Business Details
7 Years
experience
Your Gateway to Eastern Sierra Adventure
Established in 2019, Mt Williamson Motel & Basecamp serves as a welcoming gateway to the Eastern Sierra for hikers and travelers. Our family-owned property offers modern, comfortable accommodations with panoramic views, strategically located along Highway 395 between Death Valley and Yosemite. We specialize in supporting thru-hikers with resupply packages, transportation services, and expert logistical assistance, drawing on decades of personal backpacking experience in the Sierra Nevada.Our commitment to hospitality is rooted in our own passion for the John Muir Trail and the surrounding wilderness, ensuring guests receive both practical support and warm, personalized service. We maintain strong partnerships with local outfitters and provide educational resources to enhance visitors' exploration of the region's natural and cultural landmarks.
Services
Accommodations
Hiker resupply packages
Trailhead transportation
Gear storage
Laundry service
Bear canister rental
Fuel sales
Luggage storage
Pet-friendly rooms
Educational resources
Details
- Year established: 2019
Highlights and features
- We offer 40+ years of combined hiking experience supporting thru-hikers
- Custom resupply packages with trail logistics expertise
- Family-owned operation with deep local connections
- Secure storage and transportation services for hikers
- Specialized knowledge of John Muir Trail and Pacific Crest Trail routes
Services
Hiker Resupply Packages
Our customized resupply packages include essential provisions and gear for thru-hikers, available in configurations for 1-4 people. Packages include lodging, cold beverages, hot breakfast, laundry access, and transportation to Onion Valley trailhead. We provide secure storage and timely delivery of mailed resupply buckets with expert packing assistance from experienced backpackers.
Trailhead Transportation
We offer reliable transportation between our motel and Onion Valley trailhead with morning departures at 8:30 AM and 2:30 PM. Our shuttle service includes luggage transport and accommodates both overnight guests and resupply-only visitors needing gear delivery to the trailhead.
Accommodations
Modern cabins with private bathrooms, kitchenettes, and climate control sleep 2-4 guests. Three pet-friendly units available with outdoor spaces. All rooms include complimentary breakfast during hiking season, WiFi, and cable TV, situated for panoramic Sierra Nevada views.
Gear Storage
Secure storage for resupply buckets and extra gear available year-round. We maintain climate-controlled spaces for bucket storage with handling assistance and offer temporary storage for hikers needing to leave items during their trek.
Trail Logistics Support
Personalized trail planning assistance from experienced backpackers includes route recommendations, transportation coordination, and resupply strategy. We provide current trail condition updates and partner with local outfitters to optimize hiker itineraries.
People
Doug Hundley
Owner
Co-owner with 40+ years hiking experience in the Sierra Nevada. Discovered the John Muir Trail in 1984 and has hiked extensively with family and friends. Brings decades of wilderness expertise to motel operations.
Lauralyn Hundley
Owner
Co-owner and avid backpacker who fell in love with the Sierra during her 2017 JMT hike. Combines hospitality experience with trail knowledge to support hikers' needs through the motel's services.
Questions
Do you offer resupply package discounts for larger groups?
Yes, we provide tiered pricing for groups of 3-4 hikers with bundled services. Contact us directly for customized pricing on groups larger than four people.
Can I drop off my resupply package in person?
Yes, we accept in-person resupply drop-offs during regular business hours. Please call ahead to coordinate your delivery with our staff.
How do I communicate with you while on the trail?
Use our text-only number (760-878-5066) for trail communications. Establish contact before your hike begins to ensure message delivery through tracking devices.
What transportation options exist beyond Onion Valley?
We recommend local shuttle providers like Lone Pine Kurt (661-972-9476) for transportation to other destinations. Our staff can provide current contact information for regional services.
Do you sell specialty fuel for backpacking stoves?
Yes, we stock 4oz and 8oz ISOPRO fuel canisters. Add to your reservation in advance or purchase upon arrival for guaranteed availability.
What happens if I need to cancel my resupply package?
We require 72-hour notice for full refunds. Resupply buckets receive a $25 handling fee for returns, or you may donate contents to our free hiker bins to waive shipping charges.
