Footing: JMT vs. NE

imported
#1

I raised this issue before, but I would like to raise it again. Here in the north east, many of the rails have horrible footing. I just spent a weekend hiking in the George Washington National Forest. Many of the trails are old wagon mining roads where the roadbed has washed away and all that is left is piles of rocks. Every steps requires thought on where to place your foot; you are jumping from rock to rock; or the trail is a big mud hole and you have to detour around it. This tread is painful and slow going. If the JMT is anything like that, there is no way I’m going to be able to finish it. However, every picture I see of the JMT, the trail looks really nice and even. Is that the case??

Bob

#2

It depends on where you are. The meadows are fairly smooth; the high passes are all rocks. Other areas are a function of geology and forest cover. Speed will vary - even for the ironman fitness folks. One step at a time - You can finish.

booger

#3

Having hiked the JMT and many trails in the East, I think the JMT has a much better walking tread than trails in the East. It is well engineered with switchbacks where possible. It still has steep places because you have to go up so much. The trail is sometimes on rock, but it is mostly smooth rock or the talus has been moved to create a decent trail. If you don’t run into deep snow, you will have a great time.

Turtle Walking

#4

jmt is a cruise, as far as footing and grade are concerned. couple steep spots, but nothing even close to the whites or maine.

milo

#5

Thanks guys. That makes me feel a little better :wink:

Bob

#6

Echoing what the others said. The JMT is well graded and much easier on the feet than Maine or New Hampshire. The passes are rocky but navigable. Enjoy!!

Cheers

Cheers