Unpopular opinion: The John Muir Trail is not the best first long hike

I keep seeing people recommend the full JMT as a perfect first long trip, and I think that's a mistake. I did it last summer and the altitude hit me hard near Muir Pass, even after a week of trying to get used to it. The logistics for a permit and a food drop are also really tough for a beginner. A better first long route is something like the 100-mile stretch of the Colorado Trail from Denver to Breckenridge. It's still a big challenge but way easier to plan. Has anyone else found a different long trail that was a better starting point?

3 comments

3 Comments

kelly.hannah19d ago

Starting with the JMT is like learning to swim in the deep end. The altitude and permits can really break a new hiker. A simpler trail builds way more confidence.

marywilson19d ago

People act like the JMT is a walk in the park, but that permit lottery feels like trying to win the actual lottery! My first "long" hike was getting lost for three hours at the state park, so maybe I'm not the best judge. The Colorado Trail idea sounds way more forgiving for a newbie. Honestly, starting with something that doesn't require a NASA-level launch plan seems smart.

vera_lewis219d ago

Yeah the permit stuff is a huge wall to climb over before you even start. I did a section of the Long Trail in Vermont as my first real trip, no lottery, just showed up. It was tough but at least I could just go, you know? That low stress start made me way more likely to try for bigger things later. The Colorado Trail sounds perfect for that.