[pct-l] winter hiking question

[Leemarsden at aol.com (Leemarsden@aol.com)]

Hi, Goose

I hiked from Mexico to Idyllwild in October and November, 2004, about 180 
miles.  The only hard part was the last 20 miles in the San Jacinto Mountains, 
which get up to 9,000 feet.  They had snow in November and would be impassable 
in January without the right equipment.  But if you skipped that 20 miles, you 
would have about 160 miles from Mexico to just short of the San Jacintos. 

On this stretch there is plenty of water and of course in January there are 
no bugs and it isn't hot.  There isn't much forrest cover, so the views are 
spectacular.  You could do the 160 miles at a relaxed pace in two weeks or a very 
relaxed pace in three weeks.

Warner Hot Springs resort, about 130 miles into the hike is worth at least an 
afternoon visit or even a night.

Hope this helps.  

First Hand