JMT Gear List for September

[Jonathan Skiles]

I will be starting a through-hike of the John Muir Trail 9/9.  This will be my 5th through-hike of the JMT but I am doing my best to lighten up my pack.  I would love any input you are willing to give.  Thanks.

https://lighterpack.com/r/6urp47

[Jonathan Skiles]

I did not include what I will be wearing.  I am wearing lightweight running shorts with a long sleeve “Only The Lightest” shirt, TrekSta Evolution trail runners and a sun hat.  My plan is to put on thermal bottoms under the shorts if it gets cold + wind pants if necessary.

[Ross N]

Fifth time! Right on man!

List looks pretty solid. Only thing that sticks out is the Catalyst. Obviously packs aren’t cheap, but unless you need the extra space to carry a bear canister, you could replace it with something smaller/lighter.

[Jonathan Skiles]

Thanks Ross.  I have my fingers crossed the Ursack will be approved and a canister isn’t needed.  I agree there is a pound or more that could get shaved off the pack.  Thanks for taking a look!

[Alex Wallace]

Solid. However, your pack is the sore thumb here. No stakes? Doable for sure, but adds to the fiddle. You can probably drop the bug repellent in Sept. For fishing, C&R or did you plan on eating? If so, are you doing soups/poached? Personally, I’d go with a lighter thermal top (4 ounce range) for sleeping/layering and add a 100 wt fleece (6-7 ounces) for active insulation. If a storm settles in it can get pretty darn cold especially if you’re racing a pass. I’d swap, or add, a mini bic to your matches for fire. The new BeFree 1L water filter looks like a good upgrade from the Squeeze.

Have fun!

[Jonathan Skiles]

Thanks for the comments Alex.  I am swapping out the Catalyst pack for something smaller and lighter.  I am leaning towards a MLD Prophet.  The fishing gear will hopefully provide some protein.  Poaching with some Ramen soup is the plan.  I will be taking 6 titanium stakes.  Two are part of the caldera cone setup.  I need to add a little under an ounce for the other 4.  I will take the advice about layering to heart.  Sounds like a great idea.  I really appreciate the advice!!!

[Derek Weeks]

Have you added a bear canister, if so which one will you be using?

[Alex Wallace]

@jonskiles “I will be starting a through-hike of the John Muir Trail 9/9.”

Are you starting in the Valley? I begin a 7 day trip on 9/8 to go goof around in the Ansel Adams Wilderness. We might cross paths.

[Jonathan Skiles]

I am.  I am going to be in the backpackers campground on the 8th and then starting from Happy Isles on the 9th.  Can’t wait!!!

[Alex Wallace]

@jonskiles, How was your trip? I’m curious how your gear & clothing worked out.

[Author]

Posts