Individual Tenting on the JMT
Individual Tenting on the JMT

Complete John Muir Trail Gear List For 2024

Start planning your long-distance thru-hike with this complete John Muir Trail gear list including camping gear, clothes, & hiking essentials

Getting your John Muir Trail gear list dialed is one of the most exciting parts of preparing for your John Muir Trail thru-hike. I hiked the JMT in 2014 and it was one of the best experiences of my life, but it’s important to take some time getting your gear right. As someone who’s done the thru-hike, I’m here to help!

Below is a list of every piece of gear I packed for my John Muir Trail hike including big gear items such as my tent, sleeping bag, bear canister, sleeping pad, and water filter all the way down to the little things (watch, sunscreen, maps, and more). I also include some of the gear I packed and then ditched at the car before setting off on the trail in an effort to reduce my pack weight.

Overall, I was happy with my choices and felt prepared for the trail. I’ll note that some of the gear I took on my JMT hike is no longer available, so I’ve updated this list with newer, lighter gear that I’ve used on more recent backpacking trips.

Continue reading the full article, written by Kristen Bor here.
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Owner Bearfoot Theory
Kristen Bor

I’m an outdoor enthusiast, van lifer, and mom, and in 2014, I started Bearfoot Theory to help more people get outside.

The outdoors has had such a profound impact on my life, and it’s my hope that Bearfoot Theory becomes a helpful and welcoming resource for you, whether you’re planning an epic hike, a National Park road trip, or dreaming about van life. Thanks for being part of this amazing community—I can’t wait to share the journey with you.

Media Mentions

It all starts with Sawyer Squeeze + Cnoc VectoX 2L, the best and most reliable filter-bladder combo and the core of my backpacking water storage and filtration system.

Jaeger Shaw
Owner & Managing Editor

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Our top water filter for thru hiking, the Sawyer Squeeze, is 15% off.

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Chief Operating Officer & Online Editor

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