UPDATE Thursday 28th March 2024: the next storm rolls in before dawn on Saturday 30th and continues for roughly 48 hours into the early hours of Monday 1st April (no fooling). Current forecasts suggest a relatively cold system, with a dusting of snow possible throughout Garner Valley including even the lowest parts of the PCT in the San Jacinto mountains, several inches of snow perhaps mixed with some rain expected at Idyllwild elevation (5000-6000 ft), and up to 12-18 inches of snow above 10,000 ft. Temperatures will be well below freezing everywhere above 6000 ft, potentially lower. Hikers should be prepared for challenging conditions – much as described in the Report below – into the first week of April (at least).

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This is a summary of conditions following the 23rd storm system of this winter. Like 17 of this winter’s storms before it, this system was minor in terms of snow production, although this time the impacts were very significant on the tracks and trails due to high winds and snow type.

Two phases characterized this storm. The first, from the afternoon of 23rd into the morning of 24th, produced light powder, with the most I measured being four inches at Annie’s Junction (9070 ft, PCT Mile 180.8) and generally 2-3 inches from Idyllwild (at 5500 ft ) to San Jacinto Peak (10,810 ft). However strong winds accompanied the snowfall, and the drifting fine powder had completely eliminated tracks all the way down to about 6000 ft.

I discussed the conditions and current challenges for PCT hikers in a video report recorded just below San Jacinto Peak late that morning (available here). I also uploaded a very brief panorama video from the Peak (available here) on what was an especially pretty morning even by San Jac standards. It is worth noting that the windchill temperature at the Peak that morning was a brisk -12.5°F (-25°C).

The second phase was a spectacular series of thunderstorm cells that came in from the north-west and passed right over the mountains in the early evening of Sunday 24th March. As is typical with winter thunderstorms, the precipitation produced was graupel, the snow equivalent of hail. In a period of 1.5 hours, 2.5 inches of graupel fell in town from 1645-1815. The lightning reflecting off the fresh snow in Idyllwild was especially dramatic. On my survey hike on 25th I found a remarkably even cover of 2-3 inches of graupel throughout the mountain everywhere above 5000 ft.

Daily survey hikes in the San Jacinto mountains include various routes to San Jacinto Peak multiple times per week (most recently on 16th, 19th, 24th, and 25th March), Tahquitz Peak and area at least once per week (most recently on 18th and 23rd March), Apache Peak area regularly during PCT season, plus a wide variety of other trails on intervening days.

On Sunday 24th I broke trail – through moderate blizzard conditions up to 9100 ft – to San Jacinto Peak via Devil’s Slide, PCT, Wellman, Peak, and East Ridge trails to assess the snowfall and impact to the trails. On Monday 25th I found those tracks had all been erased again by the fresh graupel, so re-broke the same route. Those tracks should now last until the weekend. The graupel on 24th made for excellent snowshoeing conditions the following day, but already by late morning on 25th the rapidly warming temperatures were turning the surface snow soft and clumpy.

Snowshoes remain invaluable everywhere above about 8000 ft elevation (see photos below). This elevation may rise rapidly to 9000 ft on sun-exposed trails with melting expected this week, and as tracks become compacted and increasingly suited to spikes and/or crampons.

Tracks remain very icy in places under the fresh powder. For the next two weeks – until thawing is expected to be partly underway – spikes at a minimum (preferably crampons in some areas) are recommended everywhere above 7500 ft. Crampons are required on the north side of Tahquitz Peak and on Fuller Ridge, as discussed below, and may become increasingly useful everywhere in the high country into early April (at least).

Details of snow depths measured at various locations on the trail system are given at the foot of this posting. Note however that snow depth itself is very rarely indicative of the difficulty (or ease) of hiking a particular track or trail. For example a well-traveled and defined track across deep snow is often much easier hiking than a lightly traveled track across just a few inches of angled icy snow. PCT hikers in particular should note that many high country trails potentially pose greater risks in 2024 (due to underlying ice from prior rain-on-snow) than they did at the same time in 2023 when snow depths were generally double or locally even quadruple those of this year.

Despite generally warming temperatures for the next few days, hikers should be prepared for temperatures below freezing at higher elevations, and often well below freezing when considering wind chill effects. See Weather section below for some of my recent observations from San Jacinto Peak.

Black Mountain Road is closed to vehicle traffic due to winter conditions at the gate 1.7 miles up from Highway 243. The road will quickly clear of snow as far as the turning to Boulder Basin five miles from the highway. Snow cover on the road will remain largely continuous from there for the next three miles to the PCT crossing/Fuller Ridge campground into late March.

Humber Park reopened again on the afternoon of 25th March having been largely plowed. Even when closed – possible again this coming weekend – 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 – is clear of snow. Dark Canyon Road has been closed almost continuously for the past five years.

WEATHER

Temperatures rapidly warm to near seasonal for 26th-28th March, with sunny days forecast, so melting will be rapid everywhere below 7500 ft plus on sun-exposed slopes at higher elevations. The next storm system is expected around Saturday 30th March to Tuesday 2nd April. The system will be relatively mild, with freeze levels generally staying above 6000 ft. Precipitation amounts at various elevations remain unclear, but 10-30 inches of snow may be possible in the high country and predominantly rain with some light snow at mid elevations (e.g., Idyllwild). At this time, temperatures are tentatively forecast to rise again from 3rd April onwards.

At San Jacinto Peak (3295m/10,810ft) on Monday 25th March 2024 at 0955 the air temperature was 16.3°F (-9°C), with a windchill temperature of -2.6°F (-19°C), 61% relative humidity, and a fresh WNW wind sustained at 11 mph gusting to 19.1 mph.

At the Peak on Sunday 24th March 2024 at 1010 the air temperature was 11.1°F (-12°C), with a windchill temperature of -12.5°F (-25°C), 85% relative humidity, and a bitter due West wind sustained at 15 mph gusting to 25.3 mph.

At the Peak on Tuesday 19th March 2024 at 1020 the air temperature was 23.2°F (-5°C), with a windchill temperature of 5.9°F (-14°C), 92% relative humidity, and a gusty due North wind sustained at 14 mph gusting to 21.1 mph.

TRAIL CONDITIONS

There was largely continuous snow cover on all trails above about 4500 ft on the morning of 25th, but with rapid melting it is already becoming increasingly patchy to 7000 ft on the most sun-exposed slopes. Under the shallow fresh powder, the remaining deeper old snow is locally firm and icy. Icy snow requires considerably more caution plus specialist equipment (and different physical and mental skillsets) than soft, postholing snow. Snow quality will deteriorate rapidly this week with a warming trend and locally rapid melting at all elevations.

Only a few major tracks have been broken through the snow at this time including Devil’s Slide Trail, onward via the PCT, Wellman, Peak, and East Ridge trails to San Jacinto Peak.

Carrying spikes is strongly recommended everywhere above about 6500 ft. Icy compacted snow – once the trails become well-traveled – will be largely ideal for spikes, although as discussed above crampons are an excellent option until next week at least, especially in some locations above about 7700 ft. Crampons are essential if attempting Fuller Ridge and the north side of Tahquitz Peak (discussed below).

Snowshoes can be valuable everywhere above about 7500 ft elevation at present. On warm days (most likely 19th-22nd March) and later in the day on sunny slopes they will become increasingly helpful. They will quickly become less useful for on-trail travel below 9000 ft as the established tracks become well compacted. Snowshoes will be recommended for any significant off-trail travel away from the defined tracks in the high country into April.

Despite limited snow this season and being readily passable with the appropriate skills and equipment for angled icy snow (currently crampons plus ice axe recommended), the State Park closed the uppermost section of Skyline Trail in their jurisdiction (above about 5600 ft) starting 21st February due to perceived unsafe conditions.

Devil’s Slide Trail is already thinning below 7000 ft but is otherwise snow-covered above that elevation. It will largely clear of snow up to 6800 ft this week, with patchy clearing to 7500 ft, and a few bare patches appearing as high as 8000 ft. The track is already well-defined, but compacted only below 7700 ft. Note that at about 7700-7900 ft there can be very icy conditions around switchbacks 6-8 (for those familiar with this trail). Spikes are ideal for this trail, although they are not essential. The Trail Report undertook extensive trail maintenance work on 15th February to remove many damaged tree limbs in and over the trail resulting from an early February ice storm.

The Peak Trail snowshoe track that I broke on 25th March quite accurately follows the true trail route. However near Miller Peak at about 10,400 ft the track ascends directly up the East Ridge route, rather than following the Peak Trail switchback, as is traditional in winter conditions.

The 0.4 mile section of South Ridge Trail between Chinquapin Flat/PCT MIle 177 and Tahquitz Peak has no track to follow at this time [surveyed 18th March] through several feet of heavily drifted and angled ice and icy snow. This ice slope is notoriously treacherous. Neither snowshoes nor spikes are helpful at this time, due to the angled slope and structure of the snow, respectively. Crampons with an ice axe are essential on this section at this time, along with the necessary skills and experience to use that equipment in icy, angled terrain.

Spitler Peak Trail suffered badly during the ice storms in early February, and I found 34 new treefall hazards down during my surveys in late February, almost all in the upper half. Most are relatively small and readily passable, but a few are larger, and the combined effect is to make for a slower and scrappier hike.

PACIFIC CREST TRAIL

Current snow cover on the PCT is widespread but rapidly melting from Miles 151 (Highway 74) to about 163. Underlying snow is then thin, with old snow largely confined to north- and east-facing slopes, until about Mile 174. Note that many of these patches are icy and require considerable caution. See comments below regarding specific conditions around Apache Peak (Mile 169.5). Snow cover is then functionally continuous between Miles 174-195. There are currently no reliable tracks to follow on Fuller Ridge (Miles 185.5-191) and traversing this section requires crampons, an ice axe, and appropriate snow skills (a track that was put in on 17th-18th March is now covered in drifted snow).

At this time, nobo hikers should consider taking alternates at either Fobes Trail (Mile 166) or Spitler Peak Trail (Mile 168.5) to avoid the worst of the icy snow slopes from Miles 169-175. This situation will continue to change over the coming days and weeks with a mix of rapid melting then more precipitation expected in the remainder of March.

It is recommended that hikers use the Black Mountain Road alternate to avoid Fuller Ridge until the ice conditions improve (likely in early-mid April). Black Mountain Road is open to hikers but not to vehicle traffic at this time. Spikes are useful (but not essential) on the upper three miles of Black Mountain Road.

A significant icy snow slope remains on the north-east side of Apache Peak (photo in prior Report linked here). At this time spikes at a minimum, but preferably crampons, plus an ice axe, and crucially the skills and experience to use this equipment on angled icy snow, are required to traverse this section. While one option for nobo hikers is to go up and over the saddle between the double peaks of Apache to avoid this traverse, there are further very icy chutes and slopes in the next few miles, especially at present around Red Tahquitz (Miles 174-175.5), some of which have proven to be equally problematic in past seasons. Alternates at Miles 166 and 168.5 are recommended, as mentioned above.

PCT hikers should not attempt to use South Ridge Trail from the PCT at Chinquapin Flat (roughly Mile 177.7) to Idyllwild via Tahquitz Peak, even though this looks temptingly simple on apps and maps. There are no steps to follow through a lengthy section of steeply angled (and notoriously treacherous) ice slopes. Crampons, always with an ice axe, and expert knowledge of how to use this equipment on high angle terrain, are critical. Even in low snow years like 2024 these slopes always take many weeks longer to clear of ice than adjacent areas, and they will remain challenging into April this year.

Although just outside the region covered by the Trail Report (and my area of expertise) I understand that northbound hikers are experiencing significant problems due to storm damaged trail in the Mission Creek area of Miles 225-250. More details are available at this link.

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.

SNOW DEPTHS measured on 25th March 2024 are as follows. The first number gives current average total depth. The number in parentheses gives new snow from the storm on 23rd-24th March, while the number in brackets is the greatest depth at that location this winter (where known). Note that averages are given; due to strong winds during and after most storms there has been considerable drifting, plus often uneven melting. Altitudes and PCT mileages are approximate.

San Jacinto Peak (10810 ft): 48-50 inches (4 inches new snow 23rd-24th March)[55-60 inches on 8th February]

Wellman Divide (9700 ft): 33-35 inches (4 inches new 23rd-24th March) [41-43 inches on 8th February]

Annie’s Junction/approx. PCT Mile 181.8 (9070 ft): 48-52 inches (6 inches new on 23rd-24th March)[48-50 inches on 8th February]

Long Valley (8400 ft): 2-12 inches, very uneven melting (4 inches new 23rd-24th March)[24 inches on 8th February]

Saddle Junction/PCT Mile 179.9 (8070 ft): 23-25 inches (5 inches new on 23rd-24th March)[31 inches on 8th February]

Devil’s Slide Trail at Humber Park (6550 ft): 0-5 inches, already rapidly melting (3.5 inches new on 23rd-24th March)[15 inches on 8th February]

Idyllwild (at 5550 ft): 0-3 inches, already rapidly melting (5 inches new on 23rd-24th March)[9 inches on 8th February]

Mountain Center (4400 ft): 0-2 inch, largely melted (3 inches new on 23rd-24th March)[3 inches on 9th February and 25th March]

UPDATE Sunday 24th March 2024: starting yesterday we have had a minor storm roll through as forecast. Today I broke trail – through moderate blizzard conditions up to 9100 ft – to San Jacinto Peak via Devil’s Slide, PCT, Wellman, Peak, and East Ridge trails to assess the snowfall and impact to the trails. New snow quantities were limited, with the most being four inches at Annie’s Junction (9070 ft, PCT Mile 180.8) and generally 2-3 inches from Idyllwild (at 5500 ft ) to San Jacinto Peak (10,810 ft). However strong winds accompanied the snowfall, and the drifting fine powder had completely eliminated tracks all the way down to 6500 ft. I discussed the conditions and current challenges for PCT hikers in a short video report recorded just below San Jacinto Peak late this morning (available here). I also uploaded a very brief panorama video from the Peak (available here) on what was an especially pretty morning. It is worth noting that the windchill temperature at the Peak was a brisk -12.5°F (-25°C). With the forecast of further light snow tonight, the next comprehensive Report update is planned for the evening of Monday 25th March.

UPDATE Friday 22nd March 2024: as forecast a minor storm rolls in tomorrow, Saturday 23rd. Two storm phases are expected, on Saturday afternoon/night, and again on Sunday afternoon/night. Both phases are expected to bring similar precipitation, with cold temperatures and hence a relatively low snow level near 5000 ft. A mixture of light rain and an inch or two of snow is possible in Idyllwild, with 1-3 inches of snow tentatively forecast for both Saturday and Sunday. In combination with strong winds, drifting snow may largely obscure tracks in the high country (>8000 ft especially). Suitable equipment and cautious navigation will be required throughout 23rd-25th at least.

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This is a summary of conditions following an unusual and lengthy storm that has impacted the San Jacinto mountains from 14th-19th March 2024. A stationary low pressure system centred over the Arizona/California border produced most precipitation on 14th-15th, but then periodic thunderstorms, most notably on 18th, have continued for days.

For the main storm on 14th-15th, the forecasts greatly underestimated the volume of snow that actually fell. The greatest depth I measured on 16th March was 12 inches at Wellman Divide (9700 ft), but locations ranging from Humber Park (6500 ft) to San Jacinto Peak (10,810 ft) all had at least nine inches. Even Idyllwild reached six inches (almost fully melted by 16th), and it dusted as low as 4000 ft in Anza.

On Monday 18th March there were periodic graupel storms throughout the mountains, with a dusting as low 6800 ft, and on 19th I measured about one inch of new snow above 7500 ft, and two inches above 9500 ft all the way to San Jacinto Peak.

The snow from the first wave on 14th-15th was probably the lightest powder I have ever experienced in these mountains, with an extremely low water content. With the storm coming in, unusually, from the north-east, the snow was dry “continental” powder, in contrast to the “maritime” (high water content) snow we typically get from westerly directions. This made for superb snowshoeing conditions. It also meant there was no ice from rain on trees at mid elevations, nor any rime at higher elevations, so there will not be the usual hazards of ice falling from trees nor fallen ice obscuring tracks once melting is underway.

Snow depths initially eliminated all pre-existing tracks above 6000 ft. Tracks put in over the weekend were erased again by drifting snow and the fresh graupel by Tuesday 19th. On Saturday 16th I broke trail up Devil’s Slide Trail and onward from Saddle Junction to San Jacinto Peak via the Wellman, Peak, and East Ridge trails. On Tuesday 19th I found those tracks had survived well as far as 9000 ft, but I had to break trail (snowshoeing) from Annie’s Junction (9070 ft) through to San Jacinto Peak again. On 18th we finished breaking trail to Tahquitz Peak via South Ridge Trail, but those tracks may not have survived the minor snow storms and winds of later that day.

On the morning of Tuesday 19th March I recorded a rambling video discussion of the situation at that time from San Jacinto Peak (available here).

Snowshoes remain invaluable everywhere above about 8000 ft elevation (see photos below). This elevation may rise rapidly to 9000 ft with melting expected this week, and as trails become compacted and increasingly suited to spikes and/or crampons.

Tracks remain very icy in places under the fresh powder. I had confirmation from PCT hikers (with considerable mountaineering experience) of dangerous ice under powder on Fuller Ridge on 17th-18th. On 10th and 11th I saw widespread evidence of significant hiker falls throughout the high country trails (example photos in previous Report linked here).

For the next week – until thawing is expected to be partly underway – spikes at a minimum (preferably crampons in some areas) are recommended everywhere above 7500 ft. Crampons are required on the north side of Tahquitz Peak and on Fuller Ridge, as discussed below, and may become increasingly useful everywhere in the high country for the remainder of March (at least).

Daily survey hikes in the San Jacinto mountains include various routes to San Jacinto Peak multiple times per week (most recently on 10th, 11th, 16th, and 19th March), Tahquitz Peak and area at least once per week (most recently on 12th and 18th March), Apache Peak area at least weekly (during PCT season), plus a wide variety of other trails on intervening days.

Details of snow depths measured at various locations on the trail system are given at the foot of this posting. Note however that snow depth itself is very rarely indicative of the difficulty (or ease) of hiking a particular track or trail. For example a well-traveled and defined track across snow several feet deep is often much easier hiking than a lightly traveled track across just a few inches depth of angled icy snow. PCT hikers in particular should note that many high country trails potentially pose greater risks in 2024 (due to underlying ice from prior rain-on-snow) than they did at the same time in 2023 when snow depths were triple those of this year.

Despite generally warming temperatures for the next few days, hikers should be prepared for temperatures below freezing at higher elevations, and often well below freezing when considering wind chill effects. See Weather section below for some of my recent observations from San Jacinto Peak.

Black Mountain Road is closed to vehicle traffic due to winter conditions at the gate 1.7 miles up from Highway 243. The road is quickly clearing as far as the turning to Boulder Basin five miles from the highway. Snow cover on the road will remain largely continuous from there for the next three miles to the PCT crossing/Fuller Ridge campground into late March.

Humber Park closed again on 15th March. 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 – is clear of snow. Dark Canyon Road has been closed almost continuously for the past five years.

WEATHER

Temperatures rapidly warm to near or above seasonal for 19th-22nd March, and melting will be rapid everywhere below 7500 ft plus on sun-exposed slopes at higher elevations. The next minor storm system is expected around 23rd-25th March. Precipitation amounts at various elevations are currently unclear, but may be limited to 1-6 inches of snow in the high country and a mix of light rain and snow at mid elevations (e.g., Idyllwild). At this time, temperatures are tentatively forecast to rise again from 26th onwards.

At San Jacinto Peak (3295m/10,810ft) on Tuesday 19th March 2024 at 1020 the air temperature was 23.2°F (-5°C), with a windchill temperature of 5.9°F (-14°C), 92% relative humidity, and a gusty due North wind sustained at 14 mph gusting to 21.1 mph.

At the Peak on Saturday 16th March 2024 at 1005 the air temperature was 17.4°F (-8°C), with a windchill temperature of -1.3°F (-19°C), 93% relative humidity, and a bitter due North wind sustained at 12 mph gusting to 19.5 mph.

At the Peak on Monday 11th March 2024 at 0850 the air temperature was 23.6°F (-5°C), with a windchill temperature of 4.8°F (-15°C), 55% relative humidity, and a stiff due West wind sustained at 19 mph gusting to 23.7 mph.

TRAIL CONDITIONS

There is largely continuous snow cover on all trails above about 6800 ft, with rapidly melting and increasing patchy snow locally to 8000 ft on the most sun-exposed slopes. Under the moderate depth fresh powder, the remaining old snow is firm and icy. Icy snow requires considerably more caution plus specialist equipment (and different physical and mental skillsets) than soft, postholing snow. Snow quality will start to deteriorate this week with a warming trend and locally rapid melting at all elevations.

Some major tracks have been broken through the snow at this time including South Ridge Trail south of Tahquitz Peak, Devil’s Slide Trail, onward via the PCT, Wellman and Peak trails to San Jacinto Peak, from Long and Round valleys up to Wellman Divide.

Carrying spikes is strongly recommended everywhere above about 6500 ft. Icy compacted snow – once the trails become well-traveled – will be largely ideal for spikes, although as discussed above crampons are an excellent option until next week at least, especially in some locations above about 7700 ft. Crampons are essential if attempting Fuller Ridge and the north side of Tahquitz Peak (discussed below).

Snowshoes can be valuable everywhere above about 7500 ft elevation at present. On warm days (most likely 19th-22nd March) and later in the day on sunny slopes they will become increasingly helpful. They will quickly become less useful for on-trail travel below 9000 ft as the established tracks become well compacted. Snowshoes will be recommended for any significant off-trail travel away from the defined tracks in the high country into April.

Despite limited snow this season and being readily passable with the appropriate skills and equipment for angled icy snow (currently crampons plus ice axe recommended), the State Park closed the uppermost section of Skyline Trail in their jurisdiction (above about 5600 ft) starting 21st February due to perceived unsafe conditions.

Devil’s Slide Trail is clearing below 7000 ft but is otherwise snow-covered above that elevation. However melting is underway on 16th and it will largely clear of snow up to 6800 ft this week, with patchy clearing to 7500 ft, and some bare patches appearing as high as 8000 ft. The track is already well-defined and compacted. Note that at about 7700-7900 ft there can be very icy conditions around switchbacks 6-8 (for those who are very familiar with this trail). Spikes are ideal for this trail, although they are not essential. The Trail Report undertook extensive trail maintenance work on 15th February to remove many damaged tree limbs in and over the trail resulting from an early February ice storm.

The Peak Trail track that I broke on 16th and 19th March quite accurately follows the true trail route. However near Miller Peak at about 10,400 ft the track ascends directly up the East Ridge route, rather than following the Peak Trail switchback, as is traditional in snow conditions.

South Ridge Trail [surveyed 18th March] now has a broken track through light to moderate snow to Tahquitz Peak. Snow cover is about 90% and generally thin to Old Lookout Flat at 7500 ft. This will melt rapidly and will probably be only 20% by the weekend. From there snow cover is continuous, and will remain at least 90% for at least the next week. The posthole track up the switchbacks is relatively rough and uneven, but almost exactly follows the trail route. Barebooting is fine at present, but with freeze-thaw cycles and compaction spikes (at least) will become increasingly useful. South Ridge Road (gate closed) is rapidly clearing of snow and the few remaining patches are very thin.

The 0.4 mile section of South Ridge Trail between Chinquapin Flat/PCT MIle 177 and Tahquitz Peak has no track to follow at this time [surveyed 18th March] through several feet of heavily drifted and angled ice and icy snow. This ice slope is notoriously treacherous. Neither snowshoes nor spikes are helpful at this time, due to the angled slope and structure of the snow, respectively. Crampons with an ice axe are essential on this section at this time, along with the necessary skills and experience to use that equipment in icy, angled terrain.

Spitler Peak Trail suffered badly during the ice storms in early February, and I found 34 new treefall hazards down during my surveys in late February, almost all in the upper half. Most are relatively small and readily passable, but a few are larger, and the combined effect is to make for a slower and scrappier hike.

PACIFIC CREST TRAIL

Current snow cover on the PCT is limited and rapidly melting from Miles 151 (Highway 74) to about 163. Underlying snow is then thin and patchy, largely confined to north- and east-facing slopes, until about Mile 174. Note that many of these patches are icy and require considerable caution. See comments below regarding specific conditions around Apache Peak (Mile 169.5). Snow cover is then functionally continuous between Miles 174-194. There are currently no reliable tracks to follow on Fuller Ridge (Miles 185.5-191) and traversing this section requires crampons, an ice axe, and appropriate snow skills (a track that was put in on 17th-18th March is probably largely covered in drifted snow at this time).

At this time, nobo hikers should strongly consider taking alternates at either Fobes Trail (Mile 166) or Spitler Peak Trail (Mile 168.5) to avoid the worst of the icy snow slopes from Miles 169-175. This situation will continue to change over the coming days and weeks with steady (or even rapid) melting expected in the remainder of March.

It is recommended that hikers use the Black Mountain Road alternate to avoid Fuller Ridge until the ice conditions improve (likely by the end of March). Black Mountain Road is open to hikers but not to vehicle traffic at this time. Spikes are useful (but not essential) on the upper three miles of Black Mountain Road.

A significant icy snow slope remains on the north-east side of Apache Peak (photo in prior Report linked here). At this time spikes at a minimum, but preferably crampons, plus an ice axe, and crucially the skills and experience to use this equipment on angled icy snow, are required to traverse this section. While one option for nobo hikers is to go up and over the saddle between the double peaks of Apache to avoid this traverse, there are further very icy chutes and slopes in the next few miles, especially at present around Red Tahquitz (Miles 174-175.5), some of which have proven to be equally problematic in past seasons. Alternates at Miles 166 and 168.5 are recommended, as mentioned above.

PCT hikers should not attempt to use South Ridge Trail from the PCT at Chinquapin Flat (roughly Mile 177.7) to Idyllwild via Tahquitz Peak, even though this looks temptingly simple on apps and maps. There are no steps to follow through a lengthy section of steeply angled (and notoriously treacherous) ice slopes. Crampons, always with an ice axe, and expert knowledge of how to use this equipment on high angle terrain, are critical. Even in low snow years like 2024 these slopes always take many weeks longer to clear of ice than adjacent areas, and they will remain challenging into April this year.

Although outside the region covered by the Trail Report (and my area of expertise) I understand that northbound hikers are experiencing significant problems due to storm damaged trail in the Mission Creek area of Miles 225-250. More details are available at this link.

SNOW DEPTHS measured on 16th March 2024 are as follows. The first number gives current average total depth. The number in parentheses gives new snow from the storm on 14th-15th March, while the number in brackets is the greatest depth at that location this winter (where known). Note that averages are given; due to strong winds during and after most storms there has been considerable drifting, plus often uneven melting. Altitudes and PCT mileages are approximate.

San Jacinto Peak (10810 ft): 45-46 inches (9 inches new snow 14th-15th March)[55-60 inches on 8th February]

Wellman Divide (9700 ft): 30-34 inches (12 inches new 14th-15th March) [41-43 inches on 8th February]

Annie’s Junction/approx. PCT Mile 181.8 (9070 ft): 45 inches (11 inches new on 14th-15th March)[48-50 inches on 8th February]

Long Valley (8400 ft): 8-12 inches (8 inches new 14th-15th March)[24 inches on 8th February]

Saddle Junction/PCT Mile 179.9 (8070 ft): 20 inches (10.5 inches new on 14th-15th March)[31 inches on 8th February]

Devil’s Slide Trail at Humber Park (6550 ft): 5-10 inches, already rapidly melting (9 inches new on 14th-15th March)[15 inches on 8th February]

Idyllwild (at 5550 ft): 0-2 inches, already largely melted (6 inches new on 14th-15th March)[9 inches on 8th February]

Mountain Center (4400 ft): 0 inches, melted (2 inches new on 14th-15th March)[3 inches on 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.

UPDATE Saturday 16th March 2024: This morning I broke trail to San Jacinto Peak from Devil’s Slide Trail. Snow depths are impressive, with 10.5 inches at Saddle Junction, 12 inches at Wellman Divide, and nine inches at the Peak. The light powder makes for great snowshoeing, but there is hard icy snow underneath. I hope to fully update the Report this evening.

UPDATE Friday 15th March 2024: A “surprise” snowstorm hit the San Jacinto mountains overnight, coming in, unusually, from the north-east. Idyllwild had 5.25 inches of fresh powder this morning, with about 7 inches in Long Valley (8400 ft), and a dusting of snow as low as 4000 ft near Anza. We hiked lower Devil’s Slide Trail early this morning, where there were 7 inches at Humber Park (6500 ft) and 8-9 inches at 7000 ft. Another check this afternoon found that two more inches had accumulated at Humber. It is some of the lightest powder I have ever experienced in these mountains, with an extremely low water content. To be fair the storm wasn’t a complete surprise, but the forecasts changed dramatically late yesterday, and even then percentage probabilities of precipitation remained low. Further light snow is likely this afternoon and evening. Snow depths are sufficient to have eliminated pre-existing tracks above 6000 ft. While snowshoes are now useful above about 6000 ft, underlying old snow remains very icy and crampons will be preferable in most areas. Humber Park closed again this morning to vehicle traffic.

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The most recent storm – remarkably our 21st of this winter, although almost all have been minor – was on 6th-7th March. A colder system than most this season, it distributed light snow quite evenly everywhere above about 5000 ft, with an inch in Idyllwild (which melted within a day) increasing to just three inches at San Jacinto Peak. Although tracks below 9000 ft remained largely visible, even such a thin covering of powder greatly complicated snow conditions underfoot by obscuring very hard, icy layers underneath (originating from widespread freezing rain in a prior storm a few days earlier). In gorgeous post-storm conditions on Thursday 7th March I recorded a short video discussion of the conditions at that time from San Jacinto Peak (available here).

Tracks remain dangerously icy in places under the thin fresh powder. On Monday 11th I saw widespread evidence of significant hiker falls from the previous day (example photos below). For at least the next week – until thawing is expected to be well underway – spikes at a minimum (preferably crampons in many locations) are strongly recommended everywhere above 7500 ft. Even well-known mid elevation trails can be tricky, for example some of the upper switchbacks on Devil’s Slide Trail (at 7700-7900 ft) had obvious signs of significant hiker falls from 8th-9th March.

Daily survey hikes in the San Jacinto mountains include various routes to San Jacinto Peak multiple times per week (most recently on 4th, 7th, 10th, and 11th March), Tahquitz Peak and area at least once per week (most recently on 12th March), Apache Peak area at least weekly (during PCT season), plus a wide variety of other trails on intervening days.

Snow conditions have become more predictable with cooler weather this week, especially above 7500 ft, in contrast to the soft snow of prior weeks. However hard, icy snow requires considerably more caution plus specialist equipment (and different physical and mental skillsets) than soft, postholing snow. Snow quality should remain largely stable at higher elevations this week with temperatures remaining cool on most days until about Sunday 17th March when a potent warming trend is forecast to start.

Details of recommended traction devices are given below under Trail Conditions. In summary, carrying spikes is recommended everywhere above about 6500 ft, even if using other traction devices as well. Crampons (in combination with an ice axe) are currently very useful everywhere in the high country above about 7500 ft over the next week as described above. Crampons are required on the north side of Tahquitz Peak (details below) and on Fuller Ridge. Snowshoes are generally not recommended for use on the established, compacted, icy tracks this week. They will become more useful above about 8000 ft elevation on warmer, sunnier days from late morning onwards as snow softens on sun-exposed slopes (i.e. from about 18th March onwards). They remain valuable for any off-trail travel above 8000 ft once snow softens, increasingly so in the warm weeks ahead (this week such areas generally require crampons).

Details of snow depths measured at various locations on the trail system are given at the foot of this posting. Note however that snow depth itself is very rarely indicative of the difficulty (or ease) of hiking a particular track or trail. For example a well-traveled and defined track across snow several feet deep is often much easier hiking than a lightly traveled track across just a few inches depth of angled icy snow. Many high country trails currently pose much greater risks this year (due to underlying ice) than they did at the same time in 2023 when snow depths were at least triple those of 2024.

Hikers should be prepared for temperatures below freezing at higher elevations, and well below freezing when considering wind chill effects. See Weather section below for some of my recent meteorological observations from San Jacinto Peak.

Black Mountain Road is closed to vehicle traffic due to winter conditions at the gate 1.7 miles up from Highway 243. The road is clear of snow until the turning to Boulder Basin five miles from the highway [surveyed 14th March]. Snow cover on the road averages about 70% from there for the next three miles to the PCT crossing/Fuller Ridge campground.

Humber Park reopened in Saturday 9th March having been closed since 31st January. South Ridge Road is closed due to winter conditions. Azalea Drive – access to Marion Mountain trailhead – is clear of snow. Dark Canyon Road has been closed almost continuously for the past five years.

WEATHER

The next few days will remain relatively cool at mid elevations, with chances for light precipitation especially on the western (marine) slope of the mountains every day, most likely on 15th-16th. The pattern in the high country may be more complex, generally above the “lifted marine layer” cloud with lower risk of precipitation (although a dusting of snow is forecast on both 15th and 16th). From 17th March onwards, all elevations are expected to experience a warming trend, although light drizzle remains a possibility at mid elevations every afternoon throughout next week.

At San Jacinto Peak (3295m/10,810ft) on Monday 11th March 2024 at 0850 the air temperature was 23.6°F (-5°C), with a windchill temperature of 4.8°F (-15°C), 55% relative humidity, and a stiff due West wind sustained at 19 mph gusting to 23.7 mph.

At the Peak on Sunday 10th March 2024 at 0905 the air temperature was 31.1°F (-0.5°C), with a windchill temperature of 18.1°F (-8°C), 10% relative humidity, and a steady SW wind sustained at 12 mph gusting to 15.5 mph.

At the Peak on Thursday 7th March 2024 at 1020 the air temperature was 17.8°F (-8°C), with a windchill temperature of 1.4°F (-17°C), 89% relative humidity, and a steady due North wind sustained at 9 mph gusting to 14.5 mph.

TRAIL CONDITIONS

There is increasingly patchy thin icy snow cover on all trails between 6400-7000 ft, becoming largely continuous above about 6800 ft (except on the most sun-exposed trails such as lower Deer Springs). Some of the warmest and most sun-exposed areas and trails as high as 8700 ft (e.g., Long Valley) are steadily clearing of snow, but the snow that remains tends to be very icy due to hiker compaction and freeze-thaw cycles.

Compacted tracks are now in place for some of the major trails (details below) however these are less distinct than last week due to drifting light powder in the minor storm last week. Snow depths measured at specific locations are given below.

Carrying spikes is strongly recommended everywhere above about 6500 ft. Icy compacted snow on the well-traveled trails is largely ideal for spikes at this time, although crampons are an excellent option until next week at least, especially above about 9000 ft.

Crampons are essential if attempting Fuller Ridge and the north side of Tahquitz Peak (discussed below) and are very useful everywhere in the high country especially for the relatively cool next week above 9000 ft (lower in shaded areas that will melt slowly, if at all, this week).

Snowshoes can be valuable everywhere above about 8000 ft elevation on warm days (most likely after about 17th March) and later in the day on sunny slopes. They are currently less useful on the established tracks which are well compacted. On the Peak Trail on 10th March I saw clear evidence of hikers struggling in snowshoes across the angled icy traverses (for which spikes or crampons were ideal). Snowshoes are recommended for any significant off-trail travel only away from the defined tracks in the high country, other than on cold mornings when all high elevation snow is currently very firm.

Some major tracks have been broken through the snow at this time including South Ridge Trail to Tahquitz Peak on the south side of the peak, Devil’s Slide Trail, onward via the PCT, Wellman and Peak trails to San Jacinto Peak, from Long and Round valleys up to Wellman Divide, Deer Springs Trail to Little Round Valley, and Marion Mountain Trail.

There are currently no tracks to follow on Fuller Ridge Trail and Seven Pines Trail.

Despite limited snow this season and being readily passable with the appropriate skills and equipment for angled icy snow (currently crampons plus ice axe recommended), the State Park closed the uppermost section of Skyline Trail in their jurisdiction (above about 5600 ft) starting 21st February due to perceived unsafe conditions.

Devil’s Slide Trail is largely clear of snow up to 6800 ft (switchback 3). Thereafter snow cover is largely continuous to 7500 ft, becoming continuous thereafter. The track is well-defined and compacted to about 7700 ft, at which point very icy conditions are treacherous around switchbacks 6-8 (for those who are very familiar with this trail). Spikes are ideal for this trail, some hikers will prefer crampons above 7700 ft. The Trail Report undertook extensive trail maintenance work on 15th February to remove many damaged tree limbs in and over the trail resulting from an early February ice storm.

Ernie Maxwell Trail [surveyed 11th March by Anne] is functionally clear of snow.

There are very lightly traveled tracks around the Tahquitz area meadows, but not generally accurately following the established trail routes. These have become somewhat obscured in the recent fresh snow. As of late February, a lightly-traveled mixed posthole/snowshoe track is in place on Willow Creek Trail as far as the “King Trail”, continuing from there down to Laws.

The Peak Trail track that I broke on 7th March has been heavily traveled and now quite accurately follows the true trail route. However near Miller Peak at about 10,400 ft the track ascends directly up the East Ridge route, rather than following the Peak Trail switchback, as is traditional in snow conditions.

Deer Springs Trail is functionally clear of snow up to the Suicide Rock junction (near 7000 ft), and then is largely clear of snow through to Strawberry Junction (8100 ft), with snow patches increasing in size and frequency near the junction. North from Strawberry Junction snow cover is largely continuous, with a few cleared patches starting to develop, and the PCT has a moderately traveled track through to the top of Marion Mountain Trail (8700 ft). Above Marion Mountain Trail, the boot track largely follows the PCT to the Fuller Ridge junction, but there are multiple meandering tracks in places.

Above the Fuller Ridge junction, there are multiple boot tracks, only occasionally and vaguely following the Deer Springs Trail route up to Little Round Valley, but they will get you there. There is a reasonable track to follow through Little Round Valley, but on the ascent above the valley to San Jacinto Peak the handful of boot tracks going directly upslope are obscure and none even remotely follow the trail. Following any given route is made much harder by the large volume of ice chunks on the slope that have fallen from trees, often obscuring tracks.

Marion Mountain Trail has a compacted track to follow up to Deer Springs Trail, ideal for spikes. Snow is becoming very patchy in the first mile up to about 7000 ft, but is largely continuous thereafter. Although the track does not accurately follow the trail route in a few minor places, it gets you up to the Deer Springs Trail junction directly.

The 0.4 mile section of South Ridge Trail between Chinquapin Flat/PCT MIle 177 and Tahquitz Peak has no track to follow at this time through 2-5 feet of heavily drifted and angled ice and icy snow. This ice slope is notoriously treacherous. Neither snowshoes nor spikes are helpful at this time, due to the angled slope and structure of the snow, respectively. Crampons with an ice axe are essential on this section at this time, along with the necessary skills and experience to use that equipment in icy, angled terrain.

South Ridge Trail above South Ridge Road is almost clear of snow to Old Lookout Flat at 7600 ft, with just a handful of small icy patches remaining (no spikes required to that point). Unfortunately three new treefall hazards are down on that section. Snow cover averages 80% thereafter to Tahquitz Peak, becoming continuous in the upper switchbacks. The angled snow is very icy above 8300 ft with a very poorly defined track, requiring an ice axe with spikes (for the most experienced) or crampons (recommended for most hikers).

Spitler Peak Trail is clear of snow, however it suffered badly during the ice storms in early February, and I found 34 new treefall hazards down during my surveys in late February, almost all in the upper half. Most are relatively small and readily passable, but a few are larger, and the combined effect is to make for a slower and scrappier hike.

Fobes Trail is clear of snow. There is one major stump down and half-a-dozen new minor treefall hazards, but none are significant obstructions for hikers.

PACIFIC CREST TRAIL

Current snow cover on the PCT is minimal from Miles 151 (Highway 74) to about 163. Snow is then thin and patchy, largely confined to north- and east-facing slopes, until about Mile 174. Note that many of these patches are icy and require considerable caution. See comments below regarding specific conditions around Apache Peak (Mile 169.5). Snow cover is then functionally continuous between Miles 174-194. There are currently no reliable tracks to follow on Fuller Ridge (Miles 185.5-191) and traversing this section requires crampons, an ice axe, and appropriate snow skills.

At this time, nobo hikers should consider taking alternates at either Fobes Trail (Mile 166) or Spitler Peak Trail (Mile 168.5) to avoid the worst of the icy snow slopes from Miles 169-175. This situation will continue to change over the coming days and weeks with steady (or even rapid) melting expected into late March (at least).

It is recommended that hikers use the Black Mountain Road alternate to avoid Fuller Ridge until the ice conditions improve (likely in the next week or two). Black Mountain Road is open to hikers but not to vehicle traffic at this time. Spikes are useful (but not essential) on the upper three miles of Black Mountain Road.

A significant icy snow slope remains on the north-east side of Apache Peak (photo in prior Report linked here). At this time spikes at a minimum, but preferably crampons, plus an ice axe, and crucially the skills and experience to use this equipment on angled icy snow, are required to traverse this section. While one option for nobo hikers is to go up and over the saddle between the double peaks of Apache to avoid this traverse, there are further very icy chutes and slopes in the next few miles, especially at present around Red Tahquitz (Miles 174-175.5), some of which have proven to be equally problematic in past seasons. Alternates at Miles 166 and 168.5 are recommended, as mentioned above.

PCT hikers should not attempt to use South Ridge Trail from the PCT at Chinquapin Flat (roughly Mile 177.7) to Idyllwild via Tahquitz Peak, even though this looks temptingly simple on apps and maps. There are no steps to follow through a lengthy section of steeply angled (and notoriously treacherous) ice slopes. Crampons, always with an ice axe, and expert knowledge of how to use this equipment on high angle terrain, are critical. Even in low snow years like 2024 these slopes always take many weeks longer to clear of ice than adjacent areas, and they will remain challenging into April this year.

SNOW DEPTHS measured on 10th and 11th March 2024 are as follows. The first number gives current average total depth. The number in parentheses gives new snow from the storm on 6th-7th March (measured on 7th), while the number in brackets is the greatest depth at that location this winter (where known). Note that averages are given; due to strong winds during and after most storms there has been considerable drifting, plus often uneven melting. Altitudes and PCT mileages are approximate.

San Jacinto Peak (10810 ft): 36-38 inches (3.0 inches new snow 6th-7th March)[55-60 inches on 8th February]

Little Round Valley (9800 ft): 32-36 inches

Wellman Divide (9700 ft): 26 inches (2.5 inches new 6th-7th March) [41-43 inches on 8th February]

Annie’s Junction/approx. PCT Mile 181.8 (9070 ft): 36 inches (4.0 inches new on 6th-7th March)[48-50 inches on 8th February]

Long Valley (8400 ft): 2-5 inches, ranging from 0-10 (1.0 inch new 6th-7th March)[24 inches on 8th February]

Strawberry Junction/PCT Mile 183 (8100 ft): 4 inches, ranging from 0-10 (2 inches new 6th-7th March)

Saddle Junction/PCT Mile 179.9 (8070 ft): 11 inches (1.5 inches new on 6th-7th March)[31 inches on 8th February]

Devil’s Slide Trail at Humber Park (6550 ft): 0-1 inch (1.5 inches new on 6th-7th March)[15 inches on 8th February]

Idyllwild (at 5550 ft): 0 inch (1.0 inch new on 6th-7th March)[9 inches on 8th February]

Mountain Center (4400 ft): 0 inch (no new snow 6th-7th March)[3 inches on 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.

UPDATE Thursday 7th March 2024 at 1530: Following yet another minor storm overnight, I broke trail through light snow from Humber Park to San Jacinto Peak this morning and have uploaded a short video discussion from there (linked here), where there were three inches of fresh snow. Most snow fell in the early hours of this morning, at least on the western slope, with one inch in Idyllwild (now melted), 1.5 inches at Humber Park (largely melted), 3.5 inches at Saddle Junction, four inches at 9000 ft, but only 2.5 inches at Wellman Divide. Existing tracks were largely visible below 9000 ft, and this should be true throughout the mountains. Tracks are dangerously icy in places under the thin fresh powder. For at least the next 24-48 hours until thawing is well underway, crampons are strongly recommended (or spikes at a minimum) everywhere above 7500 ft. Tracks above 9000 ft have been largely erased by drifting snow. I put in a reliable track on the Wellman, Peak and East Ridge trail routes this morning, but saw no other tracks on any other trails today. I will not be doing a full update until next week as melting will be very rapid in the next few days, and conditions will soon revert to those described in the Report below. Humber Park reopens on Saturday 9th March.

UPDATE Wednesday 6th March 2024 at 1830: Contrary to forecasts – that had predicted rain initially at mid elevations – it abruptly started snowing across the San Jacinto mountains this afternoon, starting at 1540 in Idyllwild. Although heavy at times, it has struggled to settle, with a patchy 0.25 inch accumulating in Idyllwild in three hours, and about the same at 8600 ft in Long Valley. More is expected over the next 2-3 hours, before tailing off, with now less than an inch total expected at mid elevations, and only 1-2 inches in the high country.

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In keeping with the theme of this winter – in which many storms have frustratingly passed by the San Jacinto mountains to the north or west – the latest storm system on 2nd-3rd March produced moderate rain at mid elevations rather than the very heavy snowfall widely reported further north. Conditions in the upper atmosphere were such that the San Jacinto high country remained largely above the cloud, with no significant new snow added. Idyllwild (at 5550 ft) received 1.31 inches of rain over the two day period.

Most striking on our hike up South Ridge Trail yesterday and to San Jacinto Peak this morning was how everything below 9800 ft was plastered with ice from freezing rain (see photos below). The clear ice indicative of rain transitioned between 9000-10,000 ft into rime ice (formed by supercooled water droplets in clouds) (visible in the Peak photo near the foot of this posting).

Daily survey hikes in the San Jacinto mountains include various routes to San Jacinto Peak multiple times per week (most recently on 26th and 29th February, and 4th March), Tahquitz Peak and area at least once per week (most recently on 3rd March), Apache Peak area at least weekly at this time of year (most recently on 25th February), plus a wide variety of other trails on intervening days.

Snow conditions have improved with cooler weather this week, especially above 7500 ft, in contrast to the soft, unpredictable snow of last week. However hard, icy snow requires considerably more caution (and a different skill set) than soft, postholing snow. Snow quality should stabilize with temperatures remaining cool until about Saturday 9th March when a spring-like warming trend is expected.

Both the ice and strong winds associated with the storm have significantly hardened tracks, and consequently for the next 24-48 hours (at least) until thawing is well underway, spikes at a minimum, but preferably crampons, are recommended everywhere above 7000 ft.

Details of recommended traction devices are given below under Trail Conditions. In summary, carrying spikes is recommended everywhere above about 6500 ft, even if using other traction devices as well. Crampons are currently useful everywhere in the high country above about 7500 ft (possibly lower) over the next week as the pre-existing snow firms up in colder temperatures and following both freeze-thaw cycles and compaction. Crampons are required on the north side of Tahquitz Peak (details below). Snowshoes can be useful above about 8000 ft elevation, especially on warmer, sunnier days (i.e. from 9th March onwards), and from late morning as snow softens on sun-exposed slopes. They will be invaluable for any off-trail travel above 8000 ft once snow softens (currently such areas generally require crampons).

Details of snow depths measured at various locations on the trail system are given at the foot of this posting. Note however that snow depth itself is very rarely indicative of the difficulty (or ease) of hiking a particular track or trail. For example a firm, well-defined track across snow several feet deep is often much easier hiking than a lightly traveled track across just a few inches depth of angled icy snow.

Light precipitation is forecast for 6th-7th March. It is tentatively forecast to be another relatively mild system, with rain in the afternoon/evening of both Wednesday 6th and Thursday 7th. Currently 2-6 inches of snow are possible at the uppermost elevations.

Temperatures will be relatively cool for the first week or so of March. Hikers should be prepared for temperatures below freezing at higher elevations, and well below freezing when considering wind chill effects. See Weather section for some of my recent observations from San Jacinto Peak.

Humber Park closed on 31st January but is expected to reopen Saturday 9th March (per USFS). 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 – is clear of snow. Dark Canyon Road has been closed almost continuously for the past five years.

Despite limited snow this season and being readily passable with the appropriate skills and equipment for angled icy snow (currently crampons and ice axe), the State Park closed the uppermost section of Skyline Trail in their jurisdiction (above about 5600 ft) starting 21st February due to perceived unsafe conditions.

WEATHER

Temperatures remain below seasonal this week and then drop further when the next storm comes through on 6th-7th March. This system is again forecast to be very minor, with light rain expected throughout the mid elevations and the possibility of very light snow above about 5500 ft. Upper elevations may receive 2-6 inches of snow. The precipitation is expected in two waves, mainly on Wednesday evening, and then Thursday afternoon.

Temperatures then rise abruptly to above seasonal starting Friday 8th March, and are forecast to be spring-like for the middle two weeks of March. Air temperatures above 10,000 ft may be near or above freezing day and night, resulting in rapid melting and significant deterioration in snow conditions.

At San Jacinto Peak (3295m/10,810ft) on Thursday 7th March 2024 at 1020 the air temperature was 17.8°F (-8°C), with a windchill temperature of 1.4°F (-17°C), 89% relative humidity, and a steady due North wind sustained at 9 mph gusting to 14.5 mph.

At the Peak on Monday 4th March 2024 at 0830 the air temperature was 23.3°F (-5°C), with a windchill temperature of 5.7°F (-15°C), 67% relative humidity, and a brisk NW wind sustained at 12 mph gusting to 23.7 mph.

At the Peak on Thursday 29th February 2024 at 0830 the air temperature was 24.4°F (-4°C), with a windchill temperature of 7.9°F (-13°C), 38% relative humidity, and a steady WSW wind sustained at 15 mph gusting to 19.5 mph.

TRAIL CONDITIONS

There is increasingly patchy light snow cover on all trails between 6400-7000 ft, becoming largely continuous above about 6800 ft (except on the most sun-exposed trails such as lower Deer Springs) and then continuous everywhere and significantly deeper above about 7900 ft. Compacted tracks are now in place for most of the major trails (details below) however these are less distinct that last week due to drifting snow in strong winds at the weekend, and rain heavily icing the tracks. Snow depths measured at specific locations are given below.

Carrying spikes is recommended everywhere above about 7000 ft. The well-traveled trails are largely ideal for spikes at this time, although crampons are an excellent option until late morning at least, especially above about 9000 ft. It is possible for hikers with exceptional experience on angled icy snow to ascend above 9500 ft using only spikes (in conjunction with an ice axe), but crampons are the recommended option for most hikers.

Crampons are required on the north side of Tahquitz Peak (discussed below) and are now increasingly useful everywhere in the high country – especially for the relatively cool next 5-6 days – following freezing rain and as the snow undergoes freeze-thaw cycles and further compaction.

Snowshoes can be valuable everywhere above about 8000 ft elevation on warm days (i.e. starting 8th-9th March) and later in the day on sunny slopes. They are currently less useful on the established tracks which are well compacted, but that may change if new snowfall is sufficiently deep and/or warmer, sunnier weather. Snowshoes are recommended for any significant off-trail travel away from the defined tracks in the high country, other than on cold mornings when all high elevation snow is currently very firm.

Tracks known to be broken through the snow at this time include South Ridge Trail to Tahquitz Peak on the south side of the peak, Devil’s Slide Trail, onward via the PCT, Wellman and Peak trails to San Jacinto Peak, from Long and Round valleys up to Wellman Divide, Deer Springs Trail, and Marion Mountain Trail. There are currently no reliable tracks on Fuller Ridge Trail and Seven Pines Trail.

Devil’s Slide Trail is now clear of snow up to 6800 ft (switchback 3). Thereafter snow cover is largely continuous, with a well-defined, compacted track, best for either barebooting or for spikes all day. The Trail Report undertook extensive trail maintenance work on 15th February to remove many damaged tree limbs in and over the trail resulting from an early February ice storm.

Ernie Maxwell Trail is now functionally clear of snow, with just a handful of tiny patches remaining close to Humber Park.

There are very lightly traveled snowshoe tracks around the Tahquitz area meadows, but not generally accurately following the established trail routes. These have become somewhat obscured in the recent fresh snow. As of 29th February, a mixed posthole/snowshoe track is in place on Willow Creek Trail as far as the “King Trail”, continuing from there down to Laws.

The Peak Trail track now quite accurately follows the true trail route. However near Miller Peak at about 10,400 ft the track ascends directly up the East Ridge route, rather than following the Peak Trail switchback, as is traditional in snow conditions. Following strong winds on 2nd-3rd March, and rime ice fall under trees, the track is partly obscured in places and good route-finding skills are required.

Deer Springs Trail is functionally clear of snow up to the Suicide Rock junction (near 7000 ft). For the next 0.5 mile snow cover is about 40%, and then abruptly becomes about 90% snow covered above 7400 ft through to Strawberry Junction. This section has not been heavily traveled, so there is no well-compacted route but rather a postholed track through – on warm days and most afternoons – soft and locally deep snow on this largely sun-exposed slope. North from Strawberry Junction, the PCT initially has a lightly traveled posthole track, but after a mile most tracks disappear and only a barely traveled posthole track continues through to the top of Marion Mountain Trail (8700 ft).

Above Marion Mountain Trail, there is a well-traveled and compacted track mixing snowshoe, crampon, and spike tracks, and this solid track is currently ideal for spikes and/or crampons. The route largely follows the PCT to the Fuller Ridge junction. Thereafter the track only vaguely follows the Deer Springs Trail route up to Little Round Valley, but it gets you there. Above Little Round Valley the diminishing number of tracks fragments into a mess of at least half-a-dozen routes, none of which remotely follow the trail and all of which head more-or-less directly upslope (as is traditional in decent snow conditions).

Marion Mountain Trail has a compacted track to follow up to Deer Springs Trail, ideal for spikes. Snow is becoming very patchy in the first mile up to about 7000 ft, but is largely continuous thereafter. Although the track does not accurately follow the trail route in a few minor places, but again, it gets you up to the Deer Springs Trail junction.

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.

South Ridge Trail above South Ridge Road has only about 20% icy snow cover to Old Lookout Flat at 7600 ft. Unfortunately four new treefall hazards are down on that section. Snow cover is largely continuous thereafter to Tahquitz Peak. The angled snow is very icy above 8400 ft with a poorly defined track, requiring an ice axe with spikes (for the most experienced) or crampons (recommended for most hikers).

Spitler Peak Trail is clear of snow, however it suffered badly during the ice storms in early February, and I found 34 new treefall hazards down during my survey on 25th February, almost all in the upper half. Most are relatively small and readily passable, but a few are larger, and the combined effect is to make for a slower and scrappier hike.

Fobes Trail [surveyed 28th February] is completely clear of snow. There is one major stump down and half-a-dozen new minor treefall hazards, but none are significant obstructions for hikers.

Current snow cover on the PCT is minimal from Miles 151 (Highway 74) to about 163. Snow is then thin and patchy, largely confined to north- and east-facing slopes, until about Mile 174. See comments below regarding specific conditions around Apache Peak (Mile 169.5). Snow cover is then functionally continuous between Miles 174-194. There are currently no reliable tracks on Fuller Ridge (Miles 185.5-191). At this time, nobo hikers should consider taking alternates at either Fobes Trail (Mile 166) or Spitler Peak Trail (Mile 168.5) to avoid the worst of the icy snow slopes from Miles 169-175. This situation will continue to change over the coming days and weeks with a sequence of melting periods and minor storms alternating into mid March (at least).

A significant icy snow slope remains on the north-east side of Apache Peak (photo below). At this time spikes at a minimum, but preferably crampons, plus an ice axe, and crucially the skills and experience to use this equipment on angled icy snow, are required to traverse this section. While one option for nobo hikers is to go up and over the saddle between the double peaks of Apache to avoid this traverse, there are further very icy chutes and slopes in the next few miles, especially at present around Red Tahquitz (Miles 174-175.5), some of which have proven to be equally problematic in past seasons. Alternates at Miles 166 and 168.5 are recommended, as mentioned above.

PCT hikers should not attempt to use South Ridge Trail from the PCT at Chinquapin Flat (roughly Mile 177.7) to Idyllwild via Tahquitz Peak, even though this looks temptingly simple on apps and maps. There are no steps to follow through a lengthy section of steeply angled (and notoriously treacherous) ice slopes. Crampons, always with an ice axe, and expert knowledge of how to use this equipment on high angle terrain, are critical. Even in low snow years like 2024 these slopes always take many weeks longer to clear of ice than adjacent areas, and they are likely to remain treacherous into April this year.

SNOW DEPTHS measured on 4th March 2024 are as follows. The first number gives current average total depth. Reductions in totals since the last Report are due to melting and compaction. The number in parentheses gives the greatest depth at that location this winter (where known). Note that averages are given; due to strong winds accompanying most storms this winter there has been considerable drifting, plus considerable uneven melting. Altitudes and PCT mileages are approximate.

San Jacinto Peak (10810 ft): 38-40 inches (was 55-60 inches on 8th February)

Little Round Valley (9800 ft): 32-36 inches

Wellman Divide (9700 ft): 26-28 inches (was 41-43 inches on 8th February)

Annie’s Junction/approx. PCT Mile 181.8 (9070 ft): 36 inches (was 48-50 inches on 8th February)

Long Valley (8600 ft): 8 inches (was 24 inches on 8th February)

Strawberry Junction/PCT Mile 183 (8100 ft): 6 inches, ranging from 0-12.

Saddle Junction/PCT Mile 179.9 (8070 ft): 10 inches (was 31 inches on 8th February)

Devil’s Slide Trail at Humber Park (6550 ft): 0 inches (was 15 inches on 8th February)

Idyllwild (at 5550 ft): 0 inch (was 9 inches on 8th February)

Mountain Center (4400 ft): 0 inch (was 3 inches on 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.

UPDATE 3rd March 2024 at 1115: most striking on our hike up South Ridge Trail to Tahquitz Peak this morning was how icy everything was, plastered with freezing rain, even dirt sections of trail. For the next 24-48 hours until thawing is well underway, spikes at a minimum, but preferably crampons, are recommended everywhere above 6500 ft. While it continues to drizzle in Idyllwild, it is dry above 7000 ft (albeit very windy), and sunny above about 8500 ft. Storm total for Idyllwild is currently 1.19 inches of rain. No significant snow accumulation is now forecast at any elevation.

UPDATE 2nd March 2024 at 1715: a mix of rain and drizzle overnight continued throughout Saturday at mid elevations, with 0.95 inch of rain in Idyllwild by 1700, and multiple locations on the west and north slopes between 3800-6800 ft elevation ranging from 0.5-1.0 inch. This has not translated into significant new snow in the high country however, where it was largely sunny on Saturday with the cloud top around 9000 ft on the west slope, and patchy around 8500 ft on the east side.

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This winter has seen storm after storm, but with 14 of the 18 systems being minor (<6 inches of snow above 10,000 ft), snow depths are poor for late February. This is especially notable below 7000 ft, as many of the storms have been warm, with high freeze levels and consequently rain (rather than snow) at mid elevations. By 20th January, we were on target for the driest winter in the San Jacinto mountains in recorded history. Although such a disastrous season has been avoided with some solid precipitation in late January and the first half of February, it remains a well-below-average winter, with snowfall in Idyllwild only about 55% of seasonal so far, and high country snowfall only 40-50%.

Daily survey hikes in the San Jacinto mountains include various routes to San Jacinto Peak multiple times per week (most recently on 21st, 26th, and 29th February), Tahquitz Peak and area at least once per week (most recently on 3rd February), Apache Peak area at least weekly at this time of year (most recently on 25th February), plus a wide variety of other trails on intervening days. The 18th storm of winter 2023/24 last week was described in detail in the previous Report (available here).

On 26th and 29th February I ascended San Jacinto Peak via Devil’s Slide, PCT, Wellman and Peak trails, descending via Deer Springs Trail on 26th. On both days I was able to use spikes all the way to San Jacinto Peak and back down to about 7500 ft, with snow quality having improved significantly this week.

Under cloudy skies, I had a few snowflakes in the air around me three brief times on 26th, but as forecast the minor storm passed by just to the north (see photo below). Rainfall in Idyllwild was 0.43 inch (at 5550 ft) by the early morning of Tuesday 27th February, but there was no significant new snowfall in the high country, with evidence of freezing rain all the way to San Jacinto Peak visible on 29th.

Snow conditions have greatly improved with cooler weather this week, especially above 7500 ft, in contrast to the soft, unpredictable snow of last week. Snow quality should stabilize with temperatures cooling on average, until about Saturday 9th March when a spring-like warming trend is expected. On Thursday 29th it was striking that reliable, hard, icy snow in the morning was already softening rapidly by 0900 on my descent, and below 9000 ft snow conditions were deteriorating steadily late morning. Even under cloudy skies lightly traveled sections below 8000 ft (e.g., Deer Springs Trail below Strawberry Junction) can be soft and challenging underfoot by mid morning.

Details of recommended traction devices are given below under Trail Conditions. In summary, carrying spikes is recommended everywhere above about 6500 ft, even if using other traction devices as well. Crampons are increasingly useful everywhere in the high country above about 8500 ft (possibly lower) over the next week or two as the pre-existing snow firms up in colder temperatures and following both freeze-thaw cycles and compaction. Crampons are required on the north side of Tahquitz Peak (details below). Snowshoes can be useful above about 8000 ft elevation, especially on warmer, sunnier days, and from late morning onwards as snow softens on sun-exposed slopes. They are generally invaluable for any off-trail travel above 8000 ft.

The next storm system is forecast for 2nd-3rd March. It is tentatively forecast to be colder than other recent storms, with light snow possibly as low as 4000 ft and some rain mixed with 1-3 inches of snow at the elevation of Idyllwild. High country forecasts have ranged from 0-12 inches of snow, now with an increasing likelihood that upper elevations may be above the cloud altogether. Another system may bring light precipitation around 5th-7th March, with a few inches of snow at most in the high country and limited light rain likely at mid elevations.

Temperatures will be relatively cold for the first week or so of March, near seasonal (in the high country) or below seasonal (mid elevations). Hikers should be prepared for temperatures below freezing at higher elevations, and well below freezing when considering wind chill effects. See under Weather below for my recent observations from San Jacinto Peak.

Be bear aware. Although rarely reported, up to three Black Bears have been in the San Jacinto mountains since 2017. I crossed bear tracks at 9100 ft on the PCT on 12th February 2024 (photo in the previous Report linked here). While Southern California studies have found that hibernation is integral to gestation for pregnant female bears, adult males and younger bears of both sexes generally don’t hibernate this far south. I have seen at least one bear annually for six years, most recently in September 2023 on Marion Mountain Trail, and on Devil’s Slide Trail in July 2022 and September 2021 (a poor quality video from the latter observation is available here).

Humber Park closed on 31st January and remained closed as of Thursday 29th February, even though it is now functionally clear of snow. 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.

Despite shallow snow this season (<18 inches) and being readily passable with the appropriate skills and equipment for angled icy snow, the State Park closed the uppermost section of Skyline Trail in their jurisdiction (above about 5600 ft) starting 21st February due to perceived unsafe conditions.

WEATHER

Temperatures rise briefly before the next storm comes through on 2nd-3rd March. This system is forecast to be colder than most recent storms, with a freeze level as low as 4500 ft, with light snow expected throughout the mid elevations (possibly 1-2 inches in Idyllwild). Upper elevations may be above the cloud, or may receive light snow, and forecasts have ranged from 0-12 inches for high country snowfall (most recently at the lower end of that range). Another minor storm is tentatively forecast for 5th-7th March, before temperatures rise to above seasonal yet again from 9th March.

At San Jacinto Peak (3295m/10,810ft) on Thursday 29th February 2024 at 0830 the air temperature was 24.4°F (-4°C), with a windchill temperature of 7.9°F (-13°C), 38% relative humidity, and a steady WSW wind sustained at 15 mph gusting to 19.5 mph.

At the Peak on Monday 26th February 2024 at 0840 the air temperature was 28.6°F (-2°C), with a windchill temperature of 12.2°F (-11°C), 89% relative humidity, and a sharp due West wind sustained at 13 mph gusting to 23.0 mph.

At the Peak on Wednesday 21st February 2024 at 1205 the air temperature was 23.3°F (-5°C), with a windchill temperature of 3.2°F (-16°C), 100% relative humidity, and a bitter WSW wind sustained at 14 mph occasionally gusting to 24.4 mph.

TRAIL CONDITIONS

There is increasingly patchy light snow cover on all trails between 6000-6800 ft, becoming continuous above about 6800 ft (except on the most sun-exposed trails such as lower Deer Springs) but continuous everywhere and significantly deeper above about 7500 ft. Excellent well-traveled and compacted tracks are now in place for most of the major trails (details below). Snow depths measured at specific locations are given below.

Carrying spikes is recommended everywhere above about 7000 ft. The well-traveled trails are largely ideal for spikes at this time, although crampons are an excellent option until mid morning at least, especially above about 9000 ft.

Crampons are required on the north side of Tahquitz Peak (discussed below) and are becoming increasingly useful everywhere in the high country – especially for the relatively cool next week or two – as the snow undergoes freeze-thaw cycles and compaction.

Snowshoes can be valuable everywhere above about 8000 ft elevation on warm days and later in the day on sunny slopes. They are currently less useful on the established tracks which are well compacted, but that may change with new snowfall and/or warmer, sunnier weather. Snowshoes are recommended for any significant off-trail travel away from the defined tracks in the high country, other than on cold early mornings when all high elevation snow is firm.

Tracks known to be broken through the snow at this time are the Ernie Maxwell Trail, South Ridge Trail to Tahquitz Peak on the south side of the peak, Devil’s Slide Trail, onward via the PCT, Wellman and Peak trails to San Jacinto Peak, from Long and Round valleys up to Wellman Divide, Deer Springs Trail, and Marion Mountain Trail. As of 26th February there were no reliable tracks on Fuller Ridge Trail and Seven Pines Trail.

Devil’s Slide Trail is now clear of snow up to 6800 ft (switchback 3). Thereafter snow cover is largely continuous, with a well-defined, compacted track, best for either barebooting or for spikes all day. The Trail Report undertook extensive trail maintenance work on 15th February to remove many damaged tree limbs in and over the trail resulting from an early February ice storm.

Ernie Maxwell Trail [surveyed 27th February] is now functionally clear of snow, with just a handful of tiny patches remaining close to Humber Park.

There are very lightly traveled snowshoe tracks around the Tahquitz area meadows, but not generally accurately following the established trail routes. These have become somewhat obscured in the recent fresh snow. As of 29th February, a mixed posthole/snowshoe track is in place on Willow Creek Trail as far as the “King Trail”, continuing from there down to Laws.

The Peak Trail track now quite accurately follows the true trail route. However near Miller Peak at about 10,400 ft the track ascends directly up the East Ridge route, rather than following the Peak Trail switchback, as is traditional in snow conditions. Following the freezing rain on 27th, and subsequent ice fall, the track is partly obscured by ice above 10,350 ft, and good route-finding skills are required.

Deer Springs Trail is largely clear of snow up to the Suicide Rock junction (near 7000 ft). For the next 0.5 mile snow cover is about 50%, and then abruptly becomes 90% snow covered above about 7300 ft through to Strawberry Junction. This section has not been heavily traveled, so there is no compacted route but rather a heavily postholed track through soft and locally deep snow on this largely sun-exposed slope (not very pleasant). North from Strawberry Junction, the PCT initially has a lightly traveled posthole track, but after a mile most tracks disappear and only a barely traveled posthole track continues through to the top of Marion Mountain Trail (8700 ft).

Above Marion Mountain Trail, there is a well-traveled and compacted track mixing snowshoe, crampon, and spike tracks, and this solid track is ideal for spikes. The route largely follows the PCT to the Fuller Ridge junction. Thereafter the track only vaguely follows the Deer Springs Trail route up to Little Round Valley, but it gets you there. Above Little Round Valley the diminishing number of tracks fragments into a mess of at least half-a-dozen routes, none of which remotely follow the trail and all of which head more-or-less directly upslope (as is traditional in decent snow conditions).

Marion Mountain Trail has an excellent compacted track to follow up to Deer Springs Trail, ideal for spikes. Snow is becoming patchy in the first mile up to about 7000 ft, but is continuous thereafter. Although the track does not accurately follow the trail route in a few minor places, but again, it gets you up to the Deer Springs Trail junction.

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.

Spitler Peak Trail is clear of snow, however it suffered badly during the ice storms in early February, and I found 34 new treefall hazards down during my survey on 25th February, almost all in the upper half. Most are relatively small and readily passable, but a few are larger, and the combined effect is to make for a slower and scrappier hike.

Fobes Trail [surveyed 28th February] is completely clear of snow. There is one major stump down and half-a-dozen new minor treefall hazards, but none are significant obstructions for hikers.

Current snow cover on the PCT is minimal from Miles 151 (Highway 74) to about 163. Snow is then thin and patchy, largely confined to north- and east-facing slopes, until about Mile 174. See comments below regarding specific conditions around Apache Peak (Mile 169.5). Snow cover is then functionally continuous between Miles 174-194. There are currently no reliable tracks on Fuller Ridge (Miles 185.5-191). At this time, nobo hikers should consider taking alternates at either Fobes Trail (Mile 166) or Spitler Peak Trail (Mile 168.5) to avoid the worst of the icy snow slopes from Miles 169-175. This situation will continue to change over the coming days and weeks with a sequence of melting periods and minor storms alternating into mid March (at least).

A significant icy snow slope remains on the north-east side of Apache Peak (photo below). At this time spikes at a minimum, but preferably crampons, plus an ice axe, and crucially the skills and experience to use this equipment on angled icy snow, are required to traverse this section. While one option for nobo hikers is to go up and over the saddle between double peaks of Apache to avoid this traverse, there are further significant icy chutes and slopes in the next few miles, especially at present around Red Tahquitz (Miles 174-175.5), some of which have proven to be equally problematic in past seasons. Alternates at Miles 166 and 168.5 are recommended as mentioned above.

PCT hikers should not attempt to use South Ridge Trail from the PCT at Chinquapin Flat (roughly Mile 177.7) to Idyllwild via Tahquitz Peak, even though this looks temptingly simple on apps and maps. There are no steps to follow through a lengthy section of steeply angled (and notoriously treacherous) ice slopes. Crampons, always with an ice axe, and expert knowledge of how to use this equipment on high angle terrain, are critical. Even in low snow years like 2024 these slopes always take many weeks longer to clear of ice than adjacent areas, and they are likely to remain treacherous into April this year.

SNOW DEPTHS measured on 26th February 2024 are as follows. The first number gives current average total depth. Reductions in totals since the last Report are due to melting and compaction. The number in parentheses gives the greatest depth at that location this winter (where known). Note that averages are given; due to strong winds accompanying most storms this winter there has been considerable drifting, plus considerable uneven melting. Altitudes and PCT mileages are approximate.

San Jacinto Peak (10810 ft): 44 inches (was 55-60 inches on 8th February)

Little Round Valley (9800 ft): 36-40 inches

Wellman Divide (9700 ft): 28 inches (was 41-43 inches on 8th February)

Annie’s Junction/approx. PCT Mile 181.8 (9070 ft): 36-38 inches (was 48-50 inches on 8th February)

Long Valley (8600 ft): 10-12 inches (was 24 inches on 8th February)

Strawberry Junction/PCT Mile 183 (8100 ft): 8 inches, ranging from 0-12.

Saddle Junction/PCT Mile 179.9 (8070 ft): 11-12 inches (was 31 inches on 8th February)

Devil’s Slide Trail at Humber Park (6550 ft): 0-4 inches (was 15 inches on 8th February)

Idyllwild (at 5550 ft): 0 inch (was 9 inches on 8th February)

Mountain Center (4400 ft): 0 inch (was 3 inches on 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.

This is a summary of conditions following the 18th storm (but 14th minor storm) of winter 2023/24 to impact our region. In keeping with the theme of this winter, most precipitation passed just to the west of the San Jacinto mountains, and a storm system that could have produced feet of snow ultimately disappointed with only three inches at San Jacinto Peak and less than an inch below 7500 ft.

At mid elevations it rained steadily throughout the morning of Tuesday 20th (0.78 inch in Idyllwild) before the storm track shifted just a few miles west again and Tuesday afternoon was largely dry. In the early hours of the storm it rained all the way to San Jacinto Peak, judging by the freezing rain plastered on all the vegetation in the high country. It cooled enough to turn to snow above 8000 ft by late morning Tuesday, but with no significant accumulation until after dark.

In the early hours of Wednesday 21st the freeze level fell to about 7000 ft and consequently it dusted (<0.25 inch) down to 6600 ft just above Humber Park, but with no significant snow accumulation below about 7500 ft.

On Wednesday 21st I ascended San Jacinto Peak via Devil’s Slide, PCT, Wellman and Peak trails. Despite carrying spikes and snowshoes, I was able to bareboot all the way to San Jacinto Peak, despite generally poor quality, soft, warm snow, especially below 9000 ft. The minimal depth of new snow meant that snowshoe and posthole tracks from the past couple of weeks remained largely visible. Much of the ascent was in patchy sunshine, but the clouds rolled in again as I neared the Peak late morning, and then it lightly snowed on me for the rest of the day until I was on lower Devil’s Slide Trail (although with almost no measurable new accumulation since I had ascended many hours earlier).

I recorded a short(ish) video report at San Jacinto Peak at noon on Wednesday 21st February (available here) that discusses conditions at that time.

The storm sequence on 4th-9th February (described in detail in a prior Report here) has been the only major one of this winter to date, and along with three moderate storm between 20th January and 2nd February, accounts for almost all of the snow depth currently on the mountains at this time.

Snow conditions are generally currently poor at all elevations, and will likely deteriorate further with warm temperatures over the next few days. Especially below 9000 ft which has been largely above freezing for several days and heavily rained on, snow is soft, slushy in places, and unreliable underfoot, even in the morning. Higher up, snow quality is a little better, but in particular on the sun-exposed slopes there are unpredictable patches where deep postholing is always a possibility.

Snowshoes are now valuable everywhere above about 8000 ft elevation, especially on the various warm days expected soon, and in late morning and afternoons as snow softens on sun-exposed slopes (see also photos below for sample conditions). They are especially invaluable for any off-trail travel everywhere above 7000 ft.

Carrying spikes remains recommended everywhere above about 6000 ft, even if using other traction devices as well. Crampons are required on the north side of Tahquitz Peak, as discussed below, and will become increasingly useful everywhere in the high country above roughly 9500 ft (possibly lower) over the next few days and weeks as the expected deep snow firms up following freeze-thaw cycles and compaction.

The next two storm systems are already on the way, forecast for 26th-27th February and 2nd-3rd March. The first of these is expected to be another mild, minor system, with rain at mid elevations less than 0.5 inch, and snow at the highest elevations only a few inches at most. Freeze levels may be near or even above 7500 ft. The storm in early March is expected to be much colder, with light snow possibly as low as 4000 ft, and as much as 1-2 feet of snow above 9000 ft.

At present snow depths are too shallow for any avalanche risk anywhere in the vicinity of the established trail system, and snow in the Snow Creek drainage/north face of San Jacinto Peak is both shallow and has consolidated sufficiently to have no significant avy risk.

Be bear aware. Although rarely reported, up to three Black Bears have been in the San Jacinto mountains since 2017. I crossed bear tracks at 9100 ft on the PCT on 12th February 2024 (photo in the previous Report linked here). While Southern California studies have found that hibernation is integral to gestation for pregnant female bears, adult males and younger bears of both sexes generally don’t hibernate this far south. I have seen at least one bear annually for six years, most recently in September 2023 on Marion Mountain Trail, and on Devil’s Slide Trail in July 2022 and September 2021 (a poor quality video from the latter observation is available here). I saw a different “blond” individual on Devil’s Slide Trail in August 2020 and had previously filmed that same bear walking past our house in Idyllwild in 2018 (video here).

Humber Park closed on 31st January, has not yet been plowed, and remained closed as of Wednesday 21st. 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.

Despite shallow snow this season (<18 inches) and being readily passable with the appropriate skills and equipment for angled icy snow, the State Park closed the uppermost section of Skyline Trail in their jurisdiction (above about 5600 ft) starting 21st February due to perceived unsafe conditions.

WEATHER

Temperatures may be on something of a rollercoaster ride for the next week or two. Immediately after passage of this latest storm, temperatures rapidly rise to well above seasonal on 23rd-25th, forecast to reach 60°F in Idyllwild and above freezing even at the highest peaks. The next minor storm is expected on 26th-27th February, with the bulk of the (light) precipitation expected overnight on Monday 26th into the Tuesday morning, and temperatures dropping accordingly. Very light snowfall is forecast to be limited to the upper elevations, with only 0.25-0.5 inch rain at mid elevations.

Temperatures rise steadily shortly after passage of that storm, again to above seasonal, around the turn of the month, with possibly several days at or above freezing over 10,000 ft elevation. Forecasts are tentatively suggesting another storm system around 2nd-3rd March. While details remain unclear this far in advance, it may be cold enough to snow throughout the mid elevations, with possibly 1-4 inches in Idyllwild and 1-2 feet in the high country. After passage of that storm, temperatures may again warm steadily.

At San Jacinto Peak (3295m/10,810ft) on Wednesday 21st February 2024 at 1205 the air temperature was 23.3°F (-5°C), with a windchill temperature of 3.2°F (-16°C), 100% relative humidity, and a bitter WSW wind sustained at 14 mph occasionally gusting to 24.4 mph.

At the Peak on Wednesday 14th February 2024 at 0910 the air temperature was 25.9°F (-3°C), with a windchill temperature of 12.0°F (-11°C), 62% relative humidity, and a steady due West wind sustained at 9 mph occasionally gusting to 13.6 mph.

TRAIL CONDITIONS

There is increasingly patchy light snow cover on all trails between 6000-6800 ft, becoming continuous above about 6800 ft and significantly deeper above about 7500 ft. Snow depths measured at specific locations are given below.

Snow depths in this latest storm were insufficient to impact the tracks in place with the exception of a few short sections above 9800 ft. The mild rainfall below 8000 ft accelerated melting of snow in mid elevation areas.

Snowshoes remain valuable everywhere above about 8000 ft elevation, especially on warm days and later in the day on sunny slopes. They are strongly recommended for any off-trail travel away from the defined tracks.

Carrying spikes is recommended everywhere above about 5500 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 days and weeks as the expected deep snow undergoes freeze-thaw cycles and compaction.

Tracks known to be broken through the snow at this time are the Ernie Maxwell Trail, South Ridge Trail to Tahquitz Peak on the south side of the peak, Devil’s Slide Trail, onward via the PCT, Wellman and Peak trails to San Jacinto Peak, from Long and Round valleys up to Wellman Divide and more directly up from Tamarack Valley joining the Peak Trail at about 10,000 ft and also at 10,350 ft just below the Miller Peak area. There is also evidence of a track approximately following the Deer Springs Trail route up from Little Round Valley to San Jacinto Peak.

Devil’s Slide Trail has about 60% snow cover up to 6800 ft. Thereafter snow cover is continuous, has been well-traveled and is suitable for barebooting, for snowshoes (especially later in the day as snow softens) despite some significant postholes, or for spikes all day. The Trail Report undertook extensive trail maintenance work on 15th February to remove the many damaged tree limbs in and over the trail resulting from the early February ice storm.

Ernie Maxwell Trail has a well-traveled and compacted track through largely continuous light snow along its entire length. Spikes are useful on colder mornings when snow is icy.

There are very lightly traveled snowshoe tracks around the Tahquitz area meadows, but not generally accurately following the established trail routes. These have become somewhat obscured in the recent fresh snow.

The track following the PCT north of Saddle Junction to Annie’s Junction, and then beyond on the Wellman Trail, accurately follows those trails. Unfortunately the tracks(s) north from Wellman Divide only roughly follow the established trail routes at best. But they will get you to San Jacinto Peak with patience. The formerly well-defined snowshoe track above 10,350 ft has been erased by recent snow, but a fresh posthole track (21st February) now follows the East Ridge directly up to the Peak.

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.

Current snow cover on the PCT is minimal from Miles 151 (Highway 74) to about 156. Snow is then thin and patchy, largely confined to north-facing slopes, until about Mile 165. Snow cover is then continuous and moderately deep between Miles 165-194. Based on my recent survey hikes there are currently no tracks through snow on the PCT north of Fobes Saddle (Mile 166) until about Mile 177. There are currently no tracks on Fuller Ridge (Miles 185.5-191). At this time, nobo hikers should consider taking alternates at either Fobes Trail (Mile 166) or Spitler Peak Trail (Mile 168.5) to avoid the worst of the icy snow slopes from Miles 169-175. This situation will continue to change over the coming days with a sequence of rapid melting periods and minor storms alternating into early March at least.

SNOW DEPTHS measured on 21st February 2024 are as follows. The first number gives current average total depth. Reductions in totals since the last Report are due to significant melting in the intervening 10-14 days since prior storms. The numbers in parentheses give the new snow from the storm on 20th-21st February (plus rainfall, where known). Note that average depth is given; due to strong winds accompanying most storms this winter there has been considerable drifting. Altitudes and PCT mileages are approximate.

San Jacinto Peak (10810 ft): 48-50 inches (3.0 inches new on 20th-21st February)

Wellman Divide (9700 ft): 31 inches (2.0 inches new on 20th-21st February)

Annie’s Junction/approx. PCT Mile 181.8 (9070 ft): 38-40 inches (2.0 inches new on 20th-21st February)

Long Valley (8600 ft): 12-14 inches (1.5 inches new on 20th-21st February, preceded by 0.30 inch rain on 20th)

Saddle Junction/approx. PCT Mile 179.9 (8070 ft): 14 inches (1.5 inches new on 20th-21st February)

Devil’s Slide Trail at Humber Park (6550 ft): 2-5 inches (<0.25 inch new on 21st February)

Idyllwild (at 5550 ft): 0-1 inch (no new snow, storm total 1.18 inches of rain 20th-21st 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.

UPDATE Tuesday 20th February 2024 at 1610: steady light rain overnight totaled 0.45 inch in Idyllwild by 0700, with another 0.3 inch added by 1000, after which it largely stopped raining. It rained to at least 9000 ft overnight, with drizzle totaling just 0.08 inch in Long Valley (8600 ft) until 0930, when it turned to light snowfall, but with no significant settling by late afternoon. Our road run to Humber Park this morning was wet but warm, and the parking area is being slowly clearing of snow due to the mild rain.

UPDATE Monday 19th February 2024: The 18th and 19th storm systems of this winter are on the way. The first of these arrives in the early hours of tomorrow morning, Tuesday 20th, continuing into Wednesday 21st February. A mild storm, the freeze level is not expected to drop significantly below 7000 ft, with 0.5-1.0 inch of rain forecast for mid elevations with the possibility of a dusting of snow, and 6-8 inches of snow at the highest elevations of the San Jacinto mountains. The subsequent storm is nearly a week away, tentatively forecast for 25th-26th February. It may have similar snowfall in the high country (i.e. 6-12 inches) but is expected to be a colder system, with a lower freeze level and consequently a higher likelihood of 1-2 inches of snow at mid elevations in addition to light-to-moderate rainfall. The next comprehensive Report update is not expected before Wednesday 21st February, although I plan to post brief storm updates here on Tuesday 20th.

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The 16th and 17th storms of winter 2023/24 impacted the San Jacinto mountains on 4th-9th February, the vast majority of the precipitation coming from the first of these, a very slow-moving system spread across 4th-8th February (described in detail in the previous Report available here). Although ultimately the snow quantities in the high country were at the lower end of the range of forecasts, the impact of 2-3 feet of snow on the trail system was of course significant, and freezing rain as high as San Jacinto Peak at the start of the storm sequence has medium-term implications for snow quality.

On 12th and 14th February we hiked to San Jacinto Peak from Humber Park via Devil’s Slide, Wellman, Peak, and East Ridge trails to assess changes in the snow and trails since my multiple stormy hikes the previous week. With an Alpine start on both days I was able to bareboot to 9000 ft north of Saddle Junction on very firm icy snow before switching to snowshoes on 12th, but with a better track all the way to San Jacinto Peak on 14th. On both days snowshoes became especially useful on the descent as snow was softening rapidly by late morning. On 12th I ultimately wore snowshoes all the way back down to Humber Park, and most of the way down Devil’s Slide Trail on 14th.

I recorded a short(ish) video report at San Jacinto Peak late morning on Monday 12th February (available here) that discusses conditions up there at that time.

The next storm system is already on its way, tentatively forecast for 19th-21st February. Snow estimates for the high country have literally ranged across an order of magnitude, from three to 50 inches. At this time, the low end of that range seems most likely, but as has been the case throughout this winter forecasts probably won’t improve in accuracy until the storm is only 24-48 hours away. Moderate rainfall is expected at mid elevations as the storm is forecast to be relatively warm, with freeze levels likely near or even above 7000 ft.

Snowshoes are now valuable everywhere above about 6500 ft elevation, especially above 8000 ft and in late morning and afternoons as snow softens in the warm weather (see also photos below for sample conditions). 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 roughly 9700 ft (possibly lower) over the next few days and weeks as the expected deep snow firms up following freeze-thaw cycles and compaction.

At present snow depths are too shallow for any avalanche risk anywhere in the vicinity of the established trail system, and snow in the Snow Creek drainage/north face of San Jacinto Peak has now consolidated sufficiently to have no significant avy risk.

Be bear aware. Although rarely reported, up to three Black Bears have been in the San Jacinto mountains since 2017. I crossed bear tracks at 9100 ft on the PCT on 12th February 2024 (photo below, one of many I took). While Southern California studies have found that hibernation is integral to gestation for pregnant female bears, adult males and younger bears of both sexes generally don’t hibernate this far south. I have seen at least one bear annually for six years, most recently in September 2023 on Marion Mountain Trail, and on Devil’s Slide Trail in July 2022 and September 2021 (a poor quality video from the latter observation is available here). I saw a different “blond” individual on Devil’s Slide Trail in August 2020 and had previously filmed that same bear walking past our house in Idyllwild in 2018 (video here).

Humber Park closed on 31st January, has not yet been plowed, and remained closed as of Saturday 17th. 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 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 are rising to well above seasonal this week, up to and including Saturday 17th, with steady melting of snow at all elevations, especially on sun-exposed slopes. Temperatures on 15th-16th will be especially warm, including above freezing as high as San Jacinto Peak (very rare for mid February at that elevation).

Another storm system is expected around 19th-21st February, although not now expected to be a major system to impact the San Jacinto mountains. Forecasts remain in flux, and as we saw with the previous storm event, can change at short notice. Nevertheless, the storm is initially expected to be relatively warm, with freeze levels above 7000 ft, and consequently with 0.5-2 inches of rain (rather than snow) at mid elevations. Freeze levels may drop to 5000 ft by 20th-21st February, at which point mid elevations (e.g., Idyllwild) could experience a mix of rain and snow. Snowfall in the high country may be concentrated on 21st, and as mentioned in the introduction forecasts have recently ranged from several inches to several feet for possible snowfall accumulations across the multiple storm days. At this time, somewhere under 12 inches seems most probable for the high country.

After the passage of that storm, another spell of rapid warming to well-above-average temperatures is tentatively forecast.

At San Jacinto Peak (3295m/10,810ft) on Wednesday 14th February 2024 at 0910 the air temperature was 25.9°F (-3°C), with a windchill temperature of 12.0°F (-11°C), 62% relative humidity, and a steady due West wind sustained at 9 mph occasionally gusting to 13.6 mph.

At the Peak on Monday 12th February 2024 at 0955 the air temperature was 30.3°F (-1°C), with a “windchill” temperature of 23.9°F (-4.5°C), 41% relative humidity, and a barely discernable NE breeze sustained at 4 mph occasionally gusting to 5.0 mph.

At the Peak 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.

TRAIL CONDITIONS

There is largely continuous light snow cover on all trails above about 5500 ft, becoming continuous above 6500 ft and heavy (>20 inches) above about 7500 ft. Patchy thin snow is locally present to 4500 ft. Snow depths measured at specific locations are given below.

Snowshoes are now valuable everywhere above about 7000 ft elevation, although less so only heavily traveled trails that are now well compacted. Carrying spikes is recommended everywhere above about 5500 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 days and weeks as the expected deep snow undergoes freeze-thaw cycles and compaction.

Tracks known to be broken through the snow at this time are the Ernie Maxwell Trail, South Ridge Trail to Tahquitz Peak on the south side of the peak, Devil’s Slide Trail, onward via the PCT, Wellman and Peak trails to San Jacinto Peak, from Long and Round valleys up to Wellman Divide and more directly up from Tamarack Valley joining the Peak Trail at about 10,000 ft and also at 10,350 ft just below the Miller Peak area. There is also evidence of a track approximately following the Deer Springs Trail route up from Little Round Valley to San Jacinto Peak.

Devil’s Slide Trail has continuous snow cover, has been well-traveled and is suitable for snowshoes (especially later in the day as snow softens) despite some significant postholes, or for spikes all day. A few snow-free patches were starting to develop by 15th below 6800 ft. The Trail Report undertook extensive trail maintenance work on 15th February to remove the many damaged tree limbs in and over the trail resulting from the early February ice storm.

Ernie Maxwell Trail has a well-traveled and compacted track through continuous light snow along its entire length. Spikes are useful.

There are very lightly traveled snowshoe tracks around the Tahquitz area meadows, but not generally accurately following the established trail routes.

The track following the PCT north of Saddle Junction to Annie’s Junction, and then beyond on the Wellman Trail, accurately follows those trails. Unfortunately the tracks(s) north from Wellman Divide put in over the weekend by tram traffic are a mess across the open slopes and only roughly follow the established trail routes at best. But they will get you to San Jacinto Peak with patience. The very well-defined snowshoe track above 10,350 ft does not follow the Peak Trail route, but follows the East Ridge directly up to the Peak.

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.

Current snow cover on the PCT is minimal from Miles 151 (Highway 74) to about 156. Snow is then thin and patchy, largely confined to north-facing slopes, until about Mile 165. Snow cover is then continuous and moderately deep between Miles 165-194. Based on my survey hike on 16th February, there are currently no tracks through snow on the PCT north of Fobes Saddle (Mile 166) until about Mile 177. There are currently no tracks on Fuller Ridge (Miles 185.5-191). At this time, nobo hikers should consider taking alternates at either Fobes Trail (Mile 166) or Spitler Peak Trail (Mile 168.5) to avoid the worst of the icy snow slopes from Miles 169-175. This situation will change over the coming days with another minor storm next week, likely followed by rapid melting into early March.

SNOW DEPTHS measured on 12th February 2024 are as follows. The first number gives current average total depth. Reductions in totals since the last Report are due to melting. The numbers in parentheses gives the new snow from the double storm sequence on 4th-9th 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): 55 inches (28-30 inches new on 4th-8th February)

Wellman Divide (9700 ft): 38 inches (24 inches new on 4th-8th February)

Annie’s Junction/approx. PCT Mile 181.8 (9070 ft): 46 inches (24-25 inches new on 4th-8th February)

Long Valley (8600 ft): 20 inches (16 inches new on 5th-8th February)

Saddle Junction/approx. PCT Mile 179.9 (8070 ft): 26 inches (17 inches new on 5th-8th February)

Devil’s Slide Trail at Humber Park (6550 ft): 8-10 inches (13 inches new on 5th-8th February)

Idyllwild (at 5550 ft): 4 inches (8 inches new on 5th-8th February)

Mountain Center (4400 ft): 0 inch (2-3 inches from 7th-9th February now melted)

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.

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)

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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.