Best Time to Hike Pacific Crest Trail
Month-by-month temperatures and rainfall for Pacific Crest Trail, United States, based on 2-year climate normals.
Month-by-month weather on Pacific Crest Trail
| Month | Avg high | Avg low | Rainfall | Rainy days |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| January | 2.8°C / 37°F | -4.9°C / 23°F | 27 mm | 7 |
| February | 4.9°C / 41°F | -3.1°C / 26°F | 39 mm | 10 |
| March | 7.5°C / 46°F | -1.7°C / 29°F | 42 mm | 9 |
| April | 13.5°C / 56°F | 2.3°C / 36°F | 28 mm | 4 |
| May | 19.1°C / 66°F | 6.4°C / 44°F | 13 mm | 3 |
| June | 26.9°C / 80°F | 13.9°C / 57°F | 1 mm | 1 |
| July | 30.8°C / 87°F | 17.5°C / 64°F | 4 mm | 2 |
| August | 27.9°C / 82°F | 15.1°C / 59°F | 5 mm | 2 |
| September | 23.5°C / 74°F | 11.8°C / 53°F | 25 mm | 2 |
| October | 15.2°C / 59°F | 4.8°C / 41°F | 29 mm | 5 |
| November | 7.8°C / 46°F | -0.7°C / 31°F | 22 mm | 7 |
| December | 5.4°C / 42°F | -2°C / 28°F | 29 mm | 7 |
Highlighted rows are the recommended hiking window. Climate normals via Open-Meteo (2-year average). Mountain weather varies — always check a live forecast before you set off.
The best months to hike Pacific Crest Trail are May. Expect daytime highs around 19°C (66°F) and nights near 6°C (43°F).
Pack flexible layers and a reliable rain shell — conditions can shift quickly in the mountains.
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