Re: how early in spring is PCT open?

Hi,

Just got back from a week b'packing from Tuolumne Meadows - Glen Aulin - Cold Canyon - a few other spots.

But I found all of upper Cold Canyon dry as the moon (!) ... and actually had to retreat midday to return to water sources (back towards just north of Glen Aulin). Of course, there wasn't a single mosquito in the entire high country, though.

Rangers weren't even sure if Virginia Canyon had water .. I didn't venture that far up.

But I wish to return in the spring; or earlier in the summer; what are the typical dates those main trails generally are hike-able, can anyone say?

I'd happily trade torrents of mosquitoes (I have netting and spray, so no prob') for higher runoff and flower displays ...

Is early July "too" early to get around?

Thanks lots

Anvanho

It really depends on how much snow falls in the winter and how early it starts melting. Early July is usually very good but there have been years when snow is still deep in the passes on the 4th.

thanks; will watch and see.