My friend and I planned a trip to Big Sur this past winter season and we wanted to see what kind of weather we would encounter, more specifically if they got snow in that area that time of year. So, I researched before heading out there, and here’s what I found.
It’s rare for Big Sur to get snow. On average, Big Sur only gets three inches of snow per year and this is only in its high elevation areas. To compare, the Oregon coastline gets an average of 1-3 inches per year. For the best chance to see snow in Big Sur, visit between November through March.
Let’s explore what winters are like in Big Sur and what I recommend wearing.
When Does It Snow in Big Sur?
In Big Sur, if it snows, it typically starts falling in late November, and peaks in December.
December usually receives the most amount of snowfall (on average two inches), with March in second place. As for when the snow is actually on the ground, late December also has the most on average.
Depending on the year, it can snow anytime from November to March.
Most recently, there was a decent amount of snowfall in Big Sur this past February the 22nd. When it does snow in Big Sur, your best bet is to see it up higher on mountains and peaks, away from the coast.
What Is Big Sur Like in the Winter (Does It Get Cold)?
From months November to March, temperatures in Big Sur usually range from 40º to 65ºF. The coldest months with the highest precipitation are December through February.
The winter months get average precipitation of 8.29 inches per month versus the rest of the year with an average of 1.47 inches. This precipitation is made up mostly of cold rain, not snow.
If you are looking to visit Big Sur during the winter season, there are pros and cons. Benefits include having more of the area to yourself, meaning lower lodging costs and clear skies perfect for stargazing. Some cons include risking the chance of some roads being closed due to storms, clouds, and lower temperatures.
When I went on my trip to Big Sur in August, I found myself having to wear a sweater at some points. So, I can only imagine how cold it might get in the winter months.
Big Sur gets a humid chill (from the fog) rather than a dry chill, making it seem much colder than it actually is.
What to Wear When Visiting Big Sur
Year-round, Big Sur normally stays between 40ºF to 80ºF.
When I went in August, I found myself wearing shorts and a t-shirt, with a sweater over it the whole time.
The nights in Big Sur do get much colder, and I would recommend wearing pants and a heavier jacket (especially if you are traveling there in the winter season). Maybe even a scarf and beanie.
The Best Time To Go to Big Sur
The ideal time to visit Big Sur is in the fall or spring. You don’t have to risk the chances of running into huge crowds, higher prices, or the most amount of marine layer that takes place in the summer. You can also avoid possible road closures and uncomfortable weather in the winter.
Visiting Big Sur in the spring, you can enjoy the blooming of wildflowers, whale watching, and overall great weather.
Where Does it Snow Near Big Sur?
If you are looking to visit somewhere in California where it snows a good amount, I would recommend checking out Lake Tahoe, which is a little northeast of Big Sur. Lake Tahoe is on the border with Nevada and is known for its crystal clear waters, ski resorts, and beautiful winters.
Another place in California that gets snow is Truckee, located in Nevada County. Truckee is close to Lake Tahoe, about an hour or so from Sacramento. The town is known as a mountain town and is typically pretty chilly year-round compared to the rest of the state.
Yosemite and Sequoia National Parks also get snow from time to time.
The National Park Service says, “Most of Yosemite is blanketed in snow from about November through May. (Yosemite Valley can be rainy or snowy in any given winter storm.)” While Sequoia National Park gets even more snow than Yosemite and is even known for its winter activities.
If you are looking for snow in California, it seems that snow is really only towards the east side of the state.
Sources:
- https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Climate_of_Oregon#:~:text=Annual%20snowfall%20along%20the%20coastal,to%2025%20cm)%20a%20year
- https://www.nps.gov/yose/planyourvisit/weather.htm