Shattered Record: The Queen of the John Muir Trail Does It Again

August 4, 2026

The John Muir Trail is one of California’s most scenic — and challenging — backpacking trails, crossing both Mt. Whitney and Yosemite Valley. Most hikers typically complete the trail in 2 to 3 weeks.

The route scales 10 passes in the High Sierra, making for a series of challenging ascents and descents. The total elevation gain on the route is 46,000 feet, and the total loss is 38,000 feet, demanding serious fitness.

Many elite ultra-runners have come to the JMT to test their mettle and try to nab an FKT. Fastest known times can be completed supported (with aid and resupplies from crew members) or unsupported (completely solo). Runners can take the route northbound or southbound; most people (including Himbert) go northbound so that the route’s highest point, Mt. Whitney, comes at the beginning and not the end. GEARJUNKIE