John Muir Trail
Overview
The John Muir Trail is America's most legendary long-distance hike — a 211-mile traverse from Yosemite Valley to Mount Whitney through the heart of the Sierra Nevada. You'll cross 6 passes over 11,000 feet, walk beside turquoise alpine lakes, and summit the highest peak in the contiguous US. Named after the naturalist who fought to protect this wilderness, the JMT is a pilgrimage through some of the most spectacular mountain scenery on Earth.
Duration
14-21 Days
Distance
354 km (211 miles)
Max Altitude
4,421m (14,505 ft)
Best Season
Jul-Sep
Highlights
- Summit Mount Whitney — highest peak in lower 48 (14,505 ft)
- Cross 6 mountain passes over 11,000 feet
- Walk through Yosemite, Sequoia, and Kings Canyon parks
- Camp beside turquoise alpine lakes
- Follow John Muir's footsteps through his beloved Sierra
- Experience true wilderness — no roads for 211 miles
Itinerary
Yosemite Valley to Tuolumne Meadows
Start at Happy Isles. Climb past Half Dome views to Tuolumne Meadows. First night above timberline.
Tuolumne Meadows to Glen Aulin
Gentle walk through meadows along the Tuolumne River. Waterfalls and granite domes.
Glen Aulin to Tuolumne Pass
Climb to Tuolumne Pass. Cross the first major pass. Alpine terrain begins.
Tuolumne Pass to Vogelsang
Traverse to Vogelsang with stunning 360° views. Cross the John Muir Trail junction.
Vogelsang to Merced Pass
Cross Merced Pass. Begin descent into the Clark Range.
Merced Pass to Purple Lake
Descend through alpine terrain to Purple Lake. Stunning reflections of surrounding peaks.
Purple Lake to Virginia Canyon
Climb into Virginia Canyon. Cross Silver Pass with incredible views.
Virginia Canyon to Tully Lake
Descend to Tully Lake. Rest day option at Muir Trail Ranch (resupply).
Tully Lake to Evolution Basin
Climb to Evolution Basin — one of the most beautiful areas in the Sierra. Turquoise lakes and granite peaks.
Evolution Basin to Muir Pass
Cross Muir Pass with its iconic stone hut. Begin descent toward Kings Canyon.
Muir Pass to Rae Lakes
Descend to the stunning Rae Lakes. One of the most popular camping spots on the JMT.
Rae Lakes to Glen Pass
Climb to Glen Pass with panoramic views of the Kings River drainage.
Glen Pass to Vidette Meadow
Long descent into Bubbs Creek drainage. Camp at Vidette Meadow.
Vidette Meadow to Forester Pass
The big day — climb to Forester Pass, the highest point on the JMT at 13,153 ft.
Forester Pass to Tyndall Creek
Descend through stunning alpine terrain to Tyndall Creek.
Tyndall Creek to Bullfrog Lake
Traverse to Bullfrog Lake. Views of the Great Western Divide.
Bullfrog Lake to Trail Crest
Climb to Trail Crest above Guitar Lake. Final camp before Whitney.
Summit Mount Whitney & Descend to Whitney Portal
Summit Mount Whitney (14,505 ft) at sunrise. Descend to Whitney Portal. End of the JMT.
Safety Information
High altitude throughout. River crossings can be dangerous in early season. Bear encounters possible. Weather changes rapidly at altitude. Permit system limits to 45/day northbound.
Nearest Hospital
Lone Pine Hospital / Bishop Hospital
Emergency Contacts
- Inyo SAR: 760-878-0383
- 911
Packing List
Essentials
- Bear canister
- Water filter
- Map/GPS
- Tent (freestanding)
- Sleeping bag (-10°C)
- Stove and fuel
Clothing
- Rain gear
- Down jacket
- Warm layers
- Hiking boots
- Gaiters
- Warm hat and gloves
- Sun hat
Safety
- Bear spray
- First aid kit
- Emergency blanket
- Satellite communicator
- Water purification
Weather by Month
| Month | High | Low | Rainfall | Rating |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jan | 30°F | 0°F | Heavy Snow | Avoid |
| Feb | 32°F | 5°F | Heavy Snow | Avoid |
| Mar | 38°F | 10°F | Heavy Snow | Avoid |
| Apr | 45°F | 20°F | Snow | Avoid |
| May | 55°F | 30°F | Snow | Avoid |
| Jun | 65°F | 40°F | Snow/Rain | Moderate |
| Jul | 75°F | 48°F | Low | Best |
| Aug | 78°F | 50°F | Low | Best |
| Sep | 70°F | 42°F | Low | Best |
| Oct | 55°F | 30°F | Snow | Avoid |
| Nov | 40°F | 15°F | Heavy Snow | Avoid |
| Dec | 30°F | 0°F | Heavy Snow | Avoid |