John Muir Trail Northbound to Yosemite Trek

A Legendary Wilderness Adventure in the Sierra Nevada

Tackle the northbound half of the John Muir Trail set in California's stunning Sierra Nevada, beginning in Lake Florence and ending at Yosemite National Park's beautiful Tuolumne Meadows. Traverse mountain passes through several protected zones, including the Ansel Adams and John Muir Wilderness areas - totaling 103 miles through dazzling scenery of 13,000-foot peaks, countless lakes, huge granite walls, and rich meadows. The hiking is tough but you'll travel light, as the trip is fully aided by mule support and expert MT Sobek guides who share local legends.

Hike 103 miles on one of the most scenic wilderness trails in the world

Take in spectacular protected areas, including the Ansel Adams and John Muir Wilderness

Descend from the Pacific Crest to Yosemite's high-elevation Tuolumne Meadows with its meandering river

Why take this trip with us?

Reason #01

This epic trek is aided by full mule support to allow for greater ease on the trail and to traverse this beautiful landscape as many pioneers of California's historical past have done.

Reason #02

Expert MT Sobek guides entertain with in-depth knowledge of local flora, fauna and legends about the great explorers who first blazed these trails.

Reason #03

MT Sobek's legacy of preservation and protection enables us to operate in over 30 Global National Park adventures. Stewardship and collaboration with National Parks allows for us to contribute to accessibility of these Federally protected resources.

Meet your guides

Fred Ackerman

Fred enjoyed his first backpacking trip in college, walking 20+ miles in inappropriate footwear and spending a few cold nights in front of the fire without a sleeping bag. He caught the travel bug from there and was soon plotting and executing adventures in California's endless wild places. In addition to being an adventure guide, Fred is also an EMT with a certification in wilderness medicine. He's hiked and climbed thousands of miles around the Sierra including a solo 200+ mile hike of the Sierra High Route. Join Fred on MT Sobek's hiking adventures in California.

Alex Kendrall

Alex grew up in Concord, New Hampshire exploring the mountains of New England. It was here that his spirit and passion for adventure began. Alex's love for shared wilderness experiences has culminated in a degree in Outdoor Education and certifications from the American Mountain Guiding Association (AMGA). Moving to California was the culmination of a dream come true, where he is able to combine his passion for climbing with a career in guiding. He has a tremendous amount of experience in the backcountry and great leadership qualities.

Sierra Zacks

Sierra was born and raised on the entrance road to Joshua Tree National Park and spent her early years hiking, rock climbing, and horseback riding in the park. She went on to graduate from UC Santa Cruz with a degree in Ecology and Plant Biology. During this period, she worked at UC Santa Cruz's Adventure Outings Department where she led climbing, backpacking, and river trips. She now spends her summers in the High Sierra leading trips and exploring the beautiful landscape. In her free time you can find her rock climbing, botanizing, or birdwatching in the mountains.

Activities

Strenuous hikes with elevation changes up to 3,555' paired with stunning scenery, dining and camping outdoors, and time to unwind and take it all in.

Lodging

Camps in pristine settings along the way and a full-service hotel as the bookend, featuring an outdoor pool and spa to enjoy before and after the expedition.

Climate

We will be camping at 9,000-10,000', and there can be snow on the ground. Daytime temperatures are 65-85°F and 20-35°F at night.

FAQ

What do I have to carry on this trip?

You only carry your daypack the entire way. Mules & guides will carry 15 pounds of each guest's gear and you are responsible for carrying any weight over this.

Does this trip include Mount Whitney?

This itinerary does not include the climb of Mount Whitney. If you are interested in the "southbound" half that does include the climb, see our award-winning trip John Muir Trail: Southbound to Mount Whitney.

How is water treatment handled on this trip?

We supply water filters on this trip. Although the water in the Sierra is renowned for its cleanliness, we still take precautions. You are responsible for filtering your own daily water.

What are the toilet and shower procedures?

We provide everything needed for a comfortable wilderness toilet experience. Certain "Leave No Trace" practices apply, and your guide will go over this as part of the camp orientation. One 5-gallon solar shower will provide some warm water for washing/showering up.

What can I expect from my guide?

All our professional mountain guides are trained in wilderness medicine at the professional level and are experienced backcountry leaders. They are well versed in the natural and cultural history of the area, cook excellent food, and are fun, personable people to spend time with.

What are my duties while on this camping trip?

You are responsible for setting up and taking down your own tent, packing your personal gear, and filtering your own water. Our guides are always available to assist. Other camp chores such as cooking, cleaning, hauling water, etc. are left to the guides.

What happens if the weather conditions are bad?

MT Sobek is proud to offer trips in protected wilderness settings.

As with any backcountry adventure, unforeseen natural events can impact your trip, including extreme weather conditions, snow levels and wildfires. As your health and safety are paramount, our expert guides and office staff will respond to these natural occurrences accordingly which may result in canceling, redirecting or shortening the trip.