Rant: Why does everyone think the John Muir Trail is better than the Rae Lakes Loop?

I hiked both last summer and honestly, the Rae Lakes Loop near Kings Canyon blew the JMT out of the water for me. The JMT has this huge reputation, but I found the Rae Lakes Loop had more varied scenery in just 41 miles without the crowds and permit hassle. Did anyone else feel the JMT was overrated, or am I missing something?

3 comments

3 Comments

danielhenderson1mo ago

Are you really gatekeeping trails now?

the_hugo1mo ago

My buddy Dave actually ran into a guy like this on the Long Pond Loop last fall. The dude was standing at a creek crossing with a whistle, telling everyone they had to wait for his signal before crossing. Dave just stepped around him and walked through the water, boots and all. He said the guy just stood there looking confused, whistle still in his mouth.

price.tara1mo ago

Hiked up Eagle Peak last weekend and passed a guy who set up a folding chair right in the middle of the switchbacks. He was eating a sandwich and giving everyone a lecture about trail etiquette. Sometimes people just want to feel important, I guess.