In short
John Muir Trail: lottery applications for the wilderness permit open 24 weeks before your start date, every day for a new date. Enter your start date below to find the exact day. Best season: July to September.
Which day should you book?
Pick a date: we work out the day it becomes bookable (24 weeks ahead).
When and at what time does the lottery open?
| What you book | The wilderness permit |
| Lottery opens for the wilderness permit | 24 weeks before your start date, every day |
| Price | $10 per application, then $5 per personRough estimate, check the official website. |
| How reliable these dates are | Estimated from previous years |
What is the route like? from OpenStreetMap
Move your finger or mouse along the curve to read the km and the altitude. Approximate curve, from a terrain model.
The whole John Muir Trail
335.8 km+13,600 m gain1,229 m → 4,413 m
Altitude by distanceMin 1,229 m · max 4,413 m
7 huts, lodges and campsites within 400 m of the route, shown on the 3D map. Length measured along the OpenStreetMap track, one way; elevation gain and altitudes from a terrain model. Approximate figures, check them against the official guide. Tracks © OpenStreetMap contributors (ODbL).
John Muir Trail on the 3D map Follow the route in 3D, then explore the 62 other trails and races on the map. Open the 3D mapHow do you apply for the lottery, step by step?
- Choose your start dateThe calculator above gives the day it becomes bookable.
- Create your account ahead of timeOn the official booking website, so you don't lose time.
- Book on opening dayThe most popular dates go the same day.
- Keep the confirmationYou may be asked for it on site.
The next permit lotteries
Other great hikes with a permit lottery, in order of opening.
Frequently asked questions
John Muir Trail: how far ahead should you book?
Booking opens 24 weeks before your start date, every day for a new date.
John Muir Trail: how much does it cost?
$10 per application, then $5 per person. Rough estimate, check the official website.
John Muir Trail: when should you go?
Best season: July to September.