JOHN MUIR WILDERNESS

INYO NATIONAL FOREST

The John Muir Wilderness encompasses more then one-half million acres within the Sierra and Inyo National Forests is the largest wilderness in California. It extends almost 100 miles along the crest of the prime Sierra Nevada in Central California and is the most visited wilderness in the state. Elevations range from 5,000 to 14,495 feet on Mt. Whitney. Deep canyons, meadow, snow-capped mountains and hundreds if alpine streams and lakes characterize the John Muir Wilderness. This wilderness was named after John Muir, who referred to the Sierra Nevada as "the most beautiful of all the mountain chains".

TRAIL SUMMARY

TRAILHEAD ELEVATION - 5,000 ft at
HIGHEST ELEVATION - 14,495 at Mt. Whitney
TRAIL DIFFICULTY - Strenuous. Altitude sickness warnings.
SEASON - Prepare for thunderstorms, snow and dropping temperatures at night.

TRAILS

The John Muir Wilderness contains hundreds of miles of trails. Three of the more well known are the Pacific Crest, John Muir and Mt. Whitney trails. The Pacific Crest Trail (PCT) extends 2,620 miles from Canada to Mexico. The John Muir Trail (JMT) extends 212 miles from Mt. Whitney on the south to Happy Isles in Yosemite Valley on the north. The JMT and the PCT follow the same route in most places within John Muir Wilderness and Sequoia/Kings Canyon National Parks. The 10.7-mile Mt. Whitney Trail begins at Whitney Portal, near Lone Pine, and leads to the highest peak in the Lower 48 states.

TRAVEL METHODS: Wilderness travel is by foot or horseback ONLY. Wheelchairs may be used in wilderness, but all other mechanical travel, including bicycles, are prohibited. Winter offers an entirely different experience. Skis and snowshoes become the mode of transportation. Pets are not permitted in National Park wilderness and are under some restriction in National Forest wilderness.

Maximum group size is 15 people and 25 head of stock

PERMIT REQUIREMENTS: Wilderness visitor permits are required winter and summer, for entry into the John Muir and adjoining Sequoia/Kings Canyon National Park, National Forest and National Parks wilderness areas for overnight or longer trips. Permits are available at the Forest or Park Service Ranger Station closest to the trailhead entry location. During heavy use periods many popular trails are subject to a quota, where a set number of people may enter the wilderness each day. Quotas are designed to protect the resources and preserve the solitude of the visitor. If the daily quota has been filled for the trailhead desired, options include picking another available entrance point or starting on a different day.

Inyo National Forest Wilderness Permit Reservations

Reservation Line - 760-873-2483
Wilderness Permit Office FAX - 760-873-2484
Wilderness Information - 760-873-2485

LEAVE NO TRACE: The John Muir Wilderness is a heavily visited area. Over the years thousands of people have enjoyed, and in some instances, damaged the resources. By practicing these techniques, you will make it hard for others to know you were there.

Summer days can be warm at lower elevations; temperatures at higher elevations will be much cooler. Nighttime temperatures often drop to freezing or below even in summer. Afternoon and evening thunderstorms are common. Snow can occur anytime of the year, especially in late spring and early fall. Raingear, good boots, and warm clothes are essential. Sunglasses, sunscreen (factor of 10 or more), a hat or visor and mosquito repellent are advisable.

STREAM CROSSINGS: Stream flows can be high and swift during snowmelt runoff periods and during periods of heavy rain. Do not underestimate the power of rushing water. When fording a stream unbuckle your pack waist strap, and use a long stick for stability. Local Ranger Stations will have information on current conditions and hazardous crossings

FIREARMS AND HUNTING: Hunting is permitted in the wilderness in accordance with State game laws. A hunting license is required. Target shooting is prohibited. Hunting and firearms are NOT allowed in Sequoia/Kings Canyon National Park.

CALIFORNIA BIGHORN SHEEP: The California Bighorn Sheep Zoological Area is located within the John Muir Wilderness, was established by the Inyo National Forest to minimize human disturbance in key sheep areas.

SPECIAL RESTRICTIONS apply to entry into the Zoological Area. Please contact the Mt. Whitney Ranger Station concerning these restrictions including no pets.

SAFETY TIPS

The backcountry is beautiful, but remember, it is also primitive and you will be on your own! Before going, check with the local Ranger Station for the latest weather conditions and possible hazards, such as swollen creeks and snow. Be certain to take clothing that will prepare you for possible weather changes. Sudden shifts in weather are one of the backcountry's greatest dangers.

MAPS FOR YOUR TRIP

You will want detailed maps for your trip. The Inyo National Forest Recreation map and the John Muir Wilderness topographical map are available.

FOR WESTSIDE ENTRY - SIERRA NATIONAL FOREST

You should plan to mail your reservation application at least three weeks prior to your trip to ensure it has time to arrive and be processed. You will receive a confirmation of your reservation in the mail. Included with the confirmation will be the instructions on how to redeem your confirmation card for a Wilderness Permit. Reservations may also be made in person at the office listed below. Phone, FAX or e-mail reservations are not available at this time.

WEST SIDE ENTRY

Trail Heads North of the Middle Fork of the San Joaquin River:
Sierra National Forest
Minarets Ranger District PO Box 10
57003 Road 225 North Fork, CA 93643
559-877 2218

Trail Heads South of the Middle Fork of the San Joaquin River:
Pineridge Ranger District
PO Box 559 Prather, CA 93651
559-855 5360

EAST SIDE ENTRY

East side entry south of Big Pine:
Inyo National Forest
Mt. Whitney Ranger Station
P.O. Box 8
Lone Pine, CA 93545
760-876 6200

East side entry McGee Creek south to Big Pine:
Inyo National Forest
White Mountain Ranger Station
798 N. Main St. Bishop, CA 93514
760-873-2500

East side entry north of McGee Creek to Mammoth:
Inyo National Forest
Mammoth Lakes Visitor Center & Ranger Station
P.O. Box 148 Mammoth Lakes, CA 93546
760-924-5500