John Muir Trail

It all started with ice cream. After a backpacking sport group meeting one Thursday night, a friend and I were chatting about our future hiking endeavors. I mentioned the PCT at one point as something I would like to try after college. He introduced me to the John Muir Trail, which he thought would be an amazing “test run” if I was to attempt the trek from Mexico to Canada. What he did not tell me was the incredible and amazing chaos that would unfold from that point onward.

Overview: What is the John Muir Trail?

Planning

• Permits: Getting the Golden Ticket
• Checking Trail Conditions
• Mapping Your Hike
• Food Resupply
  • Mt. Williamson Motel and Base Camp
  • Red’s Meadow Pack Station
  • Muir Trail Ranch
  • High Sierra Pack Station
  • Rainbow Pack Outfitters
• Gearing Up

Trail Diaries: Our Snowy Adventure

[youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=akubQM9Hi20]

Further Readings

• JMT early-season 2017: 4 part series written by Sam Chaneles for Andrew Skurka
  • Part 1: Snow Coverage, Navigation, and Snowshoes
  • Part 2: Passes, Axes, and Crampons
  • Part 3: River Fords
  • Part 4: Mosquitoes & Final Thoughts
• JMT Thru-Hike Report written for AORE by Sam Chaneles

Resources

• Maps
• Navigation — Google Earth Snapshots
• “Crib” Sheet
• First Aid Kit