After a decade of guiding trekkers through Nepal’s mountains and experiencing the Pikey Peak Trek in every season, I’ve learned that timing can make or break your Himalayan adventure. This comprehensive month-by-month guide will help you choose the perfect time for your trek based on weather patterns, crowd levels, costs, and overall experience quality.
Located in the lower Everest region, Pikey Peak offers stunning panoramic views of the world’s highest peaks while remaining accessible year-round. However, each month brings distinct advantages and challenges that every trekker should understand before planning their journey.
Understanding Pikey Peak’s Climate Patterns
Elevation Zones and Their Impact
The Pikey Peak Trek traverses multiple elevation zones, each with its own microclimate:
- Lower valleys (2,000-2,800m): Moderate temperatures, influenced by monsoon patterns
- Mid-altitude forests (2,800-3,500m): Cool temperatures, frequent cloud formation
- Alpine zone (3,500-4,065m): Cold temperatures, extreme weather variations
This elevation diversity means weather conditions can vary dramatically even within a single day, making month-by-month planning crucial for trek success.
Seasonal Overview
- Pre-Monsoon (March-May): Clear skies, warming temperatures, rhododendron blooms
- Monsoon (June-September): Heavy rainfall, lush vegetation, limited visibility
- Post-Monsoon (October-November): Crystal clear views, stable weather, peak season
- Winter (December-February): Cold temperatures, occasional snow, fewer crowds
Pikey Peak Trek in January
Weather Conditions
- Temperature Range: -10°C to 8°C (14°F to 46°F) at Pikey Peak summit
- Precipitation: Minimal rainfall, occasional snowfall above 3,500m
- Visibility: Excellent on clear days, frequent morning fog in valleys
- Trail Conditions: Dry but can be icy at higher elevations
Advantages
- Crystal clear mountain views: January often provides the clearest atmospheric conditions of the year. The lack of monsoon haze means Everest, Lhotse, and Makalu appear incredibly sharp and detailed from Pikey Peak.
- Minimal crowds: You’ll likely have the trails and viewpoints almost entirely to yourself. Lodge owners are grateful for business during their quietest month.
- Cultural authenticity: Villages operate at their normal pace without tourist influence. This is when you’ll experience the most genuine local interactions.
- Photography paradise: The crisp air and dramatic lighting create ideal conditions for mountain photography, especially during sunrise and sunset.
Challenges
- Extreme cold: Temperatures can drop to -15°C at night. Proper cold-weather gear is absolutely essential.
- Shorter daylight hours: Limited trekking time means earlier starts and careful time management.
- Limited lodge services: Some higher-altitude lodges may be closed. Advance booking is crucial.
- Ice hazards: Early morning trail sections can be dangerously icy, requiring microspikes or crampons.
Recommended For
- Experienced winter trekkers
- Photography enthusiasts
- Those seeking solitude
- Budget-conscious travelers (lower lodge rates)
Packing Essentials
- 4-season sleeping bag rated to -15°C
- Insulated down jacket and pants
- Waterproof mountaineering boots
- Microspikes or lightweight crampons
- Hand and foot warmers
- High-energy foods that won’t freeze
Cost Considerations
- Lodge rates: 30-40% lower than peak season
- Guide fees: Standard rates, but guides appreciate steady work
- Flight availability: Weather delays possible but less expensive
- Overall savings: 25-35% compared to peak season costs
Pikey Peak Trek in February
Weather Conditions
- Temperature Range: -8°C to 12°C (18°F to 54°F)
- Precipitation: Very low, occasional light snow
- Visibility: Generally excellent with increasing clear days
- Trail Conditions: Dry trails, some morning ice at altitude
Advantages
- Improving weather patterns: Late February shows the first signs of spring with longer days and slightly warmer temperatures.
- Rhododendron preparation: While not yet blooming, rhododendron buds begin forming, creating anticipation for the spectacular spring display.
- Stable weather windows: February typically offers more consecutive clear days than January, making trek planning more predictable.
- Cultural festivals: Losar (Tibetan New Year) often falls in February, providing unique cultural experiences in Sherpa villages.
Challenges
- Still quite cold: While improving, temperatures remain challenging, especially at night and early morning.
- Variable conditions: Weather can change rapidly as winter transitions toward spring.
- Limited accommodation: Some lodges remain closed, though more open than January.
Recommended For
- Intermediate to advanced trekkers
- Cultural experience seekers
- Those wanting fewer crowds but better conditions than January
Special Considerations
February is an excellent month for acclimatization training if you’re planning a more ambitious trek later in the year. The challenging conditions build both physical and mental resilience.
Pikey Peak Trek in March
Weather Conditions
- Temperature Range: -5°C to 15°C (23°F to 59°F)
- Precipitation: Low, occasional spring showers
- Visibility: Very good, with occasional dust haze from lower valleys
- Trail Conditions: Excellent, with minimal mud or ice
Advantages
- Perfect temperature balance: Warm enough for comfortable daytime trekking, cool enough to avoid overheating during climbs.
- Early rhododendron blooms: Lower elevation rhododendrons begin flowering, creating spectacular displays of red, pink, and white blossoms.
- Increasing daylight: Longer days provide more flexibility in trekking schedules and better opportunities for photography.
- Stable weather patterns: March typically offers the most consistent weather of the year, with minimal rain and predictable temperature patterns.
- All lodges open: Full accommodation options become available as lodge owners prepare for the main trekking season.
Challenges
- Increasing crowds: As word spreads about ideal conditions, more trekkers begin arriving, though still manageable numbers.
- Dust from valleys: Lower elevations can be hazy due to increased activity and dry conditions.
- Variable morning temperatures: Early starts still require warm clothing, while afternoon temperatures can be quite warm.
Recommended For
- First-time Nepal trekkers
- Photography enthusiasts (rhododendron blooms)
- Those seeking reliable weather
- Moderate budget travelers
What to Expect
March marks the beginning of peak trekking season. Lodge owners are welcoming and services improve significantly. The combination of blooming flowers, clear mountain views, and comfortable temperatures makes this one of the most rewarding months for the Pikey Peak Trek.
Photography Opportunities
- Rhododendron forests in full bloom
- Clear mountain panoramas
- Traditional spring festivals in villages
- Dramatic sunrise/sunset lighting
Pikey Peak Trek in April
Weather Conditions
- Temperature Range: 0°C to 18°C (32°F to 64°F)
- Precipitation: Low to moderate, brief afternoon showers possible
- Visibility: Excellent in morning, slight haze possible by afternoon
- Trail Conditions: Perfect – dry, stable, and well-maintained
Advantages
- Rhododendron spectacular: April represents the absolute peak of rhododendron blooming season. Entire hillsides explode in brilliant colors, creating one of nature’s most stunning displays.
- Ideal temperatures: Perfect balance for trekking – warm days, cool nights, minimal weather extremes.
- Maximum daylight: Long days provide ample time for photography, cultural exploration, and flexible scheduling.
- Wildlife activity: Spring brings increased bird activity and occasional glimpses of Himalayan wildlife as animals become more active.
- Cultural vibrancy: Villages come alive with spring festivals and agricultural activities.
Challenges
- Peak season crowds: April is one of the busiest months, requiring advance lodge bookings and potential trail congestion.
- Higher costs: Peak season pricing applies to guides, porters, and accommodation.
- Afternoon weather changes: While generally stable, brief afternoon thunderstorms can occur.
- Booking competition: Popular lodges and guide services book up quickly.
Recommended For
- Nature photographers
- First-time visitors to Nepal
- Those prioritizing comfort and reliability
- Travelers who don’t mind moderate crowds
Advanced Booking Required
April’s popularity means booking 6-8 weeks in advance is essential for:
- Quality lodge accommodations
- Experienced guides
- Porter services
- Transportation arrangements
Special Highlights
Rhododendron varieties: You’ll encounter multiple species:
- Rhododendron arboreum (tree rhododendron) – deep red blooms
- Rhododendron campanulatum – purple and white varieties
- Rhododendron barbatum – bright red with distinctive bark
Pikey Peak Trek in May
Weather Conditions
- Temperature Range: 5°C to 22°C (41°F to 72°F)
- Precipitation: Moderate, increasing toward month-end
- Visibility: Good mornings, afternoon haze common
- Trail Conditions: Generally excellent, some muddy sections after rain
Advantages
- Extended rhododendron season: While peak blooming passes, many varieties continue flowering, especially at higher elevations.
- Warm, comfortable temperatures: May offers the warmest trekking conditions of the year without summer heat extremes.
- Pre-monsoon clarity: Early May often provides spectacular mountain views before monsoon haze arrives.
- Agricultural activity: Villages bustle with spring planting activities, offering cultural insights into traditional mountain farming.
Challenges
- Pre-monsoon weather instability: Late May brings increasing afternoon thunderstorms and weather unpredictability.
- Dust and haze: Lower valleys can become quite hazy, reducing distant mountain visibility.
- Insect emergence: Warmer temperatures bring out leeches and flying insects, especially in forested areas.
- Decreasing visibility: Mountain views often become less reliable as the month progresses.
Recommended For
- Warm weather preference trekkers
- Cultural experience seekers
- Those comfortable with some weather uncertainty
- Budget-conscious travelers (late May rates begin dropping)
Week-by-Week Breakdown
- Week 1-2: Excellent conditions, clear views, perfect temperatures
- Week 3: Good conditions but increasing afternoon weather activity
- Week 4: Mixed conditions, plan for flexibility and potential weather delays
Transition Preparation
May serves as the transition month into monsoon season. Trekkers should be prepared for:
- Waterproof gear becoming essential
- More flexible scheduling needs
- Potential for dramatic weather changes
- Last opportunity for reliable clear mountain views
Pikey Peak Trek in June
Weather Conditions
- Temperature Range: 10°C to 25°C (50°F to 77°F)
- Precipitation: High – monsoon rains begin
- Visibility: Poor to moderate, frequent cloud cover
- Trail Conditions: Muddy, slippery, leech-infested
Monsoon Reality Check
June marks the official arrival of Nepal’s monsoon season. While some guidebooks suggest limited trekking is possible, the reality is far more challenging than most trekkers expect.
Challenges
- Heavy rainfall: Daily downpours make trekking uncomfortable and potentially dangerous.
- Zero visibility: Mountains are shrouded in clouds for days at a time. The primary reason for visiting Pikey Peak – mountain views – becomes unreliable.
- Trail hazards: Muddy, slippery conditions increase injury risk, especially on steep sections.
- Leech infestation: Forested areas become populated with leeches that attach to trekkers. While not dangerous, they’re extremely unpleasant.
- Lodge limitations: Many lodges reduce services or close entirely during monsoon months.
- Transportation disruptions: Road access becomes unreliable due to landslides and flooding.
Limited Advantages
- Lush vegetation: The landscape transforms into vibrant green as plants respond to abundant moisture.
- Fewer crowds: You’ll have trails almost entirely to yourself.
- Lower costs: Significant discounts available on all services.
- Cultural immersion: Villages operate at their normal pace without tourist influence.
Honest Assessment
While adventure travel magazines sometimes romanticize monsoon trekking, the reality for Pikey Peak is that June rarely provides the experience most trekkers seek. The combination of poor visibility, difficult conditions, and safety concerns makes this month unsuitable for most visitors.
Alternative Activities
If you’re in Nepal during June, consider:
- Cultural tours in Kathmandu Valley
- Wildlife viewing in Chitwan National Park
- Yoga and meditation retreats
- Preparation for post-monsoon trekking
Pikey Peak Trek in July
Weather Conditions
- Temperature Range: 12°C to 26°C (54°F to 79°F)
- Precipitation: Very high – peak monsoon intensity
- Visibility: Very poor, constant cloud cover
- Trail Conditions: Extremely challenging, dangerous in places
Why July Is Not Recommended
- Peak monsoon intensity: July typically receives the heaviest rainfall of the year, making outdoor activities extremely difficult.
- Complete visibility loss: Mountain views are virtually non-existent. Trekkers may spend days without seeing peaks.
- Serious safety concerns: Landslides, flooding, and trail washouts create genuine danger.
- Maximum leech activity: Forest sections become nearly impassable due to leech populations.
- Minimal services: Most trekking lodges and services shut down entirely.
The Honest Truth About Monsoon Trekking
After years of experience, I strongly advise against attempting Pikey Peak Trek in July. The combination of safety risks, poor experience quality, and unreliable logistics makes this month unsuitable for virtually all trekkers.
What Locals Do
Village residents use monsoon months for:
- Indoor crafts and maintenance
- Family time and storytelling
- Agricultural preparation
- Religious observances
Better Alternatives
- Plan your trek for October-November or March-May
- Use July for trek preparation and fitness building
- Explore other regions of Nepal with different weather patterns
- Consider indoor cultural activities in Kathmandu
Pikey Peak Trek in August
Weather Conditions
- Temperature Range: 12°C to 25°C (54°F to 77°F)
- Precipitation: Very high, continued monsoon
- Visibility: Very poor
- Trail Conditions: Extremely difficult and dangerous
Monsoon Persistence
August continues July’s challenging conditions with no significant improvement. The monsoon system remains fully established, bringing daily heavy rainfall and persistent cloud cover.
Cumulative Challenges
By August, monsoon effects compound:
- Trail damage: Months of rain create serious erosion and washout problems
- Accommodation issues: Extended closures mean limited options even if you attempt the trek
- Psychological impact: Constant rain and poor visibility affect mental well-being
- Health concerns: Increased risk of waterborne illnesses and fungal infections
Regional Variations
While some guidebooks mention regional variations in monsoon intensity, the Pikey Peak area receives consistent heavy rainfall throughout August, making conditions uniformly challenging.
Professional Recommendation
Based on extensive experience, I cannot recommend Pikey Peak Trek during August under any circumstances. The risks significantly outweigh any potential benefits.
Pikey Peak Trek in September
Weather Conditions
- Temperature Range: 10°C to 23°C (50°F to 73°F)
- Precipitation: High early month, decreasing late September
- Visibility: Poor early month, improving significantly by month-end
- Trail Conditions: Very difficult early month, rapidly improving
The September Gamble
September represents Nepal’s most unpredictable trekking month. Early September continues full monsoon conditions, while late September can offer surprisingly good trekking weather. The challenge lies in timing your trek correctly.
Week-by-Week Analysis
- Week 1-2: Full monsoon conditions persist. Heavy rain, poor visibility, dangerous trail conditions continue from August.
- Week 3: Transition period begins. Rainfall decreases but remains significant. Some clear morning hours possible but unreliable.
- Week 4: Dramatic improvement often occurs. Skies begin clearing, trails start drying, and mountain views return sporadically.
Advantages of Late September
- Fewer crowds: Most trekkers wait until October, giving you nearly empty trails.
- Dramatic landscapes: Post-monsoon conditions create incredibly lush, green scenery.
- Crystal clear air: When skies do clear, visibility is exceptional due to rain-washed atmosphere.
- Lower costs: End-of-monsoon pricing remains in effect.
- Wildlife activity: Animals become more active as weather improves.
Risks and Challenges
- Weather unpredictability: September weather can change dramatically even within a single day.
- Trail conditions: Even late September trails remain muddy and potentially dangerous.
- Service limitations: Many lodges and services don’t fully reopen until October.
- Booking difficulties: Uncertainty makes advance planning nearly impossible.
Strategy for September Trekking
If you’re determined to trek in September:
- Flexible scheduling: Build extra days into your itinerary for weather delays.
- Late month timing: Plan for the last week of September or later.
- Weather monitoring: Use reliable weather forecasting services and local advice.
- Backup plans: Have alternative activities ready if conditions don’t cooperate.
- Experienced guidance: Only trek with guides who have extensive monsoon experience.
Honest Assessment
While late September can offer exceptional trekking conditions, the unpredictability makes it suitable only for very flexible, experienced trekkers who can adapt to changing conditions.
Pikey Peak Trek in October
Weather Conditions
- Temperature Range: 5°C to 20°C (41°F to 68°F)
- Precipitation: Very low, occasional light showers
- Visibility: Excellent – crystal clear mountain views
- Trail Conditions: Perfect after initial drying period
Why October Is Peak Season
October represents the absolute pinnacle of Himalayan trekking conditions. After months of monsoon rains, the atmosphere clears completely, revealing mountain panoramas with stunning clarity.
Advantages
- Unparalleled visibility: Post-monsoon clarity means Everest, Lhotse, Makalu, and dozens of other peaks appear incredibly sharp and detailed. Many consider October views the best of the year.
- Perfect temperatures: Ideal balance between warm days and cool nights. Comfortable for long trekking days without overheating or excessive cold.
- Stable weather patterns: October offers the most reliable weather of the year, with minimal precipitation and predictable conditions.
- Autumn colors: While not as dramatic as rhododendron blooms, autumn foliage creates beautiful golden and amber landscapes.
- Cultural activities: Post-monsoon season brings village festivals and increased activity as communities prepare for winter.
- All services available: Lodges, guides, and transportation services operate at full capacity with excellent standards.
Challenges
- Peak season crowds: October is Nepal’s busiest trekking month. Popular viewpoints and lodges can be crowded.
- Higher costs: Peak season pricing applies to all services – guides, porters, accommodation, and transportation.
- Booking competition: Advance reservations essential for quality services and preferred lodges.
- Dust at lower elevations: Dry conditions can create dusty trail conditions in lower valleys.
Crowd Management Strategies
- Early starts: Begin trekking days early to reach viewpoints before crowds arrive.
- Weekday scheduling: If possible, plan summit days for weekdays rather than weekends.
- Alternative lodge choices: Consider slightly less popular lodges that offer similar services with fewer people.
- Flexible timing: Build buffer days into your schedule to avoid rush periods.
What Makes October Special
The combination of crystal-clear air, stable weather, and comfortable temperatures creates conditions that veteran trekkers often describe as magical. The mountain views from Pikey Peak in October rival those from any viewpoint in the Himalayas.
Photography Considerations
October offers exceptional photography conditions:
- Golden hour lighting: Clear skies create spectacular sunrise and sunset opportunities
- Mountain clarity: Peak visibility allows for detailed mountain photography
- Cultural subjects: Increased village activity provides authentic cultural photo opportunities
- Landscape variety: From autumn colors to snow-capped peaks, October offers diverse subjects
Pikey Peak Trek in November
Weather Conditions
- Temperature Range: 0°C to 18°C (32°F to 64°F)
- Precipitation: Very low, rare light showers
- Visibility: Excellent, continuing October’s clarity
- Trail Conditions: Perfect – dry, stable, well-maintained
November’s Unique Appeal
While October gets most of the attention, November often provides equally excellent conditions with several distinct advantages that make it my personal favorite month for the Pikey Peak Trek.
Advantages
- Continued excellent visibility: November maintains October’s crystal-clear mountain views while offering even more stable atmospheric conditions.
- Decreasing crowds: Many trekkers assume the season ends in October, resulting in significantly fewer people on trails and at lodges.
- Perfect temperature progression: Early November offers comfortable conditions, while late November provides crisp, clear days ideal for photography.
- Extended daylight: November days remain long enough for leisurely trekking without the summer heat that can make climbing uncomfortable.
- Cost benefits: Many services offer post-peak-season pricing while maintaining full service levels.
- Cultural authenticity: With fewer tourists, villages return to more natural rhythms, providing authentic cultural experiences.
Challenges
- Cooling temperatures: Late November requires warmer clothing, especially for early morning starts and high-altitude camping.
- Variable conditions: While generally stable, November weather can change more quickly than October.
- Shorter days: Daylight hours decrease throughout the month, requiring earlier starts for summit attempts.
- Some service reductions: A few lodges may reduce services or close by late November.
Weekly Progression
- Week 1: Excellent conditions, similar to late October with slightly cooler temperatures.
- Week 2: Perfect balance of clear skies, comfortable temperatures, and minimal crowds.
- Week 3: Increasingly crisp conditions, excellent for photography, noticeably fewer trekkers.
- Week 4: Cold but clear conditions, winter preparation becomes important, some higher lodges may close.
Why I Recommend November
After guiding countless treks, I often recommend November to clients who want peak-season conditions without peak-season crowds. The slightly cooler temperatures are easily managed with proper clothing, while the benefits of fewer people and lower costs are significant.
Special November Considerations
- Layering strategy: November requires more sophisticated clothing systems as temperatures vary significantly throughout each day.
- Flexible scheduling: While weather is generally stable, build in extra time for potential cold snaps or early winter weather.
- Lodge research: Confirm your planned lodges remain open throughout November, especially for late-month treks.
Pikey Peak Trek in December
Weather Conditions
- Temperature Range: -5°C to 15°C (23°F to 59°F)
- Precipitation: Low, occasional snow above 3,500m
- Visibility: Very good, occasional morning fog
- Trail Conditions: Good but increasingly icy at altitude
December’s Character
December marks the return of winter conditions but often provides surprisingly good trekking weather, especially early in the month. Many trekkers overlook December, missing opportunities for excellent experiences with minimal crowds.
Advantages
- Excellent visibility: December typically offers very clear mountain views, though not quite matching October-November standards.
- Minimal crowds: Tourist numbers drop dramatically, providing solitude and authentic experiences.
- Lower costs: Winter pricing applies to most services, offering significant savings.
- Cultural immersion: Villages operate at normal pace without tourist influence, providing genuine cultural insights.
- Photography opportunities: Clear air and dramatic lighting create excellent conditions for mountain photography.
- Training value: December conditions provide excellent preparation for more challenging winter treks.
Challenges
- Cold temperatures: Especially at night and early morning, temperatures can be quite challenging.
- Shorter days: Limited daylight requires careful planning and early starts.
- Some service limitations: A few lodges may close, and services may be reduced.
- Ice hazards: Trail sections can be icy, especially early morning, requiring careful foot placement or traction devices.
- Weather variability: December weather can change quickly, requiring flexibility.
Week-by-Week Analysis
- Week 1: Often excellent conditions with comfortable temperatures and clear skies.
- Week 2: Good conditions but cooling temperatures, especially at night.
- Week 3: Increasingly winter-like conditions, cold but often clear.
- Week 4: Full winter conditions, very cold but potentially excellent visibility.
Gear Adaptations for December
- Sleeping systems: 4-season sleeping bag essential, rated to at least -10°C.
- Clothing layers: Comprehensive layering system with quality insulation and wind protection.
- Footwear: Insulated, waterproof boots with good traction. Consider microspikes for icy sections.
- Safety equipment: Headlamps with extra batteries, emergency shelter, communication devices.
December Strategy
- Early month timing: First two weeks typically offer the best balance of good weather and manageable conditions.
- Flexible itinerary: Build extra days for weather delays or challenging conditions.
- Local guidance: Work with guides experienced in winter conditions and familiar with seasonal variations.
- Conservative planning: Choose slightly easier itineraries and be prepared to turn back if conditions deteriorate.
Choosing Your Perfect Month
Decision Matrix
- For first-time Nepal trekkers: March-April or October-November
- For experienced mountain trekkers: January-February or December
- For photographers: April (rhododendrons) or October (clarity)
- For budget travelers: January-February or late November-December
- For solitude seekers: January-February or late November-December
- For families with children: March-April or October
- For cultural experiences: February or November-December
Climate Change Considerations
Nepal’s climate patterns are shifting, and traditional seasonal timing is becoming less predictable. Based on recent years:
- Monsoon timing: Monsoons now sometimes extend into early October or begin earlier in May.
- Winter intensity: Winter conditions are becoming more extreme, with colder temperatures and more unpredictable weather.
- Spring stability: March-April remain the most reliable months despite overall climate changes.
- Temperature increases: Overall warming means some traditionally cold months are becoming more accessible.
Booking Timeline Recommendations
- Peak season (October-November, March-April): Book 8-12 weeks in advance
- Shoulder season (December, February, May): Book 4-6 weeks in advance
- Off-season (January, September): Book 2-4 weeks in advance
- Monsoon season (June-August): Not recommended for most trekkers
Final Recommendations
After extensive experience with Pikey Peak Trek across all seasons, my top recommendations are:
- Best overall experience: October (despite crowds)
- Best value: November (excellent conditions, fewer crowds)
- Best for beginners: March-April (reliable weather, full services)
- Best for experts: January-February (challenge and solitude)
- Avoid completely: June-August (safety and experience quality)
Planning Your Trek
- Weather flexibility: Regardless of chosen month, build flexibility into your schedule for weather variations.
- Local consultation: Always consult current local conditions before finalizing plans, as climate patterns continue evolving.
- Gear adaptation: Match your equipment to seasonal requirements rather than generic “Nepal trekking” recommendations.
- Experience matching: Choose months that match your experience level and comfort with challenging conditions.
The Pikey Peak Trek offers rewarding experiences throughout much of the year, but understanding seasonal variations ensures you choose the timing that best matches your goals, experience level, and preferences. Whether seeking solitude in winter’s challenge or sharing spring’s rhododendron spectacular with fellow trekkers, proper timing can transform a good trek into the adventure of a lifetime.
This guide is based on extensive experience leading treks across all seasons. Weather patterns can vary year to year, so always consult current local conditions and weather forecasts when planning your trek.
