The 4+ inches we received as rain at my hiker oasis (elev. 4100 ft) fell as snow above 7500 ft. The PCT as it crosses the south, west and north flank of Mt San Jacinto is again covered in snow. The forecast makes it likely that we will see more freeze/thaw cycles at higher elevation in the coming days, making the trail between mile 169 (Apache Peak) and 191 (Fuller Ridge) treacherous for hikers.

With dry, warm conditions in January and February and a cold, wet March, the PCT around my place is experiencing the most modest wildflower season in recent memory.

The place locals call “Poppy Hill” (PCT mile 146.2), a hillside which is usually covered with a beautiful carpet of orange Mexican poppies, has just a cluster here and there of the delightful, fragile flowers.

Elsewhere, you have to hunt around to find color.

I learned some sad news: a PCT hiker died just north of my place. The exact location and identity of the hiker have not been released. More information is available at:

https://www.desertsun.com/story/news/local/2020/03/27/cal-fire-chp-rescuing-injured-hiker-pacific-crest-trail-near-mountain-center/2927163001/

Gracie and I went out for a northbound out-and-back ride between storms. The PCT offers great views of San Jacinto to the north

and Toro and Santa Rosa Peaks to the east (visible in this picture on the far right side.)