YOU Can Hike the John Muir Trail!
The Experience
Keep in mind that the trail is 211 miles long, climbs 47,000 vertical feet and can take two to six or more weeks to complete. About half of those that hike the trail do so NOBO (northbound) and half SOBO (southbound). The primary reason that half hike in each direction is also the primary challenge. Getting a permit to hike the JMT is extremely difficult. It’s a lottery system and some hikers have to wait years to win a spot. Water availability on the trail is terrific and hikers usually have to carry very little water which equates to a lighter pack. The rewards are a perfect mixture of high elevation passes with views forever and lush lower elevation valleys. It’s John Muir’s Eastern Sierras at their very best.
FIVE Ways to be Successful on the John Muir Trail:
Permits:
Obtain the necessary permits well in advance. The JMT passes through multiple National Parks, and permits are required for camping. Check the regulations and secure your permits as early as possible based on if you are planning to travel north or south. Rec.gov is your source.
Resupply Points:
Plan your resupply points strategically. The JMT is a long trail with fewer resupply points than most trails its length. Having well-planned resupply points is crucial. Consider the distance between them and pack accordingly.
Bear Canister Requirement:
The JMT passes through bear country, and to protect both bears and hikers, the use of bear-resistant food canisters is mandatory. Yosemite National Park and Sequoia National Parks enforce this regulation, and you'll need to carry an approved bear canister to store your food and scented items. Ursacks are not allowed. Plan your food packing and storage strategy accordingly, and be familiar with proper bear safety practices.
Aclimate:
The JMT traverses high elevations, reaching altitudes above 10,000 feet and going over seven mountain passes, including the famous Forester Pass at over 13,000 feet. Altitude sickness can be a concern, so acclimatization is crucial. Be aware of symptoms such as headache, nausea, and fatigue. Plan your itinerary to gradually ascend to higher elevations, and be prepared to take rest days if needed.
Be Aware of Crowds:
The John Muir Trail (JMT) shares a significant portion of its route with the Pacific Crest Trail (PCT). In fact, the JMT is often considered a section of the longer PCT. The overlapping section between the two trails is approximately 160 miles, stretching from Yosemite Valley in Yosemite National Park to the summit of Mount Whitney. This is a very busy corridor with large numbers of hikers during the hiking season. If a hiker is looking for a quiet and solitary experience, they will not find that on the JMT between June and August.
FIVE Ways to be Successful on a Long Distance Hike:
Physical Fitness:
Trails cover a variety of terrains, possibly including high mountain passes, steep ascents and descents. It's crucial to be in good physical condition to handle the demands of long-distance hiking. Cardiovascular fitness, leg strength, and endurance are essential. Prioritize a training regimen that includes both aerobic exercise and strength training to prepare your body for the challenges ahead. Without a doubt get used to carrying your packed backpack both on shorter trips and even on walks in your neighborhood.
Navigation Skills:
Most long distance trails are well-marked, but it's still important to have solid navigation skills. Carry a detailed map and compass, and know how to use them. GPS devices and smartphone apps can be helpful, but they should not be relied upon solely. Familiarize yourself with the trail route, trail markers, and potential landmarks to stay on course, especially in remote areas where navigation aids might be limited.
Backpacking Skills:
Proficiency in backpacking skills is crucial for a successful long distance hike. This includes knowing how to pack efficiently, set up and break down your camp, purify water, and cook simple meals. Understanding how to use your gear, including a backpack, tent, sleeping bag, and stove, is essential for a comfortable and safe journey. Carrying a backpack weighing under 30lbs will allow you to enjoy your journey much more than carrying a heavy backpack. Understand how to carry less.
Weather Preparedness:
Weather can be unpredictable, especially at high altitudes. Be prepared for a range of conditions, including heat, rain, snow, and sudden temperature changes. Pack appropriate clothing, including layers that can be added or removed as needed.
Leave No Trace Principles:
Practice Leave No Trace (LNT) principles to minimize your impact on the environment. Respect the delicate ecosystems along the trail by properly disposing of waste, avoiding unnecessary damage to vegetation, and minimizing campfire impacts. Educate yourself on LNT principles and strive to leave the trail as pristine as you found it.
