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The Pacific Crest Trail Association (PCTA – see Appendix 6) is the best source of information for anyone contemplating an attempt of all or a section of the PCT, perhaps after their appetite has been whetted by first walking the JMT. But do remember that the JMT is only about 10% of the length of the PCT. After a few days on the JMT you will no doubt have great respect for PCT Thru-Hikers! The PCTA also provides good, reliable information on the JMT.

Using this Guide

This next two sections of this Introduction, ‘Planning Your Trip’ and ‘Walking the Trail’, could be subtitled ‘Before You Go’, because they give all the information needed to plan and organise a hike along the JMT. There is greater emphasis on the preparation and planning stages of this walk than is usual in guidebooks to long-distance routes in Europe and the UK and/or routes where there are no sections in extensive areas of wilderness. This emphasis on pre-route planning is deliberate, and is imperative with an adventure such as the JMT; good preparation will result in a happy, stress-free trek, and provide you with one of the most incredible experiences of your life. Topics such as hiking in bear country, applying for wilderness trekking permits, the filtering of water and the danger of giardiasis, and the packaging and posting ahead of food packages for collection along the Trail, which may not be familiar to walkers from outside the US, are an essential part of hiking the JMT and are explained in detail.