PCT start date – Carson Pass CA

Around Carson Pass, too much depends on the winter snowpack. On some years, on April 1 we are going cross country skiing around Carson Pass. Sometimes we even ski there on a bad snow year at April 1. So, I am thinking that April 1 is a bit too early for long range backpacking there. May 1-15 seems smarter. If it is a decent snow year, then maybe even later. So far, we can't tell what the winter will yield. The snow will be more than zero, and it probably will not be tremendous.

–B.G.–

As Bob said it will depend on the year. As a general rule I would target July 1st and adjust accordingly to the snow conditions. by the way, the problem would be in that area, it will be north of 80. If you start in May you will chase snow ll through N Ca. Unless it is a low snow year.

Ok, sounds like Carson pass is a no go that early. Anybody know about the CA OR border area for a possible southbound start as early as April 1st? I'm going to read up on the weather…

But bear in mind that farther North you get more snow at lower elevation. An easy check for you would be the dates that High 89 opens over Lassen Volcanic National Park. The PCT runs right through there…and that road has opened as late as August!

I think April 1 is unrealistic unless you are seriously considering snowshoes or skis for a couple of months on the trail. There's a reason the NOBOs on the PCt plan to get into this are closer to June…because that's when it finally opens up a bit