Bypass JMT stretch near MTR

So if you mean you are heading south and you take the steep side trail off the JMT down to MTR, and then want to take the riverside trail out of MTR and meet the JMT near BM7897 (marked on the map), then yeah not missing much, not worth climbing back up for. In fact the river trail is nicer IMO. On the other hand, if you want to be sure you’ve walked every inch of the way, it’s better to stay on the JMT, not take the steep side trail down, and just do out and back on the riverside trail to MTR. That way you do the extra before the resupply when your pack is at its lightest. Plus you avoid that steep side trail – your knees will thank you.

Thanks Paul!  Yeah I’ll probably skip it then.  It may haunt me for years after that but I think I’ll get over it :)

We skipped MTR completely on our 2014 JMT, and the stretch of trail between the cut-off and the bridge over the San Joaquin was hot and unremarkable.  IMHO, take the shortcut and never look back! :^)

Yes, don’t hike back up the switchbacks out of MTR, take the shortcut.  You’re not going to miss anything.   Just remember not to tell anyone that you skipped a portion of the JMT!

K

+however many that is to NOT go back up ALL OF THOSE DAMNED SWITCHBACKS.  You’re fine.  Enjoy the walk fully laden with 100 miles of food!