The High Atlas has a classic mountain climate: hot and dry in summer at lower elevations, cold and snowy in winter above 2,500 metres, and beautifully clear in spring and autumn.
Spring (March–May) is the best season for trekking. The high passes hold snow from the winter, which makes for dramatic scenery, but the main Toubkal route is usually manageable without technical gear by April. Wild flowers cover the lower slopes in April and May.
Summer (June–September) is the main trekking season, warm and settled, though afternoon thunderstorms build over the high peaks in July and August. The Toubkal summit is easily accessible without snow gear from June through October. July and August can be hot in the valleys.
Autumn (September–November) offers excellent trekking conditions: the summer crowds thin out, the air is clear, and the walnut trees turn gold in October. Night temperatures start falling sharply by October.
Winter (December–February) closes most high routes and requires serious mountaineering gear for Toubkal. The Ourika Valley and lower foothills remain accessible. Oukaïmeden ski resort opens when snow conditions allow, usually December through March.