Top Backpacking Trails in the US: Where Adventure Awaits Posted on October 16, 2023 By wilderdiscoveries.com If you’re anything like me, the call of adventure is impossible to resist. Whether you’re an experienced hiker or just someone who enjoys a good view, backpacking is the perfect way to immerse yourself in the great outdoors. And what better time to embark on a backpacking adventure than during the summer? In this blog post, I’ll share some of my favorite backpacking trails across the United States. Whether you’re planning a one-night getaway or an extended journey, these trails offer a diverse range of experiences. So, grab your backpack, lace up your hiking boots, and let’s hit the trails! Table of Contents Toggle Best Backpacking Trails in USABackpacking Trails: Conclusion Best Backpacking Trails in USA Mount Rainier National Park’s Wonderland Trail, WA Distance: 93 miles, 8-10 days Loop: Yes Permit Required: Yes Skill Level: Intermediate-Advanced The Wonderland Trail in Mount Rainier National Park, WA, is a paradise for backpackers seeking diverse landscapes. You’ll encounter glaciers, waterfalls, meadows, wildflowers, mountain lakes, and much more. The challenge lies in the elevation changes, but the breathtaking scenery makes it all worth it. Grayson Highlands | Virginia Backpacking Trails Distance: Depends on trail Loop: Yes Permit Required: Yes Skill Level: Depends on trail Virginia’s Grayson Highlands offer a magical landscape of high mountain meadows, wild ponies, and 5,000-foot peaks. Hiking to Mount Rogers, the state’s highest point, is a must. The scenery is nothing short of spectacular. This region is renowned for its expansive mountain vistas, where alpine peaks and the presence of wild ponies add to its allure. Notably, Virginia’s highest point, Mount Rogers, stands proudly at 5,729 feet, making it a must-visit destination for outdoor enthusiasts. As you traverse the trails, you’ll encounter intriguing rock outcroppings, adding an extra layer of excitement to your hike. With over 30 diverse trails to choose from, catering to hikers of various skill levels, this destination is a top-tier choice for backpacking on the East Coast. Exploring this area promises to be an unforgettable adventure, offering an array of unique experiences and picturesque landscapes. John Muir Trail, CA Backpacking Trails Distance: 211 miles (or shorter segments) Loop: No Permit Required: Yes Skill Level: Advanced The John Muir Trail in California is famous and can be hiked in shorter segments for a weekend trip. The Yosemite Valley to Tuolumne Meadows section is ideal for a shorter, 2-3 day adventure. However, the whole trail is worth considering for a more extended journey, offering incredible landscapes throughout. Havasu Falls, AZ Distance: 25 miles, 3-4 days Loop: Yes Permit Required: Yes Skill Level: Beginner-Intermediate Havasu Falls in Arizona is a great Backpacking Trails option for beginners, offering a manageable trail with stunning scenery. Be prepared for crowds, especially in the summer months, and note that new campground rules require reservations for 3 nights and 4 days. Nevertheless, the bright blue waterfalls and lakes along the trail are otherworldly. Roan Mountain Highlands | Tennessee Backpacking Trails Distance: Depends on trail Loop: Yes Permit Required: No Skill Level: Depends on trail For Southeastern backpackers, the 14-mile traverse of Roan Mountain Highlands in East Tennessee via the Appalachian Trail is a must-do Backpacking Trails adventure. With unique shelters and endless grassy balds, the views are simply breathtaking. Embark on an enchanting journey through the high-elevation splendor of Roan Mountain, a collection of five majestic summits nestled along the Appalachian Trail, close to the North Carolina and Tennessee state border. With its breathtaking vistas, verdant woodlands, and an abundance of wildflowers, Roan Mountain’s extraordinary highlands, knobs, and bluffs offer an unparalleled hiking experience. Select your preferred trail here and commence your adventure amidst this natural wonderland. Grafton Loop, Maine Distance: 39 miles, 4-5 days Loop: Yes Permit Required: No Skill Level: Intermediate Grafton Loop in Maine provides an opportunity to explore New England’s stunning landscapes, including nine peaks in just under 40 miles. The variety of scenery, from forests to mountaintop summit views, offers a well-rounded experience. Moreover, it’s a lesser-known loop, which means fewer crowds and lower campsite fees. Cloud’s Rest Trail | California Backpacking Trails Distance: 18 miles, 1 day Loop: Yes Permit Required: No Skill Level: Intermediate Yosemite National Park’s Cloud’s Rest Trail offers a 18-mile out-and-back adventure starting from Yosemite Valley. With moderate climbs and stunning views, it’s an incredible experience. Perched at an elevation of more than 1,000 feet above the iconic Half Dome, Clouds Rest stands as one of Yosemite National Park’s quintessential hiking destinations. While it may not boast the same grandeur as Half Dome, I can personally attest, having conquered both summits, that the panoramic vista from Clouds Rest surpasses its counterpart. However, a word of caution – this hike is not for the faint of heart; it’s a strenuous endeavor. Therefore, if you decide to embark on this adventure, take it seriously. Here’s all you need to know about this truly remarkable hike in the heart of Yosemite National Park. Trans-Catalina Trail in Catalina Island, CA Backpacking Trails Distance: 46 miles, 3-4 days Loop: Not quite Permit Required: No, but campsite reservations needed Skill Level: Beginner-Intermediate The Trans-Catalina Trail in Catalina Island, CA, offers a unique backpacking experience along the coast of Los Angeles. This trail provides picturesque views of green hills and cliffside ocean scenes. Most hikers start at Avalon and hike across to Parson’s Landing, a rewarding journey that you won’t forget. West Rim Trail in Zion National Park, Utah Distance: 19 miles, 1-2 days Loop: No Permit Required: Yes, for camping Skill Level: Beginner Starting at Lava Point and ending at the Grotto in the main canyon of Zion, the West Rim Trail is a relatively short, downhill hike with multiple campsites along the way. It offers the added benefit of passing part of the famous Angel’s Landing hike, which you can add to your adventure. Presidential Traverse | New Hampshire Backpacking Trails Distance: 24 miles, 2-3 days Loop: No Permit Required: Yes, for camping Skill Level: Beginner The 24-mile Presidential Traverse in New Hampshire’s White Mountains is a bucket-list hike, known for its rocky terrain and ever-changing weather. The Appalachian Mountain Club’s hut system adds a unique element to this challenging trip. The Presidential Traverse is an exceptional adventure, leading you through some of New Hampshire’s loftiest peaks within the White Mountains, many of which are exposed to the elements. This trail is not for the faint-hearted and attempting it in a single day is a formidable challenge. However, with the right preparation and determination, it can be conquered. For most, the preferred approach is to tackle it as a multi-day backpacking journey, typically spanning 2 to 3 days. The official Presidential Range commences from north to south, commencing at Madison Peak, then progressing to Adams Peak. Hikers will then ascend Jefferson and Washington summits, before concluding the second half with Mount Monroe, Eisenhower, and Pierce. Along the way, hikers have the option to rest at AMC huts, such as the Lakes of the Clouds Hut, where you can take a break and refuel with a satisfying meal. The Pemigewasset Loop in the White Mountains, NH Backpacking Trails Distance: 31.5 miles, 3-4 days Loop: Yes Permit Required: No Skill Level: Advanced The “Pemi Loop” in the White Mountains of New Hampshire is a challenging adventure, including summits of eight 4,000-foot peaks. The rocky terrain demands caution, and the loop can be started from the Lincoln Woods Trailhead in either direction. Thankfully, no permits are required, and campsites are first-come, first-served. Bowman Lake Loop in Glacier National Park, MT Distance: 35 miles, 4-5 days Loop: No Permit Required: Yes Skill Level: Intermediate-Advanced The Bowman Lake Loop in Glacier National Park, MT, is a classic backpacking trail featuring alpine passes, waterfalls, rivers, and breathtaking campsites. While the climb can be demanding, the views are more than enough to compensate. Be sure to check trail conditions and weather before heading out, as some sections may still be snowy in summer. Teton Crest Trail, WY Distance: 50 miles, 5-6 days Loop: No Permit Required: Yes Skill Level: Intermediate-Advanced The Teton Crest Trail in Wyoming is an iconic backpacking route, but planning early is essential due to its popularity. The stunning mountains, lakes, glaciers, and forests make the effort worthwhile. Most hikers begin at the Phillips Pass Trailhead and end at the Leigh Lake Trailhead. Mount Sterling Loop in Great Smoky National Park, NC Distance: 17 miles, 1-2 days Loop: Yes Permit Required: Yes, for overnight camping Skill Level: Beginner For beginners, the Mount Sterling Loop in Great Smoky National Park, NC, is an ideal starting point. The trail begins at Big Creek Campground in Waynesville, NC, and offers a rewarding experience with stunning panoramic views of the surrounding mountains. What makes it even more appealing is that it’s a loop trail, so you won’t need to worry about transportation back to your starting point. In summary, these backpacking trails offer a wide range of experiences, from beginner-friendly to advanced, and are scattered across the United States. So, pick your trail, pack your gear, and start your next adventure. The great outdoors is waiting to be explored! Backpacking Trails: Conclusion Backpacking is an incredible way to connect with nature and challenge yourself. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced hiker, the United States offers a multitude of trails that cater to all skill levels. From the stunning landscapes of the Appalachian Trail to the breathtaking views in the Enchantments, there’s something for everyone. So, prepare, plan, and embark on your backpacking journey to create unforgettable memories in the great outdoors. Happy hiking! Backpacking Blog Hiking
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