If (big if!) the promised El Nino hits, Southern California might get some rain by November, another argument in favor of a southbound hike. Or you can start in the Sierra (which would give you time to get to Canada before the snow flies) and flipflop back to do Southern California last--even if it isn't wetter, it will be a lot cooler.
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May your trails be crooked, winding, lonesome, dangerous, leading to the most amazing view--E. Abbey