Northern High Sierra Nevada Backpacker Weather Information

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SIERRA WEATHER

NORTHERN SIERRA WEATHER

CENTRAL SIERRA WEATHER

SOUTHERN SIERRA WEATHER

LAKE TAHOE WEATHER MAP

CARSON PASS WEATHER MAP

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Northern High Sierras Weather Information

North Sierra Weather Information: Specific Areas

The Northern Sierra Weather Page is under construction. The list at right is the basic outline of the route from Meeks Bay to Sonora Pass.

I will link the weather stations near the trail locations on a nifty USGS map when I get the trail guide constructed down this far. Soon!

The Northern Sierra Weather for Backpackers covers the Northern Sierras between South Lake Tahoe and the Sonora Pass area.

To your right find more specific local information about areas in the Northern Sierra Nevada. To your bottom right find broad weather information covering the North Sierra.

SOUTH LAKE TAHOE

EBBETTS PASS

SONORA PASS

General Information and Introduction

Basic Facts

General Northern High Sierra Weather Resources for the Backpacker

The Sierra Crest is noted for having the capacity to produce four seasons of weather during a single Summer Day. Rain, snow, hail, fog, lightening, and a bit of sunshine can all happen in quick sequence.

Spring and Fall can bring flashes of Winter weather, and Winter can turn downright Arctic occasionally.

The High Sierra is noted for rapid changes in weather and temperature, and the sudden appearance of harsh weather trends all year round.

You may experience anything from intense heat to bitter cold Summer snow storms. Or you may not. In any case, weather must be considered and preparations made to deal with these weather facts BEFORE entering the High Sierras.

Long Distance Backpackers who were on the High Sierra Crest in early August of 2009 experienced just such a series of Summer Snow Storms.

Temperatures dropped to the high teens and low twenties, snow and hail fell which partially obscured the trails, and all of those who entertained the misconception that the Sierras only have fine weather during the Summertime were bitterly disappointed. Luckily for the many backcountry travelers who were not properly prepared, those storms blew apart, rather than consolidated and deepened.

Weather considerations should inform and guide your gear selection.