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

John Muir Trail Backpacking Trip - Mammoth to Yosemite Trek

Backpacking the John Muir Trailshould be on every hiker's bucket list! This section of the John Muir Trail begins in Mammoth Lakes at Red’s Meadow and concludes in Yosemite Valley. The route follows a diverse stretch of the Sierra, moving through steady water sources, creek crossings, high mountain lakes, broad meadows, and rugged passes. You’ll travel past Thousand Island Lake and take in wide views from Donohue Pass before dropping into Lyell Canyon and continuing toward Tuolumne Meadows for a resupply. From there, the trail leads through the Cathedral Range and descends toward Yosemite Valley, finishing along the Mist Trail beside Vernal and Nevada Falls. The final miles include several alpine lakes and sections of old-growth forest, creating a memorable and varied end to the trek.

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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