I am planning on hiking the JMT either this summer or next and am looking for the best time to do a two to three week hike. When is the best time of year for a combination of weather, water, crowds and bugs? Is it better to do a SOBO or NOBO hike as far as getting to the trail and getting back to an airport? What would you recommend for guides (for planning or hiking) and maps?
Big B
Anytime from July-September is fine weather and water wise. To avoid the bugs, wait until August, to avoid bugs and people, September is better. SOBO or NOBO is up to you. I did it SOBO because I like the idea of ending on top of Mt Whitney (yes I know you still have to hike down the mountain also). You also start at a lower elevation, allowing yourself to acclimate more easily that way. And byt he time you get to Whitney, you’ll be in pretty good shape, so the climb won’t be too bad (I think the trail uo Whitney is easier from the JMT side anyway). There’s a JMT map pack (I think by Tom Harrison) which has all the info you’ll need. You can get it at any REI or your local outdoor retailer. If you go SOBO, it’s pretty easy to get a hitch out of Whitney Portal and into Lone Pine, where you can get the CREST bus either to Reno or to Ridgecrest (where you can get a connection to L.A.) Don’t put it off, the JMT is one of the most beautiful hikes anywhere! Get out there and have a great time!
Ducky
SOBO is better for most people because starting the trip with climbing Whitney, loaded down with many many days of food, is a brutal way to start.
To do again, i’d either go for late August // September, or if you don’t mind gorgeous snow and a somewhat more difficult trip, go in early June.
In between those times is when the people and bugs are worse.
markv
I agree with SOBO and late Aug/Sept. In my opinion its the best combination of crowds, bugs, temps, etc.
Have fun!
weez