About

• Features

  The John Muir Trail is one of the longest trails in the United States, 340 km (213 miles), connecting Yosemite Valley to Mount Whitney. The summit of Mount Whitney, the goal of the trail, is 4,421 meters above sea level, the highest point in the US mainland excluding Alaska. Almost all of the trail is in the highlands of the Sierra Nevada Mountains, nearly 3,200 meters above sea level, and untouched nature. The trail extends across three national parks, including Yosemite, and two wilderness preserves, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in one of the world's greatest natural wonders.

• History

  The name of John Muir, the "Father of Conservation," is inscribed on this trail. He was a pioneering naturalist, a natural history scholar. He created the idea of national parks and was instrumental in the development and establishment of the park system. In 1872, he spoke out against deforestation and was the driving force behind Yosemite's designation as a national park. After Muir's death, the Sierra Club, an environmental organization he founded, launched a project to create this trail. It was completed in 1938, the 100th anniversary of Muir's birth.

• Nature

  The John Muir Trail is a vast world of pristine wilderness, dazzling lakes, and canyons of epic proportions. The trail is an endless stretch of what one might call "pristine" nature. No matter how far you trek, a structure is not in sight. Thousand Island Lake is the highlight of the trail, and together with Banner Peak in the background, makes for a spectacular view. The dangerous animal that may be encountered is the black bear. Be careful to manage your food properly to avoid human-bear incidents.

• “Going to the mountains is going home.”
  
  These are the words of the naturalist, John Muir, the “Father of Conservation.” From these words, his deep love for the mountains is well understood. Yet, The John Muir Trail that bears his name is almost too gorgeous to call a home! This long trail offers the most beautiful mountain scenery in the US, and many backpackers are passionate about it. The towering granite walls of Yosemite, the deep virgin forests and thousands of lakes . . . the unspoiled wilderness stretches on and on. The trail extends across three national parks (Yosemite, Kings Canyon, and Sequoia) and two wilderness preserves (John Muir and Ansel Adams). During the 340-km (213-mile) walk between Yosemite Valley and Mount Whitney, there is not one paved road in sight, let alone a building. Such an unadulterated state of nature, when trekking, can last for days. At Thousand Island Lakes, where islands and rocks of all shapes and sizes float on the surface of the lake, the 3,943-meter-high Banner Peak rises in the background, one of the Sierra's most spectacular sights. The trail's history can be traced back to John, whose name it bears. Muir protected the Sierra from deforestation and dam construction during the gold rush of the late 19th century, when the population of the West Coast was growing. This is truly an achievement worthy of the title “Father of Conservation.” His visit to Yosemite and his fascination with its beauty drove him to conservation work in the late 19th century, a time when people were less conscious of the need to protect nature than they are today. Thanks in part to his efforts, Yosemite was designated a national park in 1872. After his death, the Sierra Club, an environmental organization founded by Muir, embarked on a project to create this trail. Twenty-three years later, the work was completed in 1938. This year marked the 100th anniversary of Muir's birth. John Muir Trail is one of the most famous trails in the world and, because it has been spared from development, trekkers should be vigilant. Bears are present throughout the trail and food storage is mandatory. To avoid attracting bears by scent, food is sealed in bear canisters, which are food storage cases. Garbage after eating, soap, cosmetics, and other scented items must be packaged and placed away from tents. Muir was affectionately called "John of the Mountains.” To protect the beautiful nature John Muir loved, walk along the wonderful trails while being considerate of the wildlife. *Please check local websites for the latest information.