How long does it take to hike the John Muir Trail?

How long does it take to hike the John Muir Trail?

Over the last few years, a retired San Francisco lawyer named John Ladd has run an annual online survey of people who hike the John Muir Trail, a famous route through the Sierra Nevadas that typically takes about three weeks to complete (through the fastest known time is two days, 19 hours, and 26 minutes, set last …

Is the John Muir Trail dangerous?

The most dangerous part of any John Muir Trail thru-hike is the drive to the trailhead. The wilderness in general has far fewer hazards than your average freeway, and – unlike on the interstate – if you avoid gross lapses of judgment you can almost guarantee your survival.

How much does it cost to hike the JMT?

Assuming you are hiking alone, live pretty close to the trail, have all the gear you need and want to eat pretty well; you can expect to shell out at least $825 to hike the JMT.

How hard is it to get a John Muir Trail permit?

John Muir permits are so popular that according to the national park service, 97% of JMT permit applications get denied. But don’t let that statistic scare you off… that’s like failing ahead of time.

What is the best time of year to hike the John Muir Trail?

According to the Pacific Coast Trail Association, the best time to hike the John Muir Trail is usually during June through September (after the majority of the snowpack has melted) for casual backpackers, though more hardcore hikers may choose to challenge themselves with substantial snowfall starting in October.

Do I need a permit for John Muir Trail?

If you’re hiking the JMT starting at the northern terminus, you’ll need a permit from Yosemite. Yosemite wilderness permit reservations are available 24 weeks (168 days) in advance. Read the JMT permit page on Yosemite’s website. If you hope to reserve a permit, you should apply exactly 168 days in advance.

Is the John Muir trail well marked?

The JMT is well marked and heavily traveled making it easy to follow. During peak season, you will encounter people going both directions on the trail, so your chances of getting lost are small.

How do I prepare for JMT?

So stop fretting and get your ducks in a row with my 8-step guide for planning that big backpacking adventure on the John Muir Trail.

1. Step 1: Decide if you will go solo or with a friend.
2. Step 2: Pick your dates and your starting trailhead.
3. Step 3: Apply for a permit.
4. Step 4: Gear up.
5. Step 5: Start Training.

When can you apply for JMT?

When to Apply for a JMT Permit Each lottery occurs exactly 24 weeks (168 days) before the desired starting date and permit applications are accepted 2 days before the lottery (170 days before your start date).

How many people hike the JMT every year?

1,500

Where does the John Muir trail start and end?

The trail starts in America’s treasure, Yosemite National Park, and continues 215 miles through the Ansel Adams Wilderness, Sequoia National Park, King’s Canyon National Park, and ends at the highest peak in continental United States, Mount Whitney at 14,496 ft. Considering these facts, why rush?

How much of the John Muir Trail is on the PCT?

Day hikers will tackle only the approach to the PCT, enjoying glacially carved lakes and breathtaking views of the Minaret Range. Backpackers will share the same approach trails, plus 20 miles on the PCT (make sure you have secured a wilderness permit in advance).

How do you resupply on the John Muir Trail?

4 Easy Steps For Planning A John Muir Trail Resupply

1. Step 1: Determine the total number of days you will spend on the John Muir Trail.
2. Step 2: Do your food shopping.
3. Step 3: Sort your food into piles.
4. Step 4: Pack and mail your John Muir Trail food drop.

Can you carry a gun on the John Muir Trail?

New member. Hey Everybody, I’m planning on backpacking through the John Muir Trail in July. From my research, it seems though this should not be a problem, since it is now legal to carry in National Parks.

Are bear canisters required on JMT?

JMT hikers must properly store their food while on the trail by using an approved bear canister (which protects your items not only from bears, but also from rodents). All food, toiletries, scented items, and trash must go in your canister, and you must lock it whenever it is not in use.

Are there bears on the John Muir Trail?

Bears and bear canisters on the Pacific Crest Trail and John Muir Trail. In California, the bear population has grown from about 10,000 in the 1980s to around 35,000 now. Their range has also expanded. In places where you didn’t use to worry about bears getting your food, there are now bears.

Where can I camp on the JMT?

The Top 10 Campsites On The John Muir Trail

• Lower Cathedral Lake (mile 17)
• Thousand Island Lake (mile 43)
• Lake Ediza Junction (mile 47)
• Virginia Lake (mile 72)
• Bear Creek (mile 96)
• McClure Meadow (mile 119)
• Lakes North of Pinchot Pass (mid 159)
• Middle Rae Lake (mile 172)

Can you use an Ursack instead of a bear canister?

Bear Canisters. Just because Ursack is IGBC certified, it doesn’t mean it is approved for use everywhere. In places where bear-resistant containers are required, it’s much more likely for a canister to be approved than Ursack. So, if you can only afford one bear proof container, it’s best to go with a container.

Is the Ursack AllMitey worth it?

Recommendation. The Ursack AllMitey is a bear-proof and critter-proof bag that can be used to protect your food while you sleep on backpacking and camping trips. It’s far more reliable, faster and easier to use than hanging a bear bag in a tree with a 5o’ length of cord and a rock.

Is food safe in car from bears?

You may store food inside your car or truck (out of sight, with windows completely closed) only during daylight hours. Bears can easily break into tent-cabins and tents for food. Never keep food, drinks, toiletries, or trash in your tent or tent-cabin.