JMT in June - John Muir Trail

imported
#1

Is it possible to hike the JMT starting the first of June? I see where the primary hiking season is July through September, but what would be the disadvantages hiking it early? I’m not to experienced at the higher elevations that you find on the JMT so I need advice.

Storyteller09

#2

So far 2012 is a very dry year in the Sierra - but that could change with a couple early spring storms. Last year heavy snow was present until late July.

If you have snow skills, (or perserverance and luck) it’s doable. But besides normal ice/snow safety concerns:

  1. Route finding when the trail is covered with snow
  2. Pace - you will go slower so pack weight / resupply issues are different
  3. Early season stream crossings - probably the most pressing concern if you are inexperienced

booger

#3

Doable. If it’s a normal or high snow year, you might consider starting from Kennedy Meadows instead of starting from Yosemite or Whitney. This way you acclimate a little more gradually and will have PCT thru-hikers’ tracks and presence to help you out. (Normal late-summer starting from the south is much more difficult because of beginning with the climb up Whitney.)

Starting at Kennedy Meadows would add about 3 days to your hike.

markv