The Pacific Crest Trail (PCT) calls to people from every walk of life. Maybe it’s the promise of solitude on a desert playa, or the enormous vistas found in the Sierra. Whatever your reason, the act of walking from Mexico to Canada is a journey for the mind, body, and soul. And planning for the PCT is the first obstacle to overcome.

Each year, thousands of ambitious people like you lace up their boots to tackle this trail, chasing something wild and elusive. While no blog post can capture every detail of preparation, consider this your fireside primer. An easy introduction to the essentials of the trail, shared from the heart of PCT country.

The Second Oldest Trail

Twisting and turning through over 2,600 miles of wilderness, the Pacific Crest Trail was first envisioned by Clinton Clarke in 1932. This was about 11 years after the Appalachian Trail was proposed. The idea was to connect existing trails like the JMT and Oregon's Skyline Trail into one continuous journey.

Between 1935 and 1938, groups from the YMCA laid the groundwork for the PCT, hiking and mapping out much of the trail. But it wasn't until 1993 that this iconic trail was officially completed.

Now, this footpath that stretches through California, Oregon, and Washington has become a symbol of the American West. Offering those brave enough to travel it some of the most unforgettable views and experiences.

Planning Your PCT Start Date

Your start date will depend on several things, like your skill level, the weather, your gear, and if you're going Northbound (NOBO) or Southbound (SOBO) on the trail.

Northbound on the PCT

Most PCT hikers travel NOBO and begin their journey in April or May, trying to beat the desert heat and avoid the Sierra snow. Starting during this window means you'll run into more fellow hikers during your journey. If you're planning to hike the PCT Northbound, you'll need to apply for your permit in the fall (i.e., for an April 2026 start date, apply in November 2025).

Taking the Southbound Route

If you're more of a solo hiker, southbound on the PCT is the way to go. Permits for SOBO hikes begin as early as June 15th, but the majority of hikers start between June 20th and July 10th. This is when most of the snow has usually melted in the North Cascades, so hikers can avoid navigating dangerous, freezing conditions. If this is your route, plan to apply during the January application period.

PCT Thru-Hike Permits

Issued by the Pacific Crest Trail Association, a thru-hiker permit is required for anyone traveling 500 or more continuous miles on the PCT. The application process opens in two waves, usually in November and January, but you're required to register before applications open up. If you're planning to apply for a popular start date/trailhead, be prepared with a plan B. Once you’ve picked your start location and date, you’ll fill out a brief application and wait for approval.

You'll also need to grab a free California Campfire Permit and check if any additional wilderness permits apply to your route. The permit process may feel a bit daunting, but it’s the first real step toward turning your PCT dream into reality.

Budgeting For Your Trip

Real talk: Thru hiking the PCT isn’t cheap, but it’s also not your average vacation. Most hikers drop between $4,000-$8,000 for the privilege of climbing peaks fueled by ramen noodles. Your budget will be split between gear, grub, town treats, and the occasional emergency replacement.

You’ll spend money on dehydrated food, a tiny tent, and one or two hot showers. Add in buses, tips, and a little post-trail cushion, and you’ve got yourself a budget that’s part survival, part soul-searching. Worth it? Every single penny.

Gear That Feels Like Home

When planning for your PCT hike, remember that your pack will become your home. That tent is your bedroom. Those shoes, your most loyal companions. Most thru-hikers lean toward ultra-lightweight setups and gear. This allows them to carry more food and water for long stretches of wilderness. Ultralight gear can be pretty expensive, though, so balance what you need with what you can afford.

Trail runners tend to be the footwear of choice, but whatever shoes you wear, make sure they’ve seen some miles before you hit the PCT. For clothing, layers are key. Mornings can be frosty, afternoons scorching, and evenings damp with mountain mist. Merino wool, synthetic blends, and a good rain shell will serve you well.

Food, Water, and the Magic of Resupply

Planning meals for months on the PCT is part strategy, part art. You’ll crave lots of calories and learn to love peanut butter and tuna packs in ways you never imagined.

A lot of hikers mail resupply boxes ahead; others wing it and shop in towns or at hiker donation boxes. VVR is a favorite stop for PCT and JMT hikers, offering all of these options, plus some soul-soothing hospitality.

Water is life out there. Know your sources, carry a filter, and always have a backup. Apps like FarOut help, but nothing beats a local’s advice. Especially when that local works at a lakeside resort with decades of trail wisdom.

Training the Body, Tending the Mind

You don’t need to be an ultramarathoner to hike the PCT. People from ages 6-81 have completed this famous trek, but your legs will thank you for some pre-trail conditioning. Wearing your PCT gear on hikes and stair climbs will go a long way in preparing yourself to hike over 2,000 miles.

Just as important as your body is your mindset and mental health. The PCT will test you and has brought many hikers to their knees. Pack your medications, a journal, a playlist, audio books, or a mantra. Keep in mind that sometimes the hardest days often lead to the most beautiful views, and it's okay to cry it out on a rock once in a while.

Planning For Safety On The PCT

Digital navigation apps like FarOut and Gaia GPS are staples. It's also a good idea to carry a personal locator beacon or satellite messenger, just in case. And don’t underestimate the power of a paper map and compass. Being able to navigate, even when your phone is at the bottom of a lake, is huge.

Trail angels, fellow hikers, and places like VVR are also part of your safety net. You’re never truly alone out there.

Final Thoughts from the Lakeshore

Preparing for the PCT is like preparing for a long conversation with nature. You won’t know every twist in the trail, but you’ll learn to listen to your body, to the land, and to the stories shared around camp. If your journey brings you near Edison Lake, we hope you’ll stop by VVR. We’ve got hot meals, soft beds, and plenty of tales to trade.

Until then, happy planning, and may your steps be steady and your spirit light.

Tucked deep in the Sierra Nevada, Vermilion Valley Resort (VVR) is more than a wilderness stop. It’s a warm, welcoming retreat where trail-weary hikers find rest, connection, and a touch of local charm. Whether you're hiking the JMT, PCT, or one of the many wilderness trails in the area, staying at VVR offers a chance to recoup and refuel.

Getting Here From The Trail

Most thru-hikers who stay at VVR come in on our ferry. A 20-30 minute boat ride from the east end of Thomas Edison Lake to the resort. The ferry service operates during the peak season, when the water levels and weather cooperate. For a current schedule and details, click here.

You can also choose to hike into the resort. Northbound JMT/PCT hikers can take the Bear Ridge Trail 5.7 miles to the dam. Next, walk along the top of the dam to the end where it meets the shoreline. Keep the tree-line to your left and follow the road about 1.5 miles to VVR.

Southbound hikers can take a cut-off trail about a mile before Silver Pass to Goodale Pass. At the end of the trail, take the road left about 1/2 mile to VVR.

Why Hikers Love Staying At VVR

VVR is a beacon for long-distance hikers. A place you hear about from other hikers on the trail, which sounds like a fairytale until you arrive. Where one 'zero day' turns into two because the vibes (and fries) are just that good.

From the moment you arrive, this place feels like a summer camp for grown-ups. Our community of fellow adventurers greets each PCT and JMT thru-hiker with a friendly smile and a free beverage. At VVR, stories and laughter flow, and strangers become tramily (trail family).

Amenities That Hit the Spot

• Hot Showers: After days on the trail, nothing beats a steamy shower. VVR’s 8-minute showers include a clean towel, washcloth, and soap. If you want the luxury experience, pair your shower with a load of laundry.
• Laundry & Loaner Clothes: Ready to rinse the grime off your clothes? A load of laundry at VVR includes detergent, pre-soak sink, washer, dryer, clothes line, and clean loaner clothes!
• Charging Stations: Plug in your devices and charge them up for free at one of our hiker charging stations. Located near the store/restaurant building, when the generator is running (7am-10pm).
• Private Room or Mushroom City: Backpackers staying overnight at VVR have a lot of options. They can either set up a tent in Mushroom City for free, grab a bed in the hiker hostel tent cabin, or book private accommodations in our motel, cabins, or yurt.
• Resupply Station: Hikers can either send a resupply package to VVR before they arrive or stock up at our general store. VVR’s resupply options can be a logistical timesaver for first-time hikers. We stock dehydrated meals, electrolytes, candy, snacks, isobutane, and more.
• Wifi: Need to call home or upload pics from your adventures so far? Wifi is available for purchase at the front desk so you can call, text, video chat, and catch up with the outside world.
• Entertainment Galore:
  • Basketball hoop, ping pong, and a disc golf basket for some friendly competition
  • Horseshoes and corn hole for that old-school campground feel
  • A big selection of board games and a cozy book exchange
  • 2 Community TVs with streaming services
  • Water rentals, including paddle boards, kayaks, boats, and hydro bikes—perfect for unwinding on the lake

Rustic & Delicious Dining

The restaurant here serves up hearty, home-cooked meals for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Breakfast and lunch menus are loaded with classics like pancakes, biscuits & gravy, burgers, and BLTs. For dinner, most nights feature a chef’s choice limited menu, designed to keep things fresh and flavorful. But Friday and Saturday nights are extra special:

• Friday Night: Wood-fired pizzas with crispy crusts and traditional toppings
• Saturday Night: BBQ night! Smoky, savory, and satisfying

Each night's menu includes both a meat and a vegetarian option, so everyone’s covered. That said, the kitchen is flexible, and guests with severe allergies or other dietary restrictions should call or email ahead to discuss accommodations.

Nearby Adventures: Wilderness With A Splash Of Comfort

If your thru-hike includes local hotspot fun along the way, there are a couple of nearby gems worth checking out.

• Pack Station: Just up the road from VVR, you'll find real-life cowboys offering guided horseback rides. Choose from scenic day rides or multi-day backcountry trips. For more info, click here.
• Mono Hot Springs Resort: A short drive (or hitch) away, this spot offers cabins, a campground, a general store, a restaurant, massages, and access to natural hot springs. Check them out here.

Staying At VVR On A Budget

We're out in the middle of nowhere. The nearest grocery store and gas station are over 2 hours away down a long and dangerous mountain road. There's a premium to keeping VVR operating, but we do our best to make it affordable for all hikers.

• Hiker Hostel & Mushroom City: If you're looking for lower-cost accommodations, our hiker hostel is a great way to get a cozy bed without breaking the bank. For a zero-cost option, pitch your tent with your fellow hikers in our Mushroom City hiker campground.
• Resupply: Save on your resupply by mailing it ahead of time instead of purchasing everything from the store. During peak season, it's easy to supplement your resupply with our hiker box.
• Hiker Help Wanted: Lower your bill with our hiker work trade program! Sign up at the front desk to trade a few hours of work for a free meal plus a generous discount in the store.

Planning your backpacking adventure near us? Visit VVR’s website for more information, bookings, and updates. We can't wait to meet you!

One of the best things about Vermilion Valley Resort is just how deeply embedded it is into the backcountry. Famously, this works in favor of PCT/JMT thru-hikers, who can resupply with only a couple miles of additional walking, but it also benefits anyone planning a backpacking trip out of VVR; within two days' walk there are countless basins, passes, and alpine lakes to explore, and the trailhead permits are typically plentiful.

As an avid backpacker, I've done my share of exploration in this area. Graveyard and Mono Passes are memorable trips. But for years I'd looked east across Lake Thomas Edison and wondered what lay in the high country beyond Recess Peak and the Volcanic Knob. This year, with a group totaling eleven friends from the Los Angeles area, I was able to find out!

The big idea was to go up the Second Recess and over Gabbot Pass, camp near Lake Italy and then rejoin the JMT/PCT following the Hilgard Branch of Bear Creek. After this mostly off-trail portion, we'd stick to established trails and explore the side-basins and lakes just north of Selden Pass. Above is a map of our ~45 mile journey, also available on CalTopo.

Day 1: Ferry to Mills Creek

~8 miles, +2,000', -500'

We started our trip with a ride on the VVR ferry, and promptly began hiking up the Mono Creek drainage. I'm always impressed by the size and grandeur of this watershed, but it makes sense given the amount of water that pours into Edison Lake every year.

After lunch, we crossed the creek and turned up into the Second Recess, where the going got steeper and the trail became patchier. Originally, our plan had been to make it all the way to Lower Mills Creek Lake for our first night's camp. But as it was getting later in the day, we opted to save the final move up to the lake for the next morning. Instead, we camped at a nice sandy spot with an established fire ring, just at the upper end of the Mills Creek meadow.

Day 2: Mills Creek to Lake Italy

~6 miles, +3000', -1000'

Although shorter than Day 1 by a couple miles, Day 2 felt much tougher given the steep incline and the frictions of (mostly) off-trail navigation, especially below the tree line. The first stretch, from camp up to Lower Mills Creek Lake, was a particular challenge due to low visibility and the narrow shape of the drainage. It's easy to get caught either on steep boulder-laden inclines away from the creek, or in the dense tangle of brush closer to the creek itself. We managed to walk a fine line between the two, preferring areas with granite slab underfoot, and made it to the lake in time for a lunch break before continuing up toward Gabbot Pass.

The visibility really opened up after this point, and although several of us were feeling the altitude, we were consoled by views of the Banner-Ritter saddle (30 miles away) framed by a deep-blue pool, and some late-July snow fields just below the pass.

After topping out around 12,250', the next basin opened up with majestic views of the Bear Creek Spires and Mt. Julius Caesar (see this post's cover image), not to mention the twin giants of Mt. Abbot and Mt. Gab (is Gabbot Pass really just a combination of the two names?), both of which reach heights of over 13,700'. After the day's exertions, we descended eagerly to Toe Lake where we found a solid campsite among some large boulders, with commanding views of the basin and surrounding peaks.

Day 3: Lake Italy to Sandpiper Lake

~11 miles, +1600', -2200'

The plan for Day 3 was to follow the Hilgard Branch of Bear Creek back down the the JMT/PCT, and then turn south and head up toward Selden Pass. We started with a nice easy walk along the shores of Lake Italy, with expansive views of Italy Pass and the Silver Divide as we turned down to begin following the Hilgard Branch. But our cross-country challenges weren't over; the drainage got steeper and the brush got thicker as we descended, especially where the (mostly patchy) trail climbed along canyon edges to avoid the snarls and marshiness of the creek.

Note: The USGS Quad Sheet shows a trail beginning at Lake Italy on the north/east side of the creek that would follow a steeper course, but which seemed a bit riskier for a larger group with varying experience levels. We found it easier to stay on the south/west side of the creek for a while (following a shallow incline on exposed granite) and then make a crossing once the opposite side had leveled out.

Once we'd rejoined the JMT/PCT, the walking was easy up to the lovely Sandpiper Lake. Just a couple miles off the beaten path, Sandpiper is a little gem bordered by soft granite ledges, a series of alpine ponds, and a hilly peninsula reminiscent of Evolution Lake. That night, the group enjoyed stargazing under crystal clear skies.

Day 4: Sandpiper Lake to Rose Lake

~4 miles, +600' -700'

After the intensity of roughly 10,000 feet of total elevation change, including off-trail navigation, we'd planned for Day 4 to be a shorter hiking day, and we enjoyed taking our time! After some much needed extra sleep, some folks stayed at camp to do laundry, while others walked over to the opposite side of Sandpiper Lake to swim and sunbathe.

Bonus: Three Island Lake

Meanwhile, I was curious about Medley and Three Island Lakes, so I trekked further up the drainage with lunch and a daypack. These did not disappoint! Medley is a fairy-tale collection of small lakes in a maze of granite, where Three Island is a much larger lake pushed up against the tall stuff at the top of the basin. Together with Sandpiper, this area would make for a great weekend trek or fishing trip. Check out the map of my lunch hike on Garmin Connect.

After a leisurely lunch, we finally packed up and made our day's move over to Rose Lake, another side-basin on the opposite side of the JMT/PCT. In late afternoon, while some of us made camp on a tree-shaded hill on the lake's near side, others circumnavigated the lake and captured photos of a gorgeous storm system moving in from the north. The weather ended up skirting us completely!

Day 5: Rose Lake to Edison Dam

~13 miles, +1000', -3800'

The final day was our longest mileage, but it was mostly all downhill on established trails back to the Edison Lake dam, where we'd stashed a couple of cars. We got up early, moved quickly, and arrived back to Vermilion Valley Resort around 2pm, with time to wash up and enjoy some rest and relaxation (including some rousing games of cornhole!), before a delectable dinner of chicken parmesan. It was a pleasure to once again experience VVR's legendary wilderness hospitality as a weary (and ravenous) hiker.

All told, this was an incredible trip. It's a testament to the area's diverse wilderness that we were able to plot a course that satisfied all of our goals: seeing new territory, adventuring safely off-trail with a larger group, and reserving time to appreciate the stunning lakes, passes, peaks, and basins that make this particular slice of backcountry so special.

I'll leave you with a parting photo of Recess and Mist Peaks via Rose Lake—both of which are visible from VVR—seen here from a new angle, but illuminated by a typically dazzling sunset.

Imagine this. You're standing at the edge of Yosemite Valley, with a meticulously organized pack and a racing heart. It's finally time for you to start hiking the John Muir Trail! Roughly 211 miles long, this journey winds through some of the most beautiful and remote wilderness in the Sierra Nevada. The JMT isn't just a hike, it's a rite of passage for hikers from around the world.

If you’re planning your first backpacking trip on this historic trail, this guide is for you. We’ll walk you through the history of the trail, how to prepare, what to expect, and where to find community and comforts along the way.

Following An Ancient Path

The John Muir Trail was named after a man who was a fierce advocate for wild places. His love for Yosemite, Kings Canyon, and Sequoia National Parks is the reason this trail was officially sanctioned and funded by the State of California.

But, long before the JMT was mapped, signed, and celebrated by backpackers, it was known by the name Nüümü Poyo, or “People’s Trail.” An ancient route created and used by the Paiute and other Indigenous tribes for migration, trade, and connection.

Hundreds to thousands of years ago, this path served as a lifeline, a spiritual experience, and a testament to the tribes' deep connection with nature. Hiking the John Muir Trail is a challenging trek that winds through high mountain passes and alpine valleys that've inspired ancient and modern travelers.

As you're hiking the JMT, you’re walking in the footsteps of generations who've known this land intimately. Every granite ridge and jaw-dropping vista along the way whispers stories older than any map.

So take a moment, or several, along the way. During sunrise over Donahue Pass or while dipping your toes in Lake Edison at VVR, spend some time reflecting on the legacy beneath your feet. The JMT is more than a trail. It’s a living history, and a community that you're about to become a part of.

Fun fact: Any obsidian found along the trail (typically around the east-west passes such as Bishop or Kearsarge, or around Lake Edison at VVR) was brought here by Indigenous people. None of it is naturally occurring. Please leave these artifacts where you find them.

Planning Your First JMT Adventure

This is the kind of trip that takes extensive planning and preparation, along with a bit of luck. Be sure you have all the essentials to make your thru-hike as pleasant as possible.

When To Start Hiking The John Muir Trail

Most hikers aim for July through September, when the snow has melted and the weather is (fairly) friendly. But every hiker is different, and every season has its quirks.

It is possible to start hiking the JMT as early as mid-June (most years). Starting this early means trekking through freezing temps, deep snow, and icy conditions. If you're hiking in the early season, get comfortable using snow gear like crampons and/or an ice axe before you leave.

Come July, the snow melts, and bugs (especially mosquitoes) can make a hiker's day quite miserable through about mid-July. If you'll be out there during this time, bring plenty of bug spray, long sleeves, and mosquito netting.

August is generally the most comfortable time to hike the JMT. However, wildfires and smoke can be a problem in the mid-to-late season, so keep an eye on trail conditions and have a plan B.

Permits: The First Big Hurdle To Hiking The JMT

Getting a permit to hike the JMT is like winning the lottery, literally. In fact, only about 1% of those who apply actually receive a full southbound permit for this trail. If you’re hiking Southbound (SOBO), you’ll need to apply for the lottery through recreation.gov about 24 weeks in advance. The SOBO route is considered the "traditional start" of the JMT, and if you like meeting fellow hikers along the way, this is the way to go. For this route, you can choose to start in Yosemite Valley or Tuolumne Meadows.

Northbound (NOBO) hikers start at Whitney Portal and apply through recreation.gov six months in advance. You can also go NOBO on the JMT starting from Cottonwood Pass or Cottonwood Lakes trailheads. The NOBO route can be more difficult for hikers as it starts with the most strenuous section.

Pro tip: You can also try to grab a "walk-up" permit online if the lottery doesn't come out in your favor. The more flexible you are, the better your chances, so be open to alternative start dates or trailheads.

What to Pack for Hiking the John Muir Trail

Packing for the JMT is a balancing act between comfort and weight. You’ll want to keep your base weight (weight of your gear without food/water) around 20 lbs. With food and water, aim for no more than 25% of your body weight. For most people, that equals about 34-40lbs.

Some Basic Necessities:

• Bear canister (required)
• Water filter or purifier
• Tent & Sleep Set-Up
• Layers for cold nights and hot days
• Trekking poles
• Navigation and communication tools (map, compass, smartphone with trail apps, GPS satellite communicator)
• First aid kit and blister care (foot injuries are one of the top reasons people have to end their hike early).

The rest of what you'll need depends on several factors. Researching and testing gear (especially for first-time backpackers) plays a major role in a hiker's success on the trail. Make sure to consult several resources, like blogs, books, guides, and forums, when deciding what to pack.

And yes, you’ll probably overpack the first time. Everyone does. That's why we recommend testing your pack and shoes on a shorter trip before hiking the John Muir Trail. If you already know what works for you (especially with shoes), stick with it. Comfort is key.

Wildlife In The Wild

When you step out on a journey like hiking the John Muir Trail, it's important to be familiar with the wildlife you may come across.

Mammals

Black bears, mule deer, marmots, pikas, coyotes, and mountain lions all roam the Sierra Nevada. Black bears are especially prevalent near Yosemite and popular campsites. The vast majority of people who practice standard bear safety don't have any issues.

Mule deer are often seen grazing quietly in meadows, and marmots are bold and curious creatures. Some are even brave enough to waddle up to your lunch spot. Pikas are a shy rodent, but can sometimes be spotted at dawn or dusk. Mountain lions are rare and elusive; most hikers will never see one.

It's best practice to never feed wild animals, even the cute furry ones. If they get used to associating people with food, they can become a nuisance or a deadly threat.

Birds On The JMT

Wild birds are a sight to behold! While hiking the John Muir Trail, try to spot some of these: Steller's jays, Clark's nutcrackers, American dippers, and Raptors.

The jays are loud, flashy, and commonly found in forested areas. Clark's nutcrackers are specialists in high-elevation living and have a knack for storing seeds. You can catch American dippers diving into streams, and raptors like hawks and eagles soaring above passes and ridgelines.

Reptiles and Such

While most of the crawly things along the JMT aren't too scary, there are rattlesnakes in the lower elevations. Watch your step around these venomous noodles. Along the trail, there are also several types of lizards, frogs, and salamanders darting between rocks and streams.

Resupplying Along The JMT

Scheduling resupply stops along the JMT is so important! Not only is it impossible to carry 20+ days of food and water, but resupply stops also give you a chance to reset. Have a meal that wasn't dehydrated first, and pick up that fresh bucket of snacks you lovingly packed for yourself. Along your route, there are six opportunities to resupply and rest.

All stops that we talk about have a "hiker box" (ask an employee) where hikers donate extra or unwanted items that other hikers can take for free. Each resupply stop has different requirements for packages, so be sure to read each one's instructions thoroughly and confirm directly with the stop.

Tuolumne Meadows

Right around mile 23 on the JMT, you'll come across your first resupply stop, Tuolumne Meadows. The general store here has basic groceries, snacks, and cold drinks for purchase. There is also a local post office where you can pick up a resupply and ship out postcards or extra gear.

If you're craving a hot meal made in a kitchen, top off your trip with a treat at the local grill. Their season typically runs from late June through September. Check the Yosemite NPS website for up-to-date weather and opening date info.

Stopping At Red's Meadow

Red’s Meadow is a favorite stop of JMT and PCT hikers alike, and it's just a short walk off the trail at mile 60. Here you can find everything a tired backpacker could want: meals at the Mule House Café, showers, laundry, and a general store packed with trail essentials. You can mail a resupply package here (just be sure to follow their instructions, online), or grab snacks, fuel, and drinks from the store.

A Day At Mammoth Lakes

For those who need a little luxury on the trail, Mammoth Lakes is it! To get here, hikers either catch a shuttle from Red's Meadow (between July and early September) or hike in via the Mammoth Pass Trail.

Once in town, you'll find free local transit, gear shops, grocery stores, souvenirs, and lodging. Check out local hot spots like Stellar Brew and Wild Willy's Hot Springs, or catch the latest summer blockbuster at the movie theater before heading back out to the wilderness.

The VVR Experience

Stopping at Vermilion Valley Resort is like stepping into a backcountry oasis. After 88 miles of trail dust and ramen noodles, hikers are greeted with a free beverage, home-cooked meals, and a warm atmosphere that’s hard to pass up. You can camp in Mushroom City for free, grab a bed in the hiker hostel tent, or splurge on a private room. You can either restock in the store or send a resupply bucket/box at least 2 weeks before your arrival, so it's waiting when you get there.

VVR offers a chance to recharge, physically and emotionally. With nightly campfires, shared meals, and trail stories, a sense of camaraderie is created that turns strangers into a trail family. That's what makes VVR one of the most memorable stops for those hiking the JMT and PCT.

Resupplying at Muir Trail Ranch

Located around mile 108, Muir Trail Ranch (MTR) is a rugged but reliable resupply option for JMT hikers. It’s not a full-service stop like VVR, but it does offer resupply bucket pickup, basic amenities like charging stations, and a hiker box that’s often full with trail treasures. At MTR it's important to ship your bucket well in advance and follow their specific labeling instructions. This stop is a solid choice if you’re trying to minimize detours and keep moving.

Last but not Least, Onion Valley

If you’re running low on supplies after MTR or just need a break before tackling the final leg, Onion Valley is a popular detour around mile 180. It requires a 15-mile round-trip hike over Kearsarge Pass, but it rewards you with access to the town of Independence, CA. Here you’ll find groceries, lodging, and even gear shops. Many hikers coordinate with local shuttle services or trail angels to make the trip easier. While it's a bit out of the way, for those who need a full reset before the final push to Mount Whitney, it’s worth the effort.

Hiker Tip: MTR is the last on-trail resupply point for most hikers, but there is still about half the trail to go. To break up this 100-mile carry, some hikers choose to go into Independence. Onion Valley is the name of the campground where you end up, but you still have to hitchhike or arrange a ride to get into town. Mount Williamson Basecamp in Independence has been catering to hikers for many years.

What to Expect While Hiking The JMT

The JMT is life-changing, but it’s no Sunday walk in the park. You’ll climb over six major passes and summit Mt. Whitney, the tallest peak in the lower 48. You’ll camp in thick forest, cross roaring rivers, and maybe shed some tears walking uphill (we’ve all been there).

Highlights:

• Half Dome (separate permit required)
• Cathedral Lakes
• Thousand Island Lakes
• Evolution Basin
• Rae Lakes
• Mount Whitney

Challenges:

• Altitude sickness: Acclimatize slowly and stay hydrated. Pushing too hard, too fast, can end your journey before it really starts.
• Weather: Expect it all. Sun, snow, and storms. Carry essentials like sunscreen, rain gear, and warm layers because temperatures will vary greatly between day and night.
• Wildlife: Remember, you're in their house. Treat wildlife with respect and be ready for all the bugs! Use your bear canister to keep wildlife like bears and squirrels out of your food and toiletries.
• Mental fatigue: Some days are just harder than others. Bring something that can comfort you along the way. Music, audiobooks, or pictures of loved ones can be a mental lifeline in the wilderness.

But remember, every challenge comes with a reward. A sunset behind an alpine lake. A marmot curiously watching you cook dinner. A stranger who becomes a lifelong friend.

Ready To Start Hiking The John Muir Trail?

Visit our site to learn more about how Vermilion Valley Resort can support your JMT adventure. Whether you’re still dreaming or already packing, we’re here to help you make it real.

And when you finally walk through our doors, we’ll be waiting with a cold drink, a hot meal, and a whole lot of trail love.

• Start early with permits and planning. Many hikers spend a year or more preparing for this type of adventure.
• Train smart so your body doesn't give out on you before you finish the trail.
• Resupply wisely. A neatly packed resupply from home, or a full basket of new treats, is what will keep you going to the end. Many hikers find their tastes change while hiking, so pack a variety of snacks so that you have food you actually want to eat!
• Stay open to change. You will encounter something unexpected along the trail. Adaptability will be the key to your hiking success.
• Soak it in—every mile, every moment.