The John Muir Trail (JMT) is one of the world's most spectacular treks
and is North America's best known mid-distance walking trail. It runs
for 216 miles through the high Sierra Nevada mountains of California,
from Yosemite Valley to the summit of Mount Whitney (14,496 ft), the
highest peak in the USA outside Alaska. The walking trail, which is
named after the great 19th century Scottish naturalist, conservationist
and writer John Muir, is entirely through the unspoiled wilderness of
the American West and passes through three National Parks, Yosemite,
Kings Canyon and Sequoia National Parks. A land of dramatic towering
peaks, tranquil mountain lakes, cascading rivers and ancient
forests.Despite the fact that the JMT negotiates several mountain passes
over 10,000 ft in altitude the trail is well graded and is well within
the capabilities of the average hill walker, requiring no scrambling
ability. The trail guide divides the route into 21 daily stages, each
finishing at a good camping area. The optional detour to climb Half
Dome, the jewel in Yosemite's crown, is included.