Episode 49
Ep 049. John Muir Trail Day 14 (Trail Series). Muir Pass, Cowboy Coffee Cake, and Evolution Lake Magic
Welcome to the John Muir Trail Podcast Series - I'm taking a little summer break from the podcast while I head off on some new adventures (and guide some epic client trips too!). But I didn’t want to leave you hanging—so I’m sharing something special: a never-before-released Trail Series from our John Muir Trail thru-hike.
Today was one of the most physically and emotionally challenging days on trail—but also one of the most beautiful. After waking up at camp (surrounded by cowboys, coffee cake, and loose pack animals), we took on the long, steady climb up and over Muir Pass. The ascent was a grind, but the reward was worth it: sweeping alpine views, the iconic Muir shelter, and a sunset descent through Evolution Basin that took our breath away.
From sore shoulders to surprise trail reunions and awkward gear questions from strangers, this episode is full of real trail life moments—both magical and messy.
In this episode:
- Cowboy hospitality
- Mental tricks for pushing through the pain cave
- Our uphill battle to Muir Pass (and countless false summits)
- Why the Evolution Basin might be the most beautiful stretch of trail so far
- Trail friendships, awkward encounters, and favorite gear surprises (Kula Cloth, anyone?)
🎧 Come walk with us through the highs, the lows, and the golden hour glow on Day 14 of our JMT journey.
JMT Resources on the Blog:
- The Stress-Free Guide to John Muir Trail Permits
- The Ultimate John Muir Trail Planning Guide
- 15 Reasons I’m Excited to Hike the John Muir Trail
Where to learn more about Allison:
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