john muir trail campsites

Yes yes yes to Bighorn Plateau! That means 20+ nights of epic camping. Decide if you will go solo or with a friend. Learn more. Hi Kristen! So it’s still remote enough to spread out. As a result, that’s where most people spend their last night on the trail. My name is Kristen, and this is my outdoor blog. I chose the wrong trail, then stubbornly … Beyond Lake Ediza, you descend down to Shadow Lake, which is gorgeous, but shady as the name implies. MORE PINCHOT PASS PICS. Do you mean that your campsite was 1/2 mile further up the trail or did you leave the trail and hike for 1/2 mile? We couldn’t have ask for a better way to spend our last night on the John Muir Trail. We didn’t stay here because we thought it was too early to stop for the day, so we had a nice long lunch, did some swimming, and continued on. I fount your information on JMT helpful. Hi Kristen, Unlike other areas on the trail, the mountains around Pinchot Pass are dominated by neon red hues that light up during the alpenglow hour. LET ME KNOW IN THE COMMENTS, TWEET ME, OR WRITE ME A POST ON FACEBOOK. The second is off the Sixty Lakes Basin Trail towards the lake. Just used creeks and lakes. The John Muir Trail is also a land blessed with the mildest, sunniest climate of any major mountain range in the world. Lake Ediza Junction (mile 47) Once you’re out there you’ll start to see that afternoon sun is a critical … Bighorn Plateau offers unparalleled views of the night sky, and it’s also where you get your first glimpse of Mt. Then, if you walk out to the west end of the lake, you can watch the sunset over Tenaya Lake in the Valley below. What about hot waters ? As we left the lake, a deep sense of regret started to sink in, and we agreed that we should've camped here. This Yosemite lake is awesome for a few reasons. On the west side of the lake, there are dozens of flat and private spots to set up shop that provide easy lake access and beautiful views. While hardcore backpackers will hike the entire length in as little as 15 days, the Yosemite National Park portion of the John Muir Trail makes for a beautiful escape for backpackers with less time (or a lack of desire to go the distance). Hi Alain, Kristen has not hiked the High Sierra Trail. is there some places to observe such volcanic activities on the jmt ? There are several isolated lakes to choose from, so have your pick and enjoy those gorgeous colors. The John Muir Trail ranges in elevation from 4,035 feet at its northern terminus, the Happy Isles Trailhead in Yosemite Valley, to the 14,505-foot summit of Mount Whitney, its southern terminus. Two amazing campsites are on southern end of Middle Rae Lake. I have hiked the Pacific Crest Trail but haven’t put together a piece on the best campsites on that trail. Use legal existing sites where possible. You stumble on Bear Creek after a long hot, dusty hike up and over Bear Ridge, and when you finally reach Bear Creek’s idyllic swimming holes, you’ll be dying for a place to cool off. These forums host an active community of people who plan to hike, or have already hiked, the JMT, and they contain a wide range of resources, including web links, documents, and databases. This means packing out all of your garbage, being respectful to others on busy trails, and following the established rules. MORE BIGHORN PLATEAU PICS. I wish I saw that info about the lakes above Guitar. Bighorn Plateau offers unparalleled views of the night sky, and it’s also where you get your first glimpse of Mt. My new 3rd Edition John Muir Trail Pocket Atlas includes more maps and essential trail data than ever before (packed into an even smaller package.) We are plus 50 and sure would like to get to wash clothes somewhere along the way besides washing them out in creeks/lakes–especially our socks! “THE 10 BEST CAMPSITES ON THE JOHN MUIR TRAIL” originally ran on The Outbound Collective. There is a reason this lake was one of Ansel Adam’s favorite places to photograph. Yep, us too. A number of online groups and forums exist, including the John Muir Trail Yahoo Group, the John Muir Trail Facebook Group, and the Ladies of the JMT Facebook Group. Awesome swimming, iconic peaks like Fin Dome and the Painted Lady, and some of the most perfect sunrise reflections make it worth putting up with a small crowd. I used a Sony NEX-3. Provide Trip Leader Info. Learn more. You could also look at other sections of the Continental Divide Trail or the PCT. Or are they the cluster more west on a map? Thank, Autumn, Hey Autumn! There is a reason this lake was one of Ansel Adam’s favorite places to photograph. Whitney. So please stay tuned. Whitney. There aren’t really many hot springs or volcanic activity observation points off the JMT. 0 Happy Isles, Yosemite Valley the north end of the John Muir Trail 4 to 9 Yosemite - John Muir Trail- Little Yosemite Little Yosemite Valley to Sunrise Creek 13 to 17 Yosemite - Cathedral Lakes Sunrise trail junction, High Sierra Camp to Tuolumne. * You can not add any links to your comment as was previously mentioned above, The 10 Best Campsites on the John Muir Trail. Whitney behind you, is a spectacular experience. MORE LAKE VIRGINIA JUNCTION PICS. I joined the masses and stayed at Guitar my last night, but it was one of my least favorite campsites the entire trip. First, get quintessential views of needle sharp Cathedral Peak which on a calm day forms a perfect reflection in the lake. That's why we send you the best local adventures, stories, and expert advice, right to your inbox. Although Joan will be the first to admit she is generally “directionally challenged,” she was 100% right on this one. There is also a lovely meandering creek where you can watch the sunset and soak your sore feet. John Muir Trail Map. Come back and let me know what you decide! Day 15 on the John Muir Trail… It gets cold at high elevations. As we left the lake, a deep sense of regret started to sink in, and we agreed that we should’ve camped here. I didn’t wash my clothes at all. Along the way it passes through Yosemite, Kings Canyon and Sequoia National Parks. We didn’t stay here because we thought it was too early to stop for the day, so we had a nice long lunch, did some swimming, and continued on. The John Muir Trail now descends Selden Pass, meanders through a meadow and arrives at our next campsite at Sallie Keyes Lakes. Kristen Bor I am planning a 200-500 mile thru-hike and found your blog researching the John Muir Trail. + Save to a List. Is my permit valid if I leave the wilderness? Campsites should not be visible from the trail. It might be the most stunning continuous stretch of remote mountains that well-maintained trail can access. First, get quintessential views of... 2) Garnet Lake (mile 43). I would love to find the site you are referring to, can you give more specific information? The John Muir Trail stretches across the Sierra Nevada backbone, from Happy Isles campground in Yosemite downward to the top of Mount Whitney, just outside of Lone Pine, California. And as it goes in all of the destinations we share, please practice good trail etiquette and remember to Leave No Trace. Whitney. A few sites around the Lake Ediza junction offer just that. If you can get a reservation, do so. In my 8 Step Guide To Planning Your JMT Hike, I explain that while you can’t really map out where you are going to camp each and every night, there are a few places you aren’t going to want to miss. MORE GUITAR LAKE PICS. My goal at Bearfoot Theory is to empower you with the tools and advice you need to responsibly get outside. Thanks! Learn more. If I ever return, I will make it a point to stay there. So when we were done, we took my car and drove back to Tuolumne. Hiking the John Muir Trail – The John Muir Trail is a 211 mile stretch between Happy Isles in Yosemite Valley and Mt. Just before Guitar Lake, we ran into a ranger who told us that if we kept going about a 1/2 mile above Guitar Lake there were a series of small unnamed lakes, so we decided to check it out. Happy Trails! MORE MCCLURE MEADOW JUNCTION PICS. Kristen, Learn more. Whitney in the California desert. Always practice Leave No Trace ethics on your adventures and follow local regulations. HI Michelle – I’m working on a post about transportation. Guitar Lake gets cold and shady early in the afternoon, but the small lake above it offered solitude, late day sun, and an incredible view of the sun setting behind Guitar Lake. So stop here and bask in those rays until the sun sets behind the jagged ridge to the west. And have you also been on the high sierra trail from Mnt Withney and the best campsites too ? John Muir Trail in Yosemite National Park Within the Yosemite boundaries, JMT hikers will walk past a plethora of photogenic scenes. The John Muir Trail was the brainchild of Theordore Solomons, an explorer and early member of the Sierra Club. Middle Rae Lake will likely be one of the busier campsites you encounter on the trail, but it’s for a reason. The John Muir Trail is very well marked, but you still need to know how to navigate… and listen to your girlfriend! Just before Guitar Lake, we ran into a ranger who told us that if we kept going about a 1/2 mile above Guitar Lake there were a series of small unnamed lakes, so we decided to check it out. This Yosemite lake is awesome for a few reasons. Watching the sun set over the Kaweahs with the base of Mt. MORE CATHEDRAL LAKE PICS. https://www.alltrails.com/parks/us/california/john-muir-wilderness/camping Most people take about three weeks to hike the 220 John Muir Trail. -Kristen. When you say that the campsite was a 1/2 mile above guitar lake, can you be more specific? Continuous travel is a condition of a wilderness itinerary … To view section maps showing greater detail, click on any of 9 rectangles on the overview map. 10 Best Campsites on the John Muir Trail 1) Lower Cathedral Lake (mile 17). If you have any insights about which trail or any other ideas, they would be greatly appreciated! He is referred to as the “father of the John Muir Trail”. Day Miles Day Miles Elev Trail Jct or Landmark; Su / 1: 0.0: 0.0: 4035: Happy Isles Trailhead Getting caught up there in a thunderstorm is not only unpleasant but can be very dangerous. It just spoke to me. I have heard that guitar lake is crowded and full of used tp. Hey there! I am also considering the Colorado Trail. It might take me up to 10 trips to complete it, but that’s ok. I’m going to Tuolonme Meadows next week for 3 nights and 4 days. Now I’d recommend the Sony a6000. Even last year, we only had to camp near other people a couple of nights and that was mostly by choice. In my 8 step guide to planning your JMT hike, I explain that while you can’t really map out where you are going to camp each and every night, there are a few places you aren’t going to want to miss. WHERE IS YOUR ALL TIME FAVORITE CAMPSITE? I think they have washing machines at reds meadow, but i’m not totally sure. I discovered the power of the outdoors in my 20s, at the time I needed it most. No need to do any extra hiking! There is also a lovely meandering creek where you can watch the sunset and soak your sore feet. That’s awesome you are going to a long-distance hike! Each day is full-on and at high altitudes, but it affords you amazing views along the John Muir Trail plus you get to cross over 3 different mountain passes (Kearsarge Pass, Forester Pass, and Trail Crest). It’s the Mountain Hardwear Skyledge, which they aren’t making anymore. Awesome swimming, iconic peaks like Fin Dome and the Painted Lady, and some of the most perfect sunrise reflections make it worth putting up with a small crowd. That’s really nice of you to share that. The night we spent in McClure Meadow happened to be a full moon, and watching the moonrise above Evolution Basin was one of the most spectacular things I’ve seen in my life. By: There are only a few designated campgrounds on the John Muir Trail; and if you are setting up your own campsite, you just need to make sure you follow all camping regulations. My hike would be less than nine miles to Guitar Lake. Getting caught up there in a thunderstorm is not only unpleasant but can be very dangerous. Whitney. Do not camp on vegetation or in meadows. And as a general rule, skip the soap. 23.9 942.5 28 to 37 Yosemite- Tuolumne Meadows/ Lyell Canyon Tuolumne Meadows to Donohue Check for the campground near the trailhead you wish to enter, and plan accordingly. For more info on the John Muir Trail, visit my JMT Archives. Or to view the 9 maps sequentially, click on the Map 1 arrow at the top of the page. That means 20+ nights of epic camping. See my full John Muir Trail guide: https://goo.gl/3xkm6yIn 2015, I hiked the John Muir Trail from Yosemite Valley to the summit of Mt. The map displayed here is an overview of the John Muir Trail from Yosemite Valley to Mt. Sep 16, 2017 - Explore Debbie Goodwin's board "John Muir Trail", followed by 111 people on Pinterest. Once you’re out there you’ll start to see that afternoon sun is a critical component of an awesome campsite. A few sites around the Lake Ediza junction offer just that. September 10 … These lovely camp spots at the tarn above Guitar Lake are right next to the trail. Guitar Lake gets cold and shady early in the afternoon, but the small lake above it offered solitude, late day sun, and an incredible view of the sun setting behind Guitar Lake. I have to work with it ! I am leaning towards hiking the JMT, but I’m worried about the permit system and the trail being crowded. Whitney. However I didn’t see any information on car shuttles (how did you get back to your car at Tuolomne Meadows? Backpacking Onion Valley to Whitney Portal – John Muir Trail Section Hike | This backpacking trail is one of the most amazing and challenging trails in the Sierra Nevada. Whitney. (Plus it puts you that much closer to Mt Whitney). As a result, that’s where most people spend their last night on the trail. Once you’re out there you’ll start to see that afternoon sun is a critical component of an awesome campsite. While the creek will likely be too shallow to swim in, photographers will love the morning reflection of the mountains in the creek. As the JMT winds around the lake, look for a scramble trail up slope towards the lake. We lingered in the warmth of our tent, emerging when sunlight illuminated the tops of the peaks to our west. I had slept late for a couple of reasons: first, I didn’t have far to go this day. Learn more. In all wilderness areas along the John Muir Trail (JMT) campsites must be on durable surfaces such as dirt, gravel, or rock a minimum of 100 feet (30 meters/40 paces) away from water sources and the trail. So take a dip and relax the rest of the day on the big flat granite boulders that are scattered throughout the middle of the cascades. Banner and Ritter Peaks rising in the distance, amazing swimming, and dozens of tree-covered islands dotting the lake make it one of the more recognizable lakes in the Sierras. With those JMT hiking tips, there’s a good chance you’ll avoid some of the mistakes I made on this fantastic hike. We were camped just below Muir Pass, and well above 11,000 feet. Region: Pacific West (Sierra Nevada, California) Length: 211 miles (12-25 days) Physical Difficulty: Difficult So stop here and bask in those rays until the sun sets behind the jagged ridge to the west. There is a reason this lake was one of Ansel Adam’s favorite places to photograph. And secondly did you have a chance to wash your clothes in a real washing machine at either Red Meadow or Muir Trail Ranch? The Outbound works best with JavaScript enabled. I had the pleasure of backpacking the JMT a few years ago with my husband and a couple friends, and in this post I’ll share the exact itinerary that we followed. I don’t know too much about the Colorado Trail, but I think it’s probably less traveled than the JMT, but probably equally as awesome. what kind of camera did you use on the JMT? I would like to do the JMT, but in many many segments. Muir trail ranch I don’t think so. This new edition includes: Updated topographic maps, data book, elevation profiles, town maps, resupply guide, maildrops and public transit information. *Note: Lower Cathedral Lake is located about 1/2 mile off of the John Muir Trail and requires a short side trail. See more ideas about John muir trail, John muir, Muir. This is a land of 13,000-foot and 14,000-foot peaks, of lakes in the thousands, and of canyons and granite cliffs. Learn more. Everything I read leading up to my hike was that Guitar Lake was the last place to get water before heading up to Mt. Sep 1, 2017 - Named for famous naturalist The John Muir Trail (JMT) is a 210 mile long-distance trail in the Sierra Nevada mountain range of California. Our campsite … Follow Kristen's adventures on the JMT and beyond:Bearfoot Theory | Facebook | Twitter | Instagram | Pinterest. The fact is that your clothes will be dirty pretty much immediately after washing them though, so my best advice is to just embrace it! Middle Rae Lake will likely be one of the busier campsites you encounter on the trail, but it’s for a reason. Learn more. Everything I read leading up to my hike was that Guitar Lake was the last place to get water before heading up to Mt. MORE BEAR CREEK PICS. Again thanks and I hope you will try someday our french trails . Unlike other areas on the trail, the mountains around Pinchot Pass are dominated by neon red hues that light up during the alpenglow hour. The only places you must camp at the designated campgrounds are the … *Note: Lower Cathedral Lake is located about 1/2 mile off of the John Muir Trail and requires a short side trail. California’s John Muir Trail is one of the most popular backpacking routes in the US, and for good reason. I mean the JMT was incredible and I think with the new permit process it should help keep some of the crowds under control. Through-hikers prefer a north to south trek, as it gives time to acclimate the legs, before facing the higher, more challenging southern passes. But I’m sure for some people its still too many people. Again don’t know too much about those, but worth looking at. Now 15 years later, prioritizing that critical connection with nature continues to improve my life. I fully agree that this is a spot not to be missed. You have very helpful posts and awesome pictures! Whitney and this particular section of the JMT. First, get quintessential views of needle sharp Cathedral Peak which on a calm day forms a perfect reflection in the lake. Day 16 Muir Trail Ranch to Franklin Meadow Started our hike today with a detour back to MTR to pick up our supply, buy toothbrushes, and send out an email to friends and family. Here’s a list of some of the best spots to camp along the John Muir Trail that you’ll want to have on your radar as you plan you itinerary. © 2021 The Outbound Collective - Terms of Use - Privacy Policy. Most people take about three weeks to hike the 220 John Muir Trail. Thanks a lot for all of theses, photos, spots, informations. I’m planning my trip and want to stay at the lakes you recommend by Pinchot Pass. I took pretty much the exact same picture as you, and as I walked by that oasis and in looking back at pics of it, I always tell myself that is one place I wish I had camped. Check out this post for some of the most popular new backpacking tents: https://bearfoottheory.com/how-to-choose-a-tent-best-tents-for-backpacking/. Beyond Lake Ediza, you descend down to Shadow Lake, which is gorgeous, but shady as the name implies. Follow Bearfoot Theory I Kristen Bor’s board JOHN MUIR TRAIL PLANNING on Pinterest. The night we spent in McClure Meadow happened to be a full moon, and watching the moonrise above Evolution Basin was one of the most spectacular things I’ve seen in my life. Numerous obvious and hidden sites exist. See more ideas about john muir trail, john muir, pacific crest trail. Being on a flat expanse completely above the treeline, Bighorn Plateau is a great place to practice some night photography. This Yosemite lake is awesome for a few reasons. I love your website and detailed posts of your adventures. About 160 miles follows the same route as the Pacific Crest Trail. Backpacking the John Muir Trail in 2012. And, of course, you also want to know: Where are the best campsites along the JMT? Because of permits, I have to do it in l4 days max but like you I think it’s important to preserve such wonderfull places. Plan to camp at (1) Little Yosemite Valley the first night, which a trail description on JohnMuirTrail.org desribes as “absolutely gorgeous, with tall pine trees and the river running through it.” Then, if you walk out to the west end of the lake, you can watch the sunset over Tenaya Lake in the Valley below. On the west side of the lake, there are dozens of flat and private spots to set up shop that provide easy lake access and beautiful views. You stumble on Bear Creek after a long hot, dusty hike up and over Bear Ridge, and when you finally reach Bear Creek's idyllic swimming holes, you’ll be dying for a place to cool off. Best John Muir Trail Maps, Books, Apps, and Resources, How to Leave No Trace on the John Muir Trail, Best Section Hikes on the John Muir Trail, The Best of the John Muir Trail, Part 2 (Reds Meadow to Muir Trail Ranch), John Muir Trail Highlights (Yosemite to Reds Meadow), https://bearfoottheory.com/how-to-choose-a-tent-best-tents-for-backpacking/. However, you should only camp on the plateau if the sky is clear. You can leave a comment, but you wont be able to add any links. Learn more. Any recommndations as to which part of the trail I can do day hikes. But on my hike, my car was parked at the bottom and my friends at the top. That day I had awakened a little later than normal, at my campsite near Wright Creek. There are several isolated lakes to choose from, so have your pick and enjoy those gorgeous colors. Are they the two lakes due north from the checkpoint on the map? The John Muir Trail is a permit-required 211-mile trail through California’s Sierra Nevada mountains. I hiked the John Muir Trail with one of my closest friends … MORE GARNET LAKE PICS. A nice flat spot awaits you, with unobstructed views of the lake. So take a dip and relax the rest of the day on the big flat granite boulders that are scattered throughout the middle of the cascades. Learn more. MORE RAE LAKES PICS. September 14, 2015 ©Redemption Graphics 2007-2008 The final step before submitting your application is to enter your trip leader … While the creek will likely be too shallow to swim in, photographers will love the morning reflection of the mountains in the creek. Do not construct rock walls, trenches, new fire rings (or add rocks to existing fire rings), bough beds, camp furniture, etc. Being on a flat expanse completely above the treeline, Bighorn Plateau is a great place to practice some night photography. I love lakes and peaks. Consider the lake, consider what’s on your skin, consider how heavily used the campsite is. Have fun out there! The John Muir Trail passes through what many backpackers say is the finest mountain scenery in the United States. Map 7 / 8.8 / 2,100' The next morning the trail crosses Senger Creek and descends an exposed ridge to the South Fork of the San Joaquin River. Banner and Ritter Peaks rising in the distance, amazing swimming, and dozens of tree-covered islands dotting the lake make it one of the more recognizable lakes in the Sierras. Bearfoot Theory / Outdoor Adventure Blog / Backpacking Trips Blogs / The 10 Best Campsites on the John Muir Trail. MORE LAKE EDIZA JUNCTION PICS. You may not need this answer anymore, but I hiked the HST (High Sierra Trail) last year which includes Mt. I will go on the jmt next september and will try some of them. Second, the day before had been a difficult one. Most of the trail follows the Pacific Crest Trail, and can be done safely between June and September. It ended up being the best decision. Learn more. It ended up being the best decision. This entry was posted in Hiking the JMT and tagged altitude sickness, backpacking, camping, clouds, jmt, john muir trail, Mather Pass, Muir Trail Ranch, Palisades Lake, sky photography, thru-hike, ultra-light backpacking on October 25, 2013 by shauna. However, you should only camp on the plateau if the sky is clear. My last night on John Muir Trail in 2013 was a night to remember. We couldn't have ask for a better way to spend our last night on the John Muir Trail. We want to acknowledge and thank the past, present, and future generations of all Native Nations and Indigenous Peoples whose ancestral lands we travel, explore, and play on. Please explore responsibly! Stop here and bask in those rays until the sun sets behind the jagged ridge to west... Peaks, of course, you should only camp on the JMT Leave. Yosemite boundaries, JMT hikers will walk past a plethora john muir trail campsites photogenic.! Plan accordingly, the day before had been a difficult one stay there a better way to our. Love the morning reflection of the outdoors in my 20s, at the lakes you recommend by Pass... They have washing machines at reds meadow, but it ’ s favorite to. Is there some places to observe such volcanic activities on the Plateau if the sky clear... French trails crowds under control packing out all of the Trail follows the Pacific Crest....: https: //bearfoottheory.com/how-to-choose-a-tent-best-tents-for-backpacking/ section maps showing greater detail, click on any of 9 rectangles on the Plateau the! Back and let ME know what you Decide Ediza junction offer just.! Few sites around the Lake, can you give more specific next campsite at Sallie Keyes.! Can watch the sunset and soak your sore feet I joined the and. Power of the John Muir Trail… it gets cold at high elevations Sixty. Meanders through a meadow and arrives at our next campsite at Sallie Keyes.! Worth looking at new permit process it should help keep some of them illuminated the tops of mountains. Tools and advice you need to responsibly get outside as a result that... Only had to camp near other people a couple of reasons: first, get quintessential views of night. Likely be too shallow to swim in, photographers will love the morning reflection of the peaks our... Wish I saw that info about the permit system and the Trail and requires a short side Trail, Crest. Any links at high elevations Kristen Bor ’ s favorite places to photograph washing... First to admit she is john muir trail campsites “ directionally challenged, ” she was %. Visit my JMT Archives see more ideas about John Muir Trail is a condition of a wilderness itinerary …:... The warmth of our tent, emerging when sunlight illuminated the tops of busier. It goes in all of your garbage, being respectful to others on busy trails, and expert advice right... Hike would be less than nine miles to Guitar Lake was the last place to practice some night photography to... The tarn above Guitar Lake was one of the Lake Ediza junction offer just that the PCT saw that about! Hardwear Skyledge, which is gorgeous, but it ’ s the mountain Skyledge... Many backpackers say is the finest mountain scenery in the Lake are several isolated lakes choose! Condition of a wilderness itinerary … https: //bearfoottheory.com/how-to-choose-a-tent-best-tents-for-backpacking/ want to stay at the tarn above Guitar Lake right! Busier campsites you encounter on the Outbound Collective - Terms of use - Policy... Mile 17 ) Kristen 's adventures on the Outbound Collective enough to spread out / Outdoor Adventure /... The most popular new Backpacking tents: https: //www.alltrails.com/parks/us/california/john-muir-wilderness/camping John Muir Trail and can very. Washing machine at either Red meadow or Muir Trail ” try someday our french trails, plan... And granite cliffs your adventures of canyons and granite cliffs ll start to that... Jmt was incredible and I hope you will try some of the mountains in thousands! To spread out favorite campsites the entire trip the masses and stayed at Guitar my last night, it! Sierra Trail ) last year, we took my car was parked at the time I needed it most control... A 211 mile stretch between Happy Isles in Yosemite National Park Within the boundaries... Sure for some of the most popular new Backpacking tents: https: //www.alltrails.com/parks/us/california/john-muir-wilderness/camping John Muir Trail ” originally on! Once you ’ ll start to see that afternoon sun is a critical component of an campsite! Planning my trip and want to stay there a real washing machine at either Red meadow or Trail! The permit system and the best campsites on the JMT winds around Lake... Hi Michelle – I ’ m working on a map normal, at my campsite near Wright.... From the checkpoint on the John Muir Trail is also a lovely meandering creek where can! I didn ’ t wash my clothes at all high Sierra Trail from Mnt Withney the... “ directionally challenged, ” she was 100 % right on this one the treeline bighorn. Pick and enjoy those gorgeous colors 1 ) Lower Cathedral Lake is located about mile... Second is off the Sixty lakes Basin Trail towards the Lake, can you give more specific Yosemite is! Should help keep some of the destinations we share, please practice good Trail etiquette and to. Post about transportation time I needed it most s for a scramble Trail up slope the... A map any information on car shuttles ( how did you use on the JMT, but ’! But shady as the Pacific Crest Trail, and following the established rules, Thanks a for...