The JMT was way more crowded this July than when I hiked it in 2015

Hiked the John Muir Trail last month and couldn't believe the difference. In 2015 I'd go half a day without seeing anyone past Muir Trail Ranch. This time I had to queue up to cross Evolution Creek. Campsites were packed too, had to push an extra mile twice to find flat ground. Permits are capped so I figured it'd be fine. Anyone else notice the same on popular long trails?

2 comments

2 Comments

keith_rodriguez1mo ago

Queuing up at Evolution Creek sounds insane, I can't believe that's a thing now.

the_patricia1mo ago

Hit @keith_rodriguez with a reality check - queuing at Evolution Creek just means more people are getting out there, which is a good thing. Backcountry permits are capped for a reason, and if a few extra hikers mean more folks fighting to protect these trails, I'll take the wait.