Are dogs allowed on South Lake via John Muir Trail?

Yes, dogs are allowed on South Lake via John Muir Trail but must be kept on a leash at all times. Pack out waste and respect wildlife.

Do I need a permit to hike South Lake via John Muir Trail?

No, South Lake via John Muir Trail does not currently require a permit. Still check for seasonal closures or day-use fees with the managing agency before heading out.

How difficult is South Lake via John Muir Trail?

South Lake via John Muir Trail is rated difficult. It is 82.3 miles long with 21,745 feet of elevation gain. Difficulty ratings reflect a combination of distance, elevation gain, and terrain — your experience will depend on your fitness level and trail conditions.

Is South Lake via John Muir Trail suitable for kids?

South Lake via John Muir Trail is not typically recommended for young children due to length, exposure, or technical terrain. Older kids with hiking experience may be fine — use your judgment based on your family's comfort level.

Status unknown — verify before visiting

We don't have current condition data for this trail. Check with the land manager before you go.

See California trail conditions

South Lake via John Muir Trail route map

DifficultPoint to Point

California

South Lake via John Muir Trail

Independence, California

82.3 mi

Distance

21,745 ft

Elev. Gain

38h 18m

Est. Time

Point to Point

Route Type

Difficult

Difficulty

About This Trail

We don't have an editorial description for South Lake via John Muir Trail in our cache yet. The planning stats above (distance, elevation gain, estimated time, route type) come from the source listed on this trail.

For current conditions, closures, and route notes, check the official sources below — they're the authority for this trail, not us. Spot something we should add?

Trail Conditions

Unknown

We have no current condition data for this trail. Check with the operator before you go, and submit a report below if you've been recently.

No recent condition reports. Be the first to share what you see on the trail.

Elevation Profile

Min:1,737 ft

Max:4,009 ft

7,801 ft

6,704 ft

Trail Details

Dogs on leash

Route Type: Point to Point
Surface: Dirt

Official sources & verification

We don't have curated agency sources for this trail in our cache yet. Outdoors is not the permitting authority — confirm conditions, permits, and access with the managing agency before you go. If you know who manages this trail, please tell us.

Reviews

No reviews yet

Be the first to share your experience and help others plan their visit.

Legacy import — verify before navigating

Path geometry came from our pre-launch legacy database. Routes have not yet been re-verified against the operator and may differ from the actual trail.

Hunt context