John Muir Trail vs High Sierra Trail: Which Should You Do?

This summer, if you’re dreaming of a hike with high alpine meadows, granite peaks, and star-studded skies, chances are the John Muir Trail (JMT) and the High Sierra Trail (HST) have both popped up on your radar. These two iconic thru-hikes carve through the heart of California’s Sierra Nevada and offer some of the most dramatic mountain scenery in the United States.

So which one makes more sense for you? It’s challenging to compare two routes, particularly ones that are so different. But whether you’re new to backpacking or a seasoned hiker looking for your next challenge, choosing the right trail is about more than just mileage—it’s about experience, logistics, and what kind of journey you’re hoping to have.

Let’s break it down.

The Basics

Trail	John Muir Trail (JMT)	High Sierra Trail (HST)
Distance	~211 miles	~72 miles
Time to Complete	2-4 weeks	~6-10 days
Start/End Points	Yosemite Valley to Mt. Whitney	Crescent Meadow to Mt. Whitney
Elevation Gain	~47,000 feet	~19,000 feet
Difficulty	Strenuous	Strenuous
Permits Needed	Yes (highly competitive)	Yes (easier to obtain)

Why Choose the John Muir Trail? 

The John Muir Trail is a dream for those seeking a longer, immersive wilderness experience. Starting in Yosemite National Park and ending at the summit of Mt. Whitney, the JMT is approximately 211 miles of high alpine splendor. You’ll pass through Yosemite, the Ansel Adams Wilderness, Kings Canyon, and Sequoia National Park, making for a truly beautiful and full-value wilderness experience.

The trail picks up in Yosemite Valley, and is considered one of the most beautiful sections of the Pacific Crest Trail (PCT). Iconic Alpine Meadows give way to steep granite spires, gorgeous high elevation lakes, and night skies to die for. 

Choose the JMT if:

• You want a classic long-distance hike with a strong trail culture.
  
• You’ve got 2–4 weeks to commit and want an epic journey.
  
• You enjoy planning and are up for the challenge of securing permits.
  
• You want to hit as many jaw-dropping alpine passes as possible.
  

Challenges:

• Permits are notoriously hard to get, especially starting from Yosemite.
  
• It’s a big time and energy commitment.
  
• The trail can be crowded during peak season.
  
• Strenuous hiking and inclement weather.
  

Why Choose the High Sierra Trail?

The High Sierra Trail is often called the JMT’s “shorter cousin”—but don’t let that fool you. This 72-mile point-to-point hike takes you from the giant sequoias of Crescent Meadow in Sequoia National Park all the way to the top of Mt. Whitney. It is dramatically scenic, less crowded, and still delivers big on alpine magic.

The High Sierra Trail provides a timeless wilderness experience: solitude in some of the most magical mountains in the world. The granite domes go on forever, and the sunsets will take your breath away. 

Choose the HST if:

• You want a shorter, more approachable thru-hike.
  
• You have 1–2 weeks and still want to summit Mt. Whitney.
  
• You’re looking for solitude and less competition for permits.
  
• You want to experience the Sierra’s dramatic transition from forest to alpine.
  

Challenges:

• Still strenuous, especially the final stretch to Whitney.
  
• Requires a car shuttle or hitchhike between trailheads.
  
• Difficult hiking and inclement weather.
  

So, Which One Makes More Sense for You?

Choose the John Muir Trail if:

• You’re craving a long-haul journey with a variety of landscapes.
  
• You’ve got time, endurance, and a deep well of patience for planning.
  
• You’re okay with crowds in exchange for world-class scenery.
  

Choose the High Sierra Trail if:

• You’re short on time but still want a big Sierra experience.
  
• You’re easing into thru-hiking and want to build confidence.
  

Final Thoughts 

Both the JMT and HST are transformative hikes. The John Muir Trail is a long, iconic pilgrimage through the Sierra’s most legendary terrain, while the High Sierra Trail is a hidden gem with all the beauty and less of the bustle.

Both routes end with a dramatic summiting of the highest point in California–Mount Whitney. This challenge should not be taken lightly, as elevation gain, weather changes, and the physical difficulties make both routes a serious undertaking.  

Whichever you choose, you’ll be following in the footsteps of John Muir himself—someone who believed that “in every walk with nature, one receives far more than he seeks.” Whether you’re out there for a week or a month, the Sierra will change you.

Have you hiked either trail? Or are you planning your first? Drop your thoughts or questions in the comments—I’d love to hear about your Sierra dreams.

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Cover photo credit: Kaya Lindsay