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HardGround

John Muir Trail

June Lake, California · Madera County

John Muir Trail is a hard hiking trail near June Lake in Madera County, California.. The surface is ground. Trail data is sourced from OpenStreetMap.

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37.70275, -119.14853
Open in OpenStreetMap
5-Day Forecast

Weather at John Muir Trail

Live forecast for the trailhead. Use it to pack and time your hike.

Avg High70°F
Avg Low47°F
Peak Rain Chance0%
Humidity33%
UV (avg)9
Air Quality52 · Moderate
Today
☁️
Overcast
69°/50°
🌬 17mph
5:54 AM8:11 PM
Sun
☁️
Overcast
68°/50°
🌬 19mph
5:55 AM8:10 PM
Mon
☀️
Clear
68°/47°
🌬 17mph
5:56 AM8:09 PM
Tue
☀️
Clear
71°/43°
🌬 14mph
5:57 AM8:08 PM
Wed
☀️
Clear
72°/43°
🌬 18mph
5:58 AM8:07 PM

Forecast data © Open-Meteo. Refreshed every 6 hours. Always check the most recent forecast before heading out.

About John Muir Trail

John Muir Trail is a hard hiking trail near June Lake in Madera County, California.. The surface is ground. Trail data is sourced from OpenStreetMap.

What “Hard” Means

Steep, technical, or long. Requires good fitness and experience.

Difficulty is derived from OpenStreetMap’s Swiss Alpine Club (SAC) hiking scale, trail visibility, surface, distance, and elevation gain. Always verify current conditions before heading out.

What to Pack & Wear

Personalised to this trail’s length, elevation, difficulty, and the live forecast.

👔 What to Wear

  • 👕
    Moisture-wicking T-shirt
    Light color, breathable.
  • 🩳
    Lightweight shorts or pants
    Quick-dry preferred — sweat dries fast.
  • 🧢
    Brimmed sun hat
    Better than a cap for back-of-neck protection.
  • 🥾
    Trail runners
    Breathable mesh uppers.
  • 🌡
    Layers for swings
    Daily temp range is wide (47°F low → 70°F high). Pack layers.

🎒 What to Pack

  • 💧
    Water
    Bring at least 1L of water; more in heat.
  • 🍫
    High-energy snacks
    A snack for the trail.
  • 🧴
    Sun protection (UV 9)
    SPF 50+ sunscreen, lip balm w/ SPF, sunglasses, sun hat.
  • 🔦
    Headlamp + spare batteries
    Long days can run late — never rely on phone flashlight alone.
  • 🩹
    First-aid kit
    Blister patches, ibuprofen, tape, antiseptic wipes.
  • 🗺
    Offline map
    Download your route in advance via Gaia, Caltopo, or OSM-based apps.

Recommendations adapt to the current forecast + trail stats. Use them as a starting point — local conditions, your experience, and the time of day you start all matter.

Trail Safety in California

Trail conditions in California change with weather, season, and fire activity. Closures, washouts, and rerouting are common. Before heading out:

  • Check with the land manager for current conditions and closures
  • Tell someone your plan and expected return time
  • Know your turn-around limits — conditions can change fast
  • Carry the 10 essentials: water, food, navigation, first aid, light, fire, shelter, knife, sun protection, extra clothes

Frequently Asked Questions

How hard is John Muir Trail?

John Muir Trail is rated Hard. Steep, technical, or long — good fitness and experience recommended.

Are horses allowed on John Muir Trail?

Yes — horseback riding is permitted.

What is the trail surface on John Muir Trail?

The surface is ground. Natural surface — sturdy footwear recommended; can be muddy after rain.

When is the best time to hike John Muir Trail?

California has trail conditions that vary by season. Spring and fall usually offer the best mix of temperature and trail conditions. Check the 5-day forecast above for current outlook. Always verify trail status (closures, washouts, fire restrictions) with the local land manager before going.