Hi all,
First time posting. I have a 6 week sabbatical from work next year and want to hike the JMT in its entierty within a 3 week timeframe. I have been looking around online and have been consulating the local REI reps on suggestions for type of gear etc. and I think I am set there.
The only confusion on my part and I'm not sure why I can't wrap my head around it is the permit issue. I know I will need a wilderness permit with an exit in the Whitney zone, but I have not found the earliest dates I can apply for a permit. I plan on doing this mid to late June.
I plan on departing from The valley into little yosemite for the first night, but I have heard that this is a difficult spot to get a permit from. I want to do the traditional route North to South and wanted to know if anyone had advice on best trail head to depart from even if I have to leave from Tuolumen.
Any other advice on hiking the trai lwould be greatly appreciated especially around food.
Thanks!