I’m planning a 2005 thru like of the JMT and I’m trying to figure out my itinerary. Reading trail journals and looking at my guide books, there is some discrepancy about the length and height of the Golden Staircase. Does anyone have either the GPS coordinates of the start of the Golden Staircase or the distance of the start from Palisade Lakes and the elevation change from start to the end of the staircase.
Thanks,
Bob
Bob
You should double-check and see how your guidebooks are defining the Golden Staircase. Some might include the entire distance between Deer Meadow to the top of Mather Pass, but it the Golden Staircase portion is really just the section just beyond Deer Meadow to lower Palisades Lake. There is still quite a bit of hiking and climbing left after that point to the top of the pass. Despite its reputation, I love the climb up the Golden Staircase as it is rugged, exposed and has beautiful views. Palisades Lakes are also incredible. Have a great hike!
Kanga