No long distance backpacking trip plan would be complete without a “cost per mile” estimate. Based on experience from previous trips, I estimate my cost for hiking the JMT at $536 ($33.50 per day) or $2.54 per mile. This includes transportation, lodging (one night before and after), food (on and off the trail), supplies, and resupply expenses. (It does not include the cost for gear or clothing.) I will keep track of my actual expenses and update this post after the trip. Approximately half of the total cost is food. Freeze dried meals and other food items popular on the trail are not cheap. I estimated a little high because I plan to cover some of the shared costs for my hiking partner. I think it could easily be done for under $2.00 per mile if someone was on a tight budget. I’d love to hear from other hikers on their cost for the JMT.