Pacific Crest Trail Snow Warning
A heavy snow warning is in effect for the Pacific Crest Trail corridor, with up to 50 inches of snow forecast [https://newsweek.com/heavy-snow-warning-as-50-inches-set-to-strike-extreme-caution-11657845]. Hikers should exercise extreme caution due to blizzard conditions and high avalanche risks [https://watchers.news/2026/03/10/atmospheric-rivers-forecast-to-bring-heavy-rain-and-snow-to-the-pacific-northwest-through-mid-march].
The Pacific Crest Trail Association and other agencies offer resources to monitor weather conditions along the trail. These resources include weather forecasts and current conditions. Backcountry avalanche warnings have been issued due to unstable snowpack. Recent storms have created weak layers in the snow, increasing avalanche risks. Hikers are advised to avoid steep terrain. Snowpack in the Sierra Nevada is above average, while Oregon is below average and Washington is near typical levels. The optimal Sierra entry date may be later than the typical June 15.
