Pro tip: skipping the John Muir Trail permit lottery might actually be a good move

Everyone says you have to win the JMT lottery for a good trip, but last August I just walked up and got a walk-up permit for the High Sierra Trail instead. It was way less crowded, the views were just as epic, and I didn't have to plan my whole year around a lottery date. Has anyone else found a classic alternative that worked better for them?

2 comments

2 Comments

lindaowens3d ago

Honestly, the whole permit system is broken and pushes people to overrun the same few trails. I did the Big SEKI loop last fall, no lottery needed, and saw maybe three other groups. The ranger said walk-ups are almost always available for the less famous routes if you're flexible on your starting point.

the_cameron3d ago

Actually @lindaowens, that flexibility just isn't realistic for most working people. The permit system protects those popular trails from being loved to death. Letting everyone just walk up would turn those places into a zoo. The lottery might be annoying, but it's the fairest way to handle huge demand. Your off season trip worked, but try getting a walk-up for the Rae Lakes loop in July. Without the system, the backcountry would get trashed.