Backpacking the John Muir Trail 5-6 Days: Mammoth to Yosemite Trek

John Muir Trail Backpacking Trip - Mammoth to Yosemite Trek

A stretch along one of the most famous trails in the world, this section of the John Muir Trail starts in Mammoth Lakes (Red's Meadow) and ends in Yosemite Valley. This once-in-a-lifetime journey takes you through ample water sources, stream crossings, alpine lakes, meadows, and mountains! Thousand Island Lake pass offers wonderful scenery, as well as expansive views from Donohue Pass before continuing on to Toulomne Meadows. We will get a resupply in TM and continue on to the descent into Yosemite Valley, ending on the Mist Trail with up-close encounters of the world-famous Vernal and Nevada Falls! The last leg showcases about 4-5 alpine lakes and a trip through the old-growth forest, all absolutely stunning. A paradise for nature lovers. 

Trip Highlights

• Ritter Range
• Island Pass
• Donohue Pass
• Lyell Canyon
• Tuolumne Meadows (Resupply)
• Cathedral Lakes
• Sunrise HS Camp
• Little Yosemite Valley
• Nevada Falls
• Vernal Falls
• Yosemite Village

Difficulty Rating (1-5): 4

This trek follows well-maintained trails and has a moderate to challenging hiking distance of 8-12 miles per day, depending on the length of the trip chosen. There will be days of higher elevation gain than others and rocky sections of trail with bigger step-ups and step-downs. Due to the length and elevation gain of this trek, it is considered a challenging Level 4 hike. Weight carried will be between 35 and 40 lbs. A resupply drop-off is available for an additional charge to make this more manageable!

Duration

• 5 or 6-Day Option
• 56mi
• +9,000ft, -12,000ft
• Time: 8:00 AM

Location / Where to Meet

John Muir Trail

California, USA

Ages & Requirements

• Previous backpacking experience is required. The ability to carry an overnight backpack for up to 12 miles a day with 2000-3000 feet of elevation gain for multiple days in a row (based on 5-day trek).
• You must be in excellent to very good physical condition.

What's Included

• Top-of-the-line tent, backcountry sleeping pad, multi-day backpack, headlamps, utensils, and poles.
• High-quality, synthetic sleeping bag (Laundered after every use- $15 cleaning fee) – or bring your own!
• Breakfast, lunch, and a 4-course dinner prepared by your guide while in the field.
• Professional local mountain guide certified as Wilderness First Responder, Food Handling & Leave No Trace Principles with years of professional and personal wilderness experience and a passion for leading others.
• Wilderness and National Park backcountry camping permits
• Bear canisters for food storage
• Water Filtration systems- all water is filtered by your guide!
• Emergency equipment, including an extensive first-aid kit and satellite communication device (InReach Explorer).
• For Yosemite National Park Treks: A mandatory 5% national park fee that passes through directly to Yosemite.
• A discount of 10% off any TrekSierra trip after your first!

Not Included

• Rain Gear
• Binoculars
• Snacks - feel free to bring your own snacks, such as a banana, granola bar, energy gels, or trail mix for some boost while trekking.
• Gratuity—Never expected but if you have a great experience, please consider gifting 10-25% to your guides

What to Bring / Wear

• Comfortable & moisture-wicking clothing - we recommend layering your clothing and opt for ones made with nylon or polyester (nylon shirt, yoga pants or active shorts, etc.)
• Extra/Weather-dependent clothing (insulated pullover, fleece sweater, waterproof jacket, etc.)
• Sturdy Hiking Shoes - Broken in/Used before with traction!
• Hiking Socks - Warm and comfortable to prevent blisters!
• Brimmed Hat, Sunglasses
• Bandana & Gloves (optional)
• Sunblock & Insect Repellent
• Camera & Binoculars
• Trekking Poles
• Snacks & Insulated Flask
• Backpack (hygiene kit, medicine kit, cash, phone, and other personal essentials)

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