John Muir Trail Backpacking

Yosemite Valley to Mt. Whitney

McClure Meadow, Kings Canyon National Park, California
McClure Meadow, Kings Canyon National Park, California

John Muir Trail Backpacking

Yosemite Valley to Mt. Whitney


The John Muir Trail

Yosemite Valley to Mount Whitney

The popular John Muir Trail extends 220 miles from Yosemite Valley to Mt. Whitney. Most hikers prefer to start in Yosemite, allowing themselves to acclimate gradually to the increasing elevations as they move south toward 14,505-foot Mt. Whitney. The trail leads from one spectacular region of the Sierra Nevada to another, passing through scenic alpine meadows, traversing high granite passes, and descending along tumbling mountain streams.

For many backpackers the rewards of hiking the John Muir Trail draw them back season after season. It's more than just another hike; it's adventure and an accomplishment that likely will transform the way you think about the Sierra Nevada and about yourself.

Vernal Falls, Yosemite National Park, California

Vernal Fall, Yosemite National Park


John Muir Trail Information

The pages of the High Sierra Trails website provide essential information about the John Muir Trail. Be aware that Yosemite National Park has been making changes to its regulations for JMT hikers in recent years.

  • Wilderness Permits - how to obtain a permit, key application dates, alternate trail choices.
  • Maps and Trail Descriptions - An overview trail map and detailed section maps along with pertinent route details
  • Resupply along the Trail - resupply points accessible from the trail are detailed on various trail map pages
  • Climbing Mt. Whitney - key information about hiking to the summit of Mt. Whitney and down to Whitney Portal
  • Transportation Between Trailheads - public transportation between and to Yosemite Valley and Whitney Portal
East side of Mount White, Sequoia National Park, California

East Face of Mount Whitney


Wildlife

Bears are common along the trail, but they are not a problem as long as proper food storage is practiced. The use of approved bear canisters is required in Yosemite, Sequoia National Park, most of Kings Canyon National Park and many other areas. See our Bear Canister Reviews to find the best canister for your trip.

Deer are accustomed to hikers along the trail. Rattlesnakes are rarely seen along the busy JMT, but hikers should always be wary.

Mosquitoes are annoying in early summer and gradually taper off through August. Watch for marmots sunning on the rocks, especially at higher elevations around the passes. On Mt. Whitney, secure your food from pesky critters before leaving your pack unattended.

John Muir Trail - Key Facts


Location: Yosemite National Park to Sequoia National Park
Trailhead: Happy Isles, Yosemite Valley, elevation 4,040 feet
Number of passes over 10,500': 9
Lowest point (along the way): Devils Postpile 7,562 feet
Highest point: Mt. Whitney, 14,505 feet
Whitney Portal: 8,323 feet
Total elevation gain: ~47,000 feet
Total elevation loss: ~38,000 feet
Hiking Distance: 220 miles
Best seasons: Mid-summer through fall


sign to Whiteny Portal, 220 miles


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John Muir Trail - Key Facts


Location: Yosemite National Park to Sequoia National Park
Trailhead: Happy Isles, Yosemite Valley, elevation 4,040 feet
Number of passes over 10,500': 9
Lowest point (along the way): Devils Postpile 7,562 feet
Highest point: Mt. Whitney, 14,505 feet
Whitney Portal: 8,323 feet
Total elevation gain: ~47,000 feet
Total elevation loss: ~38,000 feet
Hiking Distance: 220 miles
Best seasons: Mid-summer through fall


sign to Whiteny Portal, 220 miles

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John Muir Trail
Yosemite Valley Trailhead

The John Muir trail begins in Yosemite Valley at Happy Isles, ¾-mile from the Camp Curry parking lot.

Yosemite Valley can be crowded, especially during the summer and on weekends. Arrive early to avoid delays at entrance stations. Consider using YARTS buses which connect to Sonora, Merced, Fresno, and Mammoth Lakes. In the valley use the free shuttle to get around. See Yosemite Transportation. Stores, restaurants, a visitor center, and other services are available.

Parking

Park at Curry Village parking area while in the valley. On the day of your hike, park at the Trailhead Parking lot ½ mile closer to Happy Isles. Move food and scented items from your car to provided bear boxes.




Nearby Camping and Lodging

With your wilderness permit you can camp one night before and after your trip at the Backpackers' Campground across a foot bridge, north of North Pines Campground. There is a loading area in the North Pines Campground, but afterwards vehicles must be parked at the trailhead or at one of the valley's main parking lots. Camping is $6 per person.

For more about camping options in Yosemite National Park, see California's Best Camping: Yosemite National Park.

Lodging is available in Yosemite Valley at a variety of venues, ranging from housekeeping cabins to the famous Ahwahnee Hotel. Reservations should be made well in advance.