JMT & Permits

[MuddyWaters]

For YV JMT walk up permits arrive at the Backcountry Office by 4:30 a.m. Be one of the first three in the que. If it's raining or cold better! Why! It reduces the competition. If that weather bothers you you're likely not ready to break away from the herd. You'll get what you get. More cancellations too! Research the requirements ahead of time. Arrive informed! Make it easier for the NP Rangers. Have alternative JMT agendas. Ooh does that feel uncomfortable? It should. That's what's required but deal with it to gain the extraordinary. Demonstrate great effort on your part. It tends to lead to greater effort exercised by others. The permit will be for a next day start. Factor that time into experiencing something else worthy. Damn it's YV. If you can't think of anything else worthy to experience IMHO you are not exhibiting great effort to do research and make best use of your time. Where MW is correct is you are doing the JMT and seeking to obtain a JMT permit as the herd. You're not putting yourself in the best position to gain a permit.


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there aren't any walk up permits from the valley anymore for JMT exit over Donahue. It is reservation only.

. There are walk up permits from TM for Lyell canyon.

Now I will echo something, the JMT is not the best of the Sierra. It stays low and only crosses passes. An enterprising person can put together a better hike. But it is pretty damn nice.

the absolute best thing about the JMT is it's a large wilderness with no roads and few people. At least it used to be a few people. When everybody is moving north to south you don't see those other people and even though there's 50 people a day you feel like you're alone.

Everybody hiking nobo because that's the only way they can hike it right now ruins this experience for others. they also ruin it for themselves cuz they're going to cross paths with many many people per day.

Personally I wish they would not allow northbound hikes on the JMT period. It ruins what is really a special and unique chance to experience the Sierra wilderness the way it should be experienced. Solo. Alone.

End of soap box.