Resupply Points
Because you’ll be on the trail for 2-3 weeks, you won’t be able to carry all your food in your pack. You’ll need to stop and resupply several times along the trail; most people resupply 3-4 times.
Generally speaking, you resupply by mailing boxes/buckets ahead of time to either a post office or a predetermined store/hotel. Hiring a resupply service, buying products at small stores (such as Red’s Meadows or Tuolumne Meadows), or getting a ride into a nearby town are also common options. If your resupply plan involves mailing packages, you need to ship them at least three weeks ahead of your intended pickup date.
For the sake of this post, we’ve outlined the most common resupply points for southbound hikers beginning their hike from Happy Isles in Yosemite Valley. If you’re a northbound hiker, these points still apply, just in reverse order.
Tuolumne Meadows Store (mile 24)
The first resupply point for many southbounders who begin their hike in Yosemite Valley is at the well-stocked Tuolumne Meadows Store. It’s set up to serve JMT travelers and is open once the first hikers hit the trail. While many people pick up a pre-sent package here, grab a meal, or buy resupply food from the store, there is another option as well. If your transportation logistics allow and you’re parking a car at the terminus and traveling northbound to begin your hike, you can drop a sealed and labeled resupply box off in the hiker’s box near the Ranger’s Station or at the TM Store (recommended).
Though a resupply at mile 24 may seem silly, the climb out of the Yosemite Valley is intense, especially if you opted to climb Half Dome. Every pound off your back matters. You’ll be passing through Tuolumne Meadows anyways, so if you can logistically swing it, why not?
If you’re hiking early or late in the season, we recommend calling the store (209-372-8428) to check hours and options. The Tuolumne Meadows Post Office is located in the same building as the store and grill. It can be reached at 209-372-8236. They’ll hold your package for no charge. If you’re sending a resupply package, mail packages to:
Red’s Meadow Resort (mile 60)
Only 1/4 mile off the JMT, the Red’s Meadow Resort is a logical place to stop for your second resupply. You have the option of mailing a package here for a small fee or there’s also a small store with limited food options, paid showers, lodging, a backpacker’s campground, and the Mule House Cafe, which serves up breakfast, lunch, and dinner. If you’re hiking early or late in the season, we recommend calling them (760-934-2345) to check availability. If you’re sending a resupply, mail packages to:
