in the first nine days of March. The latter was associated with the brief passage of a minor “cutoff” low pressure system on 6th-8th March, with accompanying strong winds and cold temperatures in the high country.

Meteorological data confirm that the four month period November-February this winter was the hottest for those four months combined on record for Riverside County (131 years of data). The same period was the second hottest all-time for the entire state of California, behind November 2014-February 2015.

At San Jacinto Peak (10,810 ft/3295 m) on Friday 13th March 2026 at 0920 the air temperature was 47.3°F (8°C), with a “windchill” temperature of 40.8°F (5°C), 12% relative humidity, and a light NNW wind sustained at 6 mph gusting to 10.0 mph. The air temperature set a new all-time record high for the Peak in March – by two degrees of Fahrenheit – sadly a record that is almost certain to be broken multiple times over the next week.

At the Peak on Monday 9th March 2026 at 0855 [DST] the air temperature was 28.7°F (-2°C), with a windchill temperature of 8.4°F (-13°C), 33% relative humidity, and a stiff ENE wind sustained at 25 mph gusting to 35.6 mph.

At the Peak on Saturday 7th March 2026 at 0820 the air temperature was 10.6°F (-12°C), with a windchill temperature of -14.8°F (-26°C), 71% relative humidity, and a frigid NNE wind sustained at 16 mph gusting to 30.0 mph. Both the air and windchill temperatures were the lowest recorded at the Peak (so far) in winter 2025/26.

At the Peak on Thursday 5th March 2026 at 0840 the air temperature was 31.9°F (0°C), with a windchill temperature of 17.8°F (-8°C), 16% relative humidity, and a variable NW wind sustained at 7 mph gusting to 16.0 mph.

TRAIL CONDITIONS

Trails above about 9700 ft remain at least 80% snow-covered, and most have significant snow cover above 8600 ft (west side) or 9000 ft (east side). Most routes below 8600 ft are now largely clear of snow, and completely clear below 7500 ft (details for specific trails below, where known).

Please consider that with temperatures rising dramatically then remaining hot (for March) over the next ten days, snow even at the highest elevations will not refreeze overnight, and melting will be remarkably fast and widespread, changing trail conditions almost daily.

Carrying spikes is recommended for the foreseeable future everywhere above about 8000 ft even as snow softens and melts dramatically over the next week or two, as established trails are now somewhat consolidated by hiker traffic and weeks of freeze-thaw cycles.

Neither crampons nor snowshoes are required anywhere on the established trail system at this time. In theory snowshoes could be of value over the next couple of weeks as snow will soften so rapidly (and not refreeze) with temperatures remaining above freezing even at the highest elevations. However snow depths are already minimal, even in many off-trail areas, and melting of what little remains will be very rapid into late March.

Hikers interested in more comparison photos of the trails from immediately after the previous fresh snowfall in late February, and the conditions 7-10 days later, will find these in the previous Report (available here).

Current snow cover on the PCT is minimal from Miles 151 (Highway 74) to about 175 (Red Tahquitz), largely confined to thin patches on the east slope of Spitler Peak (Mile 168) and the northerly aspects of Apache Peak (Mile 169.5), both areas that can be easily worked around. Some of the minor chutes in Miles 170-173 have tricky icy snow, but this will soften dramatically in the next couple of days. Snow cover is 80% between Miles 175-177. Snow cover is thin and averages 70% between Miles 177 to 179, then only 5% to Mile 180.5, but about 90% just south of Annie’s Junction at about Mile 180.8. Miles 181-183 average 10% snow cover. Snow cover is largely continuous from Mile 184 to 185.5, although spikes are not required on the well-traveled snow track. There are now visible tracks at this time on the Fuller Ridge Trail section (Miles 185.5 to 191.5), and snow is generally thin and increasingly patchy, especially on the sun-exposed parts of that trail. Stubborn sections remain around the crossing of the North Fork of the San Jacinto River (Mile 186), and on the northerly slopes (approx. Miles 187.5-187.8 and 188.6-190.4). North of Mile 191, the trail is functionally clear of snow.

Carrying spikes remains recommended for PCT hikers throughout the San Jacinto mountains at this time, although they are not essential for those hikers who (a) remain on the PCT and do not take the alternate route via San Jacinto Peak, and (b) have a high comfort level and considerable experience of hiking on patchy icy snow without traction devices.

The 0.4 mile section of South Ridge Trail from Chinquapin Flat to Tahquitz Peak [surveyed 10th March] currently has only a single posthole track to follow through some sections of steeply angled icy snow (photo below). The snow is slowly becoming more patchy, and melting will be rapid this week, nevertheless these icy slopes on the north side of Tahquitz Peak are notoriously treacherous. Currently spikes (preferably with an ice axe), and the requisite physical and mental skills to use this equipment in high angle terrain, are strongly recommended. Even then this section of trail will not be a safe option for most hikers.

Devil’s Slide Trail [surveyed 13th March] is completely clear of snow to 7700 ft, and functionally clear from there to Saddle Junction. Persisting minor patches of icy snow are so small and dirty that they do not require spikes at this time.

Wellman Trail [surveyed 13th March] has a moderately-traveled and often uneven posthole track through about 50% snow cover.

The Peak Trail [surveyed 13th March] has been well-traveled, although in places around 10,000 ft the most heavily traveled track does not accurately follow the trail route. There is a well-compacted posthole route from Wellman Divide to about 10,000 ft through rapidly diminishing 60% snow cover. This section of trail will functionally clear during the next week. Above 10,000 ft, snow cover remains almost 90%, and the track becomes more uneven. Most traffic has followed the uppermost traverse of the Peak Trail to Summit Junction (meeting Deer Springs Trail). Multiple tracks around the Peak all ultimately reach the top, although none quite manage to accurately follow the established trail route.

A lightly-traveled, but now unfortunately rather lumpy posthole track broadly follows the East Ridge Trail route [surveyed 13th March] through functionally continuous snow cover from near the Miller switchback (10,400 ft) to San Jacinto Peak, and is, as always, an excellent alternative to the uppermost Peak Trail.

The Round Valley Trail [surveyed 13th March] has a rapidly thinning 30% snow cover to Round Valley, and thereafter a well-traveled posthole track through 80% snow cover to Wellman Divide.

Deer Springs Trail [surveyed four times since 2nd, most recently on 9th March] is functionally clear of snow to Strawberry Junction. Snow cover then averages barely 10% for one mile north of Strawberry Junction, increasing to 40% closer to the junction with Marion Mountain Trail, but is only 1-3 inches deep in most places. Thereafter, snow cover on the trail is >90% to San Jacinto Peak, although with an increasing number of bare patches are starting to emerge in the most sun-exposed sections, even as high as 10,400 ft. The somewhat uneven posthole track is largely accurate to the trail route as far as Little Round Valley (LRV). The most heavily-traveled track through LRV vaguely approximates to the trail route, but then at least four tracks ascend from LRV, none of which follow the true trail route for any significant distance, and all of which climb steeply through icy snow toward the Peak, as is traditional in winter. These tracks will become harder to follow as melting increases, as they run through vegetation and boulders, by which time the actual trail route should become more evident.

Marion Mountain Trail [surveyed 7th March] is functionally clear of snow to about 7600 ft, and thereafter has a very well-defined track through largely continuous icy snow to its junction with Deer Springs Trail, that generally follows the true trail route. Icy snow cover is so thin that this trail will largely clear of snow in the next week. There is already one lengthy sun-exposed section at 8200-8400 ft that is now snow-free. Spikes can be useful, at least for descending the uppermost trail.

As of 7th March there were no visible tracks through the discontinuous snow on Seven Pines Trail or Fuller Ridge Trail (PCT Miles 185.5-190.5), although the latter has been traveled by both nobo and sobo PCT section hikers that I have encountered, largely when snow was too firm to leave obvious tracks.

Strawberry Trail (PCT Miles 181-183) [surveyed 6th March] averages 20% snow cover (example photo below).

South Ridge Trail to Tahquitz Peak [surveyed 10th March] is now functionally clear of snow to Tahquitz Peak. The frequency of icy snow patches increases in the uppermost switchbacks closest to the peak, but even there they remain small and very sparse, and few if any hikers will find spikes are needed. Four new blowdowns that came down on this trail in the mid February storms have already been removed by the Trail Report.

Spitler Peak Trail [surveyed 15th March] was sadly decimated by blowdowns in the strong winds that accompanied the mid February storm. About 55 new trees came down across the trail, and it may take months to get the trail largely cleared (this trail has been seemingly unmaintained by the Forest Service since 2018). Since late February the Trail Report has removed 19 trees, the trail is clear as far as the main creek crossing 3.2 miles up from the trailhead, and work has begun further up (photos below; bringing to 193 the number of trees we have removed from this trail in recent years). Five large burned cedars and roughly 30 jumbles of fire-killed oak limbs remain seriously obstructing the trail in the 1.6 miles between that main creek crossing and the PCT.

Skyline Trail reopened on 4th March. Although it is largely clear of icy snow, some hikers may find spikes useful above 7200 ft (the “Traverse”).

SNOW DEPTHS

Snow depths measured on 9th March 2026 (unless indicated otherwise) are as follows. Current total depth is the principal number given, followed (in parentheses) by the greatest snow depth of this winter to date, following the storms of mid February. Altitudes and PCT mileages are approximate.

San Jacinto Peak (10810 ft): 6 inches (was 26 inches on 20th February), ranging from 0-14 inches, drifted deepest on east and north aspects, including East Ridge.

Little Round Valley (9750 ft): 6 inches (was 23 inches on 23rd February), ranging from 0-12 inches in places.

Wellman Divide (9700 ft): 1 inch (was 20 inches on 20th February).

Annie’s Junction/PCT Mile 181 (9020 ft): 4 inches (was 27 inches on 20th February).

Tahquitz Peak (8836 ft): 0 inch (was 23 inches on 21st February) immediately around the fire lookout, but 2-15 inches on adjacent trails [measured 3rd March].

Long Valley (8500 ft): 0 inch (was 14 inches on 20th February).

Strawberry Junction/PCT Mile 183 (8100 ft): 0 inch (was 15 inches on 23rd February).

Saddle Junction/PCT Mile 179 (8070 ft): 1 inch (was 22 inches on 20th February).

Devil’s Slide Trail trailhead at Humber Park (6500 ft): 0 inch (was 17 inches on 20th February).

Idyllwild (at 5550 ft): 0 inch (was 12.5 inches on 20th February).

The San Jacinto Trail Report celebrates ten years of operation in 2026. It is read by over 30,000 people each year, and will pass one million views in 2026. The Report has helped thousands of hikers, and saved multiple lives, both directly and indirectly. Since the Report became established online, snow/ice rescues in the San Jacinto Mountains have dropped 82%, also saving Riverside County tens, if not hundreds, of thousands of dollars. While all time is volunteered, the Report uses small private donations to help cover operating costs. Donations keep the Report available to all, free from advertising or paywalls, and independent from agencies. If you have found this Report useful, please consider using this link to the Donate page. Thank you for your support.

Temperatures were so high in the last eight days of February – with daily and monthly records being set throughout Southern California – that they remained above freezing overnight at even the highest mountain elevations. This resulted in snowmelt at an unprecedented rate, even more striking given that it was in the genuinely winter month of February, with Idyllwild losing 12 inches of snow in four days, sun-exposed locations above 9000 ft losing up to 20-22 inches in a week, and San Jacinto Peak also losing about 15 inches in just seven days.

Thankfully, temperatures cooled to near seasonal from Monday 2nd March, and are forecast to fluctuate either side of seasonal for most of the first two weeks of the month, which should be most noticeable in the high country. This should have two significant effects. First, snowmelt rates will slow markedly, and trail conditions may not change dramatically over the next week or more. Secondly, compacted snow tracks established in the high country will remain firm, at least until late morning, allowing for much easier hiking (with spikes now optimal for traction rather than snowshoes).

For example, snow was comfortably firm enough for barebooting all the way from Devil’s Slide Trail to San Jacinto Peak early in the morning on Monday 2nd and Thursday 5th, although on 2nd anywhere I stepped off the compacted posthole tracks I promptly sank ankle deep into surrounding snow. Snow remained firm until about 0930 on 2nd, by which time I was well down Deer Springs Trail and snow was so shallow and patchy that even spikes were no longer needed. This weekend will be colder, so hiking conditions should be even easier (with appropriate traction as needed), in stark contrast to the slop and snowshoes of much of last week.

Spikes are recommended for most trails above about 7600 ft for the foreseeable future as established tracks have now become consolidated by hiker traffic and will continue to undergo significant freeze-thaw cycles this week. Snow depths are currently suitable for snowshoeing only off-trail above about 9500 ft, possibly lower as snow softens by late morning on the warmest days and on the most sun-exposed slopes.

Snow depths measured at various locations on the trail system are given towards the end of this posting. Note however that snow depth itself is rarely indicative of the difficulty (or ease) of hiking a particular track or trail. For example a firm, well-compacted track across snow several feet deep may be much easier hiking than traversing across just a few inches depth of angled virgin icy snow.

The USFS gate at Humber Park reopened on 1st March. The gate 1.7 miles up from Highway 243 on Black Mountain Road (4S01) remains closed. Following superficial grading late in 2025 the road is in better condition than last summer, but remains far rougher than in June 2020, the last time it was thoroughly graded. South Ridge Road (5S11) reopened on 3rd March and is clear of snow.

Daily survey hikes by the Trail Report year-round in the San Jacinto mountains include multiple routes to the highest peaks including San Jacinto Peak typically 2-3 times per week (but almost daily during winter storm weather), Tahquitz Peak and area at least once per week, plus a wide variety of other trails on intervening days.

WEATHER

Three snow storms in very quick succession impacted the region across four days on 16th-19th February, with the consequent snowfalls described in detail in a prior Report (linked here). Temperatures rose dramatically starting immediately after the passage of the last storm system, and were far above seasonal throughout the last week of February, as discussed above.

Temperatures are forecast to cool closer to seasonal in the first ten days of March, but with high pressure generally remaining in the region and mild, sunny days, steady snowmelt will continue, albeit at a slower rate than in late February. Forecasts indicate the brief passage of a minor low pressure system on 6th-8th March, with accompanying strong winds and cold temperatures in the high country.

At San Jacinto Peak (10,810 ft/3295 m) on Saturday 7th March 2026 at 0820 the air temperature was 10.6°F (-12°C), with a windchill temperature of -14.8°F (-26°C), 71% relative humidity, and a frigid NNE wind sustained at 16 mph gusting to 30.0 mph. Both the air and windchill temperatures were the lowest recorded at the Peak (so far) in winter 2025/26.

At the Peak on Thursday 5th March 2026 at 0840 the air temperature was 31.9°F (0°C), with a windchill temperature of 17.8°F (-7°C), 16% relative humidity, and a variable NW wind sustained at 7 mph gusting to 16.0 mph.

At the Peak on Monday 2nd March 2026 at 0810 the air temperature was 30.9°F (-1°C), with a windchill temperature of 13.3°F (-10°C), 38% relative humidity, and a stiff due West wind sustained at 16 mph gusting to 29.4 mph.

TRAIL CONDITIONS

Trails above about 9500 ft are completely snow-covered, and most have significant snow cover above 7600 ft, but routes below 7600 ft are now generally clear of snow (details for specific trails below, where known).

With high country temperatures near (or even below) freezing for most or all of the next two weeks, spikes are recommended for the foreseeable future everywhere above 7600 ft as snow generally firms up, especially overnight and in the mornings, along with localized icing, and as established trails have become increasingly consolidated by hiker traffic and undergo freeze-thaw cycles.

Crampons remain an option above about 9500 ft for the next week at least, especially in the morning when snow remains firm, but they are certainly not required anywhere on trail, and may result in significant postholing during off-trail travel.

Snowshoes are no longer recommended for travel on the established trail system, as tracks are now generally compacted, icy and uneven. However snowshoes would be invaluable for off-trail travel (e.g., to high peaks other than San Jac) as snow above 9000 ft away from the compacted tracks remains soft, especially after mid morning.

In prior winters I have mentioned the challenges of hard, icy snow underfoot and the value of using spikes especially for descending and traversing. Snow at all elevations will become increasingly firm and icy following multiple freeze-thaw cycles, and I cannot overemphasize the importance of having both appropriate equipment and the right skill set for the terrain. The latter includes interpreting the snow/ice conditions, understanding your physical and mental abilities, and conservative decision making. These concerns may steadily increase over the next couple of weeks with temperatures fluctuating either side of freezing, seasonally stronger insolation, and locally variable snowmelt.

Current snow cover on the PCT is minimal from Miles 151 (Highway 74) to about 175 (Red Tahquitz), largely confined to thin patches on the east slope of Spitler Peak (Mile 168) and the northerly aspects of Apache Peak (Mile 169.5). Snow cover is 90% between Miles 175-177. Snow cover is thin and averages 80% between Miles 177 to 179, then only 10% to Mile 180.5, but almost 100% just south of Annie’s Junction at about Mile 180.8. There are no tracks here where the PCT turns sharply to the west. Miles 181-183 average 20% snow cover. Snow cover is continuous from Mile 184 to 185.5, although spikes are not essential. There are no tracks at this time on the Fuller Ridge Trail section (Miles 185.5 to 191.5), although snow is thin and will be increasingly patchy on the sun-exposed parts of that trail. Stubborn sections will remain around the crossing of the North Fork of the San Jacinto River (Mile 186), and on the northerly slopes (approx. Miles 187.5-187.8 and 188.6-190.4). North of Mile 191, the trail is functionally clear of snow. Carrying spikes is recommended for PCT hikers throughout the San Jacinto mountains at this time.

The 0.4 mile section of South Ridge Trail from Chinquapin Flat to Tahquitz Peak [surveyed 3rd March] currently has only a very lightly-traveled single posthole track to follow through steeply angled icy snow (photo below). These icy slopes on the north side of Tahquitz Peak are notoriously treacherous. Currently spikes (or preferably crampons) with an ice axe, and the requisite physical and mental skills to use this equipment in high angle terrain, are strongly recommended, but even then this section of trail will not be comfortable for most hikers until it starts to soften late next week.

Ernie Maxwell Trail [surveyed 2nd March] is now functionally clear of snow (thank you to Anne and Anabel for that report).

Devil’s Slide Trail [surveyed 5th March] is already clear of snow to 7600 ft. From there to Saddle Junction snow cover averages only 20%. Spikes are useful, at least for descending, but they are not required for early morning ascending when the snow is firm, nor for hikers who are especially proficient on patchy icy snow.

Wellman Trail [surveyed 5th March] has a moderately-traveled and very uneven posthole track through about 60% snow cover.

The Peak Trail [surveyed 5th March] has been well-traveled, although in places around 10,000 ft the most heavily traveled track does not accurately follow the trail route. There is a well-compacted posthole and snowshoe route from Wellman Divide to about 10,000 ft through almost continuous snow, but with a few bare patches starting to appear. Above 10,000 ft, snow cover is continuous, and the track becomes more uneven. Most traffic has followed the uppermost traverse of the Peak Trail to Summit Junction (meeting Deer Springs Trail). Multiple tracks around the Peak all ultimately reach the top, although none manage to accurately follow the established trail route.

A lightly-traveled, but now unfortunately lumpy posthole track broadly follows the East Ridge Trail route from near the Miller switchback (10,400 ft) to San Jacinto Peak, and is, as always, an excellent alternative to the upper Peak Trail.

The Round Valley Trail [surveyed 5th March] has a rapidly thinning 40% snow cover to Round Valley, and thereafter a well-traveled posthole track through 90% snow cover to Wellman Divide.

Deer Springs Trail [surveyed 2nd, 6th, and 7th March] is functionally clear of snow to Strawberry Junction, with just a handful of tiny snow patches increasing in frequency closest to the junction. Snow cover then averages 30% until about 8500 ft (less than one mile south of the junction with Marion Mountain Trail, but is only 1-3 inches deep in most places. Thereafter, snow cover on the trail is functionally continuous to San Jacinto Peak, although a handful of bare patches are starting to emerge in the most sun-exposed sections, even as high as 10,400 ft. The somewhat uneven posthole track is largely accurate to the trail route as far as Little Round Valley (LRV). The most heavily-traveled track through LRV vaguely approximates to the trail route, but then at least four tracks ascend from LRV, none of which follow the true trail route for any significant distance, and all of which climb steeply through icy snow toward the Peak, as is traditional in winter.

Marion Mountain Trail [surveyed 7th March] is functionally clear of snow to about 7600 ft, and thereafter has a very well-defined track through largely continuous icy snow to its junction with Deer Springs Trail, that generally follows the true trail route. There is one lengthy sun-exposed section at 8200-8400 ft that is now snow-free. Spikes are valuable, at least for descending the uppermost trail.

As of 7th March there were no tracks through the discontinuous snow on Seven Pines Trail or Fuller Ridge Trail (PCT Miles 185.5-190.5).

Strawberry Trail (PCT Miles 181-183) [surveyed 6th March] averages 20% snow cover (example photo below).

South Ridge Trail to Tahquitz Peak [surveyed 3rd March] is almost completely clear of snow to Old Lookout Flat (7600 ft). Thereafter there is 10% coverage of small snow patches on the traverse to 7900 ft, increasing to 30% on the lower switchbacks, and then to 60% in the upper switchbacks closest to Tahquitz Peak. Snow is firm and icy in the early mornings, starting to soften and become “greasy” by about 0900. Most hikers will find spikes useful in the upper switchbacks but they are not essential for those most experienced on such terrain. Four new blowdowns that came down on this trail in the mid February storms have already been removed by the Trail Report (photo below).

Spitler Peak Trail [surveyed 27th February] is functionally clear of snow, with a few tiny patches of soft, thin snow remaining in the upper third of the trail. The Trail Report cleared another nine trees from the lower four miles of the trail, bringing to 183 the number of trees removed from this trail in recent years. Unfortunately the trail suffered major blowdowns in the most recent storm sequence and four large burned cedars are seriously obstructing the trail between 3.2-4.0 miles up from the trailhead. Several additional small trees remain uncut closer to the PCT.

Skyline Trail reopened on 4th March. Although it is largely clear of icy snow, some hikers will find spikes useful above 7200 ft (the “Traverse”).

SNOW DEPTHS

Snow depths measured on 2nd March 2026 (unless indicated otherwise) are as follows. Current total depth is the principal number given, followed (in parentheses) by the greatest snow depth of this winter to date, following the storms of mid February. Altitudes and PCT mileages are approximate.

San Jacinto Peak (10810 ft): 9 inches (was 26 inches on 20th February), drifted two feet deep in places, notably on east and north sides, especially East Ridge.

Little Round Valley (9750 ft): 8 inches (was 23 inches on 23rd February), ranging from 0-20 inches in places

Wellman Divide (9700 ft): 6 inches (was 20 inches on 20th February)

Annie’s Junction/PCT Mile 181 (9020 ft): 7 inches (was 27 inches on 20th February)

Tahquitz Peak (8836 ft): 0 inch (was 23 inches on 21st February) immediately around the fire lookout, but 3-15 inches on adjacent trails [measured 3rd March]

Long Valley (8500 ft): 1 inch (was 14 inches on 20th February)

Strawberry Junction/PCT Mile 183 (8100 ft): 0 inch (was 15 inches on 23rd February)

Saddle Junction/PCT Mile 179 (8070 ft): 2 inches (was 22 inches on 20th February)

Suicide Rock/Deer Springs trails junction (7000 ft): 0 inch (was 8 inches on 23rd February)

South Ridge Trail trailhead at top of South Ridge Road (6500 ft): 0 inch (was 16 inches on 21st February)

Devil’s Slide Trail trailhead at Humber Park (6500 ft): 0 inch (was 17 inches on 20th February)

Idyllwild (at 5550 ft): 0 inch (was 12.5 inches on 20th February)

The San Jacinto Trail Report celebrates ten years of operation in 2026. It is read by over 30,000 people each year, and will pass one million views in 2026. The Report has helped thousands of hikers, and saved multiple lives, both directly and indirectly. Since the Report became established online, snow/ice rescues in the San Jacinto Mountains have dropped 82%, also saving Riverside County tens, if not hundreds, of thousands of dollars. While all time is volunteered, the Report uses small private donations to help cover operating costs. Donations keep the Report available to all, free from advertising or paywalls, and independent from agencies. If you have found this Report useful, please consider using this link to the Donate page. Thank you for your support.

Editorial note: although trail details in this Report were extensively revised on Monday 23rd February for many major routes, the rate of melting in the past 4-5 days has been literally unprecedented. Trails below 7000 ft have largely cleared of snow, with increasing patchiness of snow at all elevations. Temperatures are not expected to drop sufficiently to allow some firming of higher elevation snow until 2nd March.

With such a rapid rise in temperatures, snow conditions are changing on several time scales; weekly, daily, and even hourly. Well-prepared hikers will account for these changes. Underfoot conditions are already dramatically different now compared to 3-6 days ago, and will change even further over the course of the next few (unseasonably warm) days. Snow firm enough for barebooting (or spikes) early in the morning is turning into soft slop by mid morning, for which snowshoes are invaluable. This weekend snow at all elevations will be soft throughout the day, as overnight temperatures remain well above freezing even in the high country. Hikers unwilling to carry snowshoes must anticipate widespread and severe postholing.

Three snow storms in very quick succession impacted the region across four days on 16th-19th February. Although technically three separate storms, the impact on the mountain and trail system has functioned as one major storm, with the most substantial (so far) snowfall of winter 2025/26, especially at mid elevations.

Although the combined 26 inches of new snow around the highest peaks was desperately needed and is of course extremely welcome, this was at the lowest end of the forecast expectations, and hopes for 3-5 feet of snow were not ultimately realized.

I recorded a rather-too-lengthy video report from 10,350 ft on the east slope of San Jacinto Peak mid morning of Friday 20th February that summarizes the three storms and conditions at that time (linked here).

Snow fell in three distinct periods, on the afternoon and evening of Monday 16th, then again overnight on 17th-18th, followed by a much more minor snowfall on the evening of Thursday 19th. As was widely forecast this latest storm pattern was significantly colder than others so far this season, with freeze levels more typical of the historical average (at or below 5000 ft for much of the storm period). Consequently there was considerable snowfall at mid elevations, with the first snow of the winter recorded, for example, in Idyllwild (12.5 inches at 5550 ft across the four days), and with all three storms dusting down into Garner Valley (4400 ft).

As is increasingly the trend with a rapidly changing climate in recent years, there was relatively little difference in snowfall between the mid and upper elevations, with 12.5 inches measured in Idyllwild (at 5550 ft) through to 26 inches at San Jacinto Peak (10,810 ft). Locations on the western side of the mountain range, especially those in and around Strawberry Valley, received disproportionately more snowfall, as those areas were “socked in” by storms originating from the south-west, while the highest elevations were, at times, above the cloud.

Snow depths are currently ideal for snowshoeing everywhere above about 7000 ft at all times, lower as snow softens by mid morning (late morning in sheltered areas). Elsewhere, and in addition, spikes are recommended for the foreseeable future as established trails will eventually become consolidated by hiker traffic and will undergo freeze-thaw cycles.

Cautious navigation is strongly recommended everywhere. Even where well-traveled tracks are in place, they may not lead where you want to go (or not on the angle of terrain you would prefer to hike). As described below, some major trails have not yet been traveled at all, and that is unlikely to happen before next weekend at the earliest.

Snow depths measured at various locations on the trail system are given towards the end of this posting. Note however that snow depth itself is rarely indicative of the difficulty (or ease) of hiking a particular track or trail. For example a firm, well-compacted track across snow several feet deep may be much easier hiking than traversing across just a few inches depth of angled virgin icy snow.

The USFS gate at Humber Park closed on 18th February. While theoretically nine legal parking spaces remain immediately below the gate, an unconventional ploughing approach during these latest storms has left space for only 3-5 vehicles to safely park. Conditions in the area are very icy and currently only suitable for 4WD/AWD vehicles anyway, so this area is best avoided in the absence of further ploughing. Parking on Forest Drive, just below the Fern Valley Water District facility, is strongly recommended.

Black Mountain Road (4S01) is closed at the gate 1.7 miles up from Highway 243. Following superficial grading late in 2025 the road is in better condition than last summer, but remains far rougher than in June 2020, the last time it was thoroughly graded. South Ridge Road (5S11) closed due to winter conditions on 22nd February.

On 25th February, the state park closed the section of Skyline Trail under their administration (from 5600 ft to Grubb’s Notch). This is apparently due to “unsupportive snow” and “constant post-holing”. While hikers will be understandably upset at the state park for this poor decision, please also direct your ire at those hikers who are unprepared for the conditions – physically, mentally, or in terms of equipment – who consequently encourage the agencies to make such decisions.

Daily survey hikes by the Trail Report year-round in the San Jacinto mountains include multiple routes to the highest peaks including San Jacinto Peak typically 2-3 times per week (but almost daily during winter storm weather), Tahquitz Peak and area at least once per week, plus a wide variety of other trails on intervening days.

WEATHER

Temperatures rise rapidly starting Friday 20th, and will be far above seasonal in the last week of February (likely record-breaking warmth on Friday 27th at all elevations). Temperatures are forecast to be above freezing >10,000 ft elevation for the remainder of the month, and with clear, sunny days expected, melting of snow will be very rapid, especially on sun-exposed slopes. Temperatures are tentatively forecast to cool closer to seasonal in the first week of March, but by then much of the damage (in terms of snowmelt) will have been done.

The storm system on 16th-19th February consisted of three distinct phases, with the majority of the snow in the high country in the first storm, overnight on 16th. At mid elevations, the first phase was mild enough to initially produce rain, with 0.57 inches in Idyllwild, before turning to snow around dusk on 16th. The second phase was overnight on 17th, with bulk of the high country snow actually falling in the early hours of Wednesday 18th (about half the depth of the previous day). Finally the third storm passed through on Thursday 19th, with much lighter snow falling throughout much of the day, from late morning until just after dusk.

At San Jacinto Peak (10,810 ft/3295 m) on Monday 23rd February 2026 at 0930 the air temperature was 41.7°F (5°C),with a windchill temperature of 33.3°F (1°C), 28% relative humidity, and a light WNW wind sustained at 6 mph gusting to 10.4 mph.

At the Peak on Friday 20th February 2026 at 0740 the air temperature was 17.8°F (-8°C),with a windchill temperature of -7.1°F (-22°C), 49% relative humidity, and a wild WNW wind sustained at 22 mph gusting to 36.2 mph.

At the Peak on Thursday 19th February 2026 at 1010 the air temperature was 15.3°F (-9°C), with a windchill temperature of -6.2°F (-21°C), 100% relative humidity, and a frigid WSW wind sustained at 14 mph gusting to 22.3 mph.

At the Peak on Tuesday 17th February 2026 at 0830 the air temperature was 11.0°F (-12°C), with a windchill temperature of -11.2°F (-24°C), 100% relative humidity, and a steady due West wind sustained at 18 mph gusting to 24.2 mph.

At the Peak on Monday 16th February 2026 at 1410 the air temperature was 23.9°F (-5°C), with a windchill temperature of 5.5 °F (-15°C), 100% relative humidity, and a subdued SW wind sustained at 12 mph gusting to 21.1 mph.

TRAIL CONDITIONS

All trails above about 6500 ft are completely snow-covered, and largely snow-covered above 5500 ft. By the afternoon of Friday 20th, melting was already well underway below 7000 ft, and by Monday 23rd, all elevations had already lost 2-4 inches of snow to melting.

Snowshoes are currently invaluable everywhere above about 9000 ft, and can be used as low as 6000 ft as snow softens dramatically by late morning, as long as depths remain sufficient at such low elevation (probably until later this week). Conversely, snowshoes are also invaluable in the most sheltered areas that have yet to experience freeze-thaw cycles and hence the snow is still relatively fresh powder (e.g., parts of upper Deer Springs Trail, and either side of Annie’s Junction/PCT Mile 181).

Elsewhere (and in addition), spikes are recommended for the foreseeable future everywhere above 6000 ft due to localized icing, and as established trails become increasingly consolidated by hiker traffic and undergo freeze-thaw cycles. Crampons are an option in the high country for the next few days, especially in the morning when snow remains firm, but warming is forecast to be so rapid that severe postholing will soon become a problem.

In prior winters I have mentioned the challenges of hard, icy snow underfoot and the value of using spikes especially for descending and traversing. Snow at all elevations will become increasingly firm and icy following multiple freeze-thaw cycles, and I cannot overemphasize the importance of having both appropriate equipment and the right skill set for the terrain. The latter includes interpreting the snow/ice conditions, understanding your physical and mental abilities, and conservative decision making. These concerns may steadily increase over the next couple of weeks with dramatically rising then falling temperatures, seasonally stronger insolation, and highly variable snowmelt.

Ernie Maxwell Trail [surveyed 26th February] has an average of 70% snow cover remaining, lower at the southern end and increasing to about 90% near Humber Park. Snow is thin and soft but still slippery, spikes are useful.

Devil’s Slide Trail [surveyed 23rd February] has a well-defined track to follow through continuous snow. Snowshoes are currently useful as snow is soft, otherwise spikes are recommended, at least for descending, but are not critical for early morning ascending if the snow is firm.

Wellman Trail [surveyed 23rd February] has only a lightly traveled snowshoe track along its entire length, with only my own tracks (from 20th and 23rd) between Wellman’s Cienega and Wellman Divide. Nevertheless the route is easy to follow. Snowshoes are ideal for the southern section (in the forest and hence still powdery) and for the switchbacks (sun-exposed with soft snow by mid morning).

Almost all of the Peak Trail [surveyed 23rd February] has been very well-traveled, although in places the most heavily traveled track does not accurately follow the trail route (although my snowshoe tracks from 20th remain readily apparent). There is a well-compacted posthole and snowshoe route from Wellman Divide to about 10,000 ft. As is traditional after a reasonable fresh snowfall, the weekend tram traffic has created a myriad mess of tracks above 10,000 ft. Two different well-traveled snowshoe tracks join the Peak Trail here from Tamarack (roughly following the “Sid Davis” route), and two more join just below Miller Peak (near 10,400 ft). Multiple well-traveled posthole, ski, and snowshoe tracks include one that largely follows the uppermost traverse of the Peak Trail to Summit Junction (meeting Deer Springs Trail).

A well-traveled and well-defined compacted snowshoe track broadly follows the East Ridge Trail route from near the Miller switchback (10,400 ft) to San Jacinto Peak, and is an excellent alternative to the upper Peak Trail.

The Round Valley Trail [surveyed 23rd February] has a well-traveled snowshoe and posthole track through continuous moderate depth snow from Long Valley to Wellman Divide. Multiple alternate tracks turn off to head more directly up to the Peak Trail, as described above.

Deer Springs Trail [surveyed 23rd February] has a heavily-traveled posthole track to the Suicide Rock Trail junction. Thereafter the route has been lightly traveled, with the only track that exactly follows the trail route my descending snowshoe tracks from 23rd (between upper Little Round Valley [LRV] and the Suicide junction). Snow below 8600 ft (just south of the Marion junction) is very soft by about late morning and snowshoes make for a much easier hike than miles of deep postholing. From the junction with Marion Mountain Trail, a better-traveled snowshoe track exists briefly, with much of the weekend traffic turning back by the Fuller Ridge junction. A couple of snowshoe tracks and one posthole track continue toward Little Round Valley, with the lone posthole track ending about 0.5 mile below LRV. Much of the section between 8800-9500 ft is sheltered and snowshoes are invaluable through the light powder. Two snowshoe tracks pass through LRV, with only my descending track from 23rd accurately following the trail. From LRV to San Jacinto Peak there is only one known continuous track, my snowshoe tracks which descend very directly from the uppermost switchback (example photo below). I did find one other up-and-down snowshoe track just above LRV, but it was unclear whether this makes it to the Peak.

Marion Mountain Trail [surveyed 23rd February] has a moderately well-traveled snowshoe track along its entire length that largely follows the true trail route. When firm spikes are recommended, at least for descending, but later in the day and on warmer days, snowshoes are invaluable.

As of 23rd February there were no tracks through continuous snow on Seven Pines Trail, Fuller Ridge Trail (PCT Miles 185.5-190.5), or Strawberry Trail (PCT Miles 181-183).

Early on the morning of Saturday 21st we broke trail through light to moderate depth snow on South Ridge Road and South Ridge Trail to Tahquitz Peak (photos below). At that time these routes were untraveled, but by the time we descended, other hikers were postholing through rapidly softening snow at least part way to the peak. One week later on Saturday 28th South Ridge Trail was largely clear of snow to Old Lookout Flat (7600 ft), with only about 10% coverage of small, soft snow patches below that elevation. Snow remains virtually continuous from there to Tahquitz Peak, but is of course much thinner and softer, with largely continuous postholing. Four new blowdowns that came down on this trail in the mid February storms have already been removed by the Trail Report.

The 0.4 mile section of South Ridge Trail from Chinquapin Flat to Tahquitz Peak currently has no track to follow through steeply angled icy snow. These icy slopes on the north side of Tahquitz Peak are notoriously treacherous. Currently crampons with an ice axe, and the requisite skills to use this equipment in high angle terrain, are critical.

Spitler Peak Trail [surveyed 27th February] is functionally clear of snow, with a few limited patches of soft, thin snow remaining in the upper third of the trail. The Trail Report cleared another nine trees from the lower four miles of the trail; we have now removed 183 trees from this trail in recent years. Unfortunately the trail suffered major blowdowns in the most recent storm sequence and four large burned cedars are seriously obstructing the trail between 3.2-4.0 miles up from the trailhead. Several additional small trees remain uncut closer to the PCT.

SNOW DEPTHS

Snow depths measured on 16th-20th February 2026 (unless indicated otherwise) are as follows. Current total depth is the principal number given, followed (in parentheses) by details of the fresh snowfall where known. Altitudes and PCT mileages are approximate.

San Jacinto Peak (10810 ft): 26 inches, drifted 3-4 feet deep in places, notably on east and north sides, especially East Ridge (14 inches on 16th, 7 inches on 17th, 5 inches on 18th)[patchy icy snow persisting from storms in late November was a negligible 0-3 inches deep]

Little Round Valley (9750 ft): 23 inches, drifted to 30-35 inches in places (measured 23rd February)

Wellman Divide (9700 ft): 20 inches (9 inches on 16th, 8 inches on 17th, 3 inches on 19th)

Annie’s Junction/PCT Mile 181 (9020 ft): 27 inches (13 inches on 16th, 10 inches on 17th, 4 inches on 19th)

Tahquitz Peak (8836 ft): 23 inches (measured on 21st, heavily drifted in this exposed location)

Long Valley (8500 ft): 14 inches (8 inches on 16th, 4 inches on 17th, 2 inches on 19th)

Strawberry Junction/PCT Mile 183 (8100 ft): 15 inches (measured 23rd February)

Saddle Junction/PCT Mile 179 (8070 ft): 22 inches (11 inches on 16th, 8 inches on 17th, 3 inches on 19th)

Suicide Rock/Deer Springs trails junction (7000 ft): 8 inches (measured 23rd February)

South Ridge Trail trailhead at top of South Ridge Road (6500 ft): 16 inches (measured 21st)

Devil’s Slide Trail trailhead at Humber Park (6500 ft): 17 inches (9 inches on 16th, 6 inches on 17th, 2 inches on 19th)

Idyllwild (at 5550 ft): 12.5 inches snow (6 inches on 16th, 3.5 inches on 17th, 3 inches on 19th) with 0.57 inches rain on Monday 16th preceding the snow.

Mountain Center (4500 ft): 2 inches (mainly on 16th and 19th, already largely melted).

Quinn Flat, Garner Valley (4450 ft): 1.25 inch (0.25 on 17th, melted, plus one inch on 19th).

The San Jacinto Trail Report celebrates ten years of operation in 2026. It is read by over 30,000 people each year, and will pass one million views in 2026. The Report has helped thousands of hikers, and saved multiple lives, both directly and indirectly. Since the Report became established online, snow/ice rescues in the San Jacinto Mountains have dropped 82%, also saving Riverside County tens, if not hundreds, of thousands of dollars. While all time is volunteered, the Report uses small private donations to help cover operating costs. Donations keep the Report available to all, free from advertising or paywalls, and independent from agencies. If you have found this Report useful, please consider using this link to the Donate page. Thank you for your support.

Back-to-back-to-back storm systems – expected to be the coldest and most vigorous of the season to date – are forecast for the region between Monday 16th and Thursday 19th February 2026. The three systems will impact the San Jacinto mountains on the afternoon and night of 16th, the night of 17th, and throughout the day on 19th, with significant clearing between each, at least in the high country.

Please check this page for periodic updates – the most recent is at the top – throughout the multiday storm sequence. The next comprehensive Report update, summarizing conditions after the storms, is tentatively scheduled for the afternoon of Friday 20th.

UPDATE Thurday 19th February 2026 at 1830

Steady snowfall since late morning at San Jacinto Peak has totaled four inches, with possibly a little more to come this evening. All the snow has been extremely fine rounded grains, which makes for lovely powder, but accumulates very slowly.

In Idyllwild about 1.5 inches of snow has accumulated (at 5550 ft) but even at that elevation it has been admixed with sleet.

UPDATE Thurday 19th February 2026 at 1230

Snowshoeing conditions were exceptionally good on my ascent to San Jacinto Peak this morning, with very firm powder throughout. Temperatures are frigid however, below freezing everywhere above 4000 ft, with severe windchills in the high country.

Total snow accumulation at San Jacinto Peak is currently 21 inches, but with dramatic drifting everywhere above 9000 ft.

It started snowing both in Idyllwild and the high country at about 1115. Snow falling above 10,000 ft is extremely fine rounded grains, currently accumulating at just 0.25 inch/hour.

UPDATE Wednesday 18th February 2026 at 1200

The second storm of the sequence produced only seven inches of fresh snow at San Jacinto Peak overnight, for a total accumulation of 21 inches. Drifting has been severe, with strong winds at upper and mid elevations all night.

Fresh snow in Idyllwild (at 5550 ft) was an unexpectedly low three inches. Snow quality below 6000 ft is atrocious, with a very high water content, bordering on glorified slush. The overnight snow was preceded by 0.13 inch of rain late yesterday afternoon.

Snow dusted as low as 4400 ft in Garner Valley. Cloud became patchy by mid morning, with no further precipitation expected today.

The USFS gate at Humber Park closed on 18th February. While theoretically nine legal parking spaces remain immediately below the gate, an unconventional ploughing approach this time has left space for only 2-3 vehicles to park safely. Parking on Forest Drive, just below the Fern Valley Water District facility, is strongly recommended.

UPDATE Tuesday 17th February 2026 at 1430

Snow depths measured on my hike this morning were: 9 inches at Devil’s Slide trailhead at Humber Park; 11 inches at Saddle Junction (8100 ft); 13 inches at Annie’s Junction (9020 ft); 9 inches at Wellman Divide (9700 ft); 14 inches at San Jacinto Peak.

The snow quality deteriorated as I descended, with delightful, fine, dry powder in the high country down to about 8500 ft, becoming markedly wetter and heavier below that elevation, especially on Devil’s Slide Trail.

Although the high country was largely above the cloud, it was snowing intermittently below 9000 ft on the west side of the mountains during my early afternoon descent, especially in Strawberry Valley (where Idyllwild is located), which traditionally gets socked in during storms that originate from the south-west.

Despite the air temperature only 1-2 degrees above freezing in Idyllwild this afternoon, melting has been rapid with nearly half of the overnight snow already melted.

UPDATE Tuesday 17th February 2026 at 0615

Total snow depth at San Jacinto Peak this morning is 14 inches, following a further eight inches overnight.

I recorded a short video report from the Peak at about 0830 (linked here). At this time, snow conditions are excellent for snowshoeing above 8000 ft, as low as 7000 ft in places.

Idyllwild (at 5550 ft) has had a storm total of six inches of snow. Snow dusted as low as 4500 ft elevation in places (but this has since melted rapidly).

The San Jacinto Trail Report celebrates ten years of operation this year. Since the Report became established online snow/ice rescues in the San Jacinto Mountains have declined 82%, the Report has been used by tens of thousands of hikers, and multiple lives have been saved, both directly and indirectly. While all time and labor is volunteered, the Report uses small donations to help cover modest operating costs. This keeps the Report available to all, free from paywalls or advertising, and independent from agencies. If you have found this Report useful, please consider using this Donate page link. Thank you very much for your support.

UPDATE Monday 16th February 2026 at 1950

Snow accumulated to 2.25 inches in Idyllwild (at 5550 ft) this evening before stopping at about 1900. It has also stopped in Long Valley (8500 ft) where about four inches fell this afternoon.

Very light snow of fine rounded grains continues at San Jacinto Peak, where the total depth is now about six inches (but heavily drifted). A final band of intense snow – to complete the first storm of three – is forecast for the early hours of tomorrow morning.

UPDATE Monday 16th February 2026 at 1630

Rain in Idyllwild this afternoon totaled 0.57 inch before turning to steady snowfall at about 1600.

In the high country snow has been steady all afternoon, but being very fine grains it is accumulating slowly, with three inches at San Jacinto Peak in the past five hours, and about two inches in Long Valley (8500 ft).

UPDATE Monday 16th February 2026 at 1430

As forecast, snow started falling right as I summited San Jacinto Peak at 1130. The fine grain snow, drifting in gusty winds, is accumulating at about 0.5 inch/hour. Winds have so far not been close to the gale force that was forecasted.

The initial wave of the first storm is relatively mild, and light rain started in Idyllwild at 1230, with 0.25 inch falling by 1430. The expectation is that it will start snowing at mid elevations overnight.

To date this has been the second poorest winter on record for snow in the high country (following the desperately dry 2024/25). Snow persisting from storms in November has largely gone from the high country, although what little remains (generally >10,000 ft) is now icy and treacherous in places following months of freeze/thaw cycles. It was unprecedented that the Pacific Crest Trail was clear of snow throughout the San Jacinto mountains at the end of January. The lightest dusting of snow on 5th February – just 0.25 inch above 9900 ft – made conditions even more treacherous at highest elevations, albeit only for a day.

The encouraging news is that high pressure moves away from Southern California this week, and a sequence of storm systems is forecast to impact the San Jacinto mountains. The storms are forecast to be colder than those earlier this winter, with significant snow forecast down to mid elevations, freeze levels at times as low as 5000 ft (meaning snow could dust as low as 4000 ft), and substantial snowfalls possible in the high country.

Snow estimates on 16th-18th February for 5000-6000 ft (e.g., Idyllwild-Pine Cove) range from 4-12 inches, potentially admixed with 1-3 inches of rain, somewhat depending on the freeze level elevation, with high country forecasts ranging widely between 10-50 inches of snow >10,000 ft, with around 20-30 inches currently thought to be most likely. Cold and unsettled conditions may persist until 22nd February.

An initial, very minor, warmer system on Wednesday 11th failed to produce any snow in the high country and only 0.03 inch of rain at mid elevations.

Hikers must be prepared for temperatures below freezing at higher elevations starting Tuesday 10th February, and far below freezing when considering wind chill effects. High country temperatures on 16th-18th February are forecast to be the coldest of the season so far, with periodic blizzard conditions, and potential for dangerous windchills. See the Weather section below for my most recent meteorological observations from San Jacinto Peak.

Obviously, trail conditions are expected to change dramatically over the course of the next week. At this time, spikes are valuable, but not critical, in icy snow areas (generally >9800 ft). From Monday 16th onwards, some combination of snowshoes and crampons/ice axe may well be recommended as low as 8000 ft (potentially much lower), with spikes useful as low as 5000 ft. These recommendations will of course be updated constantly over the next few days and weeks.

Black Mountain Road (4S01) is closed at the gate 1.7 miles up from Highway 243, due to “winter conditions” per US Forest Service. Following superficial grading late in 2025 the road is in better condition than last summer, but remains far rougher than in June 2020, the last time Black Mountain Road was thoroughly graded. South Ridge Road (5S11) reopened to vehicles on 26th January, but is expected to close again around 15th-16th February. Dark Canyon Road remains open at this time, but is also expected to close around 16th. Forecast snowfall will likely result in Humber Park closing starting 16th, but nine legal parking spaces will remain below the gate.

Daily survey hikes by the Trail Report year-round in the San Jacinto mountains include multiple routes to the highest peaks including San Jacinto Peak typically 2-3 times per week (even more frequently before, during, and after storms), Tahquitz Peak and associated trails at least once per week, plus a wide variety of other trails on intervening days.

WEATHER

High pressure returned to the region in late January, with temperatures again rising to well above seasonal. Unsurprisingly, melting of what little snow remained, largely from November, has been steady.

A rare cloudy day, with moisture emanating from the south, produced the lightest dusting of snow on 5th February, just 0.25 inch of snow above 9900 ft, but no measurable rainfall at mid elevations (see photos above and below).

The “blocking” high pressure ridge is forecast to give way to a track of low pressure storm systems in mid month. A major storm system 16th-18th February may well be the coldest of the season to date. A freeze level as low as 4500 ft is tentatively forecast to produce significant snowfall at the mid-elevations (e.g., Idyllwild-Pine Cove and perhaps even lower). About 6-12 inches of snow are possible in Idyllwild. Snow estimates for the highest elevations have been diverse, but largely fall in the range of 2-4 feet, with the lower end of that range currently forecast as most probable.

At San Jacinto Peak (10,811ft/3295m) on Thursday 12th February 2026 at 0920 the air temperature was 27.6°F (-2°C), with a windchill temperature of 17.2°F (-8°C), 32% relative humidity, and a gentle SW wind sustained at 6 mph gusting to 9.6 mph.

At the Peak on Monday 9th February 2026 at 0910 the air temperature was 50.7°F (10°C), with a windchill temperature of 39.9°F (5°C), 28% relative humidity, and an intermittent NW breeze sustained at 0 mph gusting to 4.5 mph. This air temperature observation shattered the previous record high for the Peak in the month of February (by an almost incomprehensible 9.9°F), the prior record unsurprisingly set just last year.

At the Peak on Friday 6th February 2026 at 0900 the air temperature was 33.4°F (1°C), with a windchill temperature of 19.6°F (-7°C), 63% relative humidity, and a light SE wind sustained at 6 mph gusting to 11.7 mph, with 0.25 inch of fresh snow since the previous day.

At the Peak on Thursday 5th February 2026 at 0920 the air temperature was 32.3°F (0°C), with a windchill temperature of 20.1°F (-7°C), 39% relative humidity, and a steady SSE wind sustained at 10 mph gusting to 13.4 mph, with a few sparse snowflakes in the air.

TRAIL CONDITIONS

All major trails are clear of snow or, at uppermost elevations, have reliable tracks to follow through the very limited remaining icy snow. Most trails currently resemble the spring melt season of April-May, rather than late January/early February. As discussed above, conditions are expected to change dramatically starting 15th February.

Snow cover averages 30% in trails above about 9700 ft (Deer Springs Trail) and 9900 ft (Peak Trail), and is very icy as it is now compacted from hiker traffic and many freeze/thaw cycles.

Spikes remain useful for the next few days at least due to extensive icing above about 9800 ft. Hikers very comfortable on icy snow will find they are generally unnecessary for ascending, but spikes tend to be especially helpful for descending.

The PCT north from Saddle Junction and from Annie’s Junction onward to Strawberry Junction (Miles 179-183) is functionally clear of snow. Spikes not required.

The PCT south from Saddle Junction is functionally clear of snow, with a few very thin icy patches on the north side of Red Tahquitz (Miles 175-177) but spikes are not needed. Further south (Miles 151-175) the PCT is clear of snow.

The 0.4 mile section of South Ridge Trail on the north side of Tahquitz ridge from Chinquapin Flat to Tahquitz Peak is functionally snow-free, which is unprecedented for the end of January.

South Ridge Trail south of Tahquitz Peak is clear of snow.

Snow cover on the Wellman Trail averages less than 5% and is generally very thin.

The Peak Trail is now functionally clear of snow from Wellman Divide to 9900 ft. Icy snow cover in the trail is continuous in the sheltered section from 9900-10,100 ft. Snow cover is now only 10% from there to 10,400 ft (the Miller switchback), but then averages 90% from there to San Jacinto Peak. Many hikers will find spikes useful on this section for descending. At this time most hiker traffic has remained on the route of the upper trail (photo below). There are at least three relatively lightly traveled tracks on the East Ridge Trail route, through 90% snow cover, which rarely follow the actual trail, and for which spikes are very useful (for descending at least). Immediately around San Jacinto Peak (>10,500 ft) snow cover remains 80% and is very icy due following dozens of freeze/thaw cycles; spikes are recommended.

Marion Mountain Trail is now clear of snow. The Trail Report had already cleared the four new treefall hazards downed on this trail so far this winter. A new huge rotten stump came down on the upper trail in the first week of February, but I have cleared an easy work-around for hikers.

Deer Springs Trail is functionally clear of snow to 9000 ft, just above the Fuller Ridge Trail junction. There are a few significant icy snow patches from there to 9700 ft (the lower end of Little Round Valley). From Little Round Valley to near San Jacinto Peak snow cover averages 40%, but in most places on the trail it is more ice than snow. Hikers will find spikes useful on the upper trail, especially for descending some or all of the route from the Peak down to Little Round Valley.

Seven Pines Trail [surveyed 30th January] is clear of snow. The trail is in generally excellent condition (for this true wilderness trail) with most cones and branches now removed. One of two new blowdowns from this winter has been removed, bringing to 101 the number of trees dealt with by the Trail Report on this route in the past decade. An easy work-around has been put in past the huge uprooted tree high up on the trail. Note that Dark Canyon Road, the access to the Seven Pines trailhead, remains open (but is likely to close next week after significant snowfall).

Fuller Ridge Trail (PCT Miles 185.5-190.5) [surveyed 26th January] is functionally clear of snow.

Black Mountain Trail [surveyed 21st January] is clear of snow. The Trail Report has cleared the trail of the two most obstructive blowdowns roughly 1.6 miles up from the highway. Another one in that area, plus one just below Boulder Basin, are both easily hiked over.

Twelve blowdowns were removed from Spitler Peak Trail on 28th January, bringing to 174 the total number of trees the Trail Report has removed from this route in the past seven years. The trail is clear other than one very large burned cedar across the trail immediately after the first creek crossing 3.2 miles up from the trailhead.

The San Jacinto Trail Report celebrates ten years of operation this year. It is now read by over 30,000 people per year, and will pass one million views in 2026. The Report has helped thousands of hikers and saved multiple lives, both directly and indirectly. Since the Report became established online, snow/ice rescues in the San Jacinto Mountains have declined 82% according to Riverside County, saving the county tens, if not hundreds, of thousands of dollars. While all time is volunteered, the Report uses small donations to help cover operating costs, keeping the Report available to all, free from paywalls or advertising, and independent from agencies. If you have found this Report useful, please consider using this Donate page link. Thank you very much for your support.

The abysmal snow season continues. Total snowfall to date at San Jacinto Peak (32 inches) is the second lowest in recorded history, with only last winter lower. However, with such warm conditions for much of December and January, the actual snow on the ground around the high peaks this year (0-3 inches) was the lowest on record as of the end of January.

The dusting of snow on Friday 23rd January (described below in Weather) melted within days despite frigid temperatures in the high country. Temperatures climbed again to well above seasonal starting 28th January, with melting expected to remove most of what pitifully little snow remains (almost entirely from late November storms). There is some optimism in the forecasts that the current “blocking” high pressure ridge will give way to a low pressure storm track in mid month, with snow possible most likely starting Saturday 14th February.

It is unprecedented that the Pacific Crest Trail was functionally clear of snow throughout the San Jacinto mountains by the end of January, and hikers remaining on the trail do not require spikes (those taking alternate routes via San Jacinto Peak will find spikes very useful for at least the next week or two, as described under Trail Conditions).

South Ridge Road (5S11) reopened to vehicles on 26th January having been partially blocked by a rockslide about 0.5 mile up following heavy rains at the end of December. The main boulder was moved to a less obstructive position on 23rd (photo below).

Black Mountain Road (4S01) remains closed at the gate 1.7 miles up from Highway 243, due to “winter conditions” per US Forest Service. Following superficial grading late in 2025 the road is in better condition than last summer, but it remains far worse than in June 2020, the last time Black Mountain Road was thoroughly graded.

Daily survey hikes by the Trail Report year-round in the San Jacinto mountains include multiple routes to the highest peaks including San Jacinto Peak typically 2-3 times per week (even more frequently before, during, and after storms), Tahquitz Peak and associated trails at least once per week, plus a wide variety of other trails on intervening days.

WEATHER

With high pressure returning to the region in late January, temperatures have risen once again to well above seasonal, with the possibility of Santa Ana winds on the last couple of days of the month, and again on 3rd-5th February. The “blocking” high pressure ridge may give way to a track of low pressure storm systems in mid month. The first of these is tentatively forecast for 14th-15th February. Although details remain unclear, the system may be cold (unlike most other storms this season), with snow possible as low as the mid-elevations (e.g., Idyllwild-Pine Cove and perhaps even lower).

A weak “cut-off” low pressure system passed across Southern California on 22nd-24th January, and subsequently contributed moisture to the dramatic weather well to our east, but generated only minimal snow in the San Jacinto mountains. A dusting overnight on 22nd-23rd included 0.5 inch above 9000 ft increasing to one inch at San Jacinto Peak. The air temperature at the Peak was already just above freezing when I summitted early on 23rd, with rapid melting already well underway especially on the sun-exposed slopes. Idyllwild (at 5550 ft) recorded 0.04 inch of rain.

At San Jacinto Peak (10,811ft/3295m) on Thursday 5th February 2026 at 0920 the air temperature was 32.3°F (0°C), with a windchill temperature of 20.1°F (-7°C), 39% relative humidity, and a steady SSE wind sustained at 10 mph gusting to 13.4 mph, with a few very sparse snowflakes in the air.

At the Peak on Sunday 1st February 2026 at 0840 the air temperature was 40.4°F (5°C), with a windchill temperature of 27.3°F (-3°C), 29% relative humidity, and a pleasant SSE wind sustained at 11 mph gusting to 16.7 mph.

At the Peak on Friday 30th January 2026 at 0925 the air temperature was 34.9°F (2°C), with a windchill temperature of 19.8°F (-7°C), 29% relative humidity, and a steady NNE wind sustained at 18 mph gusting to 25.3 mph.

At the Peak on Monday 26th January 2026 at 0840 the air temperature was 21.8°F (-5°C), with a windchill temperature of 2.5°F (-17°C), 16% relative humidity, and a frigid SSE wind sustained at 16 mph gusting to 24.0 mph.

At the Peak on Sunday 25th January 2026 at 0840 the air temperature was 20.6°F (-6°C), with a windchill temperature of 3.9°F (-16°C), 18% relative humidity, and a brisk NNW wind sustained at 10 mph gusting to 16.2 mph.

TRAIL CONDITIONS

All major trails are clear of snow or, at uppermost elevations, have reliable tracks to follow through the limited remaining icy snow. Most trails resemble the spring melt season of April-May, rather than late January/early February.

Snow cover averages >40% in trails above about 9700 ft (Deer Springs Trail) and 9900 ft (Peak Trail), and is very icy as it is now compacted from hiker traffic and many freeze/thaw cycles. Melting continues steadily as temperatures are generally above seasonal until about 10th.

Spikes are increasingly useful for the next few days at least due to extensive icing above about 9800 ft. Hikers very comfortable on icy snow will find they are generally unnecessary for ascending, but spikes tend to be especially helpful for descending. Snow depths are now generally too shallow for crampons, and both depth and conditions are inadequate for snowshoes even at the highest elevations.

Devil’s Slide Trail is clear of snow.

The PCT north from Saddle Junction and from Annie’s Junction onward to Strawberry Junction (Miles 179-183) is functionally clear of snow. Spikes are not required.

The PCT south from Saddle Junction is functionally clear of snow, with a few very thin icy patches on the north side of Red Tahquitz (Miles 175-177) but spikes are not needed. Further south (Miles 151-175) the PCT is clear of snow.

The 0.4 mile section of South Ridge Trail on the north side of Tahquitz ridge from Chinquapin Flat to Tahquitz Peak is functionally snow-free, which is unprecedented for the end of January (photo below).

South Ridge Trail south of Tahquitz Peak is clear of snow.

Snow cover on the Wellman Trail averages less than 5% and is generally very thin, so most of the remainder of this largely sun-exposed trail is expected to clear in the next week or so. In places, notably at Wellman’s Cienega, the trail can be very icy (due to water, not snow) in the morning.

The Peak Trail is now functionally clear of snow from Wellman Divide to 9900 ft. Icy snow cover in the trail is continuous in the sheltered section from 9900-10,100 ft. Snow cover is now only 20% from there to 10,400 ft (the Miller switchback), but then almost continuous from there to San Jacinto Peak. Many hikers will find spikes useful on this section for descending. At this time most hiker traffic has remained on the route of the upper trail (photo below). There are at least two relatively lightly traveled tracks on the East Ridge Trail route, through 90% snow cover, which rarely follow the actual trail, and for which spikes are very useful (for descending at least). Immediately around San Jacinto Peak (>10,500 ft) snow is very icy due following dozens of freeze/thaw cycles, and spikes are invaluable.

Marion Mountain Trail is now clear of snow. The Trail Report has already cleared the four new treefall hazards downed on this trail so far this winter.

Deer Springs Trail is functionally clear of snow to 9000 ft, just above the Fuller Ridge Trail junction. There are a few lengthy icy snow patches from there to 9700 ft (the lower end of Little Round Valley). From Little Round Valley to near San Jacinto Peak snow cover averages 60%, but in most places on the trail it is more ice than snow. Hikers will find spikes useful on the upper trail, especially for descending from the Peak down to Little Round Valley.

Seven Pines Trail [surveyed 30th January] is clear of snow. The trail is in generally excellent condition (for this true wilderness trail) with most cones and branches now removed. One of two new blowdowns from this winter has been removed, bringing to 101 the number of trees dealt with by the Trail Report here in the past decade. An easy work-around has been put in past the huge uprooted tree high up on the trail. Note that Dark Canyon Road, the access to the Seven Pines trailhead, remains open.

Fuller Ridge Trail (PCT Miles 185.5-190.5) [surveyed 26th January] is functionally clear of snow, with tiny patches of thin icy snow persisting in the most sheltered areas, notably around Mile 186 and 186.5-187.

Black Mountain Trail [surveyed 21st January] is clear of snow. The Trail Report has cleared the trail of the two most obstructive blowdowns roughly 1.6 miles up from the highway. Another one in that area, plus one just below Boulder Basin, are both easily hiked over.

Twelve blowdowns were removed from Spitler Peak Trail on 28th January, bringing to 174 the total number of trees the Trail Report has removed from this route in the past seven years. The trail is clear other than one very large burned cedar across the trail immediately after the first creek crossing 3.2 miles up from the trailhead.

The San Jacinto Trail Report celebrates ten years of operation this year. It is now read by over 30,000 people per year, and will pass one million views in 2026. The Report has helped thousands of hikers and saved multiple lives, both directly and indirectly. Since the Report became established online, snow/ice rescues in the San Jacinto Mountains have declined 82% according to Riverside County, saving the county tens, if not hundreds, of thousands of dollars. While all time is volunteered, the Report uses small donations to help cover operating costs, keeping the Report available to all, free from paywalls or advertising, and independent from agencies. If you have found this Report useful, please consider using this Donate page link. Thank you very much for your support.

UPDATE Friday 23rd January 2026 at 1430:

A dusting of snow overnight produced 0.5 inch above 9000 ft increasing to one inch at San Jacinto Peak. The air temperature at the Peak was just above freezing when I summitted at 0900 in calm conditions, with rapid melting already well underway especially on the sun-exposed slopes (see photo below). Idyllwild (at 5550 ft) recorded 0.04 inch of rain overnight.

The underfoot conditions have not changed significantly, and advice below regarding traction still applies at this time, with spikes advisable above about 9700 ft.

Further very light precipitation is possible at all elevations in the afternoon of Saturday 24th.

———————————

A weak “cut-off” low pressure system moves across Southern California over the next few days. While this will contribute moisture to dramatic weather much further east by the weekend, impacts in the San Jacinto mountains are forecast to be minimal. Light rainfall is possible on 22nd-24th January at mid elevations, at most a fraction of an inch across 22nd-23rd. The freeze level will be high for January, with no snow possible below 7000 ft. In the high country, very light snow is possible, but forecasts increasingly suggesting one inch above 10,000 ft at the most.

With the high country warming consistently above freezing in the past ten days, melting of remnant snow has been rapid, especially with depths so minimal everywhere. Details are given in the Trail Conditions section below, but at this time carrying spikes remains recommended above about 9900 ft, but they can be useful as low as 8800 ft in places.

South Ridge Road (5S11) closed to vehicles on Saturday 3rd January having been partially blocked by a rockslide about 0.5 mile up following heavy rains (photo in an earlier Report linked here). The boulder was moved to a somewhat less obstructive position on 23rd January (photo below) but the road remains closed. Note that the road, plus of course South Ridge Trail, remain open to hikers. Black Mountain Road (4S01) remains closed at the gate 1.7 miles up from Highway 243, due to “winter conditions” per US Forest Service, but following grading is in its best condition since 2020.

Daily survey hikes by the Trail Report year-round in the San Jacinto mountains include multiple routes to the highest peaks including San Jacinto Peak typically 2-3 times per week (even more frequently before, during, and after storms), Tahquitz Peak and associated trails at least once per week, plus a wide variety of other trails on intervening days.

WEATHER

With high pressure returning to the region in early January, strong Santa Ana winds were a feature of 9th-16th, with no additional rain or snow since 5th January.

The most recent storm of winter 2025/26 produced significant rainfall at mid elevations on 3rd-4th January, plus a minor snowfall overnight on 4th January. It was significantly colder – with thankfully more snow than rain at upper elevations – than most of the rather mild storms so far this winter (as described in more detail in the previous Report linked here).

The morning of Thursday 8th January was remarkable at San Jacinto Peak. Strong winds had been forecast, and I timed my morning hike to experience them. In truly wild conditions, I recorded the highest wind gust reported in winter at the Peak (60.4 mph) and the highest sustained wind speed I have ever recorded there (44 mph). (The all-time record wind gust recorded at the Peak was 77.8 mph on 9th September 2022 during the passage of Tropical Storm Kay.)

Temperatures remained below average until Friday 9th, but have now risen and remain well above seasonal for 13th-21st January as a “blocking” high pressure system moved back in over California, generally redirecting storm systems far north of the state once again.

Brief cooling is forecast around 22nd-24th January as a very weak storm system passes, with a limited chance of light rain at mid elevations as described above, but currently little (if any) snowfall forecast for the high country.

At Tahquitz Peak (8836 ft) at 0800 on Sunday 18th January the air temperature was 54°F, while simultaneously in Idyllwild (at 5550 ft) it was 39.6°F, a noteworthy example of a temperature inversion in Strawberry Valley (and a remarkably warm temperature for Tahquitz Peak in January).

At San Jacinto Peak (10,811ft/3295m) on Monday 19th January 2026 at 0915 the air temperature was 39.6°F (4°C), with a windchill temperature of 33.5°F (1°C), 26% relative humidity, and a very light due North wind sustained at 4 mph gusting to 7.2 mph.

At the Peak on Friday 16th January 2026 at 0940 the air temperature was 36.8°F (3°C), with a windchill temperature of 21.6°F (-6°C), 17% relative humidity, and a stiff NNE wind sustained at 21 mph gusting to 31.7 mph.

At the Peak on Wednesday 14th January 2026 at 0940 the air temperature was 31.0°F (0°C), with a windchill temperature of 9.5°F (-12°C), 45% relative humidity, and a raging NE wind sustained at 37 mph gusting to 45.3 mph.

TRAIL CONDITIONS

All major trails are clear of snow or have reliable tracks to follow through the limited remaining icy snow. Snow on trails is increasingly patchy but icy cover remains >80% in trails above about 9400 ft (west side) and 9900 ft (east side). However it is generally less than an inch deep below about 9700 ft, and will continue to melt steadily until temperatures drop markedly on 22nd.

Although snow is thin, where it persists on high country trails it is now compacted from hiker traffic, and will continue to undergo freeze/thaw cycles, combining to turn thin powder into firm, often icy, snow. This ice can be unexpectedly treacherous in places.

Carrying spikes remains useful everywhere above about 9000 ft, although hikers very comfortable on icy snow may no longer need them. Spikes tend to be especially helpful for descending, even when they are often unnecessary for ascending.

While crampons can be used on compacted trails and off-trail above about 9900 ft (and visible tracks suggest some folks are indeed using them around the highest peaks), snow depths have rapidly become marginal for crampon use. Snow depths and conditions are inadequate for snowshoes even at the highest elevations.

The 0.4 mile section of South Ridge Trail on the north side of Tahquitz ridge from Chinquapin Flat to Tahquitz Peak [surveyed twice per week this month, most recently 18th January] averages only 30% snow cover. It may be unprecedented that this trail is almost snow-free in late January. Fresh snow that fell on 4th-5th January here is extremely thin, and although becoming icy with some compaction (photo below) most hikers will find spikes are no longer required.

Devil’s Slide Trail [surveyed 18th January] is clear of snow. Spikes are not required.

The PCT north from Saddle Junction [surveyed 16th January] and from Annie’s Junction onward to Strawberry Junction (Miles 179-183) is functionally clear of snow. Spikes are not required.

The PCT south from Saddle Junction [surveyed 18th January] has only a handful of icy patches south to Red Tahquitz (Miles 179-175) although I have observed some hikers are choosing to use spikes in a couple of specific locations. Further south (Miles 151-175) the PCT is functionally clear of snow.

Snow cover on the Wellman Trail [surveyed 16th January] averages only 20% and is generally very thin, so most of the remainder of this largely sun-exposed trail is expected to clear in the next few days. In places, notably at Wellman’s Cienega and for 0.1 mile immediately north, the trail can be extremely icy (due to water, not snow) in the morning.

The Peak Trail [surveyed 16th January] has thin, discontinuous, icy snow cover of about 60% from Wellman Divide to 9900 ft. Spikes can be useful on this section, mainly for descending, but are not required. Snow cover in the trail is continuous from 9900 ft to San Jacinto Peak, and snow is very firm with a well-defined track to follow. Many hikers will find spikes useful on this section for descending. At this time almost all hiker traffic has remained on the route of the upper trail (which currently resembles the “monorail” snow tracks of New England). There is only a lightly traveled snow track on the East Ridge Trail route, which rarely follows the actual trail, and for which spikes are certainly useful. Immediately around San Jacinto Peak snow is very icy due to sun exposure and freeze/thaw cycles, and spikes are valuable.

South Ridge Trail [surveyed 18th January] south of Tahquitz Peak is now clear of snow.

Marion Mountain Trail [surveyed 19th January] is now functionally clear of snow. A few tiny icy patches remain in the most sheltered areas in the central portion of the trail, but spikes are no longer required. The Trail Report has already cleared the four new treefall hazards that have fallen on this trail so far this winter.

Deer Springs Trail [surveyed 19th January] is clear of snow to Strawberry Junction, and is now largely clear of icy snow to the Marion Mountain Trail junction (8700 ft), small patches persisting only in the most sheltered forest areas. From 8700-9400 ft, only limited icy patches remain, although many are tricky underfoot and some hikers may find spikes useful. From 9400 ft through Little Round Valley to San Jacinto Peak, snow cover averages 90%, but in many places on the trail it is more ice than snow. Hikers will find spikes useful on the upper trail, especially for descending from the Peak down to around 9400 ft (the crossing of the North Fork of the San Jacinto River).

Seven Pines Trail [surveyed 19th January] is largely clear of snow. There is currently no track to follow through the remaining thin snow patches above 8400 ft, although navigation would be straightforward for those very familiar with this trail.

Fuller Ridge Trail (PCT Miles 185.5-190.5) [surveyed 19th January] is functionally clear of snow, with patches of thin icy snow persisting in the most sheltered areas, notably around Mile 186 and 186.5-187.

Black Mountain Trail [surveyed 21st January] is clear of snow. The Trail Report has cleared the trail of the two most obstructive blowdowns roughly 1.6 miles up from the highway. Another one in that area, plus one just below Boulder Basin, are both easily hiked over.

The San Jacinto Trail Report celebrates ten years of operation this year. It is now read by over 30,000 people per year, and will pass one million views in 2026. The Report has helped thousands of hikers and saved multiple lives, both directly and indirectly. Since the Report became established online, snow/ice rescues in the San Jacinto Mountains have declined 82% according to Riverside County, saving the county tens, if not hundreds, of thousands of dollars. While all time is volunteered, the Report uses small donations to help cover operating costs, keeping the Report available to all, free from paywalls or advertising, and independent from agencies. If you have found this Report useful, please consider using this Donate page link. Thank you very much for your support.

The most recent storm of winter 2025/26 produced significant rainfall at mid elevations on 3rd-4th January, plus a minor snowfall overnight on 4th January. It was significantly colder – with more snow than rain at upper elevations – than most of the storms so far this winter, especially the very mild storm just three days earlier that was described in detail in the previous Report (linked here).

The morning of Thursday 8th January was a remarkable time to be on San Jacinto Peak. Strong winds had been forecast, and I timed my morning hike to experience them. In truly wild conditions, I recorded the highest wind gust reported in winter at the Peak (60.4 mph) and the highest sustained wind speed I have ever recorded there (44 mph). (The all-time record wind gust recorded at the Peak was 77.8 mph on 9th September 2022 during Tropical Storm Kay.) I recorded a short video from the Peak (linked here) although even that doesn’t seem to adequately convey the dramatic wind speeds.

High pressure returns to Southern California by this weekend with temperatures moving far above seasonal again next week, and, predictably, no significant further precipitation in the forecasts before late January.

With the high country remaining below freezing since Monday 5th, melting has been slow above 8000 ft. Melting will be steady this weekend, especially on sun-exposed slopes, before accelerating dramatically everywhere next week, especially given that snow depths everywhere are minimal.

South Ridge Road (5S11) closed to vehicles on Saturday 3rd January having been partially blocked by a rockslide about 0.5 mile up following heavy rains (photo in previous Report linked here). Note that the road (and of course trail of the same name) remain open to hikers.

Daily survey hikes by the Trail Report year-round in the San Jacinto mountains include multiple routes to the highest peaks including San Jacinto Peak typically at least twice per week (even more frequently during winter storm weather), Tahquitz Peak and area at least once per week, plus a wide variety of other trails on intervening days.

WEATHER

Light snow late on 4th January dusted down to 7400 ft on South Ridge Trail and to 7800 ft on Deer Springs Trail. On 5th I measured 1.5 inches at 8500 ft on South Ridge and two inches at Tahquitz Peak, with one inch at Saddle Junction, two at Wellman Divide and three inches at San Jacinto Peak. I recorded a short video report from San Jacinto Peak at about 1100 (linked here).

Prodigious rain continued until near dawn on 5th at mid elevations, with another 1.21 inches in Idyllwild (at 5550 ft) in the 24 hours to 0700 that morning, for a storm total of 1.93, and remarkably 6.9 inches in the 14 days between 23rd December and 5th January.

Temperatures have remained below average this week, but are forecast to start climbing on Friday 9th, and by next week will be well above seasonal for January, as a “blocking” high pressure system moves back in over California, redirecting storm systems well to the north once again.

Strong Santa Ana (north-east) winds are forecast for 9th-10th January. While air temperatures will actually be rising rapidly, windchills may feel severe, especially around peaks and ridges.

At San Jacinto Peak (10,811ft/3295m) on Thursday 8th January 2026 at 0945 the air temperature was 16.9°F (-8°C), with a windchill temperature of -12.3°F (-25°C), 63% relative humidity, and a record-breaking WNW wind sustained at 44 mph gusting to 60.4 mph. The latter was a record wind gust for winter at the Peak (photo below), and the former an all-time record for sustained wind speed that I have recorded at the Peak.

At the Peak on Monday 5th January 2026 at 1100 the air temperature was 19.7°F (-7°C), with a windchill temperature of -1.5°F (-19°C), 59% relative humidity, and a bitter SW wind sustained at 21 mph gusting to 26.4 mph.

TRAIL CONDITIONS

Snow on trails is increasingly patchy above about 8200 ft, but largely continuous above 9000 ft. However it is thin everywhere, generally only 1-2 inches deep below about 9700 ft, and will melt rapidly as temperatures rise over the next few days.

There were fresh tracks to follow on South Ridge, Wellman, Peak, Deer Springs, and Marion Mountain trails, plus the PCT from Miles 177-181, as early as the afternoon of Monday 5th. There is now also a reliable track to follow through very thin snow on the Round Valley Trail from Long Valley to Wellman Divide.

Carrying spikes remains valuable everywhere above about 9000 ft, and some hikers may find them useful in places as low as 8000 ft. Over the course of the next few days high country trails may become somewhat compacted from hiker traffic, and will undergo freeze/thaw cycles, turning the current powder into firmer, icy snow. Conversely, melting will be rapid as temperatures rise over the next few days, reducing the need for traction, especially below 9000 ft and on sun-exposed slopes. Spikes tend to be especially helpful for descending, even when they seem marginally necessary for ascending.

Crampons could be used above about 9700 ft (Wellman Divide on the east side, Little Round Valley on the west side), at least for the next few days while snow depth is adequate, but they are certainly not required (nor preferable to spikes). Snow depths and conditions are inadequate for snowshoes even at the highest elevations.

The 0.4 mile section of South Ridge Trail on the north side of Tahquitz ridge from Chinquapin Flat to Tahquitz Peak [surveyed 10th January] was, remarkably, almost completely clear of icy snow (that remained from November) when checked on the morning of Saturday 3rd, having been drastically melted by mild rainfall in the preceding days. Fresh snow on this trail from 5th is very thin, and although becoming icy with some compaction, most hikers will not require spikes (photo below).

Devil’s Slide Trail is functionally clear of snow to 7800 ft. Between there and Saddle Junction there are some extended patches of very thin snow, which will become more icy this weekend (before melting completely next week). Most hikers will find spikes are not required.

Snow cover on the Wellman Trail is almost continuous but extremely thin, and most of this very sun-exposed trail will clear rapidly in the next few days.

The Peak Trail has thin but continuous snow cover from Wellman Divide to San Jacinto Peak. The least sun-exposed section at 9900-10,100 ft has also drifted the most, and locally depths are 8-10 inches, but snow is very firm with a well-defined track to follow. At this time almost all hiker traffic has remained on the route of the upper trail, and the few tracks on the East Ridge Trail route are not very apparent due to the firmness of the snow.

South Ridge Trail [surveyed 10th January] south of Tahquitz Peak is largely clear of snow to 8500 ft (about 5% snow cover above 7800 ft). Icy snow is almost continuous above 8500 ft (switchback 9) but is thin and will melt rapidly next week. Hikers may find spikes useful, especially for descending the uppermost trail (photo below).

Deer Springs Trail is functionally clear of snow to Strawberry Junction. Snow is very thin and increasingly patchy from there to about 8500 ft (just south of the Marion Mountain Trail junction), but then largely continuous thereafter through to San Jacinto Peak. Snow will become increasingly patchy next week both above and below Little Round Valley, but due to differential drifting and sun exposure, snow will remain several inches deep in most of Little Round Valley for the next week or so. Hikers will find spikes are useful on the upper trail, especially for descending from the Peak to below Little Round Valley.

The San Jacinto Trail Report celebrates ten years of operation this year. It is now read by over 30,000 people per year, and will pass one million views in 2026. The Report has helped thousands of hikers and saved multiple lives, both directly and indirectly. Since the Report became established online, snow/ice rescues in the San Jacinto Mountains have declined 82%, saving Riverside County tens, if not hundreds, of thousands of dollars. While all time is volunteered, the Report uses private donations to help cover operating costs, keeping the Report available to all, free from paywalls or advertising, and independent from agencies. If you have found this Report useful, please consider using this Donate page link. Thank you very much for your support.

The sixth storm system of winter 2025/26 to impact the San Jacinto mountains was impressive for both its rain generation, and for its remarkably high freeze level. This combination brought heavy rain – which froze above about 9300 ft – all the way to San Jacinto Peak, but (sadly) minimal fresh snow.

Rainfall began around 0700 on 31st December at both mid and upper elevations, continuing with remarkable persistence until the morning of 2nd January (0500 in Idyllwild, 0700 at 9000 ft). Across the roughly 48 hour period, Idyllwild (at 5550 ft) received 2.98 inches of rain, with Wellman’s Cienega (9300 ft) recording a prodigious 5.2 inches.

Snowfall immediately around San Jacinto Peak was a mere two inches, heavily admixed with freezing rain, sleet, and remnant snow from November and December storms, with just one inch at 10,500 ft, and a dusting as low as 9900 ft.

I recorded a rather lengthy video report from San Jacinto Peak in superb conditions at 0830 on Friday 2nd January (linked here, discussion of trail/ice conditions between minutes 4-5). Icy snow is essentially continuous above 9800 ft, and was so hard and icy that conditions are optimal for spikes. This will change rapidly on sun-exposed areas during the day, but the upper elevations will refreeze overnight, getting icy again every morning. Crampons could be used above about 10,000 ft, but are frankly more than is needed at this time. Snow depth and condition are unsuitable for snowshoes.

Contrary to normal winter reporting, snow depths are not given at the foot of this posting. Rain has largely eliminated all snow from trails below 9800 ft (with the notable exception of uppermost Deer Springs Trail and the north side of Tahquitz Peak). Generally, trails below that elevation are largely or completely clear of snow (but may retain some ice). Snow depth above 10,000 ft is currently 2-5 inches, with deeper drifts in places.

High country temperatures are forecast to be generally around seasonal into mid January. Consequently, hikers must be prepared for air temperatures below freezing above 10,000 ft elevation and well below freezing when considering wind chill effects. See the Weather section below for my recent observations from San Jacinto Peak.

The conditions forecast for 3rd-4th January may be similar to those earlier this winter which resulted in multiple significant hypothermia cases in the San Jacinto high country. Hikers – most notably those from the Tramway where such conditions are less anticipated – may be ascending through rain, before encountering snowfall, stronger winds, and frigid windchills at the highest elevations. Being fully prepared for the challenging combination of both winter conditions and wet weather can be critical (at a minimum, having fully wind- and waterproof clothing, plus multiple dry layers, hats, and gloves stored in a truly waterproof pack system, is very strongly advised). A clear recognition of when turning around is the safest option in such conditions is also invaluable.

South Ridge Road (5S11) closed on Saturday 3rd January having been partially blocked by a boulder about 0.5 mile up following recent heavy rains (photo below).

Daily survey hikes by the Trail Report year-round in the San Jacinto mountains include multiple routes to the highest peaks including San Jacinto Peak typically at least twice per week (but even more frequently during winter storm weather), Tahquitz Peak and area at least once per week, plus a wide variety of other trails on intervening days.

WEATHER

Conditions remain very unsettled, especially at mid elevations, until at least 8th January. Consequently, temperatures remain generally below seasonal, especially at mid elevations, until next weekend.

Light rain is forecast from late on Saturday 3rd to early on Monday 5th January. This system will be colder than most recent ones, with a freeze level near 8000 ft, but with little precipitation forecast (<1 inch rain at mid elevations, 1-2 inches of snow >9000 ft), the impacts will be limited.

The “blocking” high pressure area returns to Southern California later this week, with temperatures moving back above seasonal the following week, with, predictably, no further precipitation in the forecasts thereafter.

At San Jacinto Peak (10,811ft/3295m) on Friday 2nd January 2026 at 0830 the air temperature was 32.4°F (0°C), with a windchill temperature of 18.7°F (-7°C), 34% relative humidity, and a cool due West wind sustained at 11 mph gusting to 17.0 mph.

At the Peak on Wednesday 31st December 2025 at 1100 the air temperature was 33.8°F (1°C),with a windchill temperature of 17.1°F (-8°C), 79% relative humidity, and a sharp SSE wind sustained at 22 mph gusting to 30.8 mph.

At the Peak on Saturday 27th December 2025 at 0730 the air temperature was 15.2°F (-9°C), with a windchill temperature of -7.4°F (-22°C), 100% relative humidity, and a bitter NW wind sustained at 20 mph gusting to 28.2 mph.

TRAIL CONDITIONS

Trails below about 9,800 ft (east side) or 9500 ft (west side) are generally snow-free, but may be icy to lower elevations in early to mid mornings.

Carrying spikes remains advisable everywhere above about 9000 ft. Sections of ice and icy snow that remained from November are now largely obscured under very thin fresh snow cover (>9900 ft), or ice from frozen rain, making them especially treacherous. This is especially true on the Peak Trail above 10,100 ft, and on upper Deer Springs Trail (>9500 ft). Spikes tend to be especially helpful for descending, even when they do not seem necessary for ascending.

Snow depths are generally unsuitable for snowshoeing everywhere due to limited snow depths and compaction/ice.

Remarkably, the section of South Ridge Trail from Chinquapin Flat to Tahquitz Peak [updated 3rd January] is largely clear of icy snow, having been melted by rainfall in recent days (photo below). Some hikers may find spikes useful for short sections.

South Ridge Trail [updated 3rd January] south of the peak is clear of snow and ice to Tahquitz Peak.

The Wellman Trail is almost entirely clear of icy snow, other than a handful of patches in the sheltered areas at its southern end.

The Peak Trail has an obvious track through very thin continuous snow cover that accurately follows the trail route to the Summit Junction with Deer Springs Trail, and then onward up to San Jacinto Peak. The snow is extremely icy in mornings and in areas that are not sun-exposed. Spikes recommended.

Upper Deer Springs Trail does not have a track to follow through continuous icy snow above Little Round Valley as of Friday 2nd. The existing tracks have been largely obscured by a mixture of melting, rain, and icy fresh snow. Spikes are strongly recommended for this route.

The San Jacinto Trail Report celebrates ten years of operation this year. It is now read by over 30,000 people per year, and will pass one million views in 2026. The Report has helped thousands of hikers and saved multiple lives, both directly and indirectly. Since the Report became established online, snow/ice rescues in the San Jacinto Mountains have declined 82%, saving Riverside County tens, if not hundreds, of thousands of dollars. While all time is volunteered, the Report uses small private donations to help cover operating costs. Donations keep the Report available to all, free from advertising or paywalls, and independent from agencies. If you have found this Report useful, please consider using this link to the Donate page. Thank you very much for your support.

UPDATE Friday 2nd January 2026: it continued to drizzle up to 9000 ft until early this morning. San Jacinto Peak added two inches of snow, but it is embedded in a thick ice layer of freezing rain.

I recorded a video report from the Peak early this morning (linked here) discussing the weather and current conditions.

Spikes are strongly recommended everywhere above about 9000 ft due to heavy icing of all surfaces at this time.

Rainfall was prodigious, with about 5.4 inches at Wellman’s Cienega (9300 ft) in the past 48 hours.

UPDATE Thursday 1st January 2026 at 1745: steady rain overnight and almost all day is finally slowing (almost to a stop at mid elevations). Idyllwild (at 5550 ft) received 1.47 inches in the 24 hours up to 0700 this morning, and another 1.37 inches in the subsequent ten hours, for an impressive storm total of 2.84 inches. Long Valley (8500 ft) recorded 1.63 inches in the 24 hours to midnight last night, with an additional 0.45 inch today. The freeze level remained above 10,000 ft all morning, finally dropping this afternoon closer to 9000 ft (but after the bulk of the precipitation had passed).

UPDATE Wednesday 31st December 2025: I spent most of the day in the high country, as my morning hike turned into substantial involvement in a hiker rescue from San Jacinto Peak. The good news is that all has ended well, but this update was of course delayed. Rain started this morning at 0700, but did not turn heavy at mid elevations until 1500. Above 9000 ft, the rain was heavy for much of the day, with Wellman’s Cienega recording 0.4 inch in just four hours from 0900-1300. Rain in Idyllwild totaled 0.83 inch from 0700-1900 today. The system is very mild, as expected, with rain as high as San Jacinto Peak this morning before turning to intermittent snow and sleet at about 1115, but only above 10,500 ft. Trails that had snow and/or ice remaining from last week (or even November) have fast become an ugly mix of softening snow, watery ice, and, increasingly, slush. Fully waterproof gear, including footwear, is critical for the next 36 hours, in addition to gear for genuine winter conditions. Rain is forecast to persist all night until late tomorrow afternoon, at least to 10,000 ft, with just a few inches of snow expected above that elevation.

UPDATE Tuesday 30th December 2025: an extremely mild winter storm arrives tomorrow morning, bringing steady rain all day on Wednesday and Thursday (totaling about two inches at Idyllwild elevation). The forecast freeze level is remarkably high, not dropping below 10,000 ft, above which 6-8 inches of snow are tentatively forecast, with perhaps a dusting down to 9000 ft. After a hiatus on Friday 2nd January, most of the first half of January remains unsettled, with precipitation possible on many days, and a more typical freeze level – especially in the second week of the month – perhaps eventually bringing snow down to mid elevations.

UPDATE Monday 29th December 2025: in a 180° change in the weather – literally, in terms of the wind direction – strong Santa Ana winds are impacting the mountains today. I recorded a north-easterly wind gust of 43.8 mph at Tahquitz Peak early this morning, but more impressive was the sustained speed at 30 mph, with the wind seemingly strengthening further after we left the peak. Although the direction remains the same, the wind speeds are forecast to drop substantially tomorrow, Tuesday 30th, with rain forecast for the following day.

—————————————-

This update summarizes conditions following the fifth storm system of winter 2025/26 – a major atmospheric river across most of California – that recently impacted the San Jacinto mountains on 23rd-26th December. This update is intentionally brief as (a) very limited snowfall has resulted in generally benign trail conditions, and (b) another very warm storm system starting 31st December expected to bring widespread rain to at least 10,000 ft elevation and lasting into the first few days of January will change conditions significantly once again.

Despite reports of dramatic weather only a short distance to our west, the latest storm greatly underperformed forecasts in the San Jacinto mountains. Across three different days of precipitation, total snow accumulation at San Jacinto Peak was 7.5 inches, with 2.01 inches of rain in Idyllwild (at 5550 ft).

Other than at the end of the storm system on 26th, the bulk of the storm was very mild, and rather than adding snow, rainfall as high as 10,000 ft actually contributed to removing much of the already rather limited snow that remained from November storms. When the freeze level finally dropped, even snowfall on 26th was generally less than 0.5 inch fell below 8500ft, with only an inch to 9900 ft, so impacts on the trails have been very limited.

I recorded a short video discussion from San Jacinto Peak on the morning of Saturday 27th December, giving a feel for the snow conditions underfoot at the highest elevations (linked here). I maintained day-by-day postings on the progress of the multiday storm system available here.

Details are given below under Trail Conditions, but carrying spikes remains advisable everywhere above about 9000 ft, and they can be useful down to 8000 ft in places. Sections of ice and icy snow that remained from November are now largely obscured under thin fresh snow cover, making them especially treacherous. This is especially true on the Peak Trail between 9700-10,100 ft, and on upper Deer Springs Trail (9000-10,500 ft). Spikes tend to be especially helpful for descending, even when they do not seem necessary for ascending.

Snow depths are not currently suitable for snowshoes, except perhaps for off-trail travel around the highest peaks (>10,000 ft), but even then only for the next couple of days as melting is expected to be steady with rising temperatures this week.

Snow depths measured at various locations on the trail system are given towards the end of this posting. Note however that snow depth itself is rarely indicative of the difficulty (or ease) of hiking a particular track or trail. For example a firm, well-compacted track across snow feet deep is often much easier hiking than traversing across just a few inches depth of angled virgin icy snow.

High country temperatures are forecast to remain near or above seasonal for the first ten days of January 2026. Nevertheless, hikers should be prepared for temperatures near or below freezing in the high country (>9800 ft elevation) and at times well below freezing when considering wind chill effects. See the Weather section below for my recent observations from San Jacinto Peak.

The conditions forecast for 31st December-4th January are similar to those on 15th November which resulted in multiple significant hypothermia cases in the San Jacinto high country, and with which I was heavily involved as I alluded in a prior report linked here. Hikers – most notably those from the Tramway where such conditions are less anticipated – may be ascending through rain, before encountering snowfall, stronger winds, and frigid windchills at the highest elevations. Being fully prepared for the challenging combination of both winter conditions and wet weather will be critical (at a minimum, having fully wind- and waterproof clothing, plus multiple dry layers, hats, and gloves stored in a truly waterproof pack system, is very strongly advised). A clear recognition of when turning around is the safest option in such conditions is also invaluable.

Daily survey hikes by the Trail Report year-round in the San Jacinto mountains include multiple routes to the highest peaks including San Jacinto Peak typically at least twice per week (but almost daily during winter storm weather), Tahquitz Peak and area at least once per week, plus a wide variety of other trails on intervening days.

WEATHER

Temperatures rise steadily in the last few days of December, with widespread melting of the very thin snow expected. They will remain somewhat above seasonal in the first week of January, especially at upper elevations, even as a new storm system arrives.

The first five days of January 2026 are forecast to be very unsettled, especially at mid elevations. About two inches of rain are expected at Idyllwild elevation (5000-6000 ft) between the afternoon of Wednesday 31st December and Monday 5th January, heaviest on 31st December and 1st January. The system is expected to be even warmer than that of 23rd-24th December, with freeze levels consistently near or even above 10,000 ft. Snowfall around the highest peaks is tentatively forecast to be several inches spread across the five days, mostly falling on 31st and 1st, with little more than a dusting expected down to 8000 ft, and only roughly 1-3 inches in between, following significant rainfall to 10,500 ft or higher.

At San Jacinto Peak (10,811ft/3295m) on Saturday 27th December 2025 at 0730 the air temperature was 15.2°F (-9°C), with a windchill temperature of -7.4°F (-22°C), 100% relative humidity, and a bitter NW wind sustained at 20 mph gusting to 28.2 mph.

At the Peak on Friday 26th November 2025 at 1330 the air temperature was 28.4°F (-2°C), with a windchill temperature of 13.4°F (-10°C), 98% relative humidity, and a surprisingly gentle SW wind sustained at 5 mph gusting to 6.5 mph.

At the Peak on Thursday 25th December 2025 at 0645 the air temperature was 20.6°F (-6°C), with a windchill temperature of -0.2°F (-18°C), 98% relative humidity, and a sharp due West wind sustained at 15 mph gusting to 27.0 mph.

At the Peak on Wednesday 24th November 2025 at 1045 the air temperature was 32.3°F (0°C), with a windchill temperature of 15.6°F (-9°C), 96% relative humidity, and a harsh SSW wind sustained at 20 mph gusting to 28.9 mph.

TRAIL CONDITIONS

Trails below about 9,900 ft (east side) or 9000 ft (west side) have such a thin covering of snow that they are functionally snow-free, or will largely clear of snow within the next day or two. With sunny days forecast on 28th-31st December in the high country, melting will be rapid, especially on sun-exposed slopes.

Spikes can be useful in places above about 8000 ft, but especially above 9000 ft, depending upon personal preference and comfort level hiking on icy snow. Snow on established trails from storms in November has become densely compacted by hiker traffic, has undergone many freeze-thaw cycles, and has recently been rained upon. Spikes are especially useful for descending heavily traveled high elevation trails (e.g., Peak and upper Deer Springs trails), and also the north side of Tahquitz Peak, which remained largely unmelted from November storms.

Snow depths are generally unsuitable for snowshoeing everywhere due to limited snow depths and compaction/ice.

Devil’s Slide Trail is clear of snow, but is very icy in places close to Saddle Junction in the mornings.

The section of South Ridge Trail from Chinquapin Flat to Tahquitz Peak [updated 29th December] currently has a well-traveled, uneven track to follow through increasingly patchy angled icy snow. A very thin covering of fresh snow partially obscures the persistent compacted icy snow remaining from November. These icy slopes on the north side of Tahquitz Peak are notoriously treacherous. Currently spikes are recommended; they are not essential for hikers most experienced with icy snow travel, but conversely this route will not feel safe for some hikers.

South Ridge Trail [updated 29th December] is functionally clear of snow, but has a few small but tricky ice patches above 8500 ft. There is a patchy dusting of 0.25 inch of snow admixed with ice around Tahquitz Peak. Most hikers may find spikes useful

As of Saturday 27th, there was a lightly-traveled track to follow through very shallow and rapidly melting snow on the Strawberry Trail (PCT Miles 180.8-183).

There are well-traveled and compacted tracks on Round Valley Trail through Long and Round valleys to Wellman Divide.

The PCT north from Saddle Junction, continuing onto the Wellman Trail, has a well-traveled track through very light snow cover to Wellman Divide [updated Saturday 27th]. Melting has been rapid on the most sun-exposed section immediately north of Saddle Junction (“Angel’s Glide”) with some lengthy snow-free sections already appearing.

The Peak Trail has a well-traveled track through generally thin continuous snow cover that accurately follows the trail route to the Summit Junction with Deer Springs Trail, and then onward up to San Jacinto Peak.

Upper Deer Springs Trail does not have a track to follow through continuous snow above Little Round Valley as of Saturday 27th. The existing tracks will have been completely obscured by fresh snow, which although shallow, was heavily drifted by strong accompanying winds. Spikes are strongly recommended for this route.

Fuller Ridge Trail [updated Saturday 27th] has a lightly traveled but accurate track to follow through very thin snow cover along its entire length (PCT Miles 185.5-190.5).

SNOW DEPTHS

Snow depths measured on 27th December 2025 are as follows. Current total depth is the first number given, followed (in parentheses) by details of the snowfall in the storm of 23rd-26th December. Altitudes and PCT mileages are approximate.

San Jacinto Peak (10811 ft): 10 inches, drifted deeper in places, notably on East Ridge (0.5 inch added 23rd, 3.5 inches on 24th, 3.5 inches on 26th December)

Wellman Divide (9700 ft): 1 inch (1 inch on 26th December)

Annie’s Junction/PCT Mile 180.8 (9020 ft): 1 inch (1 inches on 26th December)

Long Valley (8500 ft): 1 inch (on 26th December)

Saddle Junction/approx. PCT Mile 179 (8070 ft): <0.25 inch (on 26th December)

Devil’s Slide Trail at Humber Park (6500 ft): 0 inch

Idyllwild (at 5550 ft): 0 inch snow, 1.99 inches rain 23rd-26th December.

The San Jacinto Trail Report celebrates ten years of operation in 2026. It is read by over 30,000 people each year, and will pass one million views in 2026. The Report has helped thousands of hikers, and saved multiple lives, both directly and indirectly. Since the Report became established online, snow/ice rescues in the San Jacinto Mountains have dropped 82%, also saving Riverside County tens, if not hundreds, of thousands of dollars. While all time is volunteered, the Report uses small private donations to help cover operating costs. Donations keep the Report available to all, free from advertising or paywalls, and independent from agencies. If you have found this Report useful, please consider using this link to the Donate page. Thank you very much for your support.

The fifth storm system of winter 2025/26 is forecast to impact the San Jacinto mountains between Tuesday 23rd and Friday 26th December 2025.

Please check this page for periodic updates – the most recent is at the top – throughout the multiday storm sequence. The next comprehensive Report update, summarizing conditions after the storm, is tentatively scheduled for Saturday 27th.

UPDATE Saturday 27th December at 0700

Overnight snowfall at San Jacinto Peak totaled 3.5 inches, for a rather paltry storm total of 7.5 inches.

I recorded a short video discussion from the Peak at 0730 this morning, giving a feel for the snow conditions underfoot (linked here).

Snow dusted down to 7800 ft, with one inch at 8500 ft (e.g., Long Valley).

Rainfall in Idyllwild at 0700 totaled 0.82 inch in the previous 24 hours.

Hikers this weekend will find spikes invaluable above 9000 ft, as there is extensive ice and icy snow on the main trails now obscured under a thin cover of fresh powder. Snow depths are insufficient for snowshoes, other than perhaps for off-trail travel only around the highest peaks, snd even then only for the next day or two as melting will be steady with warming temperatures.

UPDATE Friday 26th December at 2010

Fine granular snow has so far accumulated to two inches average depth in the past six hours at San Jacinto Peak, although the snow has been heaviest in the past hour.

A light dusting (<0.25 inch) in Long Valley at 8500 ft shortly before dusk melted, it then briefly rained at that elevation before recently turning to snow, with currently 0.5 inch accumulation.

Rainfall this afternoon in Idyllwild totaled 0.47 inch by 1900 (at 5550 ft), where it continues to rain gently.

UPDATE Friday 26th December at 1430

It started raining in Idyllwild at 1350 this afternoon, and about 15 minutes later started snowing lightly and intermittently at San Jacinto Peak. Forecasts have reduced expected precipitation amounts for this final phase of the storm system, with 3-4 inches of snow predicted for the high peaks, and under 0.5 inch rain for Idyllwild. Very light snow is expected as low as 6000 ft.

The Peak Trail is very icy starting immediately above Wellman Divide (9700 ft) and spikes are strongly recommended. The same is almost certainly true on upper Deer Springs Trail (there probably as low as 9000 ft).

UPDATE Thursday 25th December at 1200

There was no further precipitation overnight. I recorded a short video report from San Jacinto Peak this morning just after sunrise (linked here). With clearing skies, a sharp drop in temperatures, and such wet snow yesterday, the snow above 10,000 ft has frozen solid, making for very easy hiking (with spikes and/or appropriate boots).

The next low pressure system arrives tomorrow morning, Friday 26th, and a colder air mass should result in the snow level dropping to 6000 ft, possibly even lower. Snow estimates are about six inches above 10,000 ft and 2-4 inches at 8000 ft (e.g., Saddle and Strawberry junctions). Rainfall of 0.5-0.8 inch is forecast for the mid elevations.

While all time and labor is volunteered, the San Jacinto Trail Report uses small private donations to help cover operating costs. Your contribution keeps the Report available to all, free from advertising or paywalls, and independent from agencies. If you have found this Report useful, please consider using this link to the Donate page. Thank you very much for your support.

UPDATE Wednesday 24th December at 1915

It stopped snowing at San Jacinto Peak at about 1800, where unfortunately only 3.5 inches accumulated today.

The snow level today was astonishingly high, having dusted down to 9000 ft, but with no more than a barely measurable 0.25 inch at Wellman Divide. On his descent to the tram, Kyle Eubanks described Round and Long valleys as having “many rivers and waterfalls”, such was the volume of rainfall (plus snowmelt).

Idyllwild (at 5550 ft) recorded 0.76 inch of rain today, for a storm total of 1.17 inches, less than half the forecast expectations.

UPDATE Wednesday 24th December at 1630

Snowfall has been largely continuous at San Jacinto Peak for the past four hours, but often light, so far accumulating to 2.5 inches. Winds have been sustained at 25-30 mph, with gusts close to 40 mph, but it feels like the strongest winds and heaviest precipitation have slipped past to the west of the San Jacinto mountains.

Rainfall in Idyllwild since 0700 today has totaled 0.45 inch, for a storm total of 0.86 inch so far, roughly half of forecast.

That said, rain intensity is clearly localized, as Long Valley (8500 ft) is reporting 1.4 inches since midnight. I saw Kyle Eubanks at the Peak this afternoon and he commented that trails in Long and Round valleys were “like rivers”, so the relatively low rainfall for Idyllwild is evidently not representative of the whole mountain.

UPDATE Wednesday 24th December at 1200

Precipitation largely stopped at mid and upper elevations between 0700-1000, with light rain starting again above 10,000 ft at about 0950, finally turning to snow at 1150 around San Jacinto Peak. Winds are getting potent in the high country, sustained from SSW at 20 mph, gusting to 29 mph, but forecast to continue strengthening.

UPDATE Wednesday 24th December at 0620

At least in the San Jacinto mountains the initial front of the atmospheric river system is so mild (relatively speaking) that it is currently raining all the way to San Jacinto Peak.

Patchy, and at times intense, rain started in Idyllwild at 0200, with rain accumulation overnight 0.26 inch in Idyllwild (at 5550 ft), for a current storm total of 0.41 inch, with 0.22 reported in Long Valley (8500 ft).

UPDATE Tuesday 23rd December at 1700

One “arm” of the dramatic low pressure system forming off the California coast passed over the San Jacinto mountains around 1130 this morning, bringing light precipitation throughout. The temperature plunged more than 10°F in less than half-an-hour in the high country, and it briefly snowed above 8000 ft (with 0.5 inch briefly accumulating above 10,000 ft, and barely a dusting in Long Valley), and about 0.02 inch of drizzle in Idyllwild. The temperature rose again subsequently, largely melting the minimal fresh snow. It remained misty and drizzly throughout the early afternoon, totaling 0.15 inch in Idyllwild, before beautifully clearing out at dusk.