#2 best hike in the world is …

December 24th, 2006 · 2 Comments

The John Muir Trail

You can still walk for 2 or 3 weeks without crossing a road in California.

This is the best hike in the USA and is the best section of the longer Pacific Crest Trail.

Indeed, many experts rank this is the best hike in the world. It’s a pilgrimage in honour of John Muir, the man who founded the Sierra Club and helped create Yosemite National Park.

Start in Muir’s “range of light” with a thrilling scramble of Half Dome. Then hike South 223mi (360km) to Whitney Portal. If you make it, celebrate on the summit of Mt. Whitney, the highest peak in the lower 48.

As you must carry your own food and tent, book 21 days for an optimal experience.

The weather and conditions are usually great — but only Aug through mid-Sept. It is a very short window!

Of course there are shorter section hikes for all abilities and experience levels.

Why we love it:

crosses Yosemite, Ansel Adams and John Muir wilderness, Kings Canyon and Sequoia National Parks

11 high passes, unbelievable views

comparatively moderate and safe walking for a long hike (the scramble up Half Dome being the notable exception)

many marvellous waterfalls cascading the huge granite walls of Yosemite

the JMT passes through 6 of 7 ecological zones of America

you can tent (mostly) where you want. No need to camp near bear boxes.

often great weather — though afternoon summer thunderstorms are likely

Whitney is a beautiful and impressive peak, especially from the summit

the warm welcome (and a day off) at Vermillion Resort

the Wilderness Permit is free

it is easy to solo the JMT — but only if you are strong enough to haul your own gear

signing the summit register on Whitney is a great culmination to the adventure

trying to beat Reinhold Metzger’s record of 5 days 7 Hours 45 minutes without being resupplied

Considerations:

almost everyone starts in Yosemite and hikes to Mt. Whitney

water is not a major problem, but it will be dry on the the high passes in August

a good water filter is recommended

dehydration and heat are more often problems than hypothermia

bring a lightweight stove. Fire limitations are in effect usually based on elevation.

the smartest bears in the world will be trying to get anything edible or that smells edible

Marmots will eat anything and may chew through your pack.

mosquitos are a slight problem early in the season though wasps, late in the season, are more painful

snakes live there but are usually not a nuisance

altitude sickness is a big worry, if you opt to start at Whitney

some river crossings may be a concern early in the season. Hiking poles an advantage.

Most hikers prefer sturdy footwear on this trek. A second pair of footwear recommended.

bears are a concern. Do not hike alone at night.

Details on our John Muir Trail information page.

larger photo - river crossing on the JMT - rappensuncle

2 responses so far ↓

DSD // Jan 2, 2007 at 1:01 pm

Have only completed sections of the JMT, but was very taken with the high Sierra experience… Great choice for #2!
DSD
rappensuncle // Mar 7, 2007 at 4:46 pm

Thanks for posting my shot here! JMT is one fine walk through paradise.

M

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