Planning for the John Muir Trail Thru-Hike

I’ve been in San Francisco for about a month now. That might actually be the longest I’ve been home all year! My trip to France for the Tour de France fell through so I’ve had to fill the void for the better part of a month. Not a bad thing considering it’s summertime and there’s plenty to look forward to here in California! I’ve finally been able to spend time riding my bike and doing some hiking – major hiking as part of my training…

Back in February, Kurt, my good friend from Boulder put up a challenge to a group of old college friends to take on the John Muir Trail this fall. The plan was not only to complete the 211 miles (starting in Yosemite Valley and ending at Whitney Portal) but doing it in an atypical eight days. Yes, eight days. Whether it’s doable is not the question so much as if we all will be able complete it at such a pace. Many of us have completed epic endurance challenges (myself being a 6x Ironman, Cape Epic, and BC Bike Race finisher) and have hardcore mountaineering experience. Craig is the craziest having spent summers on the mountain rescue team in the Grand Tetons and currently is in sick shape working for Rocky Mountain Fire. Adam is a former Olympic cyclist who at one point in his career rode 1000 mile training weeks! Along with four others, we have a total of 8 going the entire distance. Hiking with a such a large group is going to add to the complexity of our challenge. There are bound to be casualties.

Typically, to truly enjoy the JMT, you would want to give yourself at least 10-13 days (assuming good fitness). So why only eight days? Simple. Kurt and Craig can only get a week off work. One might question our sanity and motives in trying to blaze the JMT so quickly. After all, the apparent “unsupported” record is somewhere under 6 days. Surely there’s going to be a lot of suffering. Is this our idea of fun? In a sick way, yes.

Personally, I would love to take another week to do it at a leisure pace. But I’m not getting any younger and neither are my friends. We’re not seeing this as a leisurely backpacking adventure but an athletic event and a serious challenge. Am I up for it? Mentally, yes. Physically, I’ve got some work to do.

As a gadget guy, I look forward to not only exploring the latest and lightweight gear but the smartest. And technology? Yes, my Boulder friends laugh at how tech geeky I am (or we are here in SF). Every ounce is critical so I’ll have to leave a lot of things behind, but you can bet I’ll be bringing a couple things with me if not something to digitally document our adventure. Will that include my Nokia N95? Solar charger? GPS? Stay tuned…

JMT Essential! Buy the most recommended Harrison Map-Pack of the John Muir Trail (Package of 13)