UPDATE Saturday 10th February 2024: in the minor storm system that followed the major storm described below, Idyllwild added another inch of snow overnight on 8th, and a further 2.25 inches of snow on 9th, most of it overnight. Additional new snow appeared to be similar throughout the high country across the same time period.

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The 16th storm system of winter 2023/24 to impact the San Jacinto mountains was by far the greatest in terms of precipitation produced. Although the rainfall and snowfall were both significant, ultimately we did not experience the dramatic numbers and images seen from areas immediately to our west and north. Indeed for the first 24 hours of the storm system’s passage across southern California, it largely missed the San Jacinto mountains, consistently tracking from the south-west to the north-east, but frustratingly always just a few miles to the west.

Consequently we missed out on inches of potential rain. For example by the middle of Tuesday 5th January, most locations in the San Jacinto mountains at 4000-6000 ft had received 1.5-2.0 inches of rain, roughly half that of multiple locations under 2000 ft elevation just 10-30 miles further west in Riverside County.

The early phase of the storm system was very mild, with clear evidence of freezing rain all the way to San Jacinto Peak (which obviously further reduced the potential snow volumes in the high country). We hiked up Devil’s Slide Trail to Saddle Junction on Monday 5th February in a failed attempt to find the freeze level, at a time when it was evidently raining at least to 9000 ft (as discussed in the video embedded in an earlier Report linked here). With the benefit of hindsight, it was raining much higher up than I appreciated!

The storm turned steadily cooler across the four days, becoming dramatically cold on 8th February. The temperature of 6.9°F (-14°C) I recorded at San Jacinto Peak that morning is the eighth coldest air temperature I have ever recorded at the Peak. The snow level dropped as low as 3900 ft near Garner Valley and to 5000 ft on Skyline Trail on the desert side of the mountain (thank you to Florian Boyd for that information).

To adequately assess the storm’s impacts in the high country, I hiked to San Jacinto Peak on both 7th and 8th February. The snow was largely fine rounded grains (“sugar snow”) which has accumulated and compacted sufficiently to make for excellent snowshoeing conditions. Above about 9800 ft, there were traversing sections that had a hard icy layer close to the surface (likely a consequence of the earlier freezing rain) for which crampons could have been an option. Snow depths measured on 8th at various locations are detailed below. See also photos below.

I recorded a short video report from San Jacinto Peak mid-morning on Thursday 8th (linked here) giving a feel for the conditions at that time.

Snowshoes are now invaluable everywhere above about 6000 ft elevation (see photos below). Carrying spikes is recommended everywhere above about 5000 ft. Crampons are required on the north side of Tahquitz Peak, as discussed below, and will become increasingly useful everywhere in the high country above 10,000 ft (possibly lower) over the next few days and weeks as the expected deep snow firms up as it undergoes freeze-thaw cycles and compaction.

Following my hike on 8th there is now a reliable snowshoe track broken on Devil’s Slide Trail, and between Saddle Junction and San Jacinto Peak via the Wellman and Peak trails. There is no evidence of any tracks elsewhere on the high country trails although there will likely be significant high country hiking activity this weekend. Note that my tracks above Wellman Divide, and possibly lower in places, will be compromised by the strong winds and severe spindrift that were still active above 9500 ft as I descended. There is also the possibility of further minor snows later on 8th and on 9th February.

There is currently a significant avalanche risk for the north face of San Jacinto Peak, specifically the Snow Creek drainage. I see avalanches, typically wind slab types, in this drainage every winter, even in low snow years like 2024. Poorly structured underlying layers have now been well laden with 2-4 feet of fresh powder. Although snowfall rates peaked in the early hours of Thursday 8th, wind loading onto a snowpack with a weak base may continue to create dangerous avalanche conditions for at least 1-2 more days. At present snow depths are too shallow for any avalanche risk anywhere in the vicinity of the established trail system.

Humber Park closed on 31st January, has not yet been plowed, and remained closed when last checked on Saturday 10th. Even when closed, there are nine legal parking spaces just below the gate (Adventure Pass or equivalent still required). South Ridge Road is closed due to winter conditions. Azalea Drive – access to Marion Mountain trailhead – has been periodically plowed by USFS.

Palm Springs Aerial Tramway will be closed 12th-14th February for repairs on the flood-damaged access road to Valley Station. It is scheduled to reopen on Thursday 15th, but check their website (available here). The tram previously closed twice earlier this month due to the same problem.

WEATHER

Temperatures remain below seasonal for February until Saturday 10th (high country) or Sunday 11th (mid elevations), before then steadily rising to above seasonal throughout next week. Melting of snow will initially be slow but then will accelerate throughout next week, especially on sun-exposed slopes and below 8500 ft (elevations which received more rain than snow in the latest storm).

There is the possibility of further light snow in the high country on Friday 9th February. The next Pacific storm systems are tentatively forecast for 17th-22nd February, another potentially significant double storm sequence, but details are vague at this time.

At San Jacinto Peak (3295m/10,810ft) on Thursday 8th February 2024 at 0815 the air temperature was 6.9°F (-14°C), with a windchill temperature of -18.4°F (-28°C), 100% relative humidity, and a bitter WNW wind sustained at 11 mph gusting to 24.9 mph.

At the Peak on Friday 2nd February 2024 at 0820 the air temperature was 15.6°F (-9°C), with a windchill temperature of -5.6°F (-21°C), 100% relative humidity, and a bitter WNW wind sustained at 12 mph gusting to 18.9 mph.

TRAIL CONDITIONS

There is continuous light snow cover on all trails above about 4500 ft, becoming moderate above 6000 ft, and heavy (>20 inches) above about 7500 ft. Patchy snow is present to 4000 ft or even slightly lower. Snow depths measured at specific locations are given below.

Snowshoes are now invaluable everywhere above about 6000 ft elevation (see photos above and below). Carrying spikes is recommended everywhere above about 5000 ft. Crampons are required on the north side of Tahquitz Peak, as discussed below, and will become increasingly useful everywhere in the high country over the next few weeks as the expected deep snow undergoes freeze-thaw cycles and compaction.

The only tracks known to be broken through the snow at this time are up Devil’s Slide Trail, onward via the PCT, Wellman and Peak trails to San Jacinto Peak, although higher up these may have been eliminated by spindrift, wind, and further light snow.

Devil’s Slide Trail has only a single snowshoe track to Saddle Junction (photo below). Snow cover averages a foot deep for much of the trail, increasing to two feet higher up. The upper switchbacks are heavily drifted and require some snow hiking experience.

The 0.4 mile section of South Ridge Trail between Chinquapin Flat/PCT and Tahquitz Peak has no track to follow at this time through 23-5 feet of heavily drifted and angled ice and icy snow. Neither snowshoes nor spikes are especially helpful at this time, due to the angled slope and structure of the snow, respectively. Crampons (always with an ice axe) are recommended on this section at this time, along with the necessary skills and experience to use that equipment in icy, angled terrain.

SNOW DEPTHS measured on 8th February 2024 (unless otherwise stated) are as follows. The first number gives current average total depth. The numbers in parentheses gives the new snow from the storm on 4th-8th February, with comments on additional rainfall (where known). Note that average depth is given; due to strong winds there has been considerable drifting, often especially accumulating in trails. Altitudes and PCT mileages are approximate.

San Jacinto Peak (10810 ft): 55-60 inches (26-28 inches new on 4th-8th February)

Wellman Divide (9700 ft): 41-43 inches (23-24 inches new on 4th-8th February)

Annie’s Junction/approx. PCT Mile 181.8 (9070 ft): 48-50 inches (23-25 inches new on 4th-8th February)

Long Valley (8600 ft): 24 inches (16 inches new on 5th-8th February, plus 1.54 inches of rain on 4th-5th February)

Saddle Junction/approx. PCT Mile 179.9 (8070 ft): 31 inches (17 inches new on 5th-8th February, plus estimated 2 inches of rain on 4th-5th).

Devil’s Slide Trail at Humber Park (6550 ft): 15 inches (13 inches new on 5th-8th February, plus estimated 2 inches of rain on 4th-5th).

Idyllwild (at 5550 ft): 9.0 inches (8 inches new on 5th-8th February, plus 1.95 inches of rain on 4th-5th February prior to turning to snow on 5th)

Mountain Center (4400 ft): 2-3 inches (all new 7th-9th February)[measured 9th February]

While all time and labor is volunteered, the San Jacinto Trail Report uses small private donations to help cover operating costs. Every year seems to have its unique challenges, and it is already clear that 2024 will be no exception. 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.

The 16th storm system of winter 2023/24 – but the first major one in terms of expected precipitation – is forecast to move slowly across the San Jacinto mountains between Monday 5th and Thursday 8th February 2024.

Please check this page for periodic updates – the most recent is at the top – throughout the multiple day storm sequence. I tentatively plan to issue the next comprehensive Report update on 8th February.

UPDATE Thursday 8th February at 0700

San Jacinto Peak added another 8 inches of snow overnight, for a storm total of 26-28 inches, and a current total depth of four-and-a-half to five feet (with considerable drifting throughout).

Idyllwild (at 5550ft) added another 3.5 inches of snow overnight, for a cumulative 5.25 inches in the past 24 hours. It had stopped snowing down there by dawn.

UPDATE Wednesday 7th February at 2030

Although it seemingly snowed all day in Idyllwild it barely accumulated, adding only another 0.5 inch all afternoon. My San Jacinto Peak measurement actually bizarrely decreased, as scouring by the wind removed the top inch, so no net increase up there either.

UPDATE Wednesday 7th February at 1330

I hiked to San Jacinto Peak this morning, breaking trail all the way from Humber Park through moderate depth powder. It snowed on me much of the morning, but generally very lightly and tiny fine rounded grains. The periods of sun, especially throughout Wellman Trail, were a bonus. There was abundant evidence of heavy freezing rain to 10,000 ft elevation, and locally even higher.

New snow accumulation since 4th at San Jacinto Peak is 18-20 inches, for a total depth of 51 inches, at Wellman Divide also 20 inches (total depth 35), at Saddle Junction 11 inches (total 25), and 6 inches at Humber Park (total 8), but those numbers continue to climb very slowly.

Idyllwild added 2.5 inches overnight plus a slowly accumulating 1.5 inches so far today, for a current storm total of 6 inches (at 5550 ft).

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 Tuesday 6th February at 1830

It has snowed for most of the past eight hours since the last update at all elevations above about 5000 ft, but largely stopping in the past hour or so. In Idyllwild the new snow has struggled to settle, rarely accumulating to more than an inch of wet snow before partially melting. Two inches of new snow have accumulated at Humber Park (6500 ft) for a storm total of about five inches (total depth near 7 inches), with four new inches in Long Valley (8600 ft) for a storm total of 8-9 inches and a total depth near 16 inches. The Palm Springs Aerial Tramway has completed emergency road work early, and will reopen tomorrow, 7th February.

UPDATE Tuesday 6th February at 1050

Relatively little further precipitation has fallen this morning. My survey of several trailhead areas found two inches of snow had fallen in Pine Cove (6100 ft) overnight, with three inches at Marion Mountain trailhead (6300 ft). Three new inches had also fallen on top of the 1-2 inches of slush at Humber Park (6500 ft, photo below). In all these locations, the new snow had a very wet, heavy consistency. USFS had plowed Azalea Drive all the way to the Marion Mountain trailhead. On our hike on lower Marion Mountain Trail mid morning it drizzled on us, but then at Humber Park it was snowing gently. In Idyllwild we have added just 0.07 inch of rain (occasionally sleet) in the past four hours, and Long Valley (8600 ft) has added only another inch of snow.

The forecasts have shifted significantly this morning, with relatively little further precipitation expected over the next 24 hours, but with a substantial second wave expected on Wednesday night. Up to six inches of snow are now tentatively forecast for Idyllwild, with at least that amount expected in the high country, between late Wednesday afternoon and early Thursday morning, 7th-8th February.

UPDATE Tuesday 6th February at 0700

Steady overnight rain in Idyllwild (at 5550 ft) added another 0.76 inch, for a current storm total of 1.79 inches. It briefly turned to snow in the early hours, leaving a dusting of barely 0.25 inch, before turning back to spotty rain by dawn even though the air temperature remains at freezing. The dropping freeze level meant that Long Valley (8600 ft) added four inches of snow overnight. On the west side of the mountain, Poppet Flat (3800 ft) leads storm rainfall totals at 2.24 inches, with most locations reporting 1.4-1.9 inches.

UPDATE Monday 5th February at 2020

Light rain has continued all day at elevations up to about 9000 ft. Idyllwild has recorded 0.96 inch since 0700 this morning, Long Valley (8600 ft) just over 1.4 inches since last night, and most locations in the San Jacinto mountains around one inch, other than a few locations around Pine Cove led by Dutch Flat (5800 ft) at 1.7 inches. The notable exception is a station on the north-west side of the mountains, at 6800 ft roughly a mile north of Fuller Ridge campground, which had measured 4.65 inches by late this evening. This demonstrates how the storm system is largely to our north and west, only brushing (relatively speaking) the San Jacinto mountains at this time. Forecasts suggest this may change tonight and tomorrow, by which time temperatures will have dropped and consequently areas above about 5500 ft are expected to be receiving snow rather than rain.

UPDATE Monday 5th February at 1040

I recorded the following short video at a soggy Saddle Junction this morning (it is cut short as the camera got so wet it appeared to malfunction). Although Idyllwild (at 5550 ft) recorded only 0.07 inch of rain overnight, since 0700 we have already had an additional 0.55 inch. Long Valley (8600 ft) is reporting 0.66 inch of rain, with no new snow accumulation yet although the precipitation there is periodically sleety. Radar suggests we remain at the fringe of the main system, which has been heavily impacting areas immediately north and west of the San Jacinto mountains since yesterday evening.

UPDATE Sunday 4th February 2024 at 1945

Palm Springs Aerial Tramway will be closed 5th-7th February to complete repairs on the flood-damaged access road to Valley Station. It is scheduled to reopen on Thursday 8th. (The Tram was previously closed on 1st-2nd February due to the same problem.)

UPDATE 4th February 2024: the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway will be closed 5th-7th February to complete repairs on the flood-damaged access road to Valley Station. It is scheduled to reopen on Thursday 8th. (The Tram was previously closed on 1st-2nd February due to the same problem.)

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This is a brief summary of the most significant storm to impact the San Jacinto mountains so far this winter which started early on Thursday 1st February. This report is intentionally brief as conditions are forecast to change dramatically over the next few days due to a major slow-moving storm system expected on 4th-9th February, forecast to bring moderate-to-heavy precipitation to all elevations (details under Weather below).

It started raining in Idyllwild and snowing in the high country at about 0745 on Thursday 1st February. On my high country hike that morning I was impressed by the speed of accumulation – at least an inch per hour – with very heavy drifting a consequence of strong (>30 mph) gusty winds above 8000 ft. It snowed all day in the high country, although generally lighter later than in the morning, accumulating about ten inches at San Jacinto Peak by dusk, and (contrary to forecasts) it snowed lightly all night into the 2nd, adding another five inches for a storm total of about 15 inches.

Idyllwild received 1.23 inches of rain (at 5500 ft) on 1st, before the snow level dropped overnight to about 5000 ft. Idyllwild had about an inch of snow overnight, and then it lightly snowed on/off most of Friday 2nd, but was also melting at the same time, with little net accumulation that day in town.

I recorded a short video report from San Jacinto Peak mid-morning on Friday 2nd (linked here) giving a feel for the conditions at that time. Snowshoe conditions were ideal on my descending hike, with a nice dry, firm powder, and rarely did my snowshoes go in more than a few inches deep.

Snow depths measured on 2nd at various locations are detailed below. See also photos below. Note however that depths are extremely variable even within a small area, due to heavy drifting, especially in trails.

Snowshoes are now invaluable everywhere above about 7500 ft elevation (see photos below). Carrying spikes is recommended everywhere above about 5000 ft. Crampons are required on the north side of Tahquitz Peak, as discussed below, and will become increasingly useful everywhere in the high country over the next few weeks as the expected deep snow firms up as it undergoes freeze-thaw cycles and compaction.

Following my hike on 2nd there is now a reliable snowshoe track broken on Devil’s Slide Trail, and between Saddle Junction and San Jacinto Peak via the Wellman and Peak trails. There was no evidence of any tracks elsewhere on the high country trails, including up from Long Valley to Wellman Divide. Note that tracks may be quickly removed due to the large volume of spindrift and accompanying strong winds, especially above about 9000 ft.

There is now a significant avalanche risk for the north face of San Jacinto Peak, specifically the Snow Creek drainage. In my experience this drainage avalanches every winter, even in the lowest snow years. The pre-existing underlying snow layers were very icy, and have now been well laden with 12-18 inches of fresh powder. These layers will have little or no opportunity to consolidate before an even heavier snow load falls over the next week. At present snow depths are far too shallow for any avalanche risk anywhere on the established trail system (but it is possible that may change over the next week, depending on the volume of snowfall received).

Humber Park closed on 31st January, has not been plowed, and is expected to remain closed for at least the next few days. Even when closed, there are nine legal parking spaces just below the gate (Adventure Pass or equivalent still required). South Ridge Road is closed due to winter conditions.

WEATHER

Temperatures remain below seasonal for February until at least Saturday 10th. After a brief sunny day on Saturday 3rd, a major precipitation-producing, slow-moving storm system will impact the San Jacinto mountains on 4th-7th, immediately followed by a minor storm on 9th February.

The initial system will be relatively warm, with a freeze level as high as 8000 ft, and will be heavily laden with moisture, with 3-6 inches of rain expected at mid elevations, and 1-2 feet of snow above 10,000 ft. The system turns colder around Tuesday 6th, with the freeze level dropping as low as 5500 ft, with a further 6-18 inches of snow in the high country, and 2-6 inches of snow in upper parts of Idyllwild, and a mix of snow, sleet , and rain as low as 4500 ft. There remains uncertainty regarding exact timing, precipitation amounts, and freeze levels across the duration of this major storm system, so considerable caution is recommended for hiking or other outdoor activities in this period.

A minor storm system comes through on the evening of Thursday 8th and throughout Friday 9th, with 4-10 inches of snow tentatively forecast for the high country, and a mix of light rain and possibly 1-2 inches of snow at mid elevations.

At San Jacinto Peak (3295m/10,810ft) on Friday 2nd February 2024 at 0820 the air temperature was 15.6°F (-9°C), with a windchill temperature of -5.6°F (-21°C), 100% relative humidity, and a bitter WNW wind sustained at 12 mph gusting to 18.9 mph.

TRAIL CONDITIONS

There is continuous light snow cover on all trails above about 5500 ft, becoming moderate (>10 inches) above 7500 ft, and heavy (>20 inches) above about 9000 ft. Snow depths measured at specific locations are given below.

Snowshoes are now invaluable everywhere above about 7000 ft elevation (see photos above and below). Carrying spikes is recommended everywhere above about 5000 ft. Crampons are required on the north side of Tahquitz Peak, as discussed below, and will become increasingly useful everywhere in the high country over the next few weeks as the expected deep snow undergoes freeze-thaw cycles and compaction.

The only tracks known to be broken through the snow at this time are up Devil’s Slide Trail, onward via the PCT, Wellman and Peak trails to San Jacinto Peak.

Devil’s Slide Trail has only a single snowshoe track to Saddle Junction (photo below). Snow cover is generally only a few inches deep at most below 7000 ft which will start to melt fast on 3rd February.

The 0.4 mile section of South Ridge Trail between Chinquapin Flat/PCT and Tahquitz Peak has no track to follow at this time through 2-5 feet of heavily drifted and angled ice and icy snow. Neither snowshoes nor spikes are especially helpful at this time, due to the angled slope and structure of the snow, respectively. Crampons (always with an ice axe) are recommended on this section at this time, along with the necessary skills and experience to use that equipment in icy, angled terrain.

SNOW DEPTHS measured on 2nd February 2024 are as follows. The first number gives current average total depth. The number in parentheses gives the new snow from the storm on 1st-2nd February. Note that average depth is given; due to strong winds there has been considerable drifting, often especially accumulating in trails. Altitudes and PCT mileages are approximate.

San Jacinto Peak (10810 ft): 31 inches (15 inches new on 1st-2nd February)

Wellman Divide (9700 ft): 18 inches (11 inches new on 1st-2nd February)

Annie’s Junction/approx. PCT Mile 181.8 (9070 ft): 25 inches (13 inches new on 1st-2nd February)

Long Valley (8600 ft): 9 inches (8 inches new on 1st-2nd February)

Saddle Junction/approx. PCT Mile 179.9 (8070 ft): 14 inches (9 inches new on 1st-2nd February, plus an unknow quantity of rain judging by an ice layer under upper five inches of snow)

Devil’s Slide Trail at Humber Park (6550 ft): 3.5 inch (all new on 1st-2nd February, plus some rain)

Idyllwild (at 5550 ft): 1 inch (all new on 2nd February, with 1.23 inches rain on 1st February)

While all time and labor is volunteered, the San Jacinto Trail Report uses small private donations to help cover operating costs. Every year seems to have its unique challenges, and it is already clear that 2024 will be no exception. 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.

UPDATED Friday 2nd February 2024 at 0655: it continued to snow lightly all night at San Jacinto Peak, adding another four inches for a storm total of about 14 inches (total depth 29 inches). Long Valley added a couple of inches for a total of about 8 inches. Snow level overnight was down to 5000 ft, with one inch in Idyllwild at 5550 ft (in addition to 1.2 inches of rain yesterday).

UPDATED Thursday 1st February 2024 at 1655: it started raining in Idyllwild and snowing in the high country at about 0745. On my high country hike I was impressed by the speed of accumulation – at least an inch per hour – with heavy drifting already above 9000 ft. Current new snow accumulation at San Jacinto Peak is 9.5 inches (for a current average total depth of 25 inches), accumulation having slowed in the past hour. Snow depth is about five inches in Long Valley (8600ft), and 1.17 inches of rain at 5550 ft in Idyllwild.

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Variable and unpredictable weather looks set to continue well into February. A mild double storm between Saturday 20th and Monday 22nd January produced two-and-a-half inches of rain in Idyllwild and snow above about 6000 ft with 16 inches at San Jacinto Peak (as described in the previous Report available here). Warm, potent Santa Ana winds brought temperatures far above seasonal for January on 27th-29th, melting and softening snow throughout the mountains.

The first half of February is forecast to be unsettled and dominated by colder air and multiple precipitation-producing storm systems. At this time a significant double storm is predicted on 1st-2nd then 4th-9th February.

Forecasts have a high degree of confidence for the storm on 1st-2nd February, with 8-12 inches of snow likely at the highest elevations, and rain all day on Thursday 1st at mid elevations turning to snow overnight and into Friday 2nd (1-3 inches possible in Idyllwild with a snow level near 5000 ft).

Forecast confidence is steadily increasing for a major and slow-moving second storm on 4th-8th February. Predictions suggest an initially warmer system (“pineapple express”), with a snow level starting well above 6000 ft, but producing more rain and snow than earlier storms at mid and upper elevations, respectively, with 2-4 feet of snow possible in the high country. The freeze level may eventually drop to (or even below) 5000 ft by 7th-9th February.

Judging by my hike to San Jacinto Peak on 29th January, recent very warm air temperatures have had a detrimental effect on current snow quality, especially below 10,000 ft elevation. Although the snow was firm in the early morning, by mid morning melting was already well underway and snow everywhere was relatively soft and “greasy” on the surface. Of course snow conditions (and depths) are expected to change significantly over the next few weeks starting on 1st February.

Snow depths measured at various locations are detailed below. Note however that depths are extremely variable even within a small area, due to differential melting and drifting during the unusual sequence of minor storms in January 2024.

Tracks have been broken on most major trails at this time, but bear in mind these will disappear under new snowfall starting Thursday 1st February.

Spikes are useful everywhere above about 7000 ft, especially for descending well-compacted trails. Crampons are required on the north side of Tahquitz Peak, as discussed below. Snowshoes are no longer especially useful on-trail, which are now generally too well-traveled and compacted, but they remain useful everywhere above about 8000 ft elevation for off-trail travel at this time. Snowshoes will likely be strongly recommended from 2nd February onwards.

Humber Park is open and is clear of snow. South Ridge Road remains open at this time.

WEATHER

Temperatures plunge dramatically over the next week, from their current level well above seasonal for January, to well below seasonal starting 1st February. The next storm to impact our region is expected on 1st-2nd February, and will be relatively cold, with moderate snow currently forecast everywhere above about 5000 ft, with 10-12 inches of snow likely at the highest elevations. Rain on Thursday 1st at mid elevations will quickly turn to snow overnight and into Friday 2nd (with potentially 1-4 inches in Idyllwild and perhaps a dusting in Garner Valley).

At this time a second, warmer, protracted, system is forecast for 4th-7th February. Forecast confidence is steadily increasing for this system to be warmer than the storm at the beginning of the month, with moderate snow down to 7000 ft, and more snow at higher elevations, likely 1-3 feet across the high country (depending on elevation).

The second and third weeks of February remain unsettled, with another cold storm (or two) tentatively forecast in the middle of the month.

At San Jacinto Peak (3295m/10,810ft) on Monday 29th January 2024 at 0850 the air temperature was 38.1°F (3°C), with a windchill temperature of 26.2°F (-3°C), 46% relative humidity, and a steady SE wind sustained at 13 mph gusting to 17.9 mph.

At the Peak on Tuesday 23rd January 2024 at 0630 the air temperature was 19.9°F (-7°C), with a windchill temperature of 5.6°F (-15°C), 86% relative humidity, and a light NW wind sustained at 5 mph gusting to 10.9 mph.

TRAIL CONDITIONS

There is largely continuous light snow cover on all trails above about 7500 ft, becoming moderate (>6 inches) above about 8000 ft. Snow depths measured at specific locations are given below.

Spikes are useful everywhere above about 7000 ft, especially for descending well-compacted trails. Crampons are required on the north side of Tahquitz Peak, as discussed below. Snowshoes are no longer especially useful on-trail, which are now generally too well-traveled and compacted, but they remain useful everywhere above about 8000 ft elevation for off-trail travel at this time. Snowshoes will likely be strongly recommended from 2nd February onwards.

Tracks known to be broken through the snow at this time are up Devil’s Slide Trail, onward via the PCT, Wellman and Peak trails to San Jacinto Peak, from Long Valley through to Wellman Divide, around the Tahquitz area meadows, the PCT from Saddle south to Chinquapin Flat and north to Annie’s Junction, and South Ridge Trail from South Ridge Road to Tahquitz Peak. Deer Springs Trail is broken to about Little Round Valley, but there is no track through from there to San Jacinto Peak.

Ernie Maxwell Trail is functionally clear of snow, with just a handful of tiny icy snow patches remaining near the upper (Humber Park) end of the trail.

Devil’s Slide Trail has been heavily traveled to Saddle Junction. The trail is largely clear of snow below 7500 ft, and icy snow patches are thin until very close to Saddle Junction. Spikes can be useful for descending the upper trail.

I finished breaking trail up South Ridge Trail to Tahquitz Peak on Friday 26th. Snow has largely cleared up to about 7300 ft (just below Old Lookout Flat) and what remains is very patchy and softening rapidly by late morning. From Old Lookout Flat (7600 ft) to Tahquitz Peak, icy snow is functionally continuous. There is a relatively well-broken track to within six switchbacks of Tahquitz Peak, however above that the snow is very icy with limited posthole tracks. Spikes are strongly recommended to complete the uppermost switchbacks to the peak, ideally in conjunction with hiking poles or even an ice axe. South Ridge Road is completely clear of snow and ice.

The 0.4 mile section of South Ridge Trail between Chinquapin Flat/PCT and Tahquitz Peak has no track to follow at this time through 2-4 feet of heavily drifted and angled ice and icy snow (photo below). Neither snowshoes nor spikes are especially helpful at this time, due to the angled slope and structure of the snow, respectively. Crampons (always with an ice axe) are recommended on this section at this time, along with the necessary skills and experience to use that equipment in icy, angled terrain.

SNOW DEPTHS measured on 29th January 2024. The first number gives current average depth, followed (in parentheses) by the depth following the last storm on 23rd January. The snow lost in those six days is due to melting in unusually warm temperatures. Note that average depth is given; due to strong winds accompanying several storms this January, there has been considerable drifting, often especially accumulating in trails. Altitudes and PCT mileages are approximate.

San Jacinto Peak (10810 ft): 16 inches (20 inches on 23rd January)

Wellman Divide (9700 ft): 8 inches (14 inches on 23rd January)

Annie’s Junction/approx. PCT Mile 181.8 (9070 ft): 13 inches (15 inches on 23rd January)

Long Valley (8600 ft): 2 inches (6 inches on 23rd January)

Saddle Junction/approx. PCT Mile 179.9 (8070 ft): 6 inches (12 inches on 23rd January)

Devil’s Slide Trail at Humber Park (6550 ft): 0 inch (1 inch on 23rd January)

Idyllwild (at 5550 ft): 0 inch (0 inch on 23rd January)

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.

It may have taken until late January to arrive, but finally we have had our first significant snow-generating storm (actually two back-to-back storms) of the 2023/24 winter. The two storms on Saturday 20th and Monday 22nd January ultimately produced very similar quantities of snow (at upper elevations) and of rain (at mid elevations), and had the combined effect of one moderate storm. The day in between the two storms, Sunday 21st, remained overcast at all elevations, and it drizzled intermittently as high as San Jacinto Peak that day, effectively merging the impacts of the two storms into one. Across the three days combined, Idyllwild received two-and-a-half inches of rain, and San Jacinto Peak 16 inches of fresh snow.

Both storms were relatively warm, with periodic drizzle at high elevations even among and between snow falls. With a probe it was surprisingly easy to detect multiple layers within the snow, the admixed ice layers a consequence of rain freezing on top of snow. At both Wellman Divide and Saddle Junction on 23rd, six layers were readily apparent (from bottom to top): a couple of inches of hard icy snow from earlier storms in January, a few inches of snow from 20th, a layer of ice from rain on 21st, a few inches of snow from 22nd, another layer of ice from rain in the afternoon of 22nd, and finally an inch of graupel from a thundersnow event in the evening of 22nd.

The rain has unfortunately had a very detrimental effect on the snow quality, mainly below 10,000 ft elevation. The layering makes for uneven and inconsistent snowshoeing (or postholing), with most steps giving way underfoot only after each step has been fully weighted. This should improve over the next few days as these layers consolidate. By the time I descended below 9000 ft on the afternoon of 23rd, melting was already well underway, and the thin snow had the consistency of soft-serve ice cream, which did not make snowshoeing any more enjoyable.

I hiked to San Jacinto Peak on four of the five days between 19th-23rd January to document the complex pattern of weather, and recorded a short video report from San Jacinto Peak just after sunrise on Tuesday 23rd (linked here) giving a feel for the conditions at that time.

Snow depths measured at various locations are detailed below. Note however that depths are extremely variable even within a small area, due to differential melting and drifting during the unusual sequence of minor storms this January. For example, while there is an average depth of about 12 inches at Saddle Junction on 23rd, within sight of the junction I measured a depth of 20 inches, and just 0.2 mile down Devil’s Slide Trail from the junction there are sun-exposed sections with only a sparse inch of rapidly melting snow in the trail.

Following my hike on 23rd there is now a reliable snowshoe track broken from Saddle Junction through to San Jacinto Peak via the Wellman and Peak trails. There is a well-traveled track on Devil’s Slide Trail, and a posthole track south from Saddle Junction through to Chinquapin Flat. The track put in by Kyle Eubanks late on 22nd is still largely visible from Long Valley through Round Valley to Wellman Divide.

Snowshoes are now very useful (although not essential) everywhere above about 8000 ft elevation. Carrying spikes is recommended everywhere above about 6000 ft, especially as conditions will change significantly over the next few days. Crampons are required on the north side of Tahquitz Peak, as discussed below.

Humber Park is open and is largely plowed.

WEATHER

Temperatures rapidly rise to well above seasonal for the remainder of this month, with conditions more typical of March or even early April at both mid and upper elevations until about Wednesday 31st January. There will be rapid melting at all elevations, especially on sun-exposed slopes. The next storm to impact our region is expected on 1st-3rd February with moderate snow currently forecast everywhere above about 5000 ft.

At San Jacinto Peak (3295m/10,810ft) on Tuesday 23rd January 2024 at 0630 the air temperature was 19.9°F (-7°C), with a windchill temperature of 5.6°F (-15°C), 86% relative humidity, and a light NW wind sustained at 5 mph gusting to 10.9 mph.

TRAIL CONDITIONS

There is continuous light snow cover on all trails above about 6500 ft, becoming moderate (>10 inches) above 8000 ft, and locally heavy above 10,000 ft. Snow depths measured at specific locations are given below.

Tracks known to be broken through the snow at this time are up Devil’s Slide Trail, onward via the PCT, Wellman and Peak trails to San Jacinto Peak, from Long Valley through to Wellman Divide, the PCT from Saddle south to Chinquapin Flat and north to Annie’s Junction, and South Ridge Trail from South Ridge Road to Tahquitz Peak.

Ernie Maxwell Trail (surveyed 24th January) is almost entirely clear of snow, with just a handful of tiny icy snow patches remaining near the upper (Humber Park) end of the trail.

Devil’s Slide Trail has already been well traveled to Saddle Junction. Snow cover is generally only a few inches deep at most, and below 7000 ft melting was already extensive by the afternoon of 23rd. Large sections of the trail will melt clear in the next few days, especially below 7500 ft.

I finished breaking trail up South Ridge Trail to Tahquitz Peak on Friday 26th. Snow has largely cleared up to about 7300 ft (just below Old Lookout Flat) and what remains is patchy and softening rapidly by late morning. From Old Lookout Flat (7600 ft) to Tahquitz Peak, icy snow is continuous. There is a relatively well-broken track to within six switchbacks of Tahquitz Peak, however above that the snow is very icy with just a single set of posthole tracks. Spikes are strongly recommended to complete the uppermost switchbacks to the peak, ideally in conjunction with hiking poles or even an ice axe. South Ridge Road is completely clear of snow and ice.

The 0.4 mile section of South Ridge Trail between Chinquapin Flat/PCT and Tahquitz Peak has no track to follow at this time through 2-4 feet of heavily drifted and angled ice and icy snow (photo below). Neither snowshoes nor spikes are especially helpful at this time, due to the angled slope and structure of the snow, respectively. Crampons (always with an ice axe) are recommended on this section at this time, along with the necessary skills and experience to use that equipment in icy, angled terrain.

Carrying spikes is recommended everywhere above about 6000 ft at this time. This elevation will rise steadily over the next few days due to melting especially in sun-exposed areas. Snow depths are now excellent for snowshoes above about 8000 ft (see discussion above).

SNOW DEPTHS measured on 23rd January 2024 (and on 21st for the first of the two storms) are as follows. The first number gives average total depth. The numbers in parentheses detail the new snow in each of the two storms, which largely occurred on 20th and 22nd January. Note that average depth is given; due to strong winds accompanying several storms this January, there has been considerable drifting, often especially accumulating in trails. Altitudes and PCT mileages are approximate.

San Jacinto Peak (10810 ft): 20 inches (8 inches new snowfall on both 20th and 22nd January)

Wellman Divide (9700 ft): 14 inches (6 inches new snowfall on both 20th and 22nd January)

Annie’s Junction/approx. PCT Mile 181.8 (9070 ft): 15 inches (6 inches new snowfall on 20th, 5 inches on 22nd January)

Long Valley (8600 ft): 6 inches (c.3 inches new snowfall on both 20th and 22nd January)[many thanks to Kyle Eubanks for measurements from Long Valley]

Saddle Junction/approx. PCT Mile 179.9 (8070 ft): 12 inches (5 inches new snowfall on 20th, 4 inches on 22nd January)

Devil’s Slide Trail at Humber Park (6550 ft): 1 inch but already very patchy by afternoon of 23rd (mixture of light snow and rain throughout 20th-22nd)

Idyllwild (at 5550 ft): 0 inches snow (2.49 inches rainfall 20th-22nd January; 0.92 inch on 20th, 0.36 inch on 21st, 1.21 inches on 22nd).

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.

It has taken until late January to get here, but finally the first significant snow-producing storm system of this winter – actually two back-to-back storms effectively merging into one – is forecast between Saturday 20th into the early morning of Tuesday 23rd January 2024.

Please check this page for periodic updates – the most recent is at the top – throughout the multiple day storm sequence. The next comprehensive Report update will be 23rd (or 24th) January.

UPDATE Tuesday 23rd January at 0800

With the additional two inches yesterday evening, San Jacinto Peak received a combined storm total of 16 inches of snow k(eight in each storm event). Including snow remaining from prior storms, total depth averages 20 inches, but is very heavily drifted in places.

Long Valley (8600 ft) has six inches, but Saddle Junction (8100 ft) nearly 12 inches.

Snow level was around 6000 ft, with 2.45 inches of rain in Idyllwild (at 5550 ft) over the past three days.

Snowshoes are now very useful above about 8000 ft, and spikes are recommended everywhere above 6000 ft, lower in places.

UPDATE Monday 22nd January at 1930

After a five hour hiatus, it started snowing again at San Jacinto Peak. Snowfall has generally been very light, but there was some intense graupel associated with a brief but spectacular lightning and thunder storm. New accumulation this evening has been two inches.

Long Valley added 3.5 inches of snow today, on top of two inches from the storm on Saturday, for a total depth near six inches. Round Valley added four inches, doubling the average depth there. [Many thanks to Kyle Eubanks for Long and Round Valley information.]

UPDATE Monday 22nd January at 1130

The second storm in 48 hours has so far produced six inches of fresh snow at San Jacinto Peak, on top of 8 inches in the first storm, and 3-4 inches remaining from prior storms. However that 18 inches is heavily drifted, at least 2-3 feet deep in places.

Rainfall in Idyllwild has added up to 0.7 inch since 0700 this morning, for a combined storms total of 2.26 inches since Saturday night.

UPDATE Monday 22nd January at 0930

Total rainfall accumulation since 20th in Idyllwild is now 1.86 inches, of which 0.3 inch has fallen in the last two-and-a-half hours. It is turning slushy, so freeze level is likely around 6000 ft.

On my hike this morning snow started falling at about 0700, and is accumulating steadily at roughly an inch per hour everywhere above at least 8000 ft. All of yesterday’s well-defined tracks are starting to disappear.

UPDATE Sunday 21st January at 1830

New snow totals from the storm on 20th-21st that I measured on my hike today are: 8 inches San Jacinto Peak (total depth 11-12 inches), 6 inches Wellman Divide (total 8), 5 inches Saddle Junction (total 7), 0.5 inch Humber Park (total 1 but patchy).

With that storm coming in from the south-west, there was a striking “rain shadow” and the western side of the mountain range received much more snow comparing similar elevations. Saddle Junction at 8100 ft had five inches by midday today, compared to two inches at Long Valley (at 8600 ft).

Total rainfall in Idyllwild is now at 1.20 inches, with light drizzle persisting up to 9000 ft all day on Sunday 21st.

UPDATE Sunday 21st January at 1030

Rain accumulation by 0700 was 0.92 inch in Idyllwild, with two inches of snow in Long Valley, four inches in Round Valley, and five inches of snow at San Jacinto Peak {many thanks to Kyle Eubanks for the latter data). Snow level last night was at 7500 ft on South Ridge and Devil’s Slide Trail, but this morning it has accumulated to a patchy 0.5 inch at 6300 ft in Pine Cove and there have even been occasional flakes in Idyllwild (at 5550 ft).

UPDATE Saturday 20th January at 1900

It started drizzling in Idyllwild (5550 ft) at 1100 and in Long Valley (8600 ft) at about 1145. Very light, intermittent snow started by about noon in the high country, with a snow level down to 7500 ft. Current accumulation 0.5 inch snow in Long Valley, and 1-2 inches of snow at San Jacinto Peak. Rainfall total by dusk was 0.51 inch in Idyllwild.

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.

UPDATED Sunday 21st January 2024 @ 0905: Light rain started yesterday at 1100 in Idyllwild, and at about 1140 in Long Valley (8600 ft), quickly turning to very light, intermittent snow at the latter elevation. Current accumulation is 0.92 inch rain in Idyllwild, 2-3 inches of snow in Long Valley, 4 inches at Wellman Divide, and 4-5 inches of snow at San Jacinto Peak. Snow level last night was at 7500 ft on South Ridge and Devil’s Slide Trail, but this morning it has accumulated to 0.5 inch at 6300 ft in Pine Cove and there are occasional flakes in Idyllwild (at 5550 ft). The second, more significant, storm system comes through in the early hours of Monday 22nd with the precipitation expected to last nearly 24 hours.

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Warm afternoons in recent days have generated strong freeze-thaw cycles which have led to very icy conditions in the thin snow cover. This is especially impacting elevations between 5500-8000 ft at this time, where traction devices such as spikes are strongly recommended for all hikers on trails and even on parts of some dirt roads.

It has taken until late January to get here, but finally the first significant snow-producing storm system of this winter is forecast this weekend (actually back-to-back storms) with 1-2 inches of rain forecast at mid elevations for 20th-22nd January. Light-to-moderate snow in the high country in the storms on 20th and 22nd could total 12 inches or more. The storms are predicted to be relatively warm, with a freeze level near 7000 ft.

In the early hours of 11th January we had our 12th minor storm of this winter, with a consistent 0.5 inch of fresh snow between 5500-10,000 ft, dusting down to 4700 ft, but with only limited evidence of 0.25 inch at San Jacinto Peak.

Remarkably these 12 storms have combined to only produce 16.5 inches total snow fall at San Jacinto Peak this winter (with only half that currently on the ground due to melting between storms). This is certainly an all-time record low for the time of year.

Strong winds associated with the storm on 11th initially erased all existing tracks and caused major drifting redistributing the snow. Some areas in the high country are now at least two feet deep, while others are just 1-2 inches deep and will melt rapidly. A strong warming trend over this week will lead to rapid melting at all elevations, especially on sun-exposed slopes.

On the morning of Thursday 11th I broke trail again from Humber Park via Devil’s Slide, Wellman, and Peak trails to San Jacinto Peak. I chose to posthole, although snow is heavily drifted in places. Around noon I recorded a short video at San Jacinto Peak (linked here) giving a feel for weather and snow conditions today. The only hiker I saw all day on 11th January was “Secretariat”, the first northbound PCT hiker of the season.

Humber Park has reopened and is largely plowed, South Ridge and Black Mountain roads remain open but are very icy in places.

WEATHER

Temperatures will rise rapidly to well-above seasonal at all elevations after Friday 12th. There is now a reliable forecast of moderate rainfall (1-2 inches) at mid elevations on 20th-22nd January. Snowfall in the high country is generally forecast to be light-to-moderate, with 3-5 inches falling in the first, colder, storm on Saturday night 20th January, but lighter snow, 2-3 inches at the highest elevations, falling throughout the day during the second storm on Monday 22nd. Temperatures are then forecast to rise again to well above seasonal starting Thursday 25th.

Air temperatures above 10,000 ft elevation will be in the 30s Fahrenheit (0° to 4°C) starting Friday 12th January, far above seasonal for these elevations in January. Cooler air temperatures below freezing are expected during the passage of storms on 20th-25th, with windchill temperatures approaching 0°F (-18°C).

At San Jacinto Peak (3295m/10,810ft) on Monday 15th January 2024 at 0905 the air temperature was 34.1°F (1°C), with a windchill temperature of 16.3°F (-9°C), 28% relative humidity, and a very gusty WNW wind sustained at 18 mph gusting to 32.9 mph.

At the Peak on Thursday 11th January 2024 at 1200 the air temperature was 19.0°F (-7°C), with a windchill temperature of -5.4°F (-21°C), 28% relative humidity, and a bitter NNE wind sustained at 17 mph gusting to 26.9 mph.

At the Peak on Sunday 7th January 2024 at 1240 the air temperature was 8.4°F (-13°C), with a windchill temperature of -14.4°F (-26°C), 67% relative humidity, and a fresh WNW wind sustained at 7 mph gusting to 16.1 mph.

TRAIL CONDITIONS

There is light snow cover on all trails above about 5500 ft, becoming locally moderate (>5 inches) above 8000 ft, but heavily drifted in some higher elevation areas and consequently ranging from 0-25 inches deep. Snow depths measured at specific locations are given below.

Most major trails have broken tracks through the snow at this time, including the entire PCT through the San Jacinto mountains. However, as of the morning of Monday 15th, there was no track up from Little Round Valley to Summit Junction (just below San Jacinto Peak).

Carrying spikes is recommended everywhere above about 6000 ft at this time. This elevation will rise steadily over the next week or two due to melting especially in sun-exposed areas. Spikes will become increasingly valuable over the next few days and weeks as snow becomes icy from freeze-thaw cycles and compacted due to hiker traffic. Spikes tend to be especially valuable for descending, even when not seemingly needed for ascending.

Snow depths are temporarily adequate for snowshoes above about 8000 ft in some locations where snow has drifted deeper than average (before melting this week will lead to thinning snow cover in many areas). However most well-traveled trails are now too compact for comfortable snowshoe use.

Devil’s Slide Trail has now been well traveled. Icy snow cover [updated 19th January] is only 40% and patchy below 7500 ft elevation, and is largely continuous above that to Saddle Junction.

Deer Springs Trail has a moderately traveled track to Little Round Valley, with a single posthole track continuing up to Summit Junction (0.3 mile from San Jacinto Peak).

South Ridge Trail on both north and south sides of Tahquitz Peak has a well-defined track through the light snow. South from Tahquitz Peak snow cover averages 70% decreasing to 30% below Old Lookout Flat (7600 ft). Spikes are useful, especially for descending the upper trail. South Ridge Road is largely clear of ice but the few remaining sections are treacherous and 4WD/AWD is required.

The 0.4 mile section of South Ridge Trail between Chinquapin Flat/PCT and Tahquitz Peak has a clear posthole track to follow at this time through 12-30 inches of heavily drifted icy snow. Many hikers will find spikes are helpful but they are not required for those experienced with icy snow travel. Hiking poles are useful.

The Ernie Maxwell Trail (surveyed 13th January) has a continuous, well-traveled track through very thin snow. It is icy in places and some hikers may find spikes are useful.

SNOW DEPTHS measured on 11th January 2024 are as follows. Note that average depth is given; due to strong winds accompanying the storm on 11th, and the mobile nature of the light, dry snow of recent storms, there has been exceptional drifting. Altitudes and PCT mileages are approximate. Some measurements are equal to or shallower than those on 7th January, due to melting on 8th-10th.

San Jacinto Peak (10810 ft): 8 inches (0.25 inch new snowfall on 11th January) but exceptionally drifted, ranging from 0-25 inches.

Wellman Divide (9700 ft): 7 inches (0.5 inches new snow on 11th, see photo below)

Annie’s Junction/approx. PCT Mile 181.8 (9070 ft): 8 inches (0.5 inch new snow on 11th), heavily drifted

Tahquitz Peak (8836 ft): 6-7 inches around the Peak itself [measured 9th January]

Saddle Junction/approx. PCT Mile 179.9 (8070 ft): 6 inches (0.5 inch new snow on 11th)

Old Lookout Flat (7600 ft on South Ridge Trail): 4 inches [measured on 9th January]

Devil’s Slide Trail at Humber Park (6550 ft): 3 inches (0.5 inch new snow on 11th)

Idyllwild (at 5550 ft): 1.0 inch, already largely melted by 12th (0.5 inches new snow on 11th)

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.

UPDATED Thursday 11th January: A very minor storm overnight produced 0.06 inch of rain and 0.5 inch snow in Idyllwild (at 5550 ft) and a consistent 0.5 inch dusting between Humber Park (6500 ft) and Wellman Divide (9700 ft). There was no evidence of fresh snow at San Jacinto Peak. Strong winds associated with the storm erased all existing tracks and caused major drifting redistributing the snow. Some areas are now 1-2 feet deep, while others are just a couple of inches deep an will melt rapidly. My reasonably well-defined tracks from today are in place where I re-broke trail from Humber Park via Devil’s Slide, Wellman, and Peak trails to/from San Jacinto Peak. Around noon I recorded a short video at San Jacinto Peak (linked here) giving a feel for weather and snow conditions today. A strong warming trend over the next week (at least) will lead to rapid melting at all elevations, especially on sun-exposed slopes. Spikes are recommended everywhere above about 6000 ft.

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In the early hours of 7th January we had our 11th minor storm of this winter, with a very consistent 1-2 inches of fresh snow across all elevations above about 5000 ft, dusting down to 4500 ft. Although remarkably we still haven’t had a major (or even moderate) storm this winter, the cumulative impact on the trails of three minor storms in the past nine days is now similar to one moderate storm.

On the morning of Sunday 7th I broke trail from Humber Park via Devil’s Slide, Wellman, and Peak trails to San Jacinto Peak, joined by friend of the Report and Idyllwild neighbor Bones above Wellman Divide. We both chose to posthole, but snow depths are now sufficient, at least in places and for the next few days (before rapid melting starts) for snowshoeing above 8000 ft, with 5-6 inches total at Saddle Junction (8100 ft) and about 9 inches at San Jacinto Peak. Snow is heavily drifted in trails, for example 12-18 inches deep in a few places on the Wellman and Peak trails, facilitating snowshoeing.

I recorded a short video report from San Jacinto Peak just after noon on Sunday 7th (linked here) giving a feel for the conditions at that time.

On Tuesday 9th January we broke trail across the north side of Tahquitz Peak from Chinquapin Flat (to be fair Anabel did the hard work leading). While average snow depth is only 7-8 inches, it is – as usual – very heavily drifted on that slope, typically 1-3 feet deep. Snow is soft under a thin crust, so postholing is straightforward for which poles are invaluable; many hikers may find spikes or even crampons useful.

Following our hike this morning there are now reliable tracks broken from Saddle Junction through to Tahquitz Peak, and down South Ridge Trail to the top of South Ridge Road. Note Humber Park has reopened and is largely plowed.

WEATHER

Temperatures will remain below seasonal for the remainder of this week, but a significant warming trend to above seasonal temperatures is forecast after Friday 12th. Two further minor storm systems have been forecast but are not now expected to produce significant precipitation. The next, in the early hours of Thursday 11th January, may produce an inch or two of snow at mid elevations but only a dusting both down to 5000 ft and at higher elevations, and will likely be accompanied by very cold temperatures and strong winds on 11th. Another much warmer system on 13th-14th January may produce light rain at mid elevations, but no snow is expected in the high country, and overall the system is looking increasingly likely to miss the San Jacinto mountains altogether.

In recent weeks, air temperatures above 10,000 ft elevation have been in the 20s Fahrenheit (-6 to -2°C), but lower during and around storm systems. For the first half of January, windchill temperatures at high elevations will generally be well below freezing, potentially below 0°F (-18°C) on days around storm systems. Such conditions require appropriate clothing and equipment for extremely cold conditions. Starting Friday 12th January and continuing into the second half of the month, temperatures at the highest elevations are expected to be well above seasonal, i.e. at or above freezing.

At San Jacinto Peak (3295m/10,810ft) on Sunday 7th January 2024 at 1240 the air temperature was 8.4°F (-13°C), with a windchill temperature of -14.4°F (-26°C), 67% relative humidity, and a fresh WNW wind sustained at 7 mph gusting to 16.1 mph.

At the Peak on Wednesday 3rd January 2024 at 1245 the air temperature was 13.7°F (-10°C), with a windchill temperature of -13.0°F (-25°C), 98% relative humidity, and a bitter WSW wind sustained at 18 mph gusting to 32.4 mph.

At the Peak on Tuesday 2nd January 2024 at 0910 the air temperature was 27.3°F (-3°C), with a windchill temperature of 16.7°F (-8°C), 28% relative humidity, and a fresh due West wind sustained at 6 mph gusting to 8.3 mph.

TRAIL CONDITIONS

There is continuous light snow cover on all trails above about 5500 ft, becoming moderate (>5 inches) above 8000 ft. Snow depths measured at specific locations are given below.

The only tracks known to be broken through the snow at this time are up Devil’s Slide Trail, onward via the PCT, Wellman and Peak trails to San Jacinto Peak, South Ridge (including on the north side of Tahquitz Peak [photo above]), and the PCT from Saddle south to Chinquapin Flat and north to Annie’s Junction.

Devil’s Slide Trail has been relatively well traveled (photo above) especially in its lower half.

We broke the length of South Ridge Trail on 9th January, including the north side of Tahquitz Peak. The trail south from Tahquitz Peak averages 6-8 inches of snow in the upper switchbacks (obscured by ice fall in places) decreasing to four inches at Old Lookout Flat (7600 ft). Below the Flat the trail is very sun-exposed, snow is only a couple of inches deep, and will clear quickly in warm and sunny days.

The 0.4 mile section of South Ridge Trail between Chinquapin Flat/PCT and Tahquitz Peak has a single posthole track to follow at this time through 12-30 inches of drifted powder (largely graupel). Spikes are not currently especially helpful due to the soft nature of the snow, but many hikers may consider using them (or even crampons) on this section. Hiking poles are useful.

No tracks were visible on 7th coming up via Deer Springs Trail, nor from Long Valley/Round Valley, either to Wellman Divide or via the Tamarack Valley to join the Peak Trail.

Carrying spikes is recommended everywhere above about 6000 ft at this time. This elevation will rise steadily over the next week or so due to melting especially in sun-exposed areas. Snow depths are now adequate for snowshoes above about 8000 ft. Possible further storms may change these recommendations.

SNOW DEPTHS measured on 7th January 2024 are as follows (or on 9th where indicated). Note that average depth is given; due to strong winds accompanying the storm on 7th, and the mobile nature of graupel, there has been considerable drifting, especially accumulating in trails. Altitudes and PCT mileages are approximate.

San Jacinto Peak (10810 ft): 9 inches (2 inches new snowfall on 7th January)

Wellman Divide (9700 ft): 7.5 inches (1.5 inches new snow on 7th, see photo above)

Annie’s Junction/approx. PCT Mile 181.8 (9070 ft): 8 inches (2 inches new snow on 7th), heavily drifted

Tahquitz Peak (8836 ft): 6-7 inches around the Peak itself [measured 9th January]

Saddle Junction/approx. PCT Mile 179.9 (8070 ft): 6 inches (1 inch new snow on 7th)

Old Lookout Flat (7600 ft on South Ridge Trail): 4 inches [measured on 9th January]

Devil’s Slide Trail at Humber Park (6550 ft): 4 inches (2 inches new snow on 7th)

Idyllwild (at 5550 ft): 2 inches, already partly melted by evening of 7th (1.5 inches new snow on 7th)

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.

UPDATED Sunday 7th January: overnight we had our 11th minor storm of this winter, with 1.5 inches of fresh snow in Idyllwild and 2.0 inches at San Jacinto Peak. This morning I broke trail from Humber Park via Devil’s Slide, Wellman, and Peak trails to San Jacinto Peak, hiking with friend and neighbor Bones above Wellman Divide. We both chose to posthole, but snow depths are adequate for snowshoeing above 8000 ft, with 5-6 inches total at Saddle Junction (8100 ft) and 10 inches at San Jacinto Peak. Snow is heavily drifted in trails, 12-18 inches deep in places on the Wellman and Peak trails.

UPDATED Friday 5th January: early this morning we broke trail up South Ridge Trail to Tahquitz Peak and across the north side towards Chinquapin Flat (photos below). Snow is shallow south of Tahquitz (3-5 inches) but heavily drifted on the north side (10-20 inches). Snow is soft enough that no traction devices are currently required.

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This is a brief summary of the tenth minor storm of this winter, which impacted the San Jacinto mountains in two phases, in the morning then late afternoon of 3rd January. The main morning storm brought snow to all elevations above about 4800 ft, with two inches in Idyllwild (at 5550 ft) and four inches at San Jacinto Peak. I hiked up through the storm and although it only snowed for about three hours (0730-1030) it was heavy at times, accumulating quickly on top of the remnant 1-2 inches from storms in late December. I recorded a short video report from San Jacinto Peak in the early afternoon (linked here) giving a feel for the conditions at that time.

I had the clearest part of the day around the Peak, but when I left around 1330 more cloud started to roll in. It lightly snowed on/off most of the afternoon and early evening, but then an intense thunderstorm cell passed over the mountain range near dusk as I descended Devil’s Slide Trail. A spectacular hour of “thundersnow” included an intense graupel storm, with many grains 0.25 inch in diameter. As I neared Humber Park, three times in about five minutes I had a remarkable show of sheet lightning reflecting bright bluish light off the immaculate fresh snow all around me. The afternoon storm added another 1-2 inches of snow to upper elevations, and about 0.5 inch in Idyllwild.

Humber Park is temporarily closed. There is legal parking for nine vehicles just below the locked gate (an Adventure Pass or equivalent should still be displayed).

WEATHER

Temperatures will remain below seasonal into the second half of January 2024. Two further storm systems are currently forecast. The next, in the early morning of Sunday 7th January, was originally forecast to be a major snow-producing storm, but is now expected to be minor, with only 1-3 inches of snow at upper and mid elevations, and a freeze level again near 5000 ft. Another cold and possibly significant snow-generating storm is tentatively forecast for 11th-14th January; the forecasts remain very uncertain regarding details of timing, depths and elevational distribution of potential snowfall.

Air temperatures above 10,000 ft elevation are now typically in the 20s Fahrenheit (-6 to -2°C), but fall much lower during storm systems. For the first half of January, windchill temperatures at high elevations will generally be far below freezing, often well below 0°F (-18°C) on days during and immediately around storm systems. Such conditions require appropriate clothing and equipment for extremely cold conditions.

At San Jacinto Peak (3295m/10,810ft) on Wednesday 3rd January 2024 at 1245 the air temperature was 13.7°F (-10°C), with a windchill temperature of -13.0°F (-25°C), 98% relative humidity, and a bitter WSW wind sustained at 18 mph gusting to 32.4 mph.

At the Peak on Tuesday 2nd January 2024 at 0910 the air temperature was 27.3°F (-3°C), with a windchill temperature of 16.7°F (-8°C), 28% relative humidity, and a fresh due West wind sustained at 6 mph gusting to 8.3 mph.

TRAIL CONDITIONS

There is continuous light-to-moderate snow cover on all trails above about 5500 ft, with patchy icy snow sections lower in places. Snow depths measured at specific locations are given below.

Tracks known to be broken through the snow at this time include (this is not a comprehensive list): Devil’s Slide Trail via the Wellman and Peak trails to San Jacinto Peak, from Long Valley on the Round Valley Trail to Wellman Divide, South Ridge Trail from South Ridge Road to Tahquitz Peak, most of the trail on the north side of Tahquitz Peak from near Chinquapin Flat to the peak.

Spikes are recommended everywhere above about 6000 ft at this time. This elevation will rise steadily on 4th-6th due to melting especially in sun-exposed areas. Snow depths are adequate (but far from optimal) for snowshoes above about 8000 ft. Depths and snow structure are both generally unsuitable for crampons even at the highest elevations at this time. Further storms forecast for 7th and 11th-13th may change these recommendations.

The 0.4 mile section of South Ridge Trail between Chinquapin Flat/PCT and Tahquitz Peak has a traveled track (photo below) to follow through 10-20 inches of drifted powder (largely graupel). Spikes are not currently helpful due to the soft nature of the snow, but many hikers may find carrying them useful, depending on their comfort level hiking in variable snow conditions.

SNOW DEPTHS measured on 3rd and 5th January 2024 are as follows. Note that average depth is given; due to strong winds accompanying storms, and the mobile nature of graupel, there has been considerable drifting, especially accumulating in trails. Altitudes and PCT mileages are approximate.

San Jacinto Peak (10810 ft): 7 inches (4-5 inches new snowfall on 3rd January)

Wellman Divide (9700 ft): 5 inches (4 inches new snow, see photos below)

Round Valley (9100 ft): 5 inches total [special thanks to Kyle Eubanks for this information]

Annie’s Junction/approx. PCT Mile 181.8 (9070 ft): 4.5 inches (2.5-3 inches new snow)

Tahquitz Peak (8836 ft): 5 inches, but heavily drifted in trails [measured 5th January]

Long Valley (8600 ft): 3.5 inches total [special thanks to Kyle Eubanks for this information]

Saddle Junction/approx. PCT Mile 179.9 (8070 ft): 3.5 inches (2-2.5 inches new snow)

Old Lookout Flat (7600 ft, 1.9 miles up South Ridge Trail from South Ridge Road): 3.5 inches [measured 5th January]

Devil’s Slide Trail at Humber Park (6550 ft): 3 inches (all new snow on 3rd)

Idyllwild (at 5550 ft): 2.5 inches (all new snow on 3rd)

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 3rd January 2024: the minor storm this morning brought snow to all elevations above about 4500 ft, with two inches in Idyllwild (at 5550 ft) and four inches here at San Jacinto Peak. I hiked up through the storm and it snowed only for about three hours (0730-1030) but quite heavily at times, accumulating quickly on top of the existing 1-2 inches remaining from storms in late December.

I recorded a short video report from San Jacinto Peak at about 1300 this afternoon (linked here).

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The San Jacinto mountains are now in or near part of the track of the prevailing jet stream (which averaged much further north throughout November-December) and consequently three storm systems are possible in the first two weeks of January 2024. A minor system on Wednesday 3rd is expected to be much colder than those earlier this winter, with a dusting of snow possible to 5000 ft (i.e., including Idyllwild), and 2-4 inches in the high country. The coldest system of this winter so far is forecast for 6th-7th January, with a snow level near or even below 4000 ft. However, in a dramatic late shift in the forecasts, that storm is now expected to bring much less snow than originally expected, with amounts probably similar to the system on 3rd. Finally another very cold and possibly significant snow storm is forecast for Thursday 11th January, with expected snow amounts perhaps greater than the two previous storms.

The ninth minor storm of this winter so far impacted the San Jacinto mountains on Saturday 30th December. It produced light rain and some hail in Idyllwild adding up to 0.35 inch. A dusting of snow across the high country included 0.25 inch of snow as low as Humber Park (6500 ft), one inch at Saddle Junction (8100 ft) and Wellman Divide (9700 ft) with 1.5 inches at San Jacinto Peak.

Trails are now generally clear of snow below 6700 ft elevation, and are clearing slowly on sun-exposed slopes up to 7500 ft, sometimes higher in places. However trails are becoming increasingly icy higher up as very thin snow is compacted by hiker traffic and following freeze-thaw cycles. Spikes are recommended everywhere above about 7000 ft at this time, although hikers experienced with icy snow travel may find them of limited use. Snow depths are insufficient for snowshoes or crampons even at the highest elevations. This advice may change soon with three snow-producing storms forecast over the next 10-12 days, much lower snow levels, and very cold temperatures.

Daily survey hikes in the San Jacinto mountains include various routes to San Jacinto Peak multiple times per week (most recently on 31st December and 2nd January), Tahquitz Peak and area at least once per week (most recently on 1st January), plus a wide variety of other trails on intervening days.

Water sources such as creeks, pipes, and springs largely continue to flow well for the time of year, thanks to the intensity of last winter plus various storms since August. So far they have not frozen in recent cold weather, however that may change next weekend given the expected temperatures and snowfall.

South Ridge Road (5S11) was graded on 15th October and reopened in mid November. May Valley Road (5S21) was fully graded in October, and is now much more user-friendly for both hikers and bikers. Dark Canyon Road (4S02) remains closed indefinitely, although the dirt section was partly graded in early October.

Black Mountain Road (4S01) was in its poorest condition for at least a decade by June this year. The partial grading undertaken in July improved the situation, but it remains a bumpy drive. Seasonal campgrounds and fire lookouts all closed for the winter by mid November.

WEATHER

Temperatures are forecast to be largely below seasonal at least into the second week of January 2024. Three cold storm systems are expected in the first half of January 2024. A minor system on Wednesday 3rd will be much colder than those so far this winter, with a dusting of snow possible to 5000 ft (i.e., including Idyllwild), and 2-4 inches in the high country. The coldest system of this winter so far is forecast for 7th January, with several inches of snow possible >10,000 ft elevation and a snow level near or even below 4000 ft. Finally another very cold and possibly significant snow-generating storm is tentatively forecast for Thursday 11th January, with expected snow amounts and elevational distribution expected to be greater than the previous two storms, but much uncertainty remains.

Air temperatures above 10,000 ft elevation are now typically in the 20s Fahrenheit (-6 to -2°C). For the first half of January, windchill temperatures at high elevations will generally be far below freezing, often well below 0°F (-18°C) on days during and immediately around storm systems. Such conditions require appropriate clothing and equipment for extremely cold conditions.

At San Jacinto Peak (3295m/10,810ft) on Tuesday 2nd January 2024 at 0910 the air temperature was 27.3°F (-3°C), with a windchill temperature of 16.7°F (-8°C), 28% relative humidity, and a fresh due West wind sustained at 6 mph gusting to 8.3 mph.

At the Peak on Sunday 31st December 2023 at 0915 the air temperature was 25.4°F (-4°C), with a windchill temperature of 13.3°F (-10°C), 17% relative humidity, and a light but cool due West wind sustained at 7 mph gusting to 10.6 mph.

At the Peak on Wednesday 27th December 2023 at 1015 the air temperature was 33.7°F (1°C), with a windchill temperature of 20.1°F (-7°C), 19% relative humidity, and a chilly WNW wind sustained at 10 mph gusting to 17.8 mph.

TRAIL CONDITIONS

There is continuous thin snow cover on almost all trails above about 7000 ft, with patchy icy snow sections as low as 6500 ft in places. Major trails largely have well-defined tracks through the snow at this time.

Even very thin snow has become icy in places on well-traveled trails due to freeze-thaw cycles and compaction by hiker traffic. Spikes are consequently recommended everywhere above about 7000 ft at this time. Snow depths are insufficient for snowshoes or crampons even at the highest elevations. Snow on sun-exposed slopes below 8000 ft is very thin but is unlikely to melt in the next couple of days.

Deer Springs Trail below Strawberry Junction (8100 ft) is partly clear of snow. From Strawberry Junction to San Jacinto Peak the snow cover is continuous. Spikes are useful, especially for descending the upper trail.

Marion Mountain Trail is largely covered with thin icy snow, with only the lowest 0.5 mile clear of snow. Snow is 0.5 inch deep lower down, increasing to two inches high up. Spikes are useful for descending the upper trail especially.

Devil’s Slide Trail is already largely clear of snow to 7000 ft. Thin snow cover is largely continuous on the middle and upper trail and is becoming very icy. Spikes are useful, especially for descending.

The Wellman and Peak trails, although both largely open and sun-exposed, currently remain snow-covered. A well-traveled track comes up to Wellman Divide from Long and Round valleys, with continuous snow above Round Valley at least.

Trails on the north side of Tahquitz (photo below) and Red Tahquitz peaks, including PCT Miles 175.5-177.5, and around the Tahquitz area meadows, remain fully covered with thin snow. Snow is at its deepest on the north side of Tahquitz Peak (2-4 inches deep) but the trail is neither icy nor angled by drifting. South Ridge Trail south from Tahquitz Peak is almost completely snow-covered down to Old Lookout Flat at 7600 ft (surveyed 1st January) but the snow is very thin and not too icy (spikes are recommended for descending the upper switchbacks at least). The trail is functionally clear of snow below 7600 ft.

Fuller Ridge Trail has continuous snow cover (surveyed 27th December), although nowhere is the snow depth greater than about three inches in the trail. The most sun-exposed sections of the trail are partially clearing of snow.

Tropical Storm Hilary in late August resulted in one or two new treefall hazards on most trails, but only Willow Creek and Fuller Ridge trails were more significantly impacted.

Please see the Trail Conditions section of the previous Report (linked here) for details of the current status of treefall hazards and obstructions on the following trails: Willow Creek Trail, Fuller Ridge Trail, Deer Springs Trail, Skunk Cabbage and Tahquitz area meadows, South Ridge Trail, Marion Mountain Trail, Spitler Peak Trail, Caramba Trail, and Seven Pines Trail.

Elsewhere on the PCT treefall hazards remain a problem in many places, most notably between Apache Peak and Red Tahquitz, where I counted at least 106 between Miles 169-175 in late 2023. Large downed trees make for especially slow-going around Miles 172-175 (a section severely impacted by the July 2013 Mountain Fire).

SNOW DEPTHS measured on 31st December 2023 are as follows. Note that average depth is given; due to strong winds accompanying storms there has been drifting, often accumulating in the trails. Altitudes and PCT mileages are approximate.

San Jacinto Peak (10810 ft): 2-3 inches (1.5 inches fresh snowfall on 30th December 2023)

Little Round Valley (9750 ft): 3 inches, drifted deeper in places

Wellman Divide (9700 ft): 1.5 inches (1 inch new snow on 30th December)

Annie’s Junction/approx. PCT Mile 181.8 (9070 ft): 2 inches (1.5 inches fresh snowfall on 30th December 2023)

Tahquitz Peak (north side trail, 8700 ft): 2-4 inches, drifted deeper in places [measured 1st January 2024]

Tahquitz Peak (south side trail, 8500-8700 ft): 0.5-1 inch [measured 1st January 2024]

Long Valley (8600 ft): 0.5 inch on 31st December 2023

Saddle Junction/approx. PCT Mile 179.9 (8070 ft): 1.5 inches (1 inch new snow on 30th December)

Devil’s Slide Trail at Humber Park (6550 ft): patchy 0.5 inch on 31st December, already melted

Idyllwild (at 5550 ft): 0 inch

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 Sunday 31st December @ 0945: yesterday’s minor storm produced light rain and some hail in Idyllwild adding up to 0.35 inch. A dusting of snow across the high country has included 0.25 inch of snow as low as Humber Park (6500 ft), one inch at Saddle Junction (8100 ft) and Wellman Divide (9700 ft) with 1.5 inches at San Jacinto Peak. Carrying spikes is strongly recommended above 6000 ft. Snow depths remain insufficient for crampons or snowshoes. That advice will change next week with three storms forecast over the next 10 days.

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The forecast for the next ten days is unsettled, with three storms of steadily increasing intensities expected. A minor storm is forecast for Saturday 30th December, with light rain (0.3 inch) at mid elevations and light snow (1-3 inches) in the high country. Another minor system on 3rd-4th January is expected to be much colder, with a dusting of snow down to 5000 ft (i.e., likely including Idyllwild), and 2-6 inches in the high country. The most significant system is tentatively forecast for 6th-7th January, with as much as 1-2 feet of snow possible >10,000 ft elevation, several inches of snow at mid elevations, and a snow level near or even below 4000 ft.

A slow-moving, multiday, but ultimately minor storm system impacted the San Jacinto mountains across 18th-22nd December, with the bulk of the light snowfall on 22nd. Thin snow cover remains on the trails (>7700 ft) but is not significantly impacting hiking and most major trails already have well-traveled tracks to follow.

Precipitation totals for the storm were at the bottom end of the ranges given by many forecasts. Idyllwild (at 5550 ft) received 0.61 inch of rain across the five days, while 0.67 inch fell at Saddle Junction (8100 ft) on 18th-21st before turning to snow at that elevation on 22nd. Some of the early days of the system were warm enough that precipitation fell as freezing rain, rather than snow, as high as San Jacinto Peak on both 19th and 20th.

Most snow fell on Friday 22nd, with just very light dustings at the highest elevations on 18th and 20th. Snowfall totals included four inches at San Jacinto Peak, of which 3.5 inches were on 22nd, three inches at Wellman Divide (9700 ft) and Little Round Valley (9750 ft), and two inches at Saddle Junction. Long Valley (8600 ft) had about two inches of snow on 22nd, with light rain in the days prior.

I recorded a short video report from San Jacinto Peak at 0830 on Friday 22nd which gave a feel for conditions immediately following the main snowfall (linked here). As a relatively warm system, no significant snow fell below 7500 ft, with just a dusting down to 7200 ft.

Trails are clear of snow below 7700 ft elevation, and are clearing steadily on sun-exposed slopes up to 8900 ft. Conversely, trails are becoming increasingly icy higher up as very thin snow is compacted by hiker traffic and following freeze-thaw cycles. Spikes are recommended everywhere above about 8000 ft at this time, although hikers experienced with icy snow travel may find them of limited use. Snow depths are insufficient for snowshoes or crampons even at the highest elevations.

Daily survey hikes in the San Jacinto mountains include various routes to San Jacinto Peak multiple times per week (most recently on 20th, 21st, 22nd, 25th, and 27th December), Tahquitz Peak and area at least once per week (most recently on 19th and 24th December), plus a wide variety of other trails on intervening days.

Water sources such as creeks, pipes, and springs largely continue to flow well for the time of year, thanks to the intensity of last winter plus various storms since August, and they have not frozen in recent cold weather. Ephemeral water sources have now largely dried, but campers and hikers will still generally find water wherever they are expecting it.

South Ridge Road (5S11) was graded on 15th October and reopened in mid November. May Valley Road (5S21) was fully graded in October, and is now much more user-friendly for both hikers and bikers. Dark Canyon Road (4S02) remains closed indefinitely, although the dirt section was partly graded in early October.

Black Mountain Road (4S01) was in its poorest condition for at least a decade by June this year. The partial grading undertaken in July improved the situation, but it remains a bumpy drive. Seasonal campgrounds and fire lookouts all closed for the winter by mid November.

WEATHER

Temperatures are forecast to be above seasonal until Saturday 30th December, before largely dropping below seasonal at least into the second week of January 2024. While a relatively warm week could facilitate melting, most days for the foreseeable future will be partly or mostly cloudy, potentially slowing snowmelt somewhat.

The next minor storm is forecast for Saturday 30th December, with light rain (<0.3 inch) at mid elevations and snow (<3 inches) in the high country. Another minor system on 3rd-4th January is expected to be much colder, with a dusting of snow likely down to Idyllwild, and a few inches in the high country. Yet another system is tentatively forecast for 6th-8th January, and may be both very cold – with a freeze level down to 4000 ft – and bring heavier precipitation (10-20 inches of snow in the high country possible).

Air temperatures above 10,000 ft elevation are now typically in the 20s-mid 30s Fahrenheit (-5 to 3°C). From 30th December into mid January, windchill temperatures at high elevations will generally be far below freezing, below 0°F (-18°C) on most days. Such conditions require appropriate clothing and equipment for very cold conditions.

At San Jacinto Peak (3295m/10,810ft) on Wednesday 27th December 2023 at 1015 the air temperature was 33.7°F (1°C), with a windchill temperature of 20.1°F (-7°C), 19% relative humidity, and a chilly WNW wind sustained at 10 mph gusting to 17.8 mph.

At the Peak on Monday 25th December 2023 at 0910 the air temperature was 31.6°F (0°C), with a windchill temperature of 17.3°F (-8°C), 43% relative humidity, and a sharp NW wind sustained at 11 mph gusting to 18.6 mph.

At the Peak on Friday 22nd December 2023 at 0825 the air temperature was 22.0°F (-6°C), with a windchill temperature of 2.7°F (-16°C), 91% relative humidity, and a bitter due South wind sustained at 13 mph gusting to 24.5 mph.

TRAIL CONDITIONS

There is continuous thin snow cover on almost all trails above about 8500 ft, patchy icy snow sections as low as 7700 ft in places, and trails are completely clear of snow below 7700 ft elevation (higher in places; details below). Major trails have well-defined tracks through the thin remnant snow at this time, with the exception of Seven Pines Trail (as of 25th December).

Even very thin snow has become icy in places on well-traveled trails due to freeze-thaw cycles and compaction by hiker traffic. Spikes are consequently recommended everywhere above about 8000 ft at this time. Snow depths are insufficient for snowshoes or crampons even at the highest elevations.

Snow on sun-exposed slopes below 10,000 ft is very thin and is expected to largely melt in the next couple of days, but the sun angle is so low in late December that melting will be slow in traditionally sheltered areas, such as the north side of Tahquitz Peak, trails 0.4 mile either side of Annie’s Junction (PCT Mile 180.8), and some upper sections of Deer Springs Trail.

Deer Springs Trail below Strawberry Junction (8100 ft) is clear of snow. Thin snow covers about 60% of the trail between Strawberry Junction and the top of Marion Mountain Trail (8700 ft). From the Marion Mountain Trail junction to San Jacinto Peak the snow cover is continuous. Spikes are useful for descending the upper trail.

Marion Mountain Trail is largely clear of snow in its lower third, but thin icy snow remains on the upper tow-thirds. Even very shallow snow traditionally persists in the least exposed central section of the trail for weeks.

Devil’s Slide Trail is now functionally clear of snow to 7700 ft (about 0.5 mile before Saddle Junction). Snow cover is largely continuous on the upper trail and is becoming very icy. Spikes are useful, especially for descending.

The Wellman and Peak trails, both largely open and sun-exposed, currently remain largely snow-covered, but are expected to steadily clear of snow. Persistent areas of snow will remain in forested sections. A well-traveled track comes up to Wellman Divide from Long and Round valleys, with largely continuous snow above Round Valley at least.

Trails on the north side of Tahquitz (photo below) and Red Tahquitz peaks, including PCT Miles 175.5-177.5, and around the Tahquitz area meadows, remain fully covered with thin snow due to their northerly exposure, drifting, and/or forest cover. South Ridge Trail south from Tahquitz Peak is largely clear of snow (surveyed 24th December) but the uppermost switchbacks near the peak have a thin continuous icy snow cover (spikes are recommended for descending those switchbacks).

Fuller Ridge Trail has about 65% snow cover (surveyed 27th December), although nowhere is the snow depth greater than about two inches in the trail. The most sun-exposed sections of the trail are completely clear of snow. There are now reliable tracks to follow through the snow sections along the entire length of the trail.

Tropical Storm Hilary in late August resulted in one or two new treefall hazards on most trails, but only Willow Creek and Fuller Ridge trails were more significantly impacted.

The rough route cleared along Willow Creek Trail in early August remarkably lasted only two weeks before Tropical Storm Hilary brought down 19 new treefall hazards. Of the seven that came down on the Forest Service section, five were removed in early November. One huge trunk remains just east of Willow Creek that most hikers will find challenging to pass. Of the 12 on the State Park section, eight were cut in late August, and there is a cleared route from Long Valley to Hidden Divide, but four remain uncut between the divide and the Forest Service boundary. The whitethorn trimming is inconsistent and scrappy but overall the trail is more passable than it was as recently as July. Eight trees – of the 60+ down after last winter – remain to be cut on the USFS section for the original trail route to be fully restored, but that will not happen this year, if ever.

Fuller Ridge Trail (PCT Miles 185.5-190.5) has 11 treefall hazards, several of which are large and challenging to pass. The Forest Service section (Miles 189-190.5) was largely cleared and thoroughly raked in September, and is in its best condition for a decade. However the huge double treefall just 0.35 mile from the campground remains. Sadly the State Park section (Miles 185.5-189) remains a mess, with considerable debris remaining from the winter and recent storms, including nine significant treefall hazards.

Deer Springs Trail has had a few treefall hazards removed by the State Park in the past month, but at least seven significant problems remain below the Fuller Ridge Trail junction dating back to last winter. Almost all of the 12 downed trees above Fuller Ridge on upper Deer Springs Trail date back some 6-10 years and have been reported to the State Park multiple times (never resulting in meaningful action).

Trails around the Skunk Cabbage and Tahquitz area meadows have some significant treefall hazards remaining from last winter (resurveyed November 2023). There are six on the PCT section north from near Mile 177 (the crossing of Tahquitz Creek) to Saddle Junction (roughly Mile 179.3), three on each side of Chinquapin Flat. There are four significant treefalls, including a couple that are not easy to pass, on the Little Tahquitz Meadow trail between the Caramba Trail and the PCT junction, and three on the Skunk Cabbage Meadow trail.

Fourteen treefall hazards from last winter on South Ridge Trail (above the trailhead at the top of South Ridge Road) were removed by the Trail Report in May, and trail trimming has been undertaken regularly. No significant new treefall hazards resulted from Tropical Storm Hilary on this trail, but one minor new one fell in November. The middle section of South Ridge Trail – between May Valley Road and the top of South Ridge Road – is now clear following removal of 20 trees in two sessions this year (15th July and 30th October).

Marion Mountain Trail has five notable treefall hazards in the State Park (upper) half. One new large stump came down in Hilary low down on the Forest Service section, but it is easy to pass.

Ten new treefall hazards on Spitler Peak Trail, largely caused by Tropical Storm Hilary, were removed by the Trail Report in October and November. This brings to 95 the number of trees removed from this trail since July 2021 by the Trail Report. Several minor washouts from last winter in the upper switchbacks have significantly impacted the tread in places; these are not problematic for hikers, but the trail is impassable to stock.

Elsewhere on the PCT treefall hazards remain a problem in many places, most notably between Apache Peak and Red Tahquitz, where I counted 106 between Miles 169-175 in summer 2023. Large downed trees make for especially slow-going around Miles 172-175 (a section severely impacted by the July 2013 Mountain Fire).

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 described by the Forest Service as “not maintained”. In reality both trails have been abandoned and functionally no longer exist. They are so heavily overgrown with dense whitethorn, which obscures dozens of downed trees, that I strongly advise hikers do not attempt to follow them (regardless of how much you may trust a certain app). An informal use trail to Laws is much more direct, well maintained, and avoids the challenging bushwhacking of the unmaintained trails (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 largely following long-established deer trails for 1.2 miles, meeting Willow Creek about 0.2 mile upstream from the site of the historic Laws Camp (the remains of which were destroyed by the 2013 Mountain Fire plus subsequent flood and treefall damage). The 11 trees down on the King Trail after last winter were removed in June, and the five trees brought down by Hilary were removed or diverted around in November 2023. The tread of the trail received some damage from Tropical Storm Hilary. From Laws east to Caramba the route of the original Caramba Trail has been well-cairned by myself and others and can largely be followed with very careful route-finding. My August 2023 survey counted about 110 trees down on this 2.1 miles of trail. It is especially obscure for the first 0.3 mile east of the Willow Creek crossing, becoming more obvious (but still subtle) as it descends towards Caramba. Very cautious navigation is advised throughout the area.

Seven Pines Trail is largely clear of treefall hazards. Five new trees came down across the trail in Tropical Storm Hilary, all in the central mile, but they are readily passable for hikers. Be advised that the trail in general becomes more obscure in the mile closest to its junction with the PCT. The Trail Report has “adopted” Seven Pines Trail as a priority for maintenance work as the trail has had a disproportionate number of lost hiker rescues in the past decade. Since November 2021, more than 70 downed trees have been removed and the trail is thoroughly trimmed and cleared several times per year. Nevertheless Seven Pines remains a genuine wilderness trail unlike the relatively wide, bare, and obvious routes of, for example, Devil’s Slide or Marion Mountain trails. Cautious navigation remains essential for those without considerable experience of hiking this trail.

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 Sunday 24th December: trails are clear of snow below 7500 ft elevation, but are becoming increasingly icy higher up as very thin snow is compacted by hiker traffic and following freeze-thaw cycles. Spikes are strongly recommended everywhere above about 8000 ft at this time. Snow depths are insufficient for snowshoes or crampons even at the highest elevations.

UPDATE Friday 22nd December @ 2010: Precipitation totals for the storm system were rather disappointing. Overnight Idyllwild (at 5550 ft) received 0.28 inch of rain, followed by another 0.12 inch during the day. Long Valley (8600 ft) had about two inches of snow on 22nd, and San Jacinto Peak has an average depth of about 3.5 inches, drifted deeper in places. I recorded a short video report from San Jacinto Peak at 0830 (available here). Snow level dropped down to 7500 ft on Devil’s Slide Trail, with an average depth of one inch at Saddle Junction (8100 ft). Spikes are now useful and recommended everywhere above about 8000 ft elevation.

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A slow-moving storm system over Southern California is producing an unpredictable weather pattern for the remainder of this week. Some precipitation is possible daily on 18th-23rd December. Probabilities increase substantially late on Thursday 21st and throughout Friday 22nd.

On our early morning hike to San Jacinto Peak on Monday 18th, we enjoyed a brief little snow storm up top while there was a very light rain throughout the mid and upper elevations. It snowed between 0910-0930, with 0.25 inch settling above 10,400 ft elevation, plus a dusting down to 9900 ft. Rainfall in Idyllwild (5550 ft) and at Saddle Junction (8100 ft) was barely 0.01 inch.

Brief rains overnight on 18th and occasionally on 19th produced a further 0.21 inch of rain in Idyllwild (5550 ft) by the morning of Wednesday 20th, 0.49 inch at Saddle Junction (8100 ft), and 0.32 inch at Wellman’s Cienega (9300 ft). Above that, it was mild enough that precipitation fell as freezing rain rather than snow, all the way to San Jacinto Peak where rocks were covered in a thin layer of ice.

Another very light rain overnight on 20th produced just 0.02 inch of rain in Idyllwild, and a very light snowfall of 0.25 inch above 10,000 ft in the high country, dusting down to about 9000 ft.

At most elevations, relatively warm rains have finally melted what little patchy snow remained from late November (see for example the photo below from the north side of Tahquitz Peak).

The first significant storm of winter 2023/24 is forecast to bring moderate precipitation to all elevations on 21st-22nd December. However, earlier forecasts suggesting 1-2 inches of rain at mid elevations and 1-2 feet of snow around the highest peaks of the San Jacinto mountains have now largely been replaced by more conservative estimates of an inch or less of rain, and 4-8 inches of snow, respectively.

It appears that the bulk of the energy from this storm system will now be west (and perhaps a little north) of the San Jacinto mountain range, as discussed in the latest National Weather Service video report released on 20th December (linked here).

This will be a mild storm system and the freeze level may remain relatively high, with nearly one inch of rainfall forecast for mid elevations (e.g., Idyllwild), and a mix of rain turning to light snow between about 7000-9000 ft mainly on Friday 22nd. The freeze level may eventually drop as low as 7500 ft, but no significant snowfall is currently forecast below about 7000 ft. Snow forecasts for the high country have varied dramatically from 2-20 inches above 10,000 ft, although the most recent models favor the lower end of that spectrum. Light snowfall at high elevations may be scattered across several days from 18th-23rd December, becoming moderate at times on Friday 22nd and accumulating to 6-8 inches.

Remaining snow from the minor storms at the end of November has now largely melted. For specific details of trail conditions please see the previous Report linked here. At this time, no traction devices are required anywhere on the trail system, but this will change during the course of the week, notably on 22nd-23rd, when spikes (at least) will become recommended.

Daily survey hikes in the San Jacinto mountains include various routes to San Jacinto Peak multiple times per week (most recently on 18th, 20th, 21st, and 22nd December), Tahquitz Peak and area at least once per week (most recently on 19th December), plus a wide variety of other trails on intervening days.

Air temperatures above 10,000 ft elevation are now generally in the 20s-low 30s Fahrenheit (-5 to 1°C), with windchill temperatures well below freezing. On 21st-23rd December at least, air and/or windchill temperatures may at times be far below freezing, requiring appropriate equipment for very cold conditions. A slight warming to near seasonal temperatures on 25th-29th December is expected to be followed by further cooling around the turn of the year.

At San Jacinto Peak (3295m/10,810ft) on Wednesday 20th December 2023 at 0905 the air temperature was 27.2°F (-3°C), with a windchill temperature of 13.5°F (-10°C), 39% relative humidity, and a cool SSW wind sustained at 8 mph gusting to 14.9 mph.

At the Peak on Monday 18th December 2023 at 0850 the air temperature was 34.9°F (2°C), with a windchill temperature of 20.5°F (-7°C), 68% relative humidity, and a sharp WSW wind sustained at 13 mph gusting to 21.6 mph.

While all time and labor is volunteered, the San Jacinto Trail Report uses small private donations to help cover operating costs. Every year has its unique challenges, and 2023 has been no exception. 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. Zelle, Venmo, and PayPal are all options. Thank you very much for your support.

Most of the remaining snow from the minor storms at the end of November has now melted. Patchy areas of thin snow, rarely more than 0.5 inch deep, remain on sheltered, largely north-facing, slopes (see Trail Conditions section and photos below). However freeze-thaw cycles and compaction by hiker traffic has led to persistent patches in trails being icy and some hikers may find spikes useful in places. Temperatures remain well above seasonal for December until Tuesday 19th, and melting of remnant snow will continue slowly.

The first significant storm system of winter 2023/24 is expected to bring moderate precipitation to all elevations on 20th-23rd December. The freeze level may remain relatively high, with 1-2 inches of rainfall forecast for mid elevations, and a mix of rain turning to light snow between 6000-9000 ft spread across four days. The freeze level may eventually drop as low as 6500 ft on Saturday 23rd, but no significant snowfall is currently forecast below about 7000 ft. Snow forecasts for the high country range widely from 6-20 inches above 10,000 ft. Light to periodically heavy snowfall at high elevations may be scattered across several days from 20th-23rd December.

Daily survey hikes in the San Jacinto mountains include various routes to San Jacinto Peak multiple times per week (most recently on 7th, 11th, and 15th December), Tahquitz Peak and area at least once per week (most recently on 12th-13th December), plus a wide variety of other trails on intervening days. My recent weather observations from San Jacinto Peak are given in the Weather section below.

Water sources such as creeks, pipes, and springs largely continue to flow well for the time of year, given the intensity of last winter plus various storms since August, and did not freeze in recent cold weather (example photo below and in the prior Report linked here). Many ephemeral water sources have now dried, but campers and hikers will still generally find water wherever they are expecting it.

South Ridge Road (5S11) was graded on 15th October and reopened in mid November. May Valley Road (5S21) was fully graded in October, and is now much more user-friendly for both hikers and bikers. Dark Canyon Road (4S02) remains closed indefinitely, although the dirt section was partly graded in early October.

Black Mountain Road (4S01) was in its poorest condition for at least a decade by June this year. The partial grading undertaken in July improved the situation somewhat, but it remains a bumpy drive. Seasonal campgrounds and fire lookouts are now all closed for the winter.

WEATHER

Temperatures have remained at or above seasonal since 4th December. Snowmelt has been relatively rapid (given the time of year) in most areas below 8000 ft and those exposed to direct sunlight, but the sun angle is so low in December that melting has been slow in sheltered areas. Most days for the foreseeable future will be at least partly cloudy, slowing the rate of melting, with temperatures dropping to seasonal around Monday 18th December and then below average for several days from 20th December.

A storm system forecast for 20th-23rd December is expected to bring moderate precipitation to all elevations. The freeze level is currently predicted to remain relatively high, with 0.8-1.5 inches of rainfall at mid elevations spread across three or four days, and a mix of rain becoming light-to-moderate snow between 6000-9000 ft over the same time period. The freeze level may finally drop as low as 6500 ft by 23rd, but with no significant snowfall forecast below 6000 ft.

Snow forecasts for the high country have varied greatly but 8-12 inches are currently expected above 10,000 ft. Light snowfall may be scattered across at least 2-3 days, on 20th-22nd December.

Although warmer on 14th-17th December, air temperatures above 10,000 ft elevation are now generally in the 20s-low 30s Fahrenheit (-5 to 0°C), with windchill temperatures usually well below freezing, of course depending on wind speed. On 20th-23rd December, both air and windchill temperatures may be far below freezing, requiring appropriate equipment for very cold conditions.

At San Jacinto Peak (3295m/10,810ft) on Friday 15th December 2023 at 0810 the air temperature was 45.9°F (8°C), with a windchill temperature of 40.3°F (5°C), 4.5% relative humidity, and a steady SE wind sustained at 6 mph gusting to 7.2 mph.

At the Peak on Monday 11th December 2023 at 0850 the air temperature was 39.8°F (4°C), with a windchill temperature of 32.4°F (0°C), 37% relative humidity, and a light SW wind sustained at 6 mph gusting to 7.4 mph.

At the Peak on Thursday 7th December 2023 at 0805 the air temperature was 35.5°F (2°C), with a windchill temperature of 19.4°F (-7°C), 8% relative humidity, and a wild WNW wind sustained at 19 mph gusting to 39.7 mph.

TRAIL CONDITIONS

There is no significant settled snow anywhere in the high country. However a patchy light snow cover persists in places, notably on slopes that at this time of year receive limited or no direct sun. Even very thin snow has become icy in places on well-traveled trails due to freeze-thaw cycles and compaction by hiker traffic.

Traction devices are not currently required anywhere but carrying them is recommended as the few areas with persistent snow in the trails are generally very icy. Starting about Wednesday 20th December, spikes are expected to be strongly recommended everywhere above about 7000 ft, possibly lower.

Deer Springs Trail below Strawberry Junction (8100 ft) is clear of snow, and is now largely clear of snow from there to the high peaks. The few remaining tiny sections of snow are very icy in places however.

Marion Mountain Trail is largely clear of snow, but a few very short sections of thin icy snow remain, mainly in the least exposed central section of the trail. Spikes are not generally required however.

Devil’s Slide Trail is now functionally clear of snow. The Wellman and Peak trails, both largely open and sun-exposed, are almost completely clear of snow, but very small areas of snow remain in forested sections.

Trails on the north side of Tahquitz (photo above) and Red Tahquitz peaks, including PCT Miles 175.5-177.5, and around the Tahquitz area meadows, remain about 50% covered with very thin snow due to their northerly exposure, drifting, and/or forest cover. South Ridge Trail south from Tahquitz Peak is functionally clear of snow (surveyed 13th December).

Tropical Storm Hilary in late August resulted in one or two new treefall hazards on most trails, but only Willow Creek and Fuller Ridge trails were more significantly impacted.

The rough route cleared along Willow Creek Trail in early August remarkably lasted only two weeks before Tropical Storm Hilary brought down 19 new treefall hazards. Of the seven that came down on the Forest Service section, five were removed in early November. One huge trunk remains just east of Willow Creek that most hikers will find challenging to pass. Of the 12 on the State Park section, eight were cut in late August, and there is a cleared route from Long Valley to Hidden Divide, but four remain uncut between the divide and the Forest Service boundary. The whitethorn trimming is inconsistent and scrappy but overall the trail is more passable than it was as recently as July. Eight trees – of the 60+ down after last winter – remain to be cut on the USFS section for the original trail route to be fully restored, but that will not happen this year, if ever.

Fuller Ridge Trail (PCT Miles 185.5-190.5) has 11 treefall hazards, several of which are large and challenging to pass. The Forest Service section (Miles 189-190.5) was largely cleared and thoroughly raked in September, and is in its best condition for a decade. However the huge double treefall just 0.35 mile from the campground remains. Sadly the State Park section (Miles 185.5-189) remains a mess, with considerable debris remaining from the winter and recent storms, including nine significant treefall hazards.

Deer Springs Trail has had a few treefall hazards removed by the State Park in the past month, but at least seven significant problems remain below the Fuller Ridge Trail junction dating back to last winter. Almost all of the 12 downed trees above Fuller Ridge on upper Deer Springs Trail date back some 6-10 years and have been reported to the State Park multiple times (never resulting in meaningful action).

Trails around the Skunk Cabbage and Tahquitz area meadows have some significant treefall hazards remaining from last winter (resurveyed November 2023). There are six on the PCT section north from near Mile 177 (the crossing of Tahquitz Creek) to Saddle Junction (roughly Mile 179.3), three on each side of Chinquapin Flat. There are four significant treefalls, including a couple that are not easy to pass, on the Little Tahquitz Meadow trail between the Caramba Trail and the PCT junction, and three on the Skunk Cabbage Meadow trail.

Fourteen treefall hazards from this past winter on South Ridge Trail (above the trailhead at the top of South Ridge Road) were removed by the Trail Report in May, and trail trimming has been undertaken regularly. No significant new treefall hazards resulted from Tropical Storm Hilary on this trail, but one minor new one fell in November. The middle section of South Ridge Trail – between May Valley Road and the top of South Ridge Road – is now clear following removal of 20 trees in two sessions this season (15th July and 30th October).

Marion Mountain Trail has five notable treefall hazards in the State Park (upper) half. One new large stump came down in Hilary low down on the Forest Service section, but it is easy to pass.

Ten new treefall hazards on Spitler Peak Trail, largely caused by Tropical Storm Hilary, were removed by the Trail Report in October and November. This brings to 95 the number of trees removed from this trail since July 2021 by the Trail Report. Several minor washouts from last winter in the upper switchbacks have significantly impacted the tread in places; these are not problematic for hikers, but the trail is impassable to stock.

Elsewhere on the PCT treefall hazards remain a problem in many places, most notably between Apache Peak and Red Tahquitz, where I counted 106 between Miles 169-175 in summer 2023. Large downed trees make for especially slow-going around Miles 172-175 (a section severely impacted by the July 2013 Mountain Fire).

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 described by the Forest Service as “not maintained”. In reality both trails have been abandoned and functionally no longer exist. They are so heavily overgrown with dense whitethorn, which obscures dozens of downed trees, that I strongly advise hikers do not attempt to follow them (regardless of how much you may trust a certain app). An informal use trail to Laws is much more direct, well maintained, and avoids the challenging bushwhacking of the unmaintained trails (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 largely following long-established deer trails for 1.2 miles, meeting Willow Creek about 0.2 mile upstream from the site of the historic Laws Camp (the remains of which were destroyed by the 2013 Mountain Fire plus subsequent flood and treefall damage). The 11 trees down on the King Trail after last winter were removed in June, and the five trees brought down by Hilary were removed or diverted around in November 2023. The tread of the trail received some damage from Tropical Storm Hilary. From Laws east to Caramba the route of the original Caramba Trail has been well-cairned by myself and others and can largely be followed with very careful route-finding. My August 2023 survey counted about 110 trees down on this 2.1 miles of trail. It is especially obscure for the first 0.3 mile east of the Willow Creek crossing, becoming more obvious (but still subtle) as it descends towards Caramba. Very cautious navigation is advised throughout the area.

Seven Pines Trail is largely clear of treefall hazards. Five new trees came down across the trail in Tropical Storm Hilary, all in the central mile, but they are readily passable for hikers. Be advised that the trail in general becomes more obscure in the mile closest to its junction with the PCT. The Trail Report has “adopted” Seven Pines Trail as a priority for maintenance work as the trail has had a disproportionate number of lost hiker rescues in the past decade. Since November 2021, more than 70 downed trees have been removed and the trail is thoroughly trimmed and cleared several times per year. Nevertheless Seven Pines remains a genuine wilderness trail unlike the relatively wide, bare, and obvious routes of, for example, Devil’s Slide or Marion Mountain trails. Cautious navigation remains essential for those without considerable experience of hiking this trail.

While all time and labor is volunteered, the San Jacinto Trail Report uses small private donations to help cover operating costs. Every year has its unique challenges, and 2023 has been no exception. 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. Zelle, Venmo, and PayPal are all options. Thank you very much for your support.

Minor storms on consecutive nights between 29th November and 1st December resulted in a thin covering of snow everywhere above about 6000 ft and a light dusting down to 5400 ft. On our hike up Marion Mountain and Deer Springs trails on 1st, the snow depth was remarkably consistent from 1.5 inches at the trailhead (6300 ft) to 2.0 inches at San Jacinto Peak, with only Little Round Valley (2.5 inches) having noticeably deeper cover. However drifting in the trails to a few inches deep did slow down hiking pace markedly.

As temperatures have risen in the first few days of December, snow has been melting steadily at all elevations, largely depending on sun exposure of the slope (see Trail Conditions below). However with freeze-thaw cycles and compaction by hiker traffic, remaining patches can be icy and some hikers may find spikes useful. With most of the next ten days forecast to have above seasonal temperatures melting of remnant snow will continue steadily at all elevations, and almost all snow may be gone by mid month.

Daily survey hikes in the San Jacinto mountains include various routes to San Jacinto Peak multiple times per week, most recently on 27th and 30th November and 1st, 4th, and 7th December, Tahquitz Peak and area at least once per week, plus many other trails on intervening days. My recent weather observations from San Jacinto Peak are given in the Weather section below.

Water sources such as creeks, pipes, and springs largely continue to flow steadily for the time of year, given the intensity of last winter plus various storms since August, and did not freeze in recent cold weather (example photos below). Many ephemeral water sources have finally dried, but campers and hikers will still generally find water wherever they are expecting it.

South Ridge Road (5S11) was graded on 15th October and reopened in mid November. May Valley Road (5S21) was fully graded in October, and is now much more user-friendly for both hikers and bikers. Dark Canyon Road (4S02) remains closed indefinitely, although the dirt section was partly graded in early October.

Black Mountain Road (4S01) was in its poorest condition for at least a decade by June this year. The partial grading undertaken on 17th July improved the situation somewhat, but it remains a bumpy drive. Seasonal campgrounds and fire lookouts are now all closed for the winter.

WEATHER

After a couple of cool, cloudy, and occasionally stormy weeks, temperatures are rapidly rising to above seasonal on 4th-15th December. Both daytime high and overnight low temperatures are forecast to be 5-10°F above seasonal at mid and upper elevations on most days, melting much of the remnant patchy, thin, snow cover.

There is currently no significant new precipitation in the forecasts prior to late December. This will likely leave the San Jacinto mountains in the rare state of having no significant depth of settled snow in the high country at the middle of December for only the second time in at least the past 15 years. The latest video review from NWS San Diego (linked here) suggests considerable uncertainty about when the first major snow storm may impact our area, and if this winter will prove to be wetter or drier than average.

For the next two weeks, air temperatures above 10,000 ft elevation are expected to be above seasonal, generally in the 30s-low 40s Fahrenheit (1-7°C), with windchill temperatures around or even above freezing.

At San Jacinto Peak (3295m/10,810ft) on Thursday 7th December 2023 at 0805 the air temperature was 35.5°F (2°C), with a windchill temperature of 19.4°F (-7°C), 8% relative humidity, and a wild WNW wind sustained at 19 mph gusting to 39.7 mph.

At the Peak on Monday 4th December 2023 at 0840 the air temperature was 36.8°F (3°C), with a windchill temperature of 30.2°F (-1°C), 44% relative humidity, and a light due North breeze sustained at 4 mph gusting to 5.3 mph.

At the Peak on Friday 1st December 2023 at 0915 the air temperature was 24.8°F (-4°C), with a windchill temperature of 11.7°F (-11°C), 32% relative humidity, and a cool NNW wind sustained at 7 mph gusting to 13.5 mph.

At the Peak on Thursday 30th November 2023 at 0835 the air temperature was 18.8°F (-7°C), with a windchill temperature of -1.9°F (-19°C), 77% relative humidity, and an icy due West wind sustained at 14 mph gusting to 24.1 mph.

TRAIL CONDITIONS

There is no significant settled snow anywhere in the high country. However a patchy light snow cover persists in places, notably on slopes that at this time of year receive limited or no direct sun. Even very thin snow has become icy in places on well-traveled trails due to freeze-thaw cycles and compaction by hiker traffic. Generally warmer days over the next week or so will continue to clear trails steadily.

Deer Springs Trail below Strawberry Junction (8100 ft) is clear of snow, and is now largely clear of snow from there to the high peaks. The few remaining sections of snow are very icy in places however.

Devil’s Slide Trail is largely clear of snow, but a few short sections of icy snow remain in sheltered areas. The Wellman and Peak trails, both largely open and sun-exposed, are almost completely clear of snow, but small areas of snow remain in forested sections.

Trails on the north side of Tahquitz (photo below) and Red Tahquitz peaks, and around the Tahquitz area meadows, remain largely covered with thin snow due to their northerly exposure, drifting, and/or forest cover. South Ridge Trail south from Tahquitz Peak is almost clear of snow (surveyed 5th December).

Traction devices are not currently required anywhere but carrying them is recommended for at least the next few days. It is clear from my observations of tracks in the snow that no hikers are using spikes at this time, but those less experienced on icy trails may find them helpful.

Tropical Storm Hilary in late August resulted in one or two new treefall hazards on most trails, but only Willow Creek and Fuller Ridge trails were more significantly impacted.

The rough route cleared along Willow Creek Trail in early August remarkably lasted only two weeks before Tropical Storm Hilary brought down 19 new treefall hazards. Of the seven that came down on the Forest Service section, five were removed in early November. One huge trunk remains just east of Willow Creek that most hikers will find challenging to pass. Of the 12 on the State Park section, eight were cut in late August, and there is a cleared route from Long Valley to Hidden Divide, but four remain uncut between the divide and the Forest Service boundary. The whitethorn trimming is inconsistent and scrappy but overall the trail is more passable than it was as recently as July. Eight trees – of the 60+ down after last winter – remain to be cut on the USFS section for the original trail route to be fully restored, but that will not happen this year, if ever.

Fuller Ridge Trail (PCT Miles 185.5-190.5) has 11 treefall hazards, several of which are large and challenging to pass. The Forest Service section (Miles 189-190.5) was largely cleared and thoroughly raked in September, and is in its best condition for a decade. However the huge double treefall just 0.35 mile from the campground remains. Sadly the State Park section (Miles 185.5-189) remains a mess, with considerable debris remaining from the winter and recent storms, including nine significant treefall hazards.

Deer Springs Trail has had a few treefall hazards removed by the State Park in the past month, but at least seven significant problems remain below the Fuller Ridge Trail junction dating back to last winter. Almost all of the 12 downed trees above Fuller Ridge on upper Deer Springs Trail date back some 6-10 years and have been reported to the State Park multiple times (never resulting in meaningful action).

Trails around the Skunk Cabbage and Tahquitz area meadows have some significant treefall hazards remaining from last winter (resurveyed November 2023). There are six on the PCT section north from near Mile 177 (the crossing of Tahquitz Creek) to Saddle Junction (roughly Mile 179.3), three on each side of Chinquapin Flat. There are four significant treefalls, including a couple that are not easy to pass, on the Little Tahquitz Meadow trail between the Caramba Trail and the PCT junction, and three on the Skunk Cabbage Meadow trail.

Fourteen treefall hazards from this past winter on South Ridge Trail (above the trailhead at the top of South Ridge Road) were removed by the Trail Report in May, and trail trimming has been undertaken regularly. No significant new treefall hazards resulted from Tropical Storm Hilary on this trail, but one minor new one fell in November. The middle section of South Ridge Trail – between May Valley Road and the top of South Ridge Road – is now clear following removal of 20 trees in two sessions this season (15th July and 30th October).

Marion Mountain Trail has five notable treefall hazards in the State Park (upper) half. One new large stump came down in Hilary low down on the Forest Service section, but it is easy to pass.

Ten new treefall hazards on Spitler Peak Trail, largely caused by Tropical Storm Hilary, were removed by the Trail Report in October and November. This brings to 95 the number of trees removed from this trail since July 2021 by the Trail Report. Several minor washouts from last winter in the upper switchbacks have significantly impacted the tread in places; these are not problematic for hikers, but the trail is impassable to stock.

Elsewhere on the PCT treefall hazards remain a problem in many places, most notably between Apache Peak and Red Tahquitz, where I counted 106 between Miles 169-175 in summer 2023. Large downed trees make for especially slow-going around Miles 172-175 (a section severely impacted by the July 2013 Mountain Fire).

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 described by the Forest Service as “not maintained”. In reality both trails have been abandoned and functionally no longer exist. They are so heavily overgrown with dense whitethorn, which obscures dozens of downed trees, that I strongly advise hikers do not attempt to follow them (regardless of how much you may trust a certain app). An informal use trail to Laws is much more direct, well maintained, and avoids the challenging bushwhacking of the unmaintained trails (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 largely following long-established deer trails for 1.2 miles, meeting Willow Creek about 0.2 mile upstream from the site of the historic Laws Camp (the remains of which were destroyed by the 2013 Mountain Fire plus subsequent flood and treefall damage). The 11 trees down on the King Trail after last winter were removed in June, and the five trees brought down by Hilary were removed or diverted around in November 2023. The tread of the trail received some damage from Tropical Storm Hilary. From Laws east to Caramba the route of the original Caramba Trail has been well-cairned by myself and others and can largely be followed with very careful route-finding. My August 2023 survey counted about 110 trees down on this 2.1 miles of trail. It is especially obscure for the first 0.3 mile east of the Willow Creek crossing, becoming more obvious (but still subtle) as it descends towards Caramba. Very cautious navigation is advised throughout the area.

Seven Pines Trail is largely clear of treefall hazards. Five new trees came down across the trail in Tropical Storm Hilary, all in the central mile, but they are readily passable for hikers. Be advised that the trail in general becomes more obscure in the mile closest to its junction with the PCT. The Trail Report has “adopted” Seven Pines Trail as a priority for maintenance work as the trail has had a disproportionate number of lost hiker rescues in the past decade. Since November 2021, more than 70 downed trees have been removed and the trail is thoroughly trimmed and cleared several times per year. Nevertheless Seven Pines remains a genuine wilderness trail unlike the relatively wide, bare, and obvious routes of, for example, Devil’s Slide or Marion Mountain trails. Cautious navigation remains essential for those without considerable experience of hiking this trail.

While all time and labor is volunteered, the San Jacinto Trail Report uses small private donations to help cover operating costs. Every year has its unique challenges, and 2023 has been no exception. 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. Zelle, Venmo, and PayPal are all options. Thank you very much for your support.

UPDATE 1st December 2023: yet another minor snow storm overnight, but this was the most significant of the winter to date. There is a consistent two inches of snow throughout the high country above 7000 ft (up to about 2.5 inches in Little Round Valley). Although it is not icy yet, carrying spikes is recommended for the next couple of days at least. Following several heavy hail storms overnight in Idyllwild, the snow dusted down to 5500 ft, but there is 1-1.5 inches at 6000-6500 ft in Pine Cove. With rapid warming in the next few days, melting is expected to be steady at all elevations. In the rain shadow on the eastern side of the mountains, Long Valley (8700 ft) received only a dusting of snow, already melted by this afternoon.

UPDATE 30th November 2023 at 1215: another very minor storm overnight produced 0.29 inch of rain in Idyllwild and a dusting of snow above 6200 ft. Snow depth is a sparse 0.25 inch, including around the highest peaks, but was a slightly deeper 0.5 inch between 8000-9500 ft, an elevation band that was presumably in the cloud for longer. Windchill temperature at San Jacinto Peak is -2°F (-19°C) so gear for cold weather is essential. By the time I descended late morning, most snow on Devil’s Slide Trail had already melted, as had significant sections as high as Wellman Divide (9700 ft).

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The most recent of several minor rain events in the past ten days occurred on the evening of 24th November, when a light rain at mid elevations (0.15 inch in Idyllwild) included a dusting of snow everywhere above about 7000 ft. The snow cover was thin but remarkably uniform, with 0.25 inch throughout the high country, but locally 0.5-1.0 inch, notably near and around Tahquitz Peak, which was enveloped in cloud for much longer than many other areas.

The light snows from that event and earlier dustings on 15th and 18th November (described in detail in the prior Report linked here) have now largely melted. Another minor storm system is tentatively forecast to impact the region across three days on 29th November-1st December. Details are given in Weather below, but light snow may occur across the high country and possibly including a very light dusting as low as Idyllwild.

Our survey hikes every day in the San Jacinto mountains include various routes to San Jacinto Peak multiple times per week, most recently on 20th, 23rd, and 27th November, Tahquitz Peak and area at least once per week, plus a wide range of other trails on intervening days. My recent weather observations from San Jacinto Peak are given in the Weather section below.

Water sources such as creeks, pipes, and springs largely continue to flow well for the time of year, given the intensity of last winter plus various storms since August. Many ephemeral water sources have finally dried, but campers and hikers will still generally find water wherever they are expecting it (see example photographs below and in the prior Report linked here).

Be bear aware. Although rarely reported, at least three Black Bears have been in the San Jacinto mountains since 2017, and I have had 1-2 sightings annually for the past six years. As I descended upper Marion Mountain Trail at about 8250 ft elevation mid morning on 14th September 2023 I had an excellent observation, initially in the open at 40-50 metres, of what may have been the same very large (>250lb) dark brown individual with a white chest blaze that I had previously seen on Devil’s Slide Trail in July 2022 and September 2021 (a poor quality video from the latter observation is available here).

South Ridge Road (5S11) was graded on 15th October and reopened in mid November. May Valley Road (5S21) was fully graded in October, and is now much more user-friendly for both hikers and bikers. Dark Canyon Road (4S02) remains closed indefinitely, although the dirt section was partly graded in early October.

Black Mountain Road (4S01) was in its poorest condition for at least a decade by June this year. The partial grading undertaken on 17th July improved the situation somewhat, but it remains a bumpy drive. Seasonal campgrounds and fire lookouts are now all closed for the winter.

WEATHER

Recent days have been pleasantly cloudy with below seasonal temperatures, and this pattern is expected to continue for another week.

A minor storm system is tentatively forecast to impact the region across three days on 29th November-1st December. The freeze level is expected to be lower than other minor storms earlier this month, and if it snows a dusting is possible down to 6000 ft or even lower (i.e., potentially including Idyllwild). Otherwise mid elevations are expected to receive light rain, mainly from the afternoon of Thursday 30th and throughout the morning of Friday 1st. Forecasting snowfall for the high country has proven to be problematic, but currently 0-3 inches of snow are possible, spread thinly across the same time period.

Next week temperatures are expected to abruptly rise to well above seasonal on 4th-9th December at least. Both daytime high and overnight low temperatures are currently forecast to be as much as 10°F above seasonal at mid and upper elevations, melting any light snow that may have fallen in the preceding days.

Air temperatures above 10,000 ft elevation are now generally in the upper 20s-low 30s Fahrenheit (-5 to 1°C), with windchill temperatures well below freezing, at times far below freezing depending on wind speed (note temperatures will be warmer on 4th-9th December as described above).

At San Jacinto Peak (3295m/10,810ft) on Monday 27th November 2023 at 0825 the air temperature was 32.5°F (0°C), with a windchill temperature of 19.4°F (-7°C), 7% relative humidity, and a cool SE wind sustained at 8 mph gusting to 13.9 mph.

At the Peak on Thursday 23rd November 2023 at 0810 the air temperature was 32.7°F (0°C), with a windchill temperature of 17.2°F (-8°C), 26% relative humidity, and a blustery due West wind sustained at 18 mph gusting to 31.7 mph.

At the Peak on Monday 20th November 2023 at 0810 the air temperature was 34.6°F (1°C), with a windchill temperature of 13.6°F (-10°C), 7% relative humidity, and a wild due North wind sustained at 20 mph gusting to 45.9 mph.

TRAIL CONDITIONS

With multiple light rains over the past ten days, trails are pleasantly dust-free, with generally little or no ice (but caution is recommended around springs and water crossings).

There is no significant settled snow anywhere in the high country. However a very thin dusting persists in places, notably on the north side of Tahquitz and Red Tahquitz peaks. Traction devices are not currently required anywhere, but may be useful in the first few days of December above about 9000 ft depending on snowfall from the expected minor storm (see discussion in Weather above).

Tropical Storm Hilary in late August resulted in many minor washouts across the trail system, considerable treefall debris in the trails. Most trails have one or two new treefall hazards, and only Willow Creek and Fuller Ridge trails were more significantly impacted.

The rough route cleared along Willow Creek Trail in early August remarkably lasted only two weeks before Tropical Storm Hilary brought down 19 new treefall hazards. Of the seven that came down on the Forest Service section, five were removed in early November. One huge trunk remains just east of Willow Creek that most hikers will find challenging to pass. Of the 12 on the State Park section, eight were cut in late August, and there is a cleared route from Long Valley to Hidden Divide, but four remain uncut between the divide and the Forest Service boundary. The whitethorn trimming is inconsistent and scrappy but overall the trail is more passable than it was as recently as July. Eight trees – of the 60+ down after last winter – remain to be cut on the USFS section for the original trail route to be fully restored, but that will not happen this year, if ever.

Fuller Ridge Trail (PCT Miles 185.5-190.5) has 11 treefall hazards, several of which are large and challenging to pass. The Forest Service section (Miles 189-190.5) was largely cleared and thoroughly raked in September, and is in its best condition for a decade. However the huge double treefall just 0.35 mile from the campground remains. Sadly the State Park section (Miles 185.5-189) remains a mess, with considerable debris remaining from the winter and recent storms, including nine significant treefall hazards.

Deer Springs Trail has had a few treefall hazards removed by the State Park in the past month, but at least seven significant problems remain below the Fuller Ridge Trail junction dating back to last winter. Almost all of the 12 downed trees above Fuller Ridge on upper Deer Springs Trail date back some 6-10 years and have been reported to the State Park multiple times (never resulting in meaningful action).

Trails around the Skunk Cabbage and Tahquitz area meadows have some significant treefall hazards remaining from last winter (resurveyed November 2023). There are six on the PCT section north from near Mile 177 (the crossing of Tahquitz Creek) to Saddle Junction (roughly Mile 179.3), three on each side of Chinquapin Flat. There are four significant treefalls, including a couple that are not easy to pass, on the Little Tahquitz Meadow trail between the Caramba Trail and the PCT junction, and three on the Skunk Cabbage Meadow trail.

Fourteen treefall hazards from this past winter on South Ridge Trail (above the trailhead at the top of South Ridge Road) were removed by the Trail Report in May, and trail trimming has been undertaken regularly. No significant new treefall hazards resulted from Tropical Storm Hilary on this trail, but one minor new one fell in November. The middle section of South Ridge Trail – between May Valley Road and the top of South Ridge Road – is now clear following removal of 20 trees in two sessions this season (15th July and 30th October).

Marion Mountain Trail has five notable treefall hazards in the State Park (upper) half. One new large stump came down in Hilary low down on the Forest Service section, but it is easy to pass.

Ten new treefall hazards on Spitler Peak Trail, largely caused by Tropical Storm Hilary, were removed by the Trail Report in October and November. This brings to 95 the number of trees removed from this trail since July 2021 by the Trail Report. Several minor washouts from last winter in the upper switchbacks have significantly impacted the tread in places; these are not problematic for hikers, but the trail is impassable to stock.

Elsewhere on the PCT treefall hazards remain a problem in many places, most notably between Apache Peak and Red Tahquitz, where I counted 106 between Miles 169-175 in summer 2023. Large downed trees make for especially slow-going around Miles 172-175 (a section severely impacted by the July 2013 Mountain Fire).

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 described by the Forest Service as “not maintained”. In reality both trails have been abandoned and functionally no longer exist. They are so heavily overgrown with dense whitethorn, which obscures dozens of downed trees, that I strongly advise hikers do not attempt to follow them (regardless of how much you may trust a certain app). An informal use trail to Laws is much more direct, well maintained, and avoids the challenging bushwhacking of the unmaintained trails (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 largely following long-established deer trails for 1.2 miles, meeting Willow Creek about 0.2 mile upstream from the site of the historic Laws Camp (the remains of which were destroyed by the 2013 Mountain Fire plus subsequent flood and treefall damage). The 11 trees down on the King Trail after last winter were removed in June, and the five trees brought down by Hilary were removed or diverted around in November 2023. The tread of the trail received some damage from Tropical Storm Hilary. From Laws east to Caramba the route of the original Caramba Trail has been well-cairned by myself and others and can largely be followed with very careful route-finding. My August 2023 survey counted about 110 trees down on this 2.1 miles of trail. It is especially obscure for the first 0.3 mile east of the Willow Creek crossing, becoming more obvious (but still subtle) as it descends towards Caramba. Very cautious navigation is advised throughout the area.

Seven Pines Trail is largely clear of treefall hazards. Five new trees came down across the trail in Tropical Storm Hilary, all in the central mile, but they are readily passable for hikers. Be advised that the trail in general becomes more obscure in the mile closest to its junction with the PCT. The Trail Report has “adopted” Seven Pines Trail as a priority for maintenance work as the trail has had a disproportionate number of lost hiker rescues in the past decade. Since November 2021, more than 70 downed trees have been removed and the trail is thoroughly trimmed and cleared several times per year. Nevertheless Seven Pines remains a genuine wilderness trail unlike the relatively wide, bare, and obvious routes of, for example, Devil’s Slide or Marion Mountain trails. Cautious navigation remains essential for those without considerable experience of hiking this trail.

While all time and labor is volunteered, the San Jacinto Trail Report uses small private donations to help cover operating costs. Every year has its unique challenges, and 2023 has been no exception. 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. Zelle, Venmo, and PayPal are all options. Thank you very much for your support.

The second and third minor storm systems of winter 2023/24 have impacted the San Jacinto mountains in the past week. The more recent of the two, on Saturday 18th November, produced little rain, with 0.31 inch at Saddle Junction (8100 ft) and 0.24 inch in Little Round Valley (9750 ft), but it was cold enough to dust the high country with 0.25 inch of snow everywhere above about 9400 ft (see photo below). The thin snow melted very quickly and no traction devices are required.

The earlier storm on Wednesday 15th produced impressive rainfall totals, with roughly an inch in most mountain locations. Accompanied by relatively mild temperatures and intense thunder and lightning cells, it felt more like a midsummer monsoon than a mid November “winter” storm. Intermittent light rain started at about 1055 in Idyllwild, developing into localized vigorous thunderstorms by late afternoon before tapering off by about 2030 that evening.

With the system coming in from the south-west it was no surprise that the western side of the mountains received more rain than the east. Rainfall totals measured on 16th were (in order of volume): Little Round Valley (9750 ft) 1.30 inches, top of Marion Mountain Trail (8600 ft) 1.25 inches, San Jacinto Peak (10,700 ft) 1.20 inches, Wellman’s Cienega (9300 ft) 1.10 inches, Saddle Junction (8100 ft) 0.92 inch, Idyllwild (at 5550 ft) 0.89 inch, and Long Valley (8600 ft) 0.67 inch.

Temperatures did not fall below freezing at San Jacinto Peak until the precipitation had almost stopped, and there was only the lightest dusting of snow – not even measurable as a fraction of an inch – above 10,500 ft.

The lightning did generate at least one small wildfire at roughly 7000 ft in the Snow Creek drainage on the north side of San Jacinto Peak. Thanks to the help of great friends of the Trail Report Florian Boyd and Kyle Eubanks, I was able to get information about this fire to the relevant agencies promptly, and it was encouraging to see a CalFire helicopter working in the area later in the morning.

Our daily hikes in the San Jacinto mountains include various routes to/from San Jacinto Peak multiple times per week, most recently on 16th, 20th, and 23rd November, Tahquitz Peak and area at least weekly, plus many other trails on intervening days. Recent weather observations from San Jacinto Peak are given in the Weather section below.

Water sources such as creeks, pipes, and springs largely continue to flow very well for the time of year, given the intensity of last winter plus Tropical Storm Hilary in August (see multiple example photos below). Consequently there has been no need to report water details for specific locations this year. Many ephemeral water sources have finally dried, but campers and hikers will still generally find water wherever they are expecting it.

Be bear aware. Although rarely reported, at least three Black Bears have been in the San Jacinto mountains since 2017, and I have had 1-2 sightings annually for the past six years. As I descended upper Marion Mountain Trail at about 8250 ft elevation mid morning on 14th September 2023 I had an excellent observation, initially in the open at 40-50 metres, of what may have been the same very large (>250lb) dark brown individual with a white chest blaze that I had previously seen on Devil’s Slide Trail in July 2022 and September 2021 (a poor quality video from the latter observation is available here).

South Ridge Road (5S11) was fully graded on 15th October and reopened in mid November. May Valley Road (5S21) was fully graded in October, and is now much more user-friendly for both hikers and bikers. Dark Canyon Road (4S02) remains closed indefinitely, although the dirt section was partly graded in early October.

Black Mountain Road (4S01) was in its poorest condition for at least a decade by June this year. The partial grading undertaken on 17th July improved the situation somewhat, but it remains a bumpy drive. Boulder Basin Campground closed early for the season on 23rd October. Marion Mountain and Fern Basin campgrounds closed in early November. Black Mountain Fire Lookout closed for the season on Sunday 12th and Tahquitz Peak Fire Lookout on Monday 13th November.

WEATHER

The mild, minor rain storms that impacted the San Jacinto mountains on 16th and 18th November are described in detail above. Temperatures briefly rise to above seasonal before rapidly dropping back to near or even below average from Friday 24th November into December. On 21st-22nd in particular temperatures around the highest peaks – forecast to be as high as 40-46°F (5-8°C) – will be well above seasonal for late November. Two Santa Ana events – winds predominantly from the north-east – are expected, the first on 20th-21st November, and then again on 25th-27th.

Some forecasts are tentatively suggesting the possibility of a snow storm around 1st-2nd December. As with the storms in mid November however it is proving hard to accurately predict what if any impacts the system will have locally, with high country snow estimates ranging from 0-12 inches at this time.

Air temperatures above 10,000 ft elevation are now generally in the upper 20s-lower 30s Fahrenheit (-5 to +3°C), with windchill temperatures well below freezing, the latter depending on wind speed (note temperatures will average warmer on 21st-22nd November as described above).

At San Jacinto Peak (3295m/10,810ft) on Thursday 23rd November 2023 at 0810 the air temperature was 32.7°F (0°C), with a windchill temperature of 17.2°F (-8°C), 26% relative humidity, and a blustery due West wind sustained at 18 mph gusting to 31.7 mph.

At the Peak on Monday 20th November 2023 at 0810 the air temperature was 34.6°F (1°C), with a windchill temperature of 13.6°F (-10°C), 7% relative humidity, and a wild due North wind sustained at 20 mph gusting to 45.9 mph.

At the Peak on Thursday 16th November 2023 at 0810 the air temperature was 34.2°F (1°C), with a windchill temperature of 24.3°F (-4°C), 17% relative humidity, and a cool WSW wind sustained at 6 mph gusting to 11.4 mph.

TRAIL CONDITIONS

Tropical Storm Hilary in late August resulted in many minor washouts across the trail system, considerable treefall debris – branches, cones, sticks – in the trails, and water flowing across and in the trails. Damage could have been much worse, and few problems are challenging for hikers. Most trails have one or two new treefall hazards, and only Willow Creek and Fuller Ridge trails were more significantly impacted.

The rough route cleared along Willow Creek Trail in early August remarkably lasted only two weeks before Tropical Storm Hilary brought down 19 new treefall hazards. Of the seven that came down on the Forest Service section, five were removed in early November. One huge trunk remains just east of Willow Creek that most hikers will find challenging to pass. Of the 12 on the State Park section, eight were cut in late August, and there is a cleared route from Long Valley to Hidden Divide, but four remain uncut between the divide and the Forest Service boundary. The whitethorn trimming is inconsistent and scrappy but overall the trail is more passable than as recently as July. Eight trees – of the 60+ down after last winter – remain to be cut on the USFS section for the original trail route to be fully restored, but that will not happen this year, if ever.

Fuller Ridge Trail (PCT Miles 185.5-190.5) has 11 treefall hazards, several of which are large and challenging to pass. The Forest Service section (Miles 189-190.5) was largely cleared and thoroughly raked in September, and is in its best condition for a decade. However the huge double treefall just 0.35 mile from the campground remains. Sadly the State Park section (Miles 185.5-189) remains a mess, with considerable debris remaining from the winter and recent storms, including nine significant treefall hazards.

Deer Springs Trail has had some treefall hazards removed by the State Park in the past month, but at least seven significant problems remain below the Fuller Ridge Trail junction dating back to last winter. Almost all of the 12 downed trees above Fuller Ridge on upper Deer Springs Trail date back some 6-10 years and have been reported to the State Park multiple times to no avail.

Trails around the Skunk Cabbage and Tahquitz area meadows have some significant treefall hazards remaining from last winter (resurveyed early November 2023). There are six on the PCT section north from near Mile 177 (the crossing of Tahquitz Creek) to Saddle Junction (roughly Mile 179.3), three on each side of Chinquapin Flat. There are four significant treefalls, including a couple that are not easy to pass, on the Little Tahquitz Meadow trail between the Caramba Trail and the PCT junction.

Fourteen treefall hazards from this past winter on South Ridge Trail (above the trailhead at the top of South Ridge Road) were removed by the Trail Report in May, and trail trimming has been undertaken regularly. No significant new treefall hazards resulted from Tropical Storm Hilary on this trail. The middle section of South Ridge Trail – between May Valley Road and the top of South Ridge Road – is now clear following removal of 20 trees in two sessions this season (15th July and 30th October).

Marion Mountain Trail has five notable treefall hazards in the State Park (upper) half. One new large stump came down in Hilary low down on the Forest Service section, but it is easy to pass.

Of seven new treefall hazards on Spitler Peak Trail caused by Tropical Storm Hilary, the Trail Report removed five in early October (the couple that remain are at about head height and can be easily passed under). This brings to 90 the number of trees removed from this trail since July 2021 by the Trail Report. Several minor washouts from this past winter in the upper switchbacks have significantly impacted the tread in places; these are not problematic for hikers, but the trail is impassable to stock.

Elsewhere on the PCT treefall hazards remain a problem in many places, most notably between Apache Peak and Red Tahquitz, where I counted 106 between Miles 169-175 in summer 2023. Large downed trees make for especially slow-going around Miles 172-175 (a section severely impacted by the July 2013 Mountain Fire).

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 described by the Forest Service as “not maintained”. In reality both trails have been abandoned and functionally no longer exist. They are so heavily overgrown with dense whitethorn, which obscures dozens of downed trees, that I strongly advise hikers do not attempt to follow them (regardless of how much you may trust a certain app). An informal use trail to Laws is much more direct, well maintained, and avoids the challenging bushwhacking of the unmaintained trails (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 largely following long-established deer trails for 1.2 miles, meeting Willow Creek about 0.2 mile upstream from the site of the historic Laws Camp (the remains of which were destroyed by the 2013 Mountain Fire plus subsequent flood and treefall damage). The 11 trees down on the King Trail after last winter were removed in June, and the five trees brought down by Hilary were removed or diverted around in November 2023. The tread of the trail received some damage from Tropical Storm Hilary. From Laws east to Caramba the route of the original Caramba Trail has been well-cairned by myself and others and can largely be followed with very careful route-finding. My August 2023 survey counted about 110 trees down on this 2.1 miles of trail. It is especially obscure for the first 0.3 mile east of the Willow Creek crossing, becoming more obvious (but still subtle) as it descends towards Caramba. Very cautious navigation is advised throughout the area.

Seven Pines Trail is largely clear of treefall hazards. Five new trees came down across the trail in Tropical Storm Hilary, all in the central mile, but they are readily passable for hikers. Be advised that the trail in general becomes more obscure in the mile closest to its junction with the PCT. The Trail Report has “adopted” Seven Pines Trail as a priority for maintenance work as the trail has had a disproportionate number of lost hiker rescues in the past decade. Since November 2021, more than 70 downed trees have been removed and the trail is thoroughly trimmed and cleared several times per year. Nevertheless Seven Pines remains a genuine wilderness trail unlike the relatively wide, bare, and obvious routes of, for example, Devil’s Slide or Marion Mountain trails. Cautious navigation remains essential for those without considerable experience of hiking this trail.

While all time and labor is volunteered, the San Jacinto Trail Report uses small private donations to help cover operating costs. Every year has its unique challenges, and 2023 has been no exception. 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. Zelle, Venmo, and PayPal are all options. Thank you very much for your support.

UPDATE 13th November 2023: the storm system predicted for later this week (discussed below) has proven very challenging to forecast accurately. While the coast may be much wetter, precipitation totals this far inland are now expected to be low. Most of the light rain will be in the evening and overnight on Wednesday 15th, but is now expected to be <0.5 inch at mid elevations. Only 1-2 inches of snow are likely around the highest peaks, with a freeze level at or even above 10,000 ft.

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The seasons are changing swiftly, and we may move quickly through autumnal conditions to wintry weather. Santa Ana winds forecast for 8th-12th November are expected to be strongest on 8th-9th, accompanied by low humidity, cold temperatures, and an elevated fire risk.

The first significant precipitation-producing storm system of winter 2023/24 is tentatively forecast for 15th-18th November. Rainfall is expected at mid elevations, with 0.2-1.5 inches of light rain forecast in Idyllwild (5000-6000 ft) spread across 3-4 days. Snow in the high country is possible but with a high freeze level around 9000 ft, and forecast snow accumulations remain very unclear and range widely from 0-12 inches above 10,000 ft.

Our daily hikes in the San Jacinto mountains include various routes to/from San Jacinto Peak multiple times per week, most recently on 3rd, 7th, and 10th November, Tahquitz Peak and area at least weekly, plus many other trails on intervening days. Recent weather observations from San Jacinto Peak are given in the Weather section below.

Water sources such as creeks, pipes, and springs largely continue to flow very well for the time of year, given the intensity of last winter, plus Tropical Storm Hilary in August (see multiple example photos in previous Report linked here plus photo below). Consequently there has been no need to report water details for specific locations this year.

Be bear aware. Although rarely reported, at least three Black Bears have been in the San Jacinto mountains since 2017, and I have had 1-2 sightings annually for the past six years. As I descended upper Marion Mountain Trail at about 8250 ft elevation mid morning on 14th September 2023 I had an excellent observation, initially in the open at 40-50 metres, of what may have been the same very large (>250lb) dark brown individual with a white chest blaze that I had previously seen on Devil’s Slide Trail in July 2022 and September 2021 (a poor quality video from the latter observation is available here).

May Valley Road (5S21) was fully graded in October, and is now much more user-friendly for both hikers and bikers. South Ridge Road (5S11) was fully graded on 15th October but remains closed to vehicles. Dark Canyon Road (4S02) remains closed indefinitely, although the dirt section was partly graded in early October.

Black Mountain Road (4S01) was in its poorest condition for at least a decade this spring. The partial grading undertaken on 17th July improved the situation somewhat, but it remains a bumpy drive that deteriorated further following Tropical Storm Hilary. Boulder Basin Campground closed early for the season on 23rd October. Marion Mountain and Fern Basin campgrounds closed in early November. Black Mountain Fire Lookout closes for the season on Sunday 12th November, and Tahquitz Peak Fire Lookout earlier than normal, in light of the weather forecast, on Monday 13th.

WEATHER

Temperatures were above seasonal for the entire first week of November. Temperatures are now dropping to roughly seasonal, initially associated with moderate Santa Ana winds on 8th-12th.

The first potentially significant storm system of winter 2023/24 is forecast for 15th-18th November. Rainfall is expected at mid elevations, with lees than an inch of rain forecast in Idyllwild, and light snow in the high country is possible, with a freeze level dropping (but remaining relatively high) at 8000-9000 ft on Friday 17th. Potential snow accumulations remain very uncertain in the forecast models – depending on if or when the system directly impacts our area – but could range from 0-12 inches above 10,000 ft.

Air temperatures above 10,000 ft elevation are now in the 30s Fahrenheit (-1 to 5°C), with windchill temperatures below freezing. Both air and windchill temperatures are expected to be lower associated with the anticipated passage of the storm system on 15th-18th November.

At San Jacinto Peak (3295m/10,810ft) on Friday 10th November 2023 at 0805 the air temperature was 30.8°F (-1°C), with a windchill temperature of 17.4°F (-8°C), 10% relative humidity, and a fresh NW wind sustained at 8 mph gusting to 15.6 mph.

At the Peak on Tuesday 7th November 2023 at 0820 the air temperature was 35.6°F (2°C), with a windchill temperature of 22.6°F (-5°C), 13% relative humidity, and a blustery WSW wind sustained at 12 mph gusting to 22.9 mph.

At the Peak on Friday 3rd November 2023 at 0845 the air temperature was 44.4°F (7°C), with a windchill temperature of 35.0°F (2°C), 12% relative humidity, and a benign ENE wind sustained at 8 mph gusting to 14.8 mph.

At the Peak on Monday 30th October 2023 at 0815 the air temperature was 34.4°F (1°C), with a windchill temperature of 18.3°F (-8°C), 3% relative humidity, and a potent NE wind sustained at 21 mph gusting to 28.5 mph. The astoundingly low 3.0% relative humidity is well below the previous record for San Jacinto Peak of 5%, recorded twice in July this year.

TRAIL CONDITIONS

Tropical Storm Hilary in late August resulted in many minor washouts across the trail system, considerable treefall debris – branches, cones, sticks – in the trails, and water flowing across and in the trails. Damage could have been much worse, and few problems are challenging for hikers. Most trails have one or two new treefall hazards, and only Willow Creek and Fuller Ridge trails were more significantly impacted.

The rough route cleared along Willow Creek Trail in early August remarkably lasted only two weeks before Tropical Storm Hilary brought down 19 new treefall hazards. Of the seven that came down on the Forest Service section, five were removed in early November. One huge trunk remains just east of Willow Creek that some hikers will find challenging to pass. Of the 12 on the State Park section, eight were cut in late August, and there is a cleared route from Long Valley to Hidden Divide, but four remain uncut between the divide and the Forest Service boundary. The whitethorn trimming is inconsistent and scrappy but overall the trail is more passable than as recently as July. Eight trees – of the 60+ down after last winter – remain to be cut on the USFS section for the original trail route to be fully restored, but that will not happen this year, if ever.

Fuller Ridge Trail (PCT Miles 185.5-190.5) has 11 treefall hazards, several of which are large and challenging to pass. The Forest Service section (Miles 189-190.5) was largely cleared and thoroughly raked in September, and is in its best condition for a decade. However the huge double treefall just 0.35 mile from the campground remains. Sadly the State Park section (Miles 185.5-189) remains a mess, with considerable debris remaining from the winter and recent storms, including nine significant treefall hazards.

Deer Springs Trail has about 17 significant treefall hazards below the Fuller Ridge Trail junction remaining from last winter. Water is flowing very well in Little Round Valley and in all of the springs and creeks along the Deer Springs Trail route. Almost all of the 12 downed trees above Fuller Ridge on Deer Springs Trail date back 5-10 years and have been reported to the State Park multiple times.

Trails around the Skunk Cabbage and Tahquitz area meadows have some significant treefall hazards remaining from last winter (resurveyed early November 2023). There are six on the PCT section north from near Mile 177 (the crossing of Tahquitz Creek) to Saddle Junction (roughly Mile 179.3), three on each side of Chinquapin Flat. There are four significant treefalls, including a couple that are not easy to pass, on the Little Tahquitz Meadow trail between the Caramba Trail and the PCT junction.

Fourteen treefall hazards from this past winter on South Ridge Trail (above the trailhead at the top of South Ridge Road) were removed by the Trail Report in May, and trail trimming has been undertaken regularly. No significant new treefall hazards resulted from Tropical Storm Hilary on this trail. South Ridge Road remains closed to vehicle traffic and is not expected to reopen until 2024 despite being fully graded in October. The middle section of South Ridge Trail – between May Valley Road and the top of South Ridge Road – is now clear following removal of 20 trees in two sessions this season (15th July and 30th October).

Marion Mountain Trail has five notable treefall hazards in the State Park (upper) half. One new large stump came down in Hilary low down on the Forest Service section, but it is easy to pass.

Of seven new treefall hazards on Spitler Peak Trail caused by Tropical Storm Hilary, the Trail Report removed five in early October (the couple that remain are at about head height and can be easily passed under). This brings to 90 the number of trees removed from this trail since July 2021 by the Trail Report. Several minor washouts from this past winter in the upper switchbacks have significantly impacted the tread in places; these are not problematic for hikers, but the trail is impassable to stock.

Elsewhere on the PCT treefall hazards remain a problem in many places, most notably between Apache Peak and Red Tahquitz, where I counted 106 between Miles 169-175 in June 2023. This section has not yet been resurveyed since T. S. Hilary. Large downed trees make for especially slow-going around Miles 172-175 (a section severely burned in the July 2013 Mountain Fire).

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 described by the Forest Service as “not maintained”. In reality both trails have been abandoned and functionally no longer exist. They are so heavily overgrown with dense whitethorn, which obscures dozens of downed trees, that I strongly advise hikers do not attempt to follow them (regardless of how much you may trust a certain app). An informal use trail to Laws is much more direct, well maintained, and avoids the challenging bushwhacking of the unmaintained trails (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 lat/long N 33.7796, W 116.6590). The route descends largely following established deer trails for 1.2 miles, meeting Willow Creek about 0.2 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). The 11 trees down on the King Trail after this winter were removed in June-July 2023. The tread of the trail received some minor damage from Tropical Storm Hilary. From Laws east to Caramba the route of the original Caramba Trail has been well-cairned by myself and others and can largely be followed with very careful route-finding. My August 2023 survey counted about 110 trees down on this 2.1 miles of trail. It is especially obscure for the first 0.3 mile east of the Willow Creek crossing, becoming more obvious (but still subtle) as it descends towards Caramba. Very cautious navigation is advised throughout the area.

Seven Pines Trail is largely clear of treefall hazards. Five new trees came down across the trail in Tropical Storm Hilary, all in the central mile, but they are readily passable for hikers. Be advised that the trail in general becomes more obscure in the mile closest to its junction with the PCT. The Trail Report has “adopted” Seven Pines Trail as a priority for maintenance work as the trail has had a disproportionate number of lost hiker rescues in the past decade. Since November 2021, some 70 downed trees have been removed and the trail is thoroughly trimmed and cleared several times per year. Nevertheless Seven Pines remains a genuine wilderness trail unlike the relatively wide, bare, and obvious routes of, for example, Devil’s Slide or Marion Mountain trails. Cautious navigation remains essential for those without considerable experience of hiking this trail.

While all time and labor is volunteered, the San Jacinto Trail Report uses small private donations to help cover operating costs. Every year has its unique challenges, and 2023 has been no exception. 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. Zelle, Venmo, and PayPal are all options. Thank you very much for your support.

Temperatures for the last week of October were below seasonal and pleasantly cool at all elevations. Conversely the first week of November is forecast to be significantly warmer than seasonal, before temperatures drop dramatically around 7th to about seasonal for the second week of the month. The astonishingly low 3% relative humidity recorded at San Jacinto Peak on 30th October 2023, associated with a potent Santa Ana wind, was the lowest ever reliably recorded at the Peak, surpassing the 5% recorded twice in early July this year. It is hard to imagine it getting any lower. The previous morning at the same time the relative humidity was measured at a more typical, but still dry, 17%.

Ice is forming around water features in the high country in the morning (see photo below of Wellman’s Cienega on 29th October), but with springs and creeks flowing so well this season, it will be many weeks before freezing becomes a problem for water access.

Daily hikes in the San Jacinto mountains include various routes to/from San Jacinto Peak multiple times per week, most recently on 23rd, 29th, and 30th October, plus many other trails on intervening days. Recent weather observations from San Jacinto Peak are given in the Weather section below.

Water sources such as creeks, pipes, and springs are generally flowing very well for the time of year, given the intensity of last winter, plus Tropical Storm Hilary in August (see multiple example photos in previous Report linked here). Consequently there has been no need to report water details for specific locations this year.

Be bear aware. Although rarely reported, at least three Black Bears have been in the San Jacinto mountains since 2017. As I descended upper Marion Mountain Trail at about 8250 ft elevation mid morning on 14th September 2023 I had an excellent sighting, initially in the open at 40-50 metres, of what may have been the same very large (>250lb) dark brown individual with a white chest blaze that I had previously seen on Devil’s Slide Trail in July 2022 and September 2021 (a poor quality video from the latter observation is available here).

May Valley Road (5S21) was fully graded in October, and is now much more user-friendly for both hikers and bikers. South Ridge Road (5S11) was fully graded on 15th October but remains closed to vehicles. Dark Canyon Road (4S02) remains closed indefinitely, although the dirt section was partly graded in early October.

Black Mountain Road (4S01) was in its poorest condition for at least a decade this spring. The partial grading undertaken on 17th July improved the situation somewhat, but it remains a bumpy drive that deteriorated further following Tropical Storm Hilary. Boulder Basin Campground closed early for the season on 23rd October. Black Mountain Fire Lookout closes for the season on Sunday 12th November, and Tahquitz Peak Fire Lookout on Sunday 19th.

WEATHER

Temperatures for the last few days of October were below seasonal, but should warm to well above seasonal for the entire first week of November. It is then forecast to rapidly drop back to cool, seasonal conditions starting 7th for at least the entire second week of the month. Air temperatures above 10,000 ft elevation are now generally in the 30s Fahrenheit (0-5°C), with windchill temperatures near or below freezing, but both may average a little warmer in the first week of November. There is no significant precipitation in the forecasts. Santa Ana winds are forecast for 2-3 days around the turn of the month.

Current expectations for the forthcoming winter, expected to be dominated by the prevailing El Niño weather phenomenon, may be broadly average for Southern California, according to the latest December-February projections from NOAA, as discussed in the most recent NWS regional video report (linked here). Precipitation may be near or above average, while temperatures are expected to trend somewhat above average.

At San Jacinto Peak (3295m/10,810ft) on Monday 30th October 2023 at 0815 the air temperature was 34.4°F (1°C), with a windchill temperature of 18.3°F (-8°C), 3% relative humidity, and a potent NE wind sustained at 21 mph gusting to 28.5 mph. The astoundingly low 3.0% relative humidity is well below the previous record for San Jacinto Peak of 5%, recorded twice in July this year.

At the Peak on Sunday 29th October 2023 at 0805 the air temperature was 25.5°F (-4°C), with a windchill temperature of 7.3°F (-14°C), 17% relative humidity, and a sharp NNE wind sustained at 18 mph gusting to 25.6 mph.

At the Peak on Monday 23rd October 2023 at 0845 the air temperature was 30.1°F (-1°C), with a windchill temperature of 15.3°F (-9°C), 48% relative humidity, and a fresh due West wind sustained at 13 mph gusting to 20.4 mph.

TRAIL CONDITIONS

Tropical Storm Hilary in late August resulted in many minor washouts across the trail system, considerable treefall debris – branches, cones, sticks – in the trails, and water flowing across and in the trails. Damage could have been much worse, and few problems are challenging for hikers. Most trails have one or two new treefall hazards, and only Willow Creek and Fuller Ridge trails were more significantly impacted.

The rough route cleared along Willow Creek Trail in early August remarkably lasted only two weeks before Tropical Storm Hilary brought down 19 new treefall hazards. Seven of these are on the Forest Service section, including one huge trunk just east of Willow Creek that some hikers will find challenging to pass. Of the 12 on the State Park section, eight have already been cut; there is now a cleared route from Long Valley to Hidden Divide, but four remain uncut between the divide and the Forest Service boundary. The whitethorn trimming is inconsistent and scrappy but overall the trail is more passable than in July. Eight trees – of the 60+ down after last winter – remain to be cut on the USFS section for the original trail route to be fully restored, but that is unlikely to happen soon, if ever.

Fuller Ridge Trail (PCT Miles 185.5-190.5) has 11 treefall hazards, several of which are large and challenging to pass. The Forest Service section (Miles 189-190.5) was largely cleared and thoroughly raked in September, and is in its best condition for a decade. However the huge double treefall just 0.35 mile from the campground remains (photo below). Sadly the State Park section (Miles 185.5-189) remains a mess, with considerable debris remaining from the winter and recent storms, including nine significant treefall hazards.

Deer Springs Trail has about 17 significant treefall hazards below the Fuller Ridge Trail junction remaining from the winter. Water is flowing very well in Little Round Valley and in all of the springs and creeks along the Deer Springs Trail route. Almost all of the 12 downed trees above Fuller Ridge on Deer Springs Trail date back 5-10 years and have been reported to the State Park multiple times.

Trails around the Skunk Cabbage and Tahquitz area meadows have some significant treefall hazards remaining from last winter (resurveyed early October 2023). There are six on the PCT section north from near Mile 177 (the crossing of Tahquitz Creek) to Saddle Junction (roughly Mile 179.3), three on each side of Chinquapin Flat. There are four significant treefalls, including a couple that are not easy to pass, on the Little Tahquitz Meadow trail between the Caramba Trail and the PCT junction.

Fourteen treefall hazards from this past winter on South Ridge Trail (above the trailhead at the top of South Ridge Road) were removed by the Trail Report in May, and trail trimming has been undertaken regularly. No significant new treefall hazards resulted from Tropical Storm Hilary on this trail. South Ridge Road remains closed to vehicle traffic and may not now reopen until 2024. The middle section of South Ridge Trail – between May Valley Road and the top of South Ridge Road – is now clear following removal of 20 trees in two sessions this season (15th July and 30th October).

Marion Mountain Trail has five notable treefall hazards in the State Park (upper) half. One new large stump came down in Hilary low down on the Forest Service section, but it is easy to pass.

Of seven new treefall hazards on Spitler Peak Trail caused by Tropical Storm Hilary, the Trail Report removed five in early October (the couple that remain are at about head height and can be easily passed under). This brings to 90 the number of trees removed from this trail since July 2021 by the Trail Report. Several minor washouts from this past winter in the upper switchbacks have significantly impacted the tread in places; these are not problematic for hikers, but the trail is impassable to stock.

Elsewhere on the PCT treefall hazards remain a problem in many places, most notably between Apache Peak and Red Tahquitz, where I counted 106 between Miles 169-175 in June 2023. This section has not yet been resurveyed since T. S. Hilary. Large downed trees make for especially slow-going around Miles 172-175 (a section severely burned in the July 2013 Mountain Fire).

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 described by the Forest Service as “not maintained”. In reality both trails have been abandoned and functionally no longer exist. They are so heavily overgrown with dense whitethorn, which obscures dozens of downed trees, that I strongly advise hikers do not attempt to follow them (regardless of how much you may trust a certain app). An informal use trail to Laws is much more direct, well maintained, and avoids the challenging bushwhacking of the unmaintained trails (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 lat/long N 33.7796, W 116.6590). The route descends largely following established deer trails for 1.2 miles, meeting Willow Creek about 0.2 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). The 11 trees down on the King Trail after this winter were removed in June-July 2023. The tread of the trail received some minor damage from Tropical Storm Hilary. From Laws east to Caramba the route of the original Caramba Trail has been well-cairned by myself and others and can largely be followed with very careful route-finding. My August 2023 survey counted about 110 trees down on this 2.1 miles of trail. It is especially obscure for the first 0.3 mile east of the Willow Creek crossing, becoming more obvious (but still subtle) as it descends towards Caramba. Very cautious navigation is advised throughout the area.

Seven Pines Trail is largely clear of treefall hazards. Five new trees came down across the trail in Tropical Storm Hilary, all in the central mile, but they are readily passable for hikers. Be advised that the trail in general becomes more obscure in the mile closest to its junction with the PCT. The Trail Report has “adopted” Seven Pines Trail as a priority for maintenance work as the trail has had a disproportionate number of lost hiker rescues in the past decade. Since November 2021, about 70 downed trees have been removed and the trail is thoroughly trimmed and cleared several times per year. Nevertheless Seven Pines remains a genuine wilderness trail unlike the relatively wide, bare, and obvious routes of, for example, Devil’s Slide or Marion Mountain trails. Cautious navigation remains essential for those without considerable experience of hiking this trail.

While all time and labor is volunteered, the San Jacinto Trail Report uses small private donations to help cover operating costs. Every year has its unique challenges, and 2023 has been no exception. 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. Zelle, Venmo, and PayPal are all options. Thank you very much for your support.

The pattern of temperatures that has characterized this October – fluctuating from a few days of summer-like warmth to almost wintery days and back again – is forecast to continue. Current above average temperatures will continue until Friday 20th, before dropping markedly to near- or below-average next week (23rd-27th October at least). There is a slim possibility of light precipitation on Monday 23rd.

Daily survey hikes in the San Jacinto mountains include several different routes to/from San Jacinto Peak multiple times per week, most recently on 11th, 17th, and 20th October, plus many other trails on intervening days. Recent weather observations from San Jacinto Peak are given in the Weather section below. The minor snowfall on the afternoon of Saturday 30th September completely melted within days.

Water sources such as creeks, pipes, and springs are generally flowing remarkably well for the time of year, given the intensity of last winter, plus additional inputs from Tropical Storm Hilary in August, and the light rain and snow on 30th September (see example photos below). Consequently there has been no need to report water details for specific locations this year. The year had already seen the most water on the mountain since at least 1998 (following the great El Niño winter of 1997/98).

Given the intensity of last winter, and the additional wind and rain of Tropical Storm Hilary that passed directly over the San Jacinto mountains on 19th-20th August (as described here), hikers should anticipate encountering treefall hazards, minor washouts and significant debris on trails, as summarized in Trail Conditions below.

Be bear aware. Although rarely reported, up to three Black Bears have been in the San Jacinto mountains since 2017. As I descended upper Marion Mountain Trail at about 8250 ft elevation late morning (0948) on 14th September 2023 I had an excellent sighting, initially in the open at 40-50 metres, of what may have been the same very large (>250lb) dark brown individual with a white chest blaze that I had previously seen on Devil’s Slide Trail in July 2022 and September 2021 (a poor quality video from the latter observation is available here).

Be rattlesnake aware. Southern Pacific Rattlesnakes Crotalus (oreganus) helleri may continue to be active on the trail system during warmer weather, such as that forecast up to about 21st October. Above about 5000 ft, the venom of this rattlesnake species in the San Jacinto mountains is predominantly neurotoxic, almost always fatal for dogs and sometimes for humans (see my 2020 article here). Sightings are most frequent on Devil’s Slide and lower Deer Springs trails, and near Strawberry Cienega, Suicide Rock, and Tahquitz Peak.

Black Mountain Road (4S01) was in its poorest condition for at least a decade this spring. The partial grading undertaken on 17th July improved the situation somewhat, but it remained a bumpy drive that deteriorated further following Tropical Storm Hilary. Dark Canyon Road (4S02) remains closed indefinitely.

South Ridge Road (5S11) was fully graded around 15th October but remains closed to vehicles. Humber Park reopened on Saturday 14th October, having been closed since Sunday 1st October due to major road work on uppermost Fern Valley Road.

WEATHER

Temperatures in October continue to swing wildly from almost wintery to summer-like, and back again. The minor heatwave of 5th-9th October was followed by cool seasonal temperatures on 11th-13th. Another heatwave is forecast for 15th-20th, with temperatures generally about 10°F above seasonal, and overnight low temperatures in particular 10-15°F above average for October at mid elevations (e.g., Idyllwild). Temperatures will then drop markedly, and on 23rd-27th October (at least) will be near or even below average for late October. There is a slim possibility for light wintry precipitation on Monday 23rd.

Air temperatures above 10,000 ft elevation are now typically in the 40s Fahrenheit (5-10°C) with windchill temperatures around freezing, depending on wind speed. Starting Monday 23rd October air temperatures at these elevations will be in the 30s Fahrenheit (0-5°C), with windchill temperatures below freezing.

At San Jacinto Peak (3295m/10,810ft) on Friday 20th October 2023 at 0820 the air temperature was 46.4°F (8°C), with a windchill temperature of 40.8°F (5°C), 43% relative humidity, and a light NW wind sustained at 3 mph gusting to 8.4 mph.

At the Peak on Tuesday 17th October 2023 at 0805 the air temperature was 49.1°F (9°C), with a “windchill” temperature of 46.6°F (8°C), 12% relative humidity, and a very light NNE wind sustained at 2 mph gusting to 4.0 mph.

At the Peak on Wednesday 11th October 2023 at 0440 the air temperature was 41.6°F (5°C), with a windchill temperature of 29.5°F (-1°C), 14% relative humidity, and a fresh NW wind sustained at 15 mph gusting to 29.4 mph.

TRAIL CONDITIONS

The very light snow that fell on Saturday 30th September above 9000 ft elevation has melted.

Tropical Storm Hilary in late August resulted in many minor washouts across the trail system, considerable treefall debris – branches, cones, sticks – in the trails, and water flowing across and in the trails. Damage could have been much worse, and few problems are challenging for hikers. Most trails have one or two new treefall hazards, and only Willow Creek and Fuller Ridge trails were more significantly impacted.

The rough route cleared along Willow Creek Trail in early August remarkably lasted only two weeks before Tropical Storm Hilary brought down 19 new treefall hazards. Seven of these are on the Forest Service section, including one huge trunk just east of Willow Creek that some hikers will find challenging to pass. Of the 12 on the State Park section, eight have already been cut; there is now a cleared route from Long Valley to Hidden Divide, but four remain uncut between the divide and the Forest Service boundary. The whitethorn trimming is inconsistent and scrappy but overall the trail is more passable than in July. Eight trees – of the 60+ down after last winter – remain to be cut on the USFS section for the original trail route to be fully restored, but that is unlikely to happen soon, if ever.

Fuller Ridge Trail (PCT Miles 185.5-190.5) has 11 treefall hazards, several of which are large and challenging to pass. The Forest Service section (Miles 189-190.5) was largely cleared and thoroughly raked in September, and is in its best condition for a decade. However the huge double treefall just 0.35 mile from the campground remains (photo below). Sadly the State Park section (Miles 185.5-189) remains a mess, with considerable debris remaining from the winter and recent storms, including nine significant treefall hazards.

Deer Springs Trail has about 17 significant treefall hazards below the Fuller Ridge Trail junction remaining from the winter. Water is flowing very well in Little Round Valley and in all of the springs and creeks along the Deer Springs Trail route. Almost all of the 12 downed trees above Fuller Ridge on Deer Springs Trail date back 5-10 years and have been reported to the State Park multiple times.

Trails around the Skunk Cabbage and Tahquitz area meadows have some significant treefall hazards remaining from last winter (resurveyed early October 2023). There are six on the PCT section north from near Mile 177 (the crossing of Tahquitz Creek) to Saddle Junction (roughly Mile 179.3), three on each side of Chinquapin Flat. There are four significant treefalls, including a couple that are not easy to pass, on the Little Tahquitz Meadow trail between the Caramba Trail and the PCT junction.

Fourteen treefall hazards from this past winter on South Ridge Trail (above the trailhead at the top of South Ridge Road) were removed by the Trail Report in May, and trail trimming has been undertaken regularly. No significant new treefall hazards resulted from Tropical Storm Hilary on this trail. South Ridge Road remains closed to vehicle traffic and is not now expected to reopen until 2024. Eleven of 13 downed trees were removed from the middle section of South Ridge Trail (between May Valley Road and the top of South Ridge Road) on 15th July.

Marion Mountain Trail has five notable treefall hazards in the State Park (upper) half. One new large stump came down in Hilary low down on the Forest Service section, but it is easy to pass.

Of seven new treefall hazards on Spitler Peak Trail caused by Tropical Storm Hilary, the Trail Report removed five in early October (the couple that remain are at about head height and can be easily passed under). This brings to 90 the number of trees removed from this trail since July 2021 by the Trail Report. Several minor washouts from this past winter in the upper switchbacks have significantly impacted the tread in places; these are not problematic for hikers, but the trail is impassable to stock.

Elsewhere on the PCT treefall hazards remain a problem in many places, most notably between Apache Peak and Red Tahquitz, where I counted 106 between Miles 169-175 in June 2023. This section has not yet been resurveyed since T. S. Hilary. Large downed trees make for especially slow-going around Miles 172-175 (a section severely burned in the July 2013 Mountain Fire).

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 described by the Forest Service as “not maintained”. In reality both trails have been abandoned and functionally no longer exist. They are so heavily overgrown with dense whitethorn, which obscures dozens of downed trees, that I strongly advise hikers do not attempt to follow them (regardless of how much you may trust a certain app). An informal use trail to Laws is much more direct, well maintained, and avoids the challenging bushwhacking of the unmaintained trails (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 lat/long N 33.7796, W 116.6590). The route descends largely following established deer trails for 1.2 miles, meeting Willow Creek about 0.2 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). The 11 trees down on the King Trail after this winter were removed in June-July 2023. The tread of the trail received some minor damage from Tropical Storm Hilary. From Laws east to Caramba the route of the original Caramba Trail has been well-cairned by myself and others and can largely be followed with very careful route-finding. My August 2023 survey counted about 110 trees down on this 2.1 miles of trail. It is especially obscure for the first 0.3 mile east of the Willow Creek crossing, becoming more obvious (but still subtle) as it descends towards Caramba. Very cautious navigation is advised throughout the area.

Seven Pines Trail is largely clear of treefall hazards. Five new trees came down across the trail in Tropical Storm Hilary, all in the central mile, but they are readily passable for hikers. Be advised that the trail in general becomes more obscure in the mile closest to its junction with the PCT. The Trail Report has “adopted” Seven Pines Trail as a priority for maintenance work as the trail has had a disproportionate number of lost hiker rescues in the past decade. Since November 2021, about 70 downed trees have been removed and the trail is thoroughly trimmed and cleared several times per year. Nevertheless Seven Pines remains a genuine wilderness trail unlike the relatively wide, bare, and obvious routes of, for example, Devil’s Slide or Marion Mountain trails. Cautious navigation remains essential for those without considerable experience of hiking this trail.

While all time and labor is volunteered, the San Jacinto Trail Report uses small private donations to help cover operating costs. Every year has its unique challenges, and 2023 has been no exception. 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. Zelle, Venmo, and PayPal are all options. Thank you very much for your support.

The earliest significant autumn snowfall in the San Jacinto mountains for a generation fell in the high country on the afternoon of Saturday 30th September, while I was at the Peak and then descending, between 1530 and 1710. One inch fell at San Jacinto Peak, with 0.5 inch all the way down to Wellman Divide (9700 ft), 0.25-0.5 inch to 9000 ft, and a dusting down to 8800 ft. Rainfall measured at Saddle Junction (8100 ft) was 0.22 inch, with a very similar 0.25 inch at 5550 ft in Idyllwild. I recorded a short video from San Jacinto Peak during the heaviest graupel on 30th, linked here.

Humber Park closed to all traffic on Sunday 1st October 2023 for at least two weeks due to major road restructuring work at the uppermost end of Fern Valley Road (see photos below). Note that the impacted trails – Devil’s Slide and Ernie Maxwell – remain open, although access to the upper end of the latter is partially obstructed by fill material (relevant agencies have been informed). Hikers have been requested to use the Ernie Maxwell Trail lower trailhead at Tahquitz View Drive to hike between Devil’s Slide Trail and Idyllwild.

Daily survey hikes in the San Jacinto mountains include several different routes to/from San Jacinto Peak multiple times per week, most recently on 26th and 30th September, and 1st October, plus many other trails on intervening days. Recent weather observations from San Jacinto Peak are given in the Weather section below.

Given the intensity of last winter, and the additional wind and rain of Tropical Storm Hilary that passed directly over the San Jacinto mountains on 19th-20th August (as described here), hikers should anticipate encountering treefall hazards, minor washouts and debris on trails, as summarized in Trail Conditions below.

Water sources such as creeks, pipes, and springs are generally flowing remarkably well for the time of year, given the intensity of the past winter, plus additional inputs from Tropical Storm Hilary in August, and the light rain and snow on 30th September. Consequently I will not be reporting water details for specific locations this season. The summer had already seen the most water on the mountain since at least 1998 (following the great El Niño winter of 1997/98).

Be bear aware. Although rarely reported, up to three Black Bears have been in the San Jacinto mountains since 2017. As I descended upper Marion Mountain Trail at about 8250 ft elevation late morning (0948) on 14th September 2023 I had an excellent sighting, initially in the open at 40-50 metres, of what may have been the same very large (>250lb) dark brown individual with a white chest blaze that I had previously seen on Devil’s Slide Trail in July 2022 and September 2021 (a poor quality video from the latter observation is available here). This is clearly a different individual, based on colour pattern and size, from the “blond” one I saw on Devil’s Slide Trail in August 2020 and had previously filmed walking past our home in Idyllwild in 2018 (video here).

Be rattlesnake aware. Southern Pacific Rattlesnakes Crotalus (oreganus) helleri may continue to be active on warm, sunny days, currently forecast for 4th-12th October (see photos in a prior Report linked here). Above about 5000 ft, the venom of this rattlesnake species in the San Jacinto mountains is predominantly neurotoxic, almost always fatal for dogs and sometimes for humans (see my 2020 article here). Devil’s Slide and lower Deer Springs trails, near Strawberry Cienega, and trails around both Suicide Rock and Tahquitz Peak, tend to be common locations for sightings.

Black Mountain Road (4S01) was in its poorest condition for at least a decade this spring. The partial grading undertaken on 17th July improved the situation somewhat, but it remained a bumpy drive that deteriorated further following Tropical Storm Hilary. Dark Canyon Road (4S02) remains closed indefinitely.

South Ridge Road (5S11) was partially graded in the last week of September 2023. It remained closed as of 1st October but is expected to reopen imminently.

WEATHER

The remarkable rollercoaster of temperatures that has characterized the past four months of 2023 will continue in October. Following the genuinely wintery weather of 30th September-2nd October, a rapid warming is forecast to produce summer-like temperatures again on 5th-9th October, before then cooling somewhat to temperatures more typical for the first half of October. There is currently no significant new precipitation in the forecasts. Air temperatures above 10,000 ft elevation are now typically in the 40s Fahrenheit (5-10°C) with windchill temperatures generally close to freezing, depending on wind speed.

At San Jacinto Peak (10,810ft/3295m) on Sunday 1st October 2023 at 0835 the air temperature was 24.8°F (-4°C), with a windchill temperature of 7.2°F (-14°C), 97% relative humidity, and a bitter SW wind sustained at 14 mph gusting to 22.4 mph.

At the Peak on Saturday 30th September 2023 at 1510 the air temperature was 31.4°F (0°C), with a windchill temperature of 14.0°F (-10°C), 100% relative humidity, and a sharp WSW wind sustained at 12 mph gusting to 22.1 mph.

At the Peak on Tuesday 26th September 2023 at 0805 the air temperature was 51.4°F (11°C), with a “windchill” temperature of 49.6°F (10°C), 10% relative humidity, and a very light WSW breeze sustained at 3 mph gusting to 3.8 mph.

TRAIL CONDITIONS

The very light snow that fell on Saturday 30th September above 9000 ft elevation has melted rapidly and no traction devices are required.

See comments above regarding current restricted access to Devil’s Slide Trail and the upper trailhead for Ernie Maxwell Trail.

Tropical Storm Hilary in late August resulted in many minor washouts across the trail system, considerable treefall debris – branches, cones, sticks – in the trails, and water flowing across and in the trails. Damage could have been much worse, and no problems are especially challenging for hikers. Most trails have one or two new treefall hazards, and only Willow Creek Trail seems to have been more significantly impacted.

The rough route cleared along Willow Creek Trail in early August remarkably lasted only two weeks before Tropical Storm Hilary brought down 19 new treefall hazards. Seven of these are on the Forest Service section, including one huge trunk just east of Willow Creek that some hikers will find challenging to pass. Of the 12 on the State Park section, eight have already been cut; there is now a cleared route from Long Valley to Hidden Divide, but four remain uncut between the divide and the Forest Service boundary. The whitethorn trimming is inconsistent and scrappy but overall the trail is more passable than in July. Eight trees – of the 60+ down after last winter – remain to be cut on the USFS section for the original trail route to be fully restored, but that is unlikely to happen soon, if ever.

Deer Springs Trail has about 17 significant treefall hazards below the Fuller Ridge Trail junction remaining from the winter. Water is flowing very well in Little Round Valley and in all of the springs and creeks along the Deer Springs Trail route. Most of the 12 downed trees above Fuller Ridge on Deer Springs Trail date back many years and have been reported to the State Park multiple times.

Fuller Ridge Trail (PCT Miles 185.5-190.5) has seven treefall hazards, including four on the State Park side. One major hazard near the campground (near Mile 190) can be challenging to pass.

Trails around the Skunk Cabbage and Tahquitz area meadows have some significant treefall hazards throughout remaining from last winter. There are seven across the trails between Little Tahquitz Meadow and Chinquapin Flat and another two on the trail south from Saddle Junction to Chinquapin Flat.

Fourteen treefall hazards from this past winter on South Ridge Trail (above the trailhead at the top of South Ridge Road) were removed by the Trail Report in May, and trail trimming has been undertaken regularly. No significant new treefall hazards resulted from Tropical Storm Hilary on this trail. South Ridge Road remains closed to vehicle traffic and is not expected to reopen until graded, probably not until 2024. Eleven of 13 downed trees were removed from the middle section of South Ridge Trail (between May Valley Road and the top of South Ridge Road) on 15th July.

Marion Mountain Trail has four notable treefall hazards in the State Park (upper) half. One new large stump came down in Hilary low down on the Forest Service section, but it is easy to pass.

Of seven new treefall hazards on Spitler Peak Trail caused by Tropical Storm Hilary, the Trail Report removed five in early October. The couple that remain can be easily walked under by hikers. This brings to 90 the number of trees removed from this trail since July 2021 by the Trail Report. Several minor washouts from this past winter in the upper switchbacks have significantly impacted the tread in places; these are not problematic for hikers, but the trail is impassable to stock.

On the PCT treefall hazards remain a problem in many places, most notably between Apache Peak and Red Tahquitz, where I counted 106 between Miles 169-175 in June 2023. This section has not yet been resurveyed since T. S. Hilary. Large downed trees make for especially slow-going around Miles 172-175 (a section severely burned in the July 2013 Mountain Fire).

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 described by the Forest Service as “not maintained”. In reality both trails have been abandoned and functionally no longer exist. They are so heavily overgrown with dense whitethorn, which obscures dozens of downed trees, that I strongly advise hikers do not attempt to follow them (regardless of how much you may trust a certain app). An informal use trail to Laws is much more direct, well maintained, and avoids the challenging bushwhacking of the unmaintained trails (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 lat/long N 33.7796, W 116.6590). The route descends largely following established deer trails for 1.2 miles, meeting Willow Creek about 0.2 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). The 11 trees down on the King Trail after this winter were removed in June-July 2023. The tread of the trail received some minor damage from Tropical Storm Hilary. From Laws east to Caramba the route of the original Caramba Trail has been well-cairned by myself and others and can largely be followed with very careful route-finding. My August 2023 survey counted about 110 trees down on this 2.1 miles of trail. It is especially obscure for the first 0.3 mile east of the Willow Creek crossing, becoming more obvious (but still subtle) as it descends towards Caramba. Very cautious navigation is advised throughout the area.

Seven Pines Trail is largely clear of treefall hazards. Five new trees came down across the trail in Tropical Storm Hilary, all in the central mile, but they are readily passable for hikers. Be advised that the trail in general becomes more obscure in the mile closest to its junction with the PCT. The Trail Report has “adopted” Seven Pines Trail as a priority for maintenance work as the trail has had a disproportionate number of lost hiker rescues in the past decade. Since November 2021, about 70 downed trees have been removed and the trail is thoroughly trimmed and cleared several times per year. Nevertheless Seven Pines remains a genuine wilderness trail unlike the relatively wide, bare, and obvious routes of, for example, Devil’s Slide or Marion Mountain trails. Cautious navigation remains essential for those without considerable experience of hiking this trail.

While all time and labor is volunteered, the San Jacinto Trail Report uses small private donations to help cover operating costs. Every year has its unique challenges, and 2023 has been no exception. 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. Zelle, Venmo, and PayPal are all options. Thank you very much for your support.