The John Muir Trail goes 211 miles from Yosemite Valley to the summit of Mount Whitney (14,505 feet) which is the highest mountain in the lower 48 states.

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The John Muir Trail (JMT) is a premier 211-mile long-distance backpacking route in California's Sierra Nevada mountains. Running from Yosemite Valley to the summit of Mount Whitney (14,505 feet), the challenging, high-altitude trail passes through Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks, offering unparalleled alpine scenery. 

Trail Overview

• Distance: 211 miles (from Happy Isles in Yosemite to the summit of Mt. Whitney), requiring an additional 11-mile descent to Whitney Portal to exit.
• Elevation Gain: Over 46,000 feet, crossing multiple mountain passes over 11,000 feet, including Forester Pass at 13,180 feet.
• Time to Complete:
  2 to 3 weeks on average, depending on pace and fitness.
Optimal Season: Late July through September, after most of the winter snow has melted. 

Permits & Planning

• Permits: A highly competitive wilderness permit is required and must be obtained from the agency where you start your hike. Yosemite National Park handles permits for continuous JMT hikes starting in Yosemite via an exit quota system.
• Regulations: Campfires are strictly regulated or prohibited in many high-elevation zones. All hikers must properly store their food in a certified bear-resistant container.
• Resupply: Because of the length of the trail, most backpackers plan 1 to 2 resupply stops along the way to avoid carrying weeks of food. Common resupply locations include Tuolumne Meadows, Reds Meadow Resort, and Muir Trail Ranch. 

Resources

For full logistical details, trailhead options, and permit applications, consult the Pacific Crest Trail Association or review the wilderness guidelines on the National Park Service website. 

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