Dave's Quesiton
Where can I get detailed info on the John Muir Trail in California?

— Dave Clayton

Karen's Answer:
Dave,

The John Muir trail runs 212 miles from the summit of 13,494-foot Mt. Whitney (the highest peak in the contiguous states) to Tuolumne Meadows in Yosemite National Park. Along the way, it crosses eight high passes, including Forester Pass, which at 13,180 feet, is also the highest point on the Pacific Crest Trail. The JMT also goes through the Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks, the John Muir and Ansel Adams Wildernesses, and Devil's Postpile National Monument.

	Karen Berger Karen is a hiker's hiker. She has finished the Appalachian, Pacific Crest and Continental Divide Trails — making her one of the few who've completed hiking's"triple crown." Meet Karen Previous Answers Hiking Forums

Perhaps I'm partial to the JMT because I honeymooned there—and I've since been back a number of times. But the glaciated terrain offers some of the most spectacular mountain scenery to be found anywhere in the US or otherwise. Frequently, on the trail, I'd just stop and stare and wait to take it all in. The JMT is contiguous with the Pacific Crest Trail for most of its route.

A couple of practicalities: The snowfree eason is from July until September, although in early July you'll need an ice ax and crampons to cross the high passes. Permits are required, and can be difficult to get in the mid-summer hiking season. And the trail is famous for problems with black bears—rangers recommend carrying special bear-proof food containers.

For more information, check out the Guide to the John Muir Trail, by Thomas Winnett and Kathy Morey (Wilderness Press, $11.95) available at GORP.com through the Adventurous Traveler's Bookstore.