The Sierran foothills (1000' - 4000') are characterized by mild, wet winters and hot, dry summers. Precipitation usually occurs from January to mid-May; rain in the summer is rare. Average rainfall is about 26". During the winter, low-hanging clouds often drift in from the west, obscuring the countryside for several days at a time.

Summer in the middle elevations (4000' - 7000') is characterized by warm days and cool evenings. These elevations receive an average of 40-45" of precipitation annually. Much of this falls during the winter, resulting in a deep blanket of snow from December to May. Sub-zero temperatures, however, are rare. In the summer, occasional afternoon thundershowers may occur.