backpacking trips socal

Best of Southern California Backpacking and Day Hiking

I’ve lived in Southern California for five years and still feel like I’m scratching the surface of available adventure around me. The beaches are great, but within three hours of San Diego and Los Angeles, there are also forests, 10,000-plus foot peaks, wildflowers, and snow creeks.

Narrowing the list of epic day and weekend trips in my backyard is extremely difficult. Each time I research a specific recreation area or national forest, I add more trails to my already never-ending list. So, for the sake of my sanity, I’m defining Southern California as Los Angeles, San Diego, San Bernardino, and Riverside Counties. Sorry, Sierra Nevada. You’re a whole other ball of wax.

The majority of these hikes require Southern California Forest Adventure Passes to park. These are available for either day use or annual use and can be bought online, at ranger stations, or at local REI stores. Annual National Parks Passes also work. And now, without further adieu, I welcome you to my personal SoCal bucket list that keeps me from ever getting any big-girl chores done on the weekend.

Note : At the time of this publication, multiple wildfires have temporarily shut down national forests throughout  California. Fires are a perennial threat in this region, especially between July and October, and hikers should always check local fire conditions and restrictions before heading out.

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Mount san jacinto state park.

• Short day hikes
• Long day hikes
• Backpacking

Cucamonga Wilderness, Mount Baldy, and Angeles National Forest

San Bernardino NF and San Gorgonio Wilderness

Mount Laguna Recreation Area

There’s no denying that I’m pretty partial to good ol’ San Jac. This was my first summit over 10,000 feet, and the view of pine trees, wildflowers, mountain layers, and blue skies fills my soul with every visit. San Jacinto State Park is located in Riverside County just above the town of Idyllwild, and the PCT runs through the heart of the park. Weather on San Jacinto can be unpredictable throughout the year. Hikers should therefore check the San Jacinto trail report before heading out.

Short Day Hikes

Tahquitz peak via devils slide trail.

Miles : 8.1

Elevation Gain :  2,375 feet

Notes : A self-serve wilderness permit is required to enter from Devils Slide Trail and a Forest Adventure Pass is required to park.  These are available at the San Jacinto ranger station in Idyllwild, with a self-serve station open 24 hours outside.

Highlights : There’s an epic fire lookout at the top of the climb. Plus, if you go during the day, you might even get to geek out on some history with a volunteer ranger. About 2.5 miles up, the trail connects with Saddle Junction and follows the PCT before veering off to Tahquitz Peak. In the winter, it’s a great place to snowshoe.

Suicide Rock via Deer Springs Trail

Miles :  7.9

Elevation Gain :  1,853 feet

Notes :  A wilderness permit is not required to hike on this trail, but a Forest Adventure Pass is required to park.

Highlights :  This hike features beautiful views of Idyllwild and San Jacinto State Park without thousands of feet of vertical gain. The summit is an enormous flat rock, the perfect place for a sandwich in a hammock.

San Jacinto Peak via the Tramway

Miles :  10.5

Elevation Gain :  2,644 feet

Notes :  This route requires a fee for parking and a fee to take the tram.

Highlights : The aerial tram ascends to 8,500 feet, making the trek to the summit much shorter. However, this also shortens the hiking window (read: no sunrise summits). The tram is currently closed due to COVID-19. Check their website for updates.

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Long Day Hikes

San jacinto peak middle route trail.

I’m two for two on sunrise summits = solo summits.

Miles :  16

Elevation Gain :  4,343 feet

Notes :  Self-serve wilderness permits and Forest Adventure Passes are required. This is my personal favorite route to the summit, though there are many different routes to choose from. The trail starts at Devils Slide and follows the PCT for a few miles before detouring to the San Jac summit.

Highlights :  Though the Devils Slide portion of the trail is fairly popular, the crowds thin out at Saddle Junction. Walking along the PCT, views of the Tahquitz fire lookout to the south and Jacinto Peak to the north melt the gradual uphill miles away.

Marion Mountain and San Jacinto Round Valley Loop

Miles :  17.2

Elevation Gain :  5,685 feet

Notes :  Self-serve wilderness permits and Forest Adventure Passes are required. These wilderness permits are available at the trailhead.

Highlights : Though the Marion Mountain route is the shortest to the summit of Jacinto, it has the most gain per mile. This loop tacks on a few extra views after reaching the summit with a loop around Round Valley.

Skyline Trail: Cactus to Clouds

Miles :  19.8 (with the tram ride down)

Elevation Gain :  10,459 feet

Notes :  Just typing that elevation gain made my calves cramp. This trail has the greatest elevation gain of any trail in the US and has literally killed unprepared hikers. Because this route is on the Palm Springs side, Forest Adventure Passes and wilderness permits are not required. Many hikers opt to take the tram back down to shorten the descent, so either buy passes ahead of time or come with cash.

Highlights : This route is all about the elevation gain. Knowing my thru-hiking audience, many of you may be that much more enticed by this brutal suffer-fest.

How to Backpack Here

Dispersed camping is not allowed within Mount San Jacinto State Park. There are four primitive wilderness campsites where overnight stays are allowed, all of which require permits. Permits are available at the Idyllwild Ranger Station, the Long Valley Ranger Station (at the tram), or by mailing in this application with the enclosed $5 fee. The four wilderness sites available are Round Valley, Tamarack Valley, Little Round Valley, and Strawberry Junction.

These are great waypoints en route to the summit and can turn a one-day trip into a memorable two-day summit. I recommend calling the ranger station for availability before packing your bag. Also, check the water conditions before hitting the trail.

Something tells me everyone here will be able to guess the shoes.

The Mount Baldy and Cucamonga Wilderness areas feature LA County’s highest mountains. The Baldy area is a popular ski destination in the winter, and Cucamonga Peak is the most popular in the SoCal Six Pack . The PCT passes through the northern side of Angeles National Forest near Wrightwood. Mount Baldy is a daylong detour from the PCT.

San Antonio Falls Trail

Miles :  1.3

Elevation Gain :  272 feet

Notes : Forest Adventure Passes are required to park.

Highlights : This short trail takes you to a year-round waterfall. Though crowds often gravitate towards this trail, the cool water is an absolute treat after summiting Baldy.

Mount Baldy via Baldy Bowl

Miles :  8.8

Elevation Gain :  3,923 feet

Notes : Forest Adventure Passes are required to park. Though I categorized this as “short,” this trail is not to be taken lightly. In the summer, the Baldy Bowl section is a straight uphill leg-burner.

Highlights : This is also a great route to practice mountaineering in the winter. This is the shortest route up to the top of Mount Baldy, LA County’s high point.

Timber Mountain

Miles :  8.2

Elevation Gain :  3,336 feet

Notes : Forest Adventure Passes are required to park. This trail starts along the popular Icehouse Canyon Trail, which I recommend starting at the crack of dawn. By 7 a.m. on the weekends, the trail looks like rush hour on the 405 (there’s some LA humor for ya).

Highlights : At Icehouse Saddle, the trail turns off toward a more secluded area of the wilderness where you can enjoy views of Mount Baldy, Telegraph Peak, and Cucamonga Peak. Watch out for mountain lions over here—I’ve made eye contact with some big ol’ kitties.

Old Mount Baldy Trail

Miles :  11.3

Elevation Gain :  5,793 feet

Notes :  Forest Adventure Passes are required to park. For this trail, parking is available at the Mount Baldy visitors center, and there is about a half-mile road walk up to the trailhead. This route is a Grade A ass-kicker. On a recent overnight trip, I just about broke down when we were hardly able to eke out one mile each hour (we were carrying eight liters of water each).

Highlights : The seclusion is worth the struggle. Even on weekends, I have only passed a handful of people while on this trail and been able to enjoy West Baldy’s epic views all by my lonesome.

Icehouse Canyon to Cucamonga Peak

Miles :  11.6

Elevation Gain :  4,314 feet

Notes : Forest Adventure Passes are required to park, and self-serve wilderness permits are required to enter Icehouse Canyon. Day hikers flock to this trail.

Highlights : I highly recommend starting this hike for either sunrise or sunset and coming prepared with a headlamp. However, the views on top of Cucamonga are worth it. From the 8,858-f00t peak, all of the Inland Empire to the east and LA County to the west are visible.

Bighorn Peak and Ontario Peak

Miles :  14.5

Elevation Gain :  4,530 feet

Notes : Forest Adventure Passes are required to park and self-serve wilderness permits are required to enter Icehouse Canyon. Though this route follows the popular Icehouse Canyon trail, once you reach the saddle and turn toward Bighorn and Ontario it gets much less crowded.

Highlights :  This trail offers epic views of Mount Baldy and the Icehouse Canyon without the throngs of people. There are also flocks of bighorn sheep along these less-traveled trails, an exciting sight in Southern California.

Sunrise on top of Mount Baldy after a night spent on the summit.

This is my favorite area to backpack in Southern California. The logistics are minimal; all you need are self-serve overnight wilderness permits and a Forest Adventure Pass to park. The biggest challenge is determining how much water you will need. To illustrate, for a three-day trip I started off with eight liters of fluids and had one opportunity to refill at the Mount Baldy Notch Restaurant. But hey, can I really complain about some extra weight training?

Because of the difficulties of long water carries, trails often bustling with day hikers clear out overnight. I highly recommend camping on top of one of these mountains. Nothing beats rolling out of your tent and getting a prime sunrise viewing spot before the 2 a.m. day hikers beat you.

Recommended Backpacking Trails

• Old Mount Baldy to Three T’s Loop  | 20.3 miles / 8,041 feet elevation gain
• Mt. Baldy: 10 Peaks  | 27.5 miles / 11,046 feet elevation gain
• San Antonio Ridge  | 22.5 mile / 11,765 feet elevation gain

San Bernardino National Forest and San Gorgonio Wilderness

‘Twas a windy day.

San Gorgonio Mountain, or “Old Greyback,” is the tallest mountain in Southern California. There is no easy route to the summit, and many use this peak as their final training hike before tackling Mount Whitney. San Gorgonio is located in the larger San Bernardino National Forest. The PCT cuts right through here around the town of Big Bear.

Pine Knot Trail to Grand View Point

Miles :  6.9

Elevation Gain :  1,177 feet

Notes : Forest Adventure Passes are required to park. If you’ve got one day to see the best of Big Bear Lake (when it’s not ski season), this is the trail to take.

Highlights :  This route switchbacks up through dense forest and lands in an epic clearing with a fantastic view. Both Mount San Gorgonio and Catalina Island are visible on clear days.

Cougar Crest Trail

Miles:   5.3

Elevation Gain:   898 feet

Notes: Forest Adventure Passes are required to park. This short hike is right outside the trail town of Big Bear Lake.

Highlights:   Though it’s a bit rocky, it’s a wonderful way to tag the PCT on a short day hike.

Deep Creek Hot Springs Trail

Miles :  3.6

Elevation Gain :  921 feet

Notes : Forest Adventure Passes are NOT required to park. Double-check the directions before blindly following a GPS, because this has been known to lead hikers astray. The hike is downhill to the hot springs, so be sure to pack ample water and snacks to fuel the trek back up.

Highlights :  Soaking in any body of water is easily my favorite reward for a hike. Pick a cool fall day and treat yourself to a hot spring adventure. This also makes for a perfect detour after a strenuous summit of San Gorgonio.

Siberia Creek Trail  

Miles :  18.8

Elevation Gain :  5,318 feet

Notes :  Depending on where you park, you may need an Adventure Pass. There is a ski resort within walking distance from the trail that requires passes, but you may find parking right at the trailhead as well. Wilderness permits are not required.

Highlights : The crowds on this trail are minimal. The creek flows year-round and there is snow in the winter months.

Vivian Creek Trail to San Gorgonio Peak

Miles :  19.0

Elevation Gain :  5,492 feet

Notes :  Wilderness permits are required for all overnight hikes, and these must be requested via email. Permits are not required for day hiking, but Forest Adventure Passes are required to park.

Highlights : This is the steepest and most popular route to the top of San Gorgonio. Throughout the 5,000-plus feet of elevation gain, hikers pass through a widely diverse set of landscapes.

South Fork to Dollar Lake

Elevation Gain :  2,900 feet

Notes :  Self-serve wilderness permits from the Mill Creek Ranger Station are required for day hikes. You’ll also need a Forest Adventure Pass to park at the trailhead.

Highlights : This trail is a gradual uphill to a stunning lake—something Southern California is definitely lacking in general. With an overnight wilderness permit, this is also a wonderful place for a chill backpacking trip.

Within the San Gorgonio Wilderness, free overnight permits are available. Email this form  to the address listed at least five business days before your trip. Instructions and guidelines for campsites are available on this website.

• San Gorgonio 17 Peaks | 28.8 miles / 8,448 feet elevation gain
• South Fork Trail to San Gorgonio Mountain Via Mine Shaft Saddle | 21.3 miles / 4,678 feet elevation gain
• San Bernardino Nine Peaks Traverse | 25.0 miles / 7,457 feet elevation gain

Note:  The Apple Fire has led to the closure of many trails in the San Gorgonio Wilderness.  Check here for updates.

Ah, Mount Laguna. The first climb of the PCT and a forest-y oasis just an hour east of San Diego. Mount Laguna has many developed campgrounds, dispersed camping options, and trails to peruse among grassy meadows.

Garnet Peak via the PCT

Miles :  4.0

Elevation Gain :  688 feet

Notes : You’ll need a Forest Adventure Pass in order to park here.

Highlights : For a quick jaunt along the PCT with a view of the desert below, Garnet Peak is a great addition to any camping trip.

Sunset Trail to Laguna Meadows Loop

Miles :  8.0

Elevation Gain :  790 feet

Notes : Forest Adventure Passes are required to park. Also, the Sunset Trail is one of the only ones in Laguna that allows bikes. I don’t know about y’all, but I’m not the biggest fan of jumping into bushes to make way for mountain bikers tearing out of control toward me.

Highlights : This trail features the Laguna Lakes.

Monument Peak Trail

Miles :  3.4

Elevation Gain :  616 feet

Notes :  Forest Adventure Passes are required to park here.

Highlights : Though the trail is overgrown toward the top of the peak, this short hikes offers epic views of the Anza Borrego desert.

Big Laguna Mountain Loop

Miles :  10.3

Elevation Gain :  1,167 feet

Notes : Forest Adventure Passes are required to park here. During the winter, there may be snow on the ground.

Highlights :  This loop is the perfect way to see all Laguna has to offer. It takes you along the PCT, through meadows, next to the Laguna Lakes, and back around through conifer forests.

Big Laguna Trail

Miles : 13.3

Elevation Gain :  1,240 feet

Notes : You’ll need a Forest Adventure Pass in order to park here. Though this is similar to the Laguna Loop, it is NOT the same. Don’t be like me and accidentally turn a 10-mile hike into 16.5. It’s still just as gorgeous, though you may find more bikers.

Highlights :  One of Laguna’s highlights, in general, is the gentle elevation gain. This trail is therefore perfect for beginning trail runners, or weighted pack practice in preparation for a longer backpacking trip.

Long Canyon Loop via the PCT

Miles :  17.1

Elevation Gain :  2,398 eeft

Highlights : The seclusion of this trail makes it a wonderful option for some solitude. It’s also great for backpacking, though water is scarce.

Backpackers cannot camp between miles 41 and 52 of the PCT, within Laguna Mountain Recreation Area. This means that you cannot camp along the trail during either a section or thru-hike. However, overnight use is allowed in other parts of the Laguna backcountry away from the PCT. Many of the long day hikes listed above also make for epic overnighters. To get a dispersed camping permit for Cleveland National Forest, either call (619) 445-6235 or visit this site . As always, LNT rules apply.

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Hi! My name is Katie (Gallon Smash) Kommer. I recently completed the John Muir Trail, and am already hungering to find my way back to my truest, stinkiest self. On the trail, I'm known as gallon smash for my exceptional ability to fall headfirst into a bush or a river, and in the "real world" I'm known as the recent grad who's trying her best, okay?

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The ultimate backpacking bucket list for California

Wilderness as far as the eye can see.

By: The Outbound Collective + Save to a List

Did you know that California is home to over 14 million acres of wilderness. You read that correctly. Over 14 million! Even the most driven explorer with all the time in the world couldn’t hike every trail in California in a single lifetime. But that doesn’t mean you can’t try. If you’re able to carve out the time for one of the classic thru hikes like the JMT or the PCT, then get after it! For those of you who can only make time for a long weekend trip, this list of 50 backpacking trips in California is just what you need to fuel your next adventure to the backcountry.

Northern California

From the rugged Pacific coast to the dense redwood forests to the summit of Mt. Shasta, Northern California has no shortage of diverse backcountry terrain. Tackle the Lost Coast or spend a couple days relaxing in Redwood National and State Parks...you can’t go wrong.

1. Backpack Devil’s Punchbowl, Six Rivers National Forest

Photo: Joshua Contois

8.33-mile out-and-back with about 1660 feet of elevation gain

This adventure offers spectacular views of the rugged Siskiyou mountain range. The range is considered one of the most biodiverse coniferous forests in the world. Plus, you’ll get to pass by a breathtakingly blue glacial lake in the mountains known as Devil’s Punchbowl.

2. Climb Mt. Shasta via Clear Creek Route

Photo: Daniel Sherman

11.43-mile out-and-back with nearly 7615 feet of elevation gain 

At a high elevation, this adventure has potential for snow activities like skiing, snowboarding, and glissading. The hike begins with a tall red fir forest. There are plenty of camping areas along the way if you choose to make this an overnighter.

3. Hike to Etna Mountain Summit

Photo: Greg Balkin

6-mile out-and-back with about 800 feet of elevation gain

Make your way to the summit and be rewarded by incredible sunrises and sunsets. At the top, you’ll also delight in a pristine Mt. Shasta backdrop. The final stretch of the hike requires some rock scrambling, but the views are well worth it as well as the solitude.

4. Backpack the Sky High Lakes in the Marble Monutains

Photo: Chaney Swiney

11.88-mile out-and-back with approximately 2070 feet of elevation gain

You might be surprised by the handful of scenic lakes that sit in the Marble Mountains. You'll also be surrounded by forests and caves (unmarked). Dive right into the wilderness and explore the geologically diverse range of peaks and ridges on this hike.

5. Backpack Redwood National and State Parks

Photo: Austin Trigg

4.41-mile loop with about 1043 feet of elevation gain 

This adventure offers the unique opportunity to view and explore some of the tallest trees in the world. And far away from light pollution, the area is the perfect spot for some amazing night photography. There are campsites along the creek for you and some buddies to spend the night.

6. Backpack to Canyon Creek Lakes

Photo: Dan Loch

14.35-mile out-and-back with roughly 2605 feet of elevation gain

Look no further if you’ve been craving exploration in some of the most wild and pristine terrain in the West. Trinity Alps boasts over 55 alpine lakes and an abundance of additional rivers, streams, creeks, swimming holes, and camping spots. Note: Wilderness Permits are required, but are free and can be obtained at any of the ranger stations.

7. Backpack the Lost Coast: Mattole to Black Sands Beach

Photo: Whitney Whitehouse

A 25.05-mile point-to-point with about 653 feet of elevation gain 

This is an extensive stretch of Northern California’s coastline that does not disappoint with its spectacular coastal vistas. There are campsites and easy access points to the water along the way.

8. Backpack the Stuart Fork Trail to Emerald and Sapphire Lakes

27.06-mile out-and-back hike with approximately 4213 feet of elevation gain

This adventure takes you through pristine Northern California wilderness. You’ll find excellent fishing opportunities, an abundance of wildlife, and beautiful wildflowers in bloom during the warmer months.

Living around the Bay Area is ideal for anyone who wants to live a city life but needs to have quick access to the wild. You can drive anywhere from 1-3 hours from San Francisco and find some truly stunning landscapes. Beach camping, epic summits, and more redwoods await.

9. Backpack to King’s Peak from Shelter Cove

Photo: Aja Pete

30.85-mile loop with nearly 6204 feet of elevation gain

Follow the coastline on this gorgeous hike and camp overnight at Buck Creek. Note that parts of the beach may be impassable at high tide, so time your travels appropriately. Find peace among the sounds of rushing mountain streams and the crashing ocean. You may also get the chance to view otter pups playing in the water!

10. Backpack to Pt. Reyes Coast Campground

Photo: Josiah Roe

4.02-mile out-and-back hike with roughly 633 feet of elevation gain

This is a great hike for ocean lovers. You can spend the night above the coast of Pt. Reyes and later make your way down to the beach and tide pools below.

11. Backpack the Glen Camp Loop via the Palomarin Trailhead

Photo: Jeff Driscoll

15.72-mile loop with approximately 3091 feet of elevation gain 

This is the perfect coastal and lush green forest adventure, featuring steep hillsides, gorgeous overlooks, and mountainous terrain.

12. Backpack to Point Reyes Wildcat Camp

Photo: Miranda Leconte

11.19-mile out-and-back with about 1926 feet of elevation gain

This is an ideal backpacking trip to camp out on a wide open meadow situated on a bluff overlooking breathtakingly blue ocean water. Note that permits are required. You’ll also need to make a reservation if you want to spend the night at the Wildcat Camp.

13. Backpack Sam McDonald Park

Photo: Ashley Chang

12.19-mile loop with nearly 2192 feet of elevation gain 

This is a great escape into Sam McDonald Park’s redwood forest-- just a quick drive from San Francisco. You’ll need a permit to stay overnight, which you can obtain from the ranger station. Find peace grounded in nature on this forest adventure.

14. Backpack the Bear Valley to Coast Camp Loop

16.18-mile loop with roughly 2818 feet of elevation gain

This is a great adventure for camping enthusiasts who want to spend time among stunning coastal mountains and meadows. If you plan on staying overnight, note that having a permit is required. Keep your eyes peeled for whales just off the coast during the Humpback Whale migration season!

15. Backcountry Camp at Big Basin Sunset Trail Camp

Photo: Christian Arballo

9.46-mile out-and-back with about 2146 feet of elevation gain

This is a beautiful cascading waterfall adventure where you can wander among redwoods and across creeks. Note that Big Basin’s backpacking sites are only open from May 1st to November 1st, so be sure to plan accordingly.

16. Backpack to Redfern Pond

7-mile out-and-back with approximately 1263 feet of elevation gain 

This adventure in Gilroy, California is open year-round with thousands of acres of wide open grassy land to explore. There are a number of well-marked trails to set foot on for all skill levels to enjoy. Permits are required.

17. Backpack to Pat Springs

Photo: Max Berger

13.18-mile out-and-back with about 3645 feet of elevation gain

This is a beautiful adventure into the rugged Ventana Wilderness that features campsites overlooking Big Sur and the San Lucia Mountains. Pack ample water, especially if you plan on camping.

18. Backpack the Pine Ridge in Big Sur, North Coast Ridge Loop

Photo: Chris Diantonio

33.45-mile loop with nearly 11388 feet of elevation gain

This is a longer adventure that will give you the opportunity to spend several or more days in the Ventana Wilderness section of Los Padres National Forest located in Big Sur, California. This trip features primitive camping sites, ample water sources, and incredible coastal ridge line views.

19. Backpack to the Ventana Wilderness’ Sykes Hot Springs

Photo: Blake Maitoza

18.96-mile out-and-back with about 7339 feet of elevation gain

This adventure features hot springs situated adjacent to the Big Sur River. Visit in the off-season for more seclusion.

20. Climb Cone Peak in Big Sur, Sea to Sky Route

19.72-mile out-and-back with roughly 7484 feet of elevation gain

Located in Big Sur, California, this adventure is less than 3 miles from the ocean, offering spectacular seaside views. You can also camp near an old fire lookout at the summit to extend your time taking in the surreal scenery.

21. Backpack to Goat Camp in Big Sur

Photo: Andrew Conway

8.03-mile out-and-back with approximately 3320 feet of elevation gain

Take in the immaculate beauty of Big Sur with fewer crowds on this lesser-known trail. Though steep on the way up, the ocean views are a great reward.

The Sierra Mountains

The mighty Sierra are a major draw for people around the world. Early explorers like John Muir and Ansel Adams had obsessions with these mountains and made them famous with their writing and photos. But even the best writers and photographers can’t do these mountains justice...you need to see them for yourself.

22. Backpack to Ropi Lake

Photo: Emily Kent

4.87-mile out-and-back with about 1581 feet of elevation gain

Take an adventure to the serene and secluded Ropi Lake. On the way, you’ll pass by incredible waterfalls with Pyramid Peak providing a top-notch backdrop in the distance.

23. Backpack to Leavitt Lake in Stanislaus National Forest

Photo: Jake Young

7.44-mile out-and-back with nearly 1385 feet of elevation gain

Located on the eastern edge of the Emigrant Wilderness, Levitt Lake is an ideal backpacking opportunity in the Sierra Nevadas. The lake is a great spot for fishing with potential to catch species like brook and rainbow trout.

24. Backpack to the Waterfall Camp in Desolation Wilderness

10.5-mile out-and-back with about 840 feet of elevation gain

This is a breathtaking adventure in Desolation Wilderness featuring over 50 waterfalls! Do this as a day hike or choose to camp overnight. Note that an overnight wilderness permit is required and can be obtained at one of the ranger stations.

25. Backpack to Middle Velma Lake

9.18-mile out-and-back with roughly 2251 feet of elevation gain

Located in the heart of Desolation Wilderness, Middle Velma Lake is the perfect backpacking trip for some solitude and fantastic views of Jakes Peak. It’s a great escape from the usual crowds of South Tahoe.

26. Backpack to Susie Lake in Desolation Wilderness

7.96-mile out-and-back with approximately 1496 feet of elevation gain

This adventure is located in Tahoe, California and features forest, lakes, the Old Glen Alpine Springs Historical Site, and breathtaking mountain views.

27. Backpack to Gilmore Lake in Desolation Wilderness

8.66-mile out-and-back with about 1919 feet of elevation gain

In Desolation Wilderness, soak in the beauty of a stunning alpine lake. Along the way, you’ll also get the chance to see Modjeska Falls, Soda Springs, and the historic Glen Alpine Resort built in 1884.

28. Hike and Climb to Mt. Conness

Photo: Alex Souza

19.03-mile out-and-back with roughly 5400 feet of elevation gain

This is a great adventure for the opportunity to see a series of beautiful small lakes situated among mammoth granite canyon walls. It also features panoramic views of the High Sierras– not a bad place to wake up if you plan on making this a multi-day camping trip!

29. Backpack to Vogelsang and Merced Lake High Sierras Camp

Photo: Julie & Brian

27.07-mile point-to-point with about 4596 feet of elevation gain 

Explore the remote high country of Yosemite. Get excited for the unique opportunity to glamp in the mountains at the High Sierra Camps! Right in the secluded wilderness, you’ll be treated with perks like a bed to sleep in and breakfast ready for you in the morning. Note that reservations for the camp are made through a lottery system.

30. Backpack Tuolumne Meadows to Yosemite Valley

Photo: Kevin Abernethy

 30.82-mile point-to-point with approximately 6109 feet of elevation gain

Though a long expedition, the work you put in will be well worth it. Along the way, you’ll see several iconic Yosemite landmarks in the secluded backcountry. This is a truly incredible route with stunning scenery at every turn, part of the historic John Muir Trail. This adventure is nothing short of spectacular and a huge accomplishment.

31. Backpack Cathedral Lakes

Photo: Addison Klinke

9.04-mile out-and-back with about 1100 feet of elevation gain

Experience captivating views of Cathedral peak, lush green meadows, and a high alpine lake. It’s a true nature lover's paradise.

32. Backpack atop Donohue Pass

27.56-mile out-and-back with nearly 2953 feet of elevation gain

This adventure allows you to take in sweeping views across the Eastern Sierra all the way down through Lyell Canyon. Spend the night above the tree line and enjoy some spectacular star gazing.

33. Backpack Lower & Upper Relief Valleys and the East Flange Rock

21.6-mile out-and-back with about 3600 feet of elevation gain

Take a trip into Yosemite’s backcountry to explore stunning alpine lakes and peaks like Granite Dome and the East Flange Rock. This is a great adventure for those looking to escape some of Yosemite’s typical crowds.

34. Backpack Sunrise Lakes to Clouds Rest

Photo: Nathaniel Polta

18.93-mile loop with roughly 1775 feet of elevation gain

Do this epic hike for 360 degree views of both Yosemite Valley and Little Yosemite Valley from Clouds Rest. You’ll also be able to see the iconic Half Dome. Be sure to bring plenty of water and snacks for ample energy on this longer expedition.

35. Backpack to Duck Lake

Photo: Sierra Joy

9.29-mile out-and-back with approximately 1880 feet of elevation gain

This is a breathtaking adventure with lakeside camping and swimming opportunities in clear waters. This trek also features beautiful wildflowers, patches of forest, and extensive peak views. Note that to stay overnight you will need a backcountry permit.

36. Backpack Agnew Meadows to Tuolumne Meadows

30.14-mile point-to-point with roughly 4593 feet of elevation gain

This hike between Mammoth Lakes and Yosemite is part of a famous stretch of the John Muir Trail. Though it’ll require several days to complete this stretch of trail, you will find the adventure a rewarding one as you’ll encounter beautiful blue lakes, mountainous terrain, and lush treetops along the way. You’ll want to soak in the sights every step of the way.

37. Backpack Ansel Adams’ Garnet Lake

14.46-mile out-and-back with about 2717 feet of elevation gain

On your way to Granite Lake, enjoy incredible vistas overlooking impressive granite peaks. Night photographers will delight in the low light pollution in this area, making for some stunning night shots!

38. Backpack to Ediza Lake

Photo: Tobin Akehurst

13.54-mile out-and-back with approximately 1804 feet of elevation gain

Take in marvelous sunrises and sunsets at Ebiza Lake– a sight you likely won’t ever forget. If you wish to extend your adventure, take a few days in the area to camp, fish, hike some more, or do some mountaineering! Come prepared for whatever your inner explorer may be craving.

39. Backpack to Crater Lake, Sierra National Forest

Photo: Emily Rudger

8.4-mile out-and-back with roughly 2100 feet of elevation gain

This hike features incredible views of an isolated lake and the expansive mountain ranges of the John Muir Wilderness. Set up camp by the water once at Crater Lake and kick back with some friends or take in the natural beauty of the surroundings in peace and quiet.

40. Backpack from Onion Valley to Mt. Whitney

47.35-mile point-to-point with nearly 11745 feet of elevation gain

This is a nature lover and explorer’s dream. You’ll get to soak in the full majesty of the High Sierras while making your way to the highest peak in the lower 48 states. From mountains to lakes to treetops and grassy fields, you’re sure to see it all! If you’re searching for that on-top-of-the-world feeling… this is the expedition for you! Be sure to secure the appropriate permits in advance to ensure all is set for your trip.

41. Backpack the Rae Lakes Loop

Photo: Kevin Kaminski

39.08-mile loop with roughly 7316 feet of elevation gain

Located in Sierra, California, this adventure takes you through the stunning Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks. It’s considered one of the most popular hikes in the Sierras– with good reason. You’ll explore diverse mountainous and forest terrain with incredible views of waterfalls, lakes, and beautiful meadows along the way.

42. Backpack to Mount Silliman, Sequoia NP

Photo: Debra Alison

11.24-mile out-and-back with about 4449 feet of elevation gain

In Sequoia National Park, delight in feeling small among giant Sequoias and Redwoods on your way to the Mount Silliman summit. At the top, you’ll be able to see down the mountain to Twin Lakes.

Southern California

Explore the desert expanse of Joshua Tree and Death Valley National Parks or charge the trails on the sunny California coast. Down south, the water is warmer and beach camping is that much better...not sold yet? Check out these adventures.

43. Backpack to Panamint Dunes

Photo: Sarah Eichstedt

7.23-mile out-and-back with around 935 feet of elevation gain

A secluded gem, this is one of the least visited large sand dunes in Death Valley, making for an exciting opportunity to swerve crowds and connect with the natural landscape in peace. Explore during the day and enjoy some spectacular stargazing at night. Permits are required for overnight stays.

44. Backpack the Boy Scout’s Trail in Joshua Tree

Photo: Ian Buchanan

16.12-mile out-and-back with approximately 1539 feet of elevation gain

On this diverse trail, experience expansive Joshua Tree forests to Mars-like terrain. Backcountry camping is permitted in designated wilderness zones. In addition to hiking and camping, try out rock climbing or bouldering if you’re up for the challenge!

45. Backcountry Camp in Joshua Tree

Photo: Lauren Shusterman

2-mile out-and-back with varied elevation gain depending on desired trail or campsite

This backpacking excursion is a great way to experience the beauty of the desert. Note that it can be easy to lose your way while in the desert, so be sure to prepare ahead of time and use landmarks to help with navigating.

46. Beach Camp on Santa Rosa Island

Photo: Michael Wigle

16-mile out-and-back with about 50 feet of elevation gain

Located in Ventura, California, visit California’s least visited national park for a unique camping experience on a secluded part of Pacific Ocean beach. Expect to see wildlife from Torrey Pines to a rare native fox species. On your way back, don’t forget to check out the sea caves along Santa Cruz’s volcanic north coast.

47. Backpack Mt. Williamson from Shepherd Pass

Photo: Jack Brumbaugh

26.66-mile out-and-back with roughly 10653 feet of elevation gain

Located in Seven Pines, California, climb to the second highest peak in the state! There’s plenty of wildlife, water access, and incredible scenery if you’re prepared to challenge yourself for these rewards! With climbing and rock scrambling involved, know your preparedness and experience level before embarking on this trip.

48. Backpack Eaton Canyon to Idlehour

Photo: Alan Leung

10.99-mile out-and-back with about 3291 feet of elevation gain

In the heart of Pasadena, California, check out a secluded campground where you can listen to the sounds of babbling brooks and wildlife in the background. On your way, take moments to look through breaks in the vegetation to get glimpses of downtown LA and Catalina Island.

49. Backpack the Trans-Catalina Trail

Photo: Drew Robinson

36.67-mile point-to-point with approximately 8189 feet of elevation gain

This adventure is perfect for viewing the entire Santa Catalina Island. You may get to see wildlife like bison and the island fox with a guarantee of beautiful ocean views along the way.

50. Backpack Zaca Ridge

6-10-mile out-and-back with roughly 2200 feet of elevation gain

Located in Los Olivos, California, soak in the great beauty of the San Rafael Wilderness. This is one of the best stargazing spots in Southern California, making it an ideal adventure for night photographers. Visit in early Spring for breathtaking sunsets that span across the Santa Ynez Valley to the ocean.

Add these backpacking trips to your bucket list and let us know how you do. The truth is, this list only scratches the surface of the wealth of amazing backpacking you can find in California. But just because you’ve been told you can’t explore all of California’s wilderness in a lifetime, doesn’t mean you shouldn’t try.

Cover photo:  Josiah Roe

We want to acknowledge and thank the past, present, and future generations of all Native Nations and Indigenous Peoples whose ancestral lands we travel, explore, and play on. Always practice Leave No Trace ethics on your adventures and follow local regulations. Please explore responsibly!

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10 Overnight Backpacking Trips in Southern California

Introduction

South Carolina is considered by many to be the backpacking mecca of the United States. You have a great selection of camping sites with each offering its own unique signature experience. If you love camping trips, SoCal is the place to be to satiate your outdoor cravings. If you are interested in basking in the breathtaking vistas that SoCal can offer then check out this handy guide for the top 10 overnight backpack trips in Southern California.

Get your backpack and camping supplies ready as we run the best SoCal has to offer for hikers and campers.

Best Overnight Back Trips in Southern California

1. crystal cove state park.

Located in Orange County, Crystal Cove State Park offers one of the most breathtaking campsites around. Two words: ocean view. Yes, most of the campsites in Crystal Cove is located near the sea. A fun nature trek that is not too difficult and will let you thoroughly enjoy the sights.

You will also enjoy a nice sunset view at the end of the day. Overnight campers will be able to thoroughly appreciate what Crystal Cove State Park has to offer. This park is also a great choice for those who want a fun and low-risk camping experience for the family.

2. Cucamonga Peak

This is something a little more challenging for the more experienced hiker and camper. Cucamonga Peak is located in the San Gabriel Mountain range which is north of Los Angeles County. The trail will take you through the desert so prepare accordingly.

There is also a high chance you will run into some bighorn sheep so have your camera at the ready. Nights can be particularly chilly at Cucamonga Peak so bring some extra layers of blanket. Note that you will need to get a hiking permit first but these are free so you can obtain one pretty quickly.

Cucamonga Peak also offers a truly majestic view at sunrise which itself is worth the hike. Check the latest  weather report  before you start your hike to ensure you will have the best possible experience Cucamonga Peak has to offer.

3. Santa Cruz Trail

One of the more challenging campsites to get to, Santa Cruz Trail is a rewarding trail that is considered as one of the best hiking and camping sites in northern California. Santa Cruz Trail is also a great trail for beginners looking to challenge themselves and prepare for more difficult hikes in the future.

It is highly recommended that you hike and camp during springtime to avoid blistering heat once summer sets in. Springtime also means you will witness some of the most beautiful wildflowers in full bloom.

Santa Cruz Trail has a 2,500-feet vertical gain so optimize your camping gear’s weight. Setting camp surrounded by the colossal oak trees at night truly gives you that “one with nature” atmosphere.

4. Barker Valley

Go northeast of San Diego County and you will find the Palomar Mountains, the location of Barker Valley. One unique aspect of this place is that it is considered a ‘reverse’ hike. If you hear the word ‘hike’ the first thing that will mostly come to mind is an upward trek. With Barker Valley though you will need to hike downwards from a slope.

This is another great choice for beginners as the light 1000-feet trek downwards and upwards is not too taking. The campsite is located inside the valley near a river and waterfall. If you prefer a campsite that offers something different then Barker Valley is the place for you. The area is also dog-friendly so you can bring your furry canine friend along for the ride.

5. Mount Baldy

A challenging hike awaits those who decide to conquer Mount Baldy. Located within the San Gabriel Mountain range, it was previously known as Camp Baynham. However, the relatively difficult trek upwards (about 4,000-feet) nets you a rewarding and breathtaking view of the sunset and sunrise. Simply put, Mount Baldy is a worthwhile climb for hikers/campers who are looking for a decent challenge along the way.

Remember to bring extra layers of clothing and blankets as well as a decent amount of water for the trip. Mount Baldy can be quite chilly and windy at night.

6. San Bernardino Peak

One of the more challenging backpack trips on this list, San Bernardino Peak is also among the most rewarding in this list. The hike will be difficult, so make sure you physically prepare by taking on beginner-friendly trails first.

Once you reach the peak though you will get an amazing view of San Jacinto, San Gorgonio, and Big Bear Lake. Definitely worth the price of admission. Speaking of admission, you are required to first get a hiking/camping permit before you head out.

San Bernardino Peak is nested 10,649-feet above sea level so preparation is vital. At this height, you are most likely to experience some form of altitude sickness so ensure you are physically fit for the journey. Bring an adequate amount of food as well as water and you are guaranteed to have one unforgettable camping and hiking experience.

7. Catalina Island

A more relaxing backpacking trip awaits those who decide to go to Catalina Island. You can go through the Trans-Catalina trail if you want but you can also skip most of the walk by riding the ferry to Two Harbors.

Going with the ferry route will leave you with a light day hike to either Parson’s Landing or Little Harbor. Each site offers a unique experience that won’t leave you feeling shortchanged. This is one of the most highly recommended backpacking trips in southern California and is a must if you are in the area.

8. San Jacinto Peak

San Jacinto is the highest peak in Southern California so it goes without saying that this trail will provide a decent challenge. The hike itself is hard by the get-go as you will need to traverse Palm Springs which can get considerably hot. Fortunately, once you reach the alpine climb the temperature will go down to a more comfortable level.

Pack light to make the climb easier. The San Jacinto trail is also considered to be a good entry-level trek for younger campers. It is also peppered with dozens of safe campgrounds for those looking for an overnight stay.

9. San Gorgonio Peak

We once again visit the San Bernardino mountain range for the highest peak of the bunch, the San Gorgonio Peak. At 11,500-feet, San Gorgonio towers over the entirety of Southern California. Reaching the peak can be accomplished via numerous hiking trails with some requiring 10 hours to complete.

While it can be daunting, conquering San Gorgonio is not as difficult as it seems. Of course, preparation is essential but the overall difficulty of the trek can be considered moderate. Training is imperative before tackling this trail though so never take it lightly.

As with all SoCal hiking trails, you are required to obtain a parking pass first. Start as early in the day as possible and bring an adequate amount of food and water for the long journey. Your reward will be one of the most breathtaking views on this side of SoCal. San Gorgonio is a worthy endeavor for experienced mountaineers.

10. Ontario Peak

Let’s end the list with a popular and personal favorite, Ontario Peak. While the trail can take up a lot of time to complete, the dozens of beautiful views you encounter along the way will make each moment of the trek memorable.

You will come across ruins and cabins as you make your way towards the peak. You can also take a breather at Icehouse Saddle which offers food and drinks as well as a great place to take some pictures. Ontario Peak is another great backpacking trip option for those who want to make the most out of their hike and camping experience.

Final Thoughts

As you can see, South California offers several overnight backpacking trips to outdoor enthusiasts. There are actually more locations that we did not cover in this list. These are but the top and most well-known places in SoCal, a little more digging and you will see there are a handful of other hidden gems for campers to enjoy.

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The 13 Best Backpacking Trips to Take in California

With incredible landscapes and stunning views, the Golden State begs to be explored. So, start with the best backpacking trips in California

March 02, 2021

The best way to welcome the changing season is by going out into nature and embracing it fully. Beat the crowds, cruise along roads less traveled, and let nature take its course this spring by going backpacking in California. Whether you’re spending your days by the SoCal coast or getting lost in the NorCal forests, the best backpacking trips in California await.

The Top Places to go backpacking in California

When it comes to outdoor recreation, the Golden State reigns supreme due to the biodiversity and sheer size of accessible terrain. Organizing a three-day backpacking trip in California is a piece of cake. You have 840 miles of coastline, nine national parks, 17 national forests, and 300 state parks at your disposal. 

But don’t feel overwhelmed just yet. Whether you’re heading for a last-minute winter backpacking trip in California or planning ahead for coastal trekking in the summertime, there’s something for everyone.

Backpacking in Southern California

Backpacking near San Diego

Thanks to its moderate climate, stunning natural scenery, and excellent cultural attractions, San Diego is a perfect city for backpacking any time of year. Explore the East Village and Little Italy to get to know the city. Then, head out to Mission Bay and Cuyamaca Rancho State Park (one of the best state parks near San Diego ) to delve into the city’s nature. If you’re a history buff, make sure to add Balboa Park and Old Town San Diego to your itinerary.

As for camping in the great outdoors, Anza Borrego Desert State Park ’s campgrounds are perfect for spending the night under the stellar night sky. Overall, backpacking in San Diego is as universally appealing as it can be.

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Big Bear backpacking

Cougar Crest, Butler Peak, and Siberia Creek paths are some of the best backpacking trails in California near Big Bear City. Lose yourself in the lush meadows and enjoy exploring the varied terrain for a backpacking trip you’ll never forget. From wooded walks to sweeping vistas, there's something to marvel at on any hike or bike ride when backpacking in Big Bear. 

Despite having very rich wildlife, there is a slim possibility of facing any real danger while backpacking here . You may spot squirrels, chipmunks, and rabbits on your trip, but hikers rarely run into bears, mountain lions, or rattlesnakes. The best way to prepare for all unforeseen difficulties is to brush up on your knowledge of the outdoors and come prepared with your remote camping essentials .

Backpacking near Santa Barbara

With Los Padres National Forest to the east and Channel Islands National Park a couple of miles offshore, Santa Barbara is abundant with backpacking and camping spots. Make the most of your next getaway to Santa Barbara by discovering the city sans luxuries and experiencing the best of the area through exhilarating adventures.

For backpacking on the California coast , head to the picturesque Carpinteria Beach. As for inland adventures, make Red Rock Pools your destination of choice. The private campgrounds along the Gaviota Coast make your overnight stay in Santa Barbara as scenic as can be. If you have extra time to spare, explore it all on a three-day backpacking trip in California; the memories of which you’ll cherish forever.

Backpacking near Los Angeles

From quick half-day adventures to full-on multi-day trips, backpacking in Los Angeles is fun for all types of travelers. Explore L.A.’s state parks , cruise down the iconic streets , and bask in the sun on its popular beaches for fun-filled adventures—you’ll have plenty of opportunities to mingle with other travelers passing through L.A.

Then,head over to Angeles National Forest for a remote backpacking experience near Los Angeles . Backpacking trails, scenic camping destinations, and other recreational activities will make you feel closer to nature.

Crystal Cove State Park backpacking

As any guide to Crystal Cove State Park would tell you, this backpacking spot near Orange County is a piece of heaven on earth. Hike the Crystal Cove Perimeter Loop, explore the historic district’s charming cottages, and unwind on the beach campground—you’ll be glad you made this O.C. gem your backpacking destination of choice.

The plethora of gorgeous trails at Crystal Cove allows you to easily escape the crowds to connect with nature. Take advantage of the rolling surf, white sandy beaches, and wooded canyons that make this the best backpacking trip in California .

Kennedy Meadows backpacking

Kennedy Meadows has been a go-to gathering destination for people of varied interests for more than a century. An ideal place to meet travelers, this Tulare County locale is heaven for those backpacking in Southern California. Another perk of this remote spot is its variety of outdoor recreational activities. 

Hikers, photographers, and nature lovers of all kinds enjoy Kennedy Meadows backpacking year-round. If hiking the Pacific Crest Trail has been on your bucket list for a while now, the meadow is in close proximity to the trail—another reason to keep it on your radar.

Backpacking in Northern California

Big Sur backpacking

As one of the best summer backpacking destinations , Big Sur truly has something for everyone. The wildflower-covered hills, hidden swimming holes, and majestic Santa Lucia Mountains fill every Big Sur backpacking trip with secret treasures.

For a long adventurous weekend in Big Sur , trek the Pine Ridge Trail for 12 miles until you reach Redwood Camp. Though somewhat strenuous, this backpacking trip in Northern California takes you to places like Terrace Creek, Barlow Flats, and Sykes Hot Springs— a must-see Golden State hot spring .  

Backpacking in the Bay Area

Backpacking might not be the first thing that comes to mind when you think of the Bay Area, but there’s a plethora of backcountry hiking and camping destinations that make it a prime spot for off-grid traveling.

If you’re just discovering backpacking in Northern California, consider making Angel Island your first destination. Here, you’ll find some of the Bay Area’s best hiking trails , prominent historic attractions, and scenic city views. 

If you have more experience under your belt, trek the 25-mile Skyline-to-the-Sea Trail. The rewarding trail starts at Saratoga Gap off Highway 9 and travels through Big Basin Redwoods State Park in the Santa Cruz Mountains. This hike offers striking backcountry views that’ll make the leg cramps worthwhile.

Trinity Alps backpacking

Are you an experienced backpacker seeking a challenge and solitude? Explore the densely forested Trinity Alps Wilderness between Eureka and Redding. Camp, fish, swim, hike, and get a taste of remote living in Northern California on an old-school backpacking adventure you’ll never forget. Exhilarating adventures and breathtaking scenery await you on your Trinity Alps backpacking trip.

Plumas National Forest backpacking

There is no better way to enjoy Plumas County's beauty than to experience it first-hand. The Plumas National Forest attracts outdoor enthusiasts year-round. Its streams, lakes, meadows, and lofty peaks make for exciting adventures. 

Enjoy a Plumas National Forest backpacking experience by trekking the Pacific Crest National Scenic Trail which stretches approximately 80 miles. If you plan on spending the night, this NorCal destination features lakeside campgrounds and remote mountain stream hideouts.

Mammoth Lakes backpacking

Mammoth Lakes is an ideal base camp for courageous souls venturing out to the Eastern Sierra. Hike, camp, cast a line, and discover a plethora of recreational activities on your getaway to Mammoth Lakes . You'll want to go on this California backpacking trip multiple times.

Backpacking in Mendocino

The Mendocino National Forest is one of the best backpacking trips in California for those who love hiking through lush forests and camping by glimmering waters. Take your time exploring the area and look out for gorgeous fir species along with indigenous wildlife such as owls, bears, and deer. 

You’ll find plenty of hiking trails here, as well as cool spots for overnight stays ranging from classic campgrounds to boutique seaside inns. Backpacking in Mendocino is an experience that everyone can enjoy.

Backpacking near Mount Shasta

Head out to the Shasta-Trinity National Forest for a magical escape from the hustle and bustle of the city. Spend your days hiking the forest’s trails , biking along Bowerman Ridge , and climbing up the granite spires in the Castle Crags Wilderness. 

After spending an action-packed day, relax and inhale the fresh smell of pine trees at the Shasta-Cascade forest campgrounds . Whatever your goals are going into this trip, backpacking near Mount Shasta is an escape you’ll undoubtedly enjoy.

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3 Day Backpacking Trips in Southern California

If you’re a nature enthusiast and love to explore the wilderness, Southern California offers some incredible opportunities for backpacking adventures. With its diverse landscapes ranging from stunning coastal cliffs to majestic mountain ranges, you’ll find plenty of options for memorable three-day backpacking trips. Here are three exceptional backpacking trips to consider:

1. San Gorgonio Wilderness

Duration: 3 days, 2 nights Difficulty: Moderate to Strenuous

Located in the San Bernardino Mountains, the San Gorgonio Wilderness provides an excellent setting for a multi-day backpacking adventure. Begin your journey at the Vivian Creek Trailhead, which offers access to the highest peak in Southern California, Mount San Gorgonio. Hike through dense forests, cross rocky streams, and marvel at breathtaking vistas along the way. Camp at High Creek Campground, a popular spot nestled in a picturesque alpine setting. On the second day, continue to the summit for panoramic views before descending back to the trailhead.

2. Trans-Catalina Trail

Duration: 3 days, 2 nights Difficulty: Moderate

For a unique coastal backpacking experience, consider the Trans-Catalina Trail on Santa Catalina Island. Starting in Avalon, follow the well-marked trail that traverses the entire island. You’ll pass through diverse landscapes, including rolling hills, pristine beaches, and cactus-filled canyons. Enjoy breathtaking ocean views and spot wildlife like bison and foxes along the way. Camp at Two Harbors or Little Harbor, and spend your evenings gazing at the star-filled sky above the Pacific Ocean.

3. Joshua Tree National Park

Duration: 3 days, 2 nights Difficulty: Easy to Moderate

Joshua Tree National Park offers a unique desert backpacking experience with its iconic Joshua trees, rugged rock formations, and expansive desert landscapes. Start your adventure at the Black Rock Canyon Trailhead and explore the park’s diverse trails. Camp at the Black Rock or Indian Cove campgrounds, where you can enjoy the tranquility of the desert and stargaze in the pitch-black night sky. During the day, hike to iconic spots like Hidden Valley or Ryan Mountain for exceptional views of the park’s unique flora and geological features.

With its diverse landscapes and scenic beauty, Southern California is a backpacker’s paradise. Whether you seek the challenge of a strenuous mountain trek or the tranquility of a coastal hike, there’s a three-day backpacking trip in Southern California to suit your preferences. So grab your gear, lace up your boots, and embark on an unforgettable adventure in the stunning wilderness of Southern California.

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Hiking & Backpacking > Backpacking Trips & Trails

8 Stunningly Scenic Backpacking Destinations in California

I’m definitely biased, but I think my home state of California has some truly world-class backpacking. From rugged coastline to fascinating desert geology to the incredible high Sierra mountains, there’s something for every backpacker here in the third-largest US state.

As a lifelong Californian and avid backpacker I’ve had the pleasure of setting foot on countless trails all over this massive state. Backpacking in California is incredibly varied, and after living here for decades I still haven’t hiked every trail on my wish list. Not even close! But I am intimately familiar with some of the state’s best backpacking destinations, and in this post I’ll share them with you.

If you weren’t already dreaming about backpacking in California, you will be after reading this list! I hope it inspires a few additions to your bucket list. Happy trails!

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Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks

Location: eastern central and southern California

Hiking season: July – September, depending on conditions

Highlights: some of the most stunning alpine scenery in the US and possibly the world; challenging big-mountain climbs and descents; extensive trail network with many options; remoteness means few day hikers and a sense of solitude

Drawbacks: long drive from most places; permits can be hard to get; bear canisters are required for backpacking; climbing and high altitude can be challenging; mosquitos can be bad in early summer

Sequoia and Kings Canyon is truly my favorite place to go backpacking in California, and possibly the entire country. These jointly administered national parks and surrounding national forests form an immense region of towering trees, jagged granite peaks, and high alpine basins studded with crystal-clear lakes. The Sierra Crest, which forms the eastern border of these parks, boasts twelve of California’s fifteen tallest peaks !

This part of the high Sierra is vast and remote, and pretty much every backpacking trip here starts with a burly several thousand foot climb to a high pass. Bring your climbing legs and acclimate to the altitude beforehand! A permit system helps preserve a sense of solitude but can make popular routes competitive.

I first backpacked in this region while hiking the 210 mile John Muir Trail and was instantly hooked. The 65 mile High Sierra Trail is another excellent iconic route. Shorter possibilities are abundant, and the trail network lends itself especially well to loop routes of varying lengths, for example the Mineral King Loop and variations.

Death Valley National Park

Location: eastern southern California

Hiking season: spring, fall, winter at low elevations

Highlights: interesting desert landscapes and foliage; visit the lowest point in the 48 contiguous states; hike through washes and canyons; more variety than you would expect, including tall mountains

Drawbacks: not many backpacking routes; not a lot of trail (you’ll often be hiking on dirt roads or in washes); limited water; dangerously hot in summer

When the high mountains of the Sierra are blanketed in snow, dedicated backpackers turn to the desert. Death Valley National Park has relatively few trails, but its unique and surprisingly varied scenery lands it a place on my list of favorite California backpacking spots. A short 2-3 day backpacking trip is the perfect way to get to know this fascinating landscape, and there’s plenty else to see by car while you’re in the area.

Desert backpacking has its own distinct vibe; you’ll find yourself hiking in sandy washes, scrambling through canyons, and keeping an eye on your water supply. Definitely avoid backpacking in Death Valley during the heat of summer; unfortunately the park’s name rings all too true on occasion and hikers have died from heat exhaustion.

The most famous backpacking route in Death Valley is the Cottonwood Marble Canyon Loop , a 30 mile route composed of dirt roads, sandy washes, cross-country travel, and light scrambling. Bighorn Gorge is another interesting canyon route best done as an out-and-back where you hike into a base camp and explore the upper gorge with day packs.

Henry Coe State Park

Location: western northern California, near SF Bay Area

Hiking season: spring (ideal), fall, winter if conditions are dry

Highlights: plenty of solitude; the only legal dispersed camping anywhere near the Bay Area

Drawbacks: surprisingly steep and rugged, especially the fire roads; very hot in summer; more remote trails are not well-maintained; possibility for ticks and poison oak

If you live near the San Francisco Bay Area, Henry Coe State Park stands out as the largest and most rugged backpacking destination within a several-hour radius. Instead of mountains or desert, Henry Coe envelops you in the classic central California landscape of hilly grasslands, oak savanna, and forested canyons.

Unlike pretty much everywhere else in the Bay, where advance reservations are needed for specific campgrounds, Henry Coe allows dispersed camping (camp where you like, following Leave No Trace guidelines). Permits are first-come first-served and not hard to get. Go in the spring for the best wildflowers, fall for even more solitude, or perhaps even winter when conditions are dry. Summers can be very hot.

Don’t underestimate the ruggedness and remoteness of Henry Coe! Some of the “trails” are actually absurdly steel fire roads and the more remote trails aren’t frequently maintained, especially in the surprisingly remote Orestimba Wilderness at the north end of the park. Venture far enough into the park and you may go days without seeing other people, with just the coyotes and deer to keep you company.

Yosemite National Park

Location: northern California

Hiking season: June – October, depending on conditions

Highlights: world-famous scenery; easily accessible trailheads

Drawbacks: popular and very crowded; permits can be hard to get; bear canisters required; mosquitos can be bad in early summer

No list of California’s best backpacking destinations is complete without a mention of Yosemite National Park. This granite wonderland draws visitors from around the globe to its dramatic waterfalls and iconic rock faces.

The valley floor and surrounding trails can be unpleasantly crowded with day hikers, but the views of famous big-wall rock climbs like Half Dome and El Capitan are worth it. Routes like Yosemite Falls, North Dome, Olmstead Point, Half Dome Loop take in all the highlights in relatively few miles. The famous John Muir Trail starts in Yosemite Valley, and backpackers who venture a bit further into the surrounding Yosemite Wilderness are rewarded with somewhat quieter trails and some of the best alpine backpacking in the country.

Permits for backpacking in Yosemite are, unsurprisingly, highly sought after. You’ll need to apply via a lottery 24 weeks in advance, and prepare to battle the crowds if your itinerary starts from the valley floor. Bears are a big problem in Yosemite National Park, so bear canisters and proper food storage are essential here.

Location: northern California border with Nevada

Highlights: lovely alpine scenery; views of massive Lake Tahoe; easy accessibility; not too remote

Drawbacks: popular and crowded; permits can be hard to get for most popular trails; bear canisters required in Desolation Wilderness; mosquitos can be bad in early summer

The Tahoe basin is a popular year-round adventure destination, especially for skiing in winter. During summer it transforms into a sunny outdoor playground and one of the premier spots for backpacking in northern California (and a bit of Nevada, as massive Lake Tahoe straddles the border).

There’s definitely a different vibe here compared to the more remote southern Sierra. Some trails can be unpleasantly busy with day hikers and mountain bikers in peak summer months. But the accessibility also means the trails are easy to drive to and bail-out points are never far. Thus it’s a great region for newer backpackers to cut their teeth on mountain backpacking without getting in over their heads.

The most prized scenic trails lie in the so-called Desolation Wilderness, a granite wonderland that’s actually (despite its name) one of the most-visited wilderness areas in the United States. I’ve backpacked most of the trails here, including a loop of the full wilderness , and it’s a stunning place.

If you can’t snag a permit for the most popular trails, don’t worry, the entire basin is ringed with National Forest land. If you have a few weeks on your hands you can even hike around the entire lake on the Tahoe Rim Trail . It’s a rare loop-shaped thru hike combining the vibe of a longer trail with the easy logistics of finishing where you started.

Ventana Wilderness

Location: coastal central California

Hiking season: year-round depending on conditions; spring is ideal

Highlights: stunning views of rugged Big Sur coastline; relatively uncrowded; no permit needed; summit the tallest coastal mountain in the lower 48

Drawbacks: many trails are overgrown and even impassible; poison oak and ticks; can be very hot and dry in summer

The Ventana Wilderness, part of Los Padres National Forest, flies under the radar but is one of my favorite California backpacking destinations. From the rugged Big Sur coastline you’ll climb chaparral-covered hills, traverse steep valleys, and luxuriate in the shade of pine forests on quiet trails with no permit requirements.

Don’t underestimate these trails though, as there’s a price to pay for the solitude. The terrain is rugged and many trails are not well-maintained, so definitely check trail conditions or risk an epic bushwhack. This is one of few places where I usually wear long pants and sometimes long sleeves, even in the heat, to fend off scratchy brush, poison oak, and ticks.

My favorite route here is Cone Peak (Sea to Sky) , a challenging climb to the summit of the tallest coastal mountain in the lower 48. At just over 5000 feet, Cone Peak dominates the Santa Lucia Mountains and offers dizzying views over the Pacific coastline, just a few miles away as the crow flies. A much easier and more popular backpacking route is the out-and-back to Sykes Hot Springs , which can also be extended into a longer loop .

Emigrant, Mokelumne, and Carson-Iceburg Wilderness Areas

Hiking season: June – October depending on snowpack

Highlights: Sierra scenery with fewer crowds

Drawbacks: mosquitos can be bad in early summer

Between the tourist attractions of Lake Tahoe and Yosemite lies a vast network of trails through equally lovely high Sierra scenery with far fewer crowds. These three wilderness areas, and the vast national forests that surround them, can be explored and linked together via countless backpacking routes both long and short.

I especially enjoy the Mokelumne Wilderness area near Kirkwood Ski Resort, having grown up skiing in this area. The Fourth of July Lake Loop is a scenic little 14 mile loop from Highway 88 that can be extended if you want more mileage. Further south highways 4 and 108 provide access to other lovely options.

Mount San Jacinto State Wilderness

Location: southern California

Highlights: 360 degree views from San Jacinto Peak; unique mountain scenery with view over the desert floor

Drawbacks: camping limited to established group sites; big climb on the way in; high altitude and relatively quick ascent can make things harder (try to acclimate for a night at moderate elevation first)

Mount San Jacinto State Park, though relatively small, is one of the best places to go backpacking in Southern California, especially for short 2 -3 day trips. The nearly 11,000 foot summit of San Jacinto offers unique panoramic views over the sprawling desert floor, giving you a very real sense of the region’s geology. The storied Pacific Crest Trail runs through the area for those who want to experience a small taste of the famous thru hike.

Pretty much every route into the wilderness, including the popular San Jacinto Peak Loop Trail , starts with a hefty climb to high altitude. Take it slow and bring your fitness! Camping is allowed only at designated sites and you’ll need to apply for a permit in advance. Once you’re up there, enjoy the views and the relatively cooler temps as the desert cooks below.

To experience the Mount San Jacinto Wilderness without the big climb in, consider taking the incredibly scenic tram ride up from Palm Springs as shown in the San Jacinto 7 Peak Loop via Tram and Round Valley . You can camp at Round Valley and explore the area via day hikes with a lighter pack. This is a great way for beginner backpackers to get their feet wet with a less committing route.

Honorable Mentions

There are literally hundreds of great backpacking destinations in California, and those highlighted above are just the tip of the iceberg. Here are a few honorable mentions that are smaller, a bit less iconic, or that I personally haven’t explored much yet.

Trinity Alps : A very scenic but under-the-radar backpacking destination in northern California, the Trinity Alps Wilderness offers top-notch mountain backpacking without the crowds of the Sierra. Though it offers many miles of trail, there aren’t many options for longer or loop routes, and the area was recently damaged by fire in August of 2023. Still, I’ve heard great things and hope to explore it soon.

Lost Coast : This 34 mile trail in King Range Wilderness, near the coastal village of Shelter Cove, offers a unique point-to-point backpacking experience along the rugged northern California coastline. A knowledge of tide timetables is required, as well as a fairly competitive permit.

Angeles National Forest: The San Gabriel Mountains are a wonderfully rugged yet conveniently close backpacking destination near Los Angles. The region is actually far more popular with day hikers, in part due to the lack of water sources up on the ridges, but if you can pack in enough liquids you’ll enjoy the solitude come sunset.

Pacific Crest Trail : The storied PCT runs the entire length of California, over 1600 miles from border to border! Thus, wherever you may be in California there is always backpacking somewhat nearby on the PCT. Whether it’s a long section hike or an overnight out-and-back, it’s always a treat to leave footprints on this famous long-distance thru hiking route.

Did I miss your favorite place to go backpacking in California? This list is a work in progress! Let me know down below in the comments and I’ll add it.

Gear for Backpacking in California

As always, the best gear list for your backpacking trip depends on location, conditions, and your style of packing and hiking. Here are some of my personal favorites used for many miles while backpacking in California and elsewhere.

• Pack: ULA Circuit
• Sleeping quilt: Enlightened Equipment Convert
• Sleeping pad: Therm-a-Rest NeoAir XLite
• Tarp: Six Moon Designs Haven
• Bivy: Borah Gear Ultralight Bivy
• Trekking poles: Black Diamond Carbon Distance FLZ (very lightweight)
• Shoes: Altra Lone Peak trail runners
• Stove: JetBoil MicroMo
• Bowl: Sea to Summit X Mug (collapsible, very compact)
• Water filter: Sawyer Squeeze + CNOC Vecto bag
• Shirt: Merino sun hoodie: Wuru Nuyarn , Ridge Merino Solstice or Smartwool Merino Sport
• Puffy jacket: Mountain Hardwear Ghost Whisperer (ultralight)
• Rain jacket: OR Helium (ultralight)

More Backpacking Resources

If you enjoyed this post, you might also like these:

• Bear Bag vs. Bear Canister: What’s the right choice?
• 6 Beautiful Backpacking Loops in the Pacific Northwest
• Backpacking Food: Easy Ways to Make Dried Meals Better

Or visit the hiking and backpacking section for lots more!

About the Author

Hi there, I’m Alissa, founder of Exploring Wild. I’ve had the pleasure of hiking the Arizona Trail, Colorado Trail, John Muir Trail, Tahoe Rim Trail, and countless shorter amazing trails throughout the US and abroad. I love solitude, big views, and a good lightweight gear setup. Learn more here .

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A selection of my personal must-have favorites for backpacking and hiking:

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Jetboil MicroMo Cooking System

Platypus Ultralight Collapsible SoftBottle

Sawyer Mini Water Filter

Sea to Summit X-Mug

Garmin InReach Mini

Therm-a-Rest NeoAir XLite Sleeping Pad

TOAKS Titanium Long Handle Spoon

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Browse all Southern California trip reports and articles related to Socal's coasts, deserts and parks

Southern California

Having lived in Southern California for 7 years of my life, I've come to realize how unique Socal truly is.

You have the sunny and relaxed beaches on the coast, but also the special deserts in the east with the most incredible sunsets. I also love how close everything is - destinations like the Sierra Nevada, Arizona, Utah, and Nevada are all just a day's drive away!

Looking for a visual representation of all the trips on this site?  Check out the map!

Only a six mile hike past an epic valley lookout and four gorgeous alpine lakes makes the Lakes Trail one of the most popular trails in Sequoia National Park

This easy, short loop is the perfect forest escape from the coastal beaches in San Diego that is also dog friendly!

If you are only spending a short amount of time in Sequoia & Kings Canyon, these two stops get you big trees and jaw-dropping views.

Mitchell peak has one of the best 360 degree views of the Sierras in Sequoia Kings Canyon Park, easily accessible by a short 3 mile day hike

Three Sisters is my favorite local hike from San Diego because the hike is challenging but rewarding with its three waterfalls and great swimming holes

A relatively small and unknown state park, Saddleback Butte has potential for carpets of wildflowers when the conditions are just right.

One of the more popular attractions in Anza-Borrego, the Slot is easy to get to (even in 2WD), an easy and short hike, and makes for great photographs. The steep walls provide some relief from the hot sun, and kids will love exploring this maze.

Anza-Borrego is the largest CA  state park and has tons of its own unique features. Mainly for 4WD, offroading, and dirt biking enthusiasts, we still had a lot of fun on foot and with just 2WD. Fish Creek Is just a tiny portion of the park, but the wind caves are truly unique and offer an amazing view for sunset. Hint - if you camp at Fish Creek Primitive Campground nearby, it's free and there are fire rings and a very clean toilet. 

Paradise Valley is a great short backpacking trip in Sequoia and Kings Canyon. Starting at Road's End, the trail is also part of the famous Rae Lakes Loop.

We had a great time exploring the vast wilderness of Joshua Tree National Park and climbing the rocks of Hidden Valley

Mt. San Jacinto is one of my favorite short backpacking trails in Southern California to experience true wilderness and isolation up in these mountains.

15 Daytime and Overnight Backpack Trips in Southern California 

If you live in or near Southern California or are even visiting and want some good weekend backpacking trips , there are plenty to choose from. When it comes to SoCal backpacking or hiking in Southern California, there are a lot of great options each with different views and unique characteristics. 

So, if you are looking for backpacking trips or overnight hiking trails near you, you can find many opportunities for backpacking in Southern California. Below are 15 of the most popular backpacking trails that you can find and explore for yourself: 

1) San Jacinto Trail

One of the best backpacking opportunities in Southern California is the San Jacinto Trail which is located in Palm Springs. Aside from being one of the most popular hiking trails, it is also one of the highest points. This hike begins in the valley of Palm Springs where it can get pretty hot and tiring, but you will eventually reach a point where you are in cooler air and an easier trail.

This hike is 11 miles long and is the home to multiple campgrounds where you can stop and rest for the night along the way. So, this trail should meet your needs for backpacking camping near me, if you’ve been wondering where to backpack around you when you’re in California or Southern California. 

2) Lower Bear Creek

This 4.5-mile hike is located off of the High 39 in the San Gabriel Mountain. Here, you can walk along the Bear Creek which flows year-round and see all of the beautiful wildlife and fauna. While you cannot stay overnight on the actual trail, there are many places around the hike where you can stay and enjoy the peace and quiet. If you live in SoCal and wondering about places to backpack near me, Lower Bear Creek should meet your criteria. It is also great for daytime backpacking trip in Southern California and California. 

3) Cucamonga Peak

If you feel like being adventurous and scaling a pretty difficult mountain, the 12-mile Cucamonga Peak Hike can lead you all the way to the San Gabriel Mountain. This is another desert hike that has multiple spots for you to stop and pitch your tent for the night.

On the way, you may even come into contact with some Bighorn Sheep which would make your adventure that much more interesting. Because this is a desert hike, you want to stay aware of the weather and air quality so that you don’t burn yourself out while hiking. Please be aware that you will also need a hiking permit to hike here, but this is free and easy to obtain.

4) Crystal Cove Street Park

While this is not a mountain hike like the others, this 9-mile street park trail located outside of Laguna Beach is a long and relaxing trail that goes along the Pacific coastline. Among this hike are views of the ocean, canyons, and more. However, do be aware that along the way, you could run into bobcats, coyotes, rattlesnakes, and more. The good thing is that there are multiple spots to stop and rest along the way. This is ultimately a favorite place for backpacking in Southern California and is great for daytime backpacking in SoCal. 

5) The Santa Anita Canyon

If you want to escape the noise of city life, you can take this 10-mile hike down into the San Gabriel Mountains and all the way to the peak of Mount Wilson. With this hike comes the peace and quiet of nature and the great outdoors. Along this hike, a couple of the best places you can stop and enjoy the view are Spruce Grove and Hoagie.

While these places are a bit more crowded due to tourism, there are amazing waterfalls , sycamore trees, and more along the way. It doesn’t get much better when you’re searching for backpacking camping near me, that is, if you’re local to SoCal or can get here easily. 

6) Mount Baldy

Taking a step away from the warm sun, this snowy trail can be found at an altitude of 10,000. For this hike, you may want to suit up and prepare layers to brace the cold, especially if you are planning to stay overnight. One thing to be aware of when walking this trail is that it is that it is challenging and not an easy feat to accomplish, so don’t hike this if you are not an experienced hiker.  And if are looking for an overnight hiking trail in SoCal, then this should fit your list for overnight hiking trails near me! 

7) Santa Cruz Trail

Santa Cruz is an amazing place to visit at any time of the year for any reason, but one amazing overnight backpacking trip that you can go on is also located in Santa Cruz. This trail is so well-loved because of the wild scenery and greenery that you can see and walk through. If you plan to have a fire when staying overnight, you do need to have a campfire permit.

This hike runs a bit shorter than the others at just about 6 miles, but you will need a lot of snacks and drinks especially if the weather is a bit warmer that day. Santa Cruz Trial is popular for weekend backpacking trips in California as well as overnight hiking trails for anyone around the SoCal area. 

8) San Gorgino

This is yet another hike in Southern California that will lead you to a high peak. This place is the home of many hikes, one of which is the Vivian Creek Trail. Regardless of which hike you choose to take, you can enjoy the climbing and the great views from any of them. With this being said, this hike is only recommended for those who are in shape and experienced because it is pretty strenuous and difficult. Also, be sure that you have plenty to drink and snack on to keep your body replenished and healthy. This is a great place to backpack near you if you’ve been searching for places for “backpacking near me”. 

9) Solstice Canyon

With this hike, you not only get a short and sweet hike at only 2.6 miles, but you also get the experience the beauty of the ruins next to a waterfall. With such a short walk for such a rewarding view, nothing could be better. This is an amazing backpacking trail for those who are not as experienced because the canyon trial is easy to follow.

Fortunately, you will be covered by shade from the trees for most of the walk, so the weather won’t affect you too bad. This is an excellent choice for backpacking camping with kids in SoCal as it’s short, beautiful, and hopefully answers your question of backpacking camping near me. 

10) San Bernardino Peak

Unlike the Solstice Canyon, this overnight hiking trail in San Bernardino is tough and tumultuous. Because of this, however, you won’t have to battle large crows and other people because not many people take this trail. You will have to obtain a permit if you are planning to hike for more than three days just as with many hiking places in California so do be aware of that. You also need to prepare adequately with lots of food and water as well as for the altitude shift. For those who are sensitive to high altitudes, you may feel a little sick and take precautions for altitude changes .  San Bernardino Park is a great option for overnight backpacking trips California, if you are searching for somewhere to camp around the SoCal area. 

11) Ontario Peak

This is a must-see for many hikers and backpackers in Southern California. Because of its amazing views atop the rock, the hike will definitely be worth it. This is a longer hike, so do prepare adequately with food and water to get you through it.

You can stop along the way at the Icehouse Saddle to take some pictures and catch your breath. Though it is long, the views will be worthwhile, so just keep on pushing and be prepared physically. This backpacking camp is great for weekend backpacking trips. 

12) Sturtevant Falls

This is another hike that would be a good choice for beginners because it is a mere 3 miles long. It is also a very accessible hike in comparison to the others because it is not too extreme of a climb. If you do want to push yourself, you can turn onto the Mt Wilson Summit hike along the way which is a 15-mile hike. However, the Sturtevant Falls hike will take you to a beautiful stream with boisterous wildlife and waterfalls. You can even pack some food and drinks and have a nice picnic at the end! This is a great answer when you’re wondering about backing camping and places to backpack near me. And it’s also a great option for a daytime backpacking trip in Southern California or SoCal. 

13) Barker Valley

Another great hike for beginners is the Barker Valley hike which is only 7.5 miles. While this is longer than the other beginner hikes, the walk is not too hard to maneuver. With that being said, it does get extremely hot here, so do pack a lot of water to keep you hydrated.

In order not to break the law, you do have to have a pass from the National Forest Adventure to hike this trail, but once you have one, you are free to enjoy your hike and even camp out overnight if you want to. Barker Valley is a great hiking trail for backpacking trips in SoCal for beginners. 

14) Catalina Island

While this is not necessarily in Southern California because it is an island , it is close enough to meet our criteria for hikes in Southern California. Every year, this island attracts thousands of people for its views and beautiful coastline. To hike between both harbors completely would span a total of 85 kilometers which is a long walk. However, if you can take on the challenge, it will be rewarding. Just be sure to have a lot of snacks, water, and sunscreen to beat the heat. This island should be on your list of places to backpack or hike near SoCal or Southern California. Doesn’t hurt that it’s also an island. 

15) Pacific Crest Trail

If you want to know where the best backpacking in San Diego is, you should think about a walking part of the Pacific Coast Trail. While the entire trail winds from Mexico to Canada, there is a beautiful section that runs through Southern California and San Diego itself.

In fact, the first 133 miles of the trip wind through San Diego and Southern California, so there is plenty to see and walk on this trail. So, if you are looking for backpacking trails and best hiking places in or near San Diego, Pacific Crest Trail should be on your top list. It’s a great place for a daytime backpacking trip in San Diego and SoCal. 

10 Quick Tips for Overnight Backpacking

Whether you are a beginner backpacker or one with a lot of experience, there are some crucial steps and tips that you should follow to ensure your success. Below are 10 of the most important things to remember when backpacking or preparing for backpacking: 

1) Bring the Essentials

When you are planning your packing list for your overnight hike, you have to keep in mind the essentials because without the essentials, you are going to struggle. In terms of backpacking, there are generally ten basics that you always want to have with you: backpack, layers, sun protection, maps/compasses, water, snacks, first aid kit, flashlight, multi-tool, and trekking poles. 

2) Stretch and Exercise Beforehand

You never want to go into any form of physical activity, especially a long hike, without stretching and having your body loose before you go. Without stretching, you are more prone to muscle cramps and injuries. You want to be sure to warm your body up and get it prepared for the long walk ahead. 

3) Buy Light Gear

Because you have to carry all of your gear, you don’t want to opt for the heavier pieces. Rather, if you have options, always go for the lightest one. If you choose to purchase the heavy pieces of equipment, you will have a terrible backache and it will throw off your whole walking routine. 

4) Check What Permits you Need

As you can see in the list above, some hiking and backpacking trails require specific permits, especially if you are planning to stay overnight. Because of this, you want to be sure that you plan ahead and check what permits you need before you get stuck with nowhere to go. 

5) Pack Less, Not More

Try to be strategic yet minimal in your packing. As mentioned, you will have to carry all of your gear and equipment, so you don’t want to have too heavy of a load to carry. For this, bring the essentials and anything you think you absolutely need, but leave the rest at home. 

6) Pack Gear for The Area You’re Going To

You want to be strategic with your packing based on where you are going. While some places, like many of the hikes in Southern California, are hot and sweltering, others, such as Mt Baldy, are cold. Because of this, you want to make sure that you have the proper layers, tools, and equipment suitable to the specific area you are traveling to. 

7) Lay Out Everything Prior to Packing

Before you try to stuff everything into your backpack, lay it all out in one area. Not only will this allow you to stay more organized, but it will also allow you to see if you are missing anything important.

8) Stay Organized

Staying organized is key. You wouldn’t want to get to the top of the hill and have to dig in your backpack for something that should’ve been on top. Pack your bag so that you know where everything is so that you can access it easily. 

9) Practice Packing Your Bag Beforehand

Don’t wait until the night before to pack your bag. Rather, practice packing it with time to spare so that you can make adjustments and fix it so that it is suitable to your needs. 

10) Exercise and Prepare for Hiking

Never go into a 10-mile hike without preparing beforehand. Even if you are just going on a 3-mile hike, you want your body to be prepared and ready. It is not fun when you get to the middle of a hike and cannot complete it because of physical impairments. 

Overall, if you want some amazing backpacking spots in Southern California, there are many to choose from. Whether you want a 10-mile hike or an easy hike, you have many options. When going on a hike, however, always be prepared for anything and follow the crucial tips to backpacking.

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Best 7 Beginner Backpacking Trips in California

There is no shortage of wilderness areas and public lands in the sunny state of California. The obvious consequence of this is that it can be pretty hard for an outdoor enthusiast to decide where to go next.

Table of Contents

Would you like to hike along the magnificent coastline of Point Reyes? Or do the epic granite domes of Yosemite sound like an even better destination?

If you’re a backpacking beginner and you’re looking for an ideal hiking trip in California, I’m here to help you out. I’m fully aware of the fact that all backpacking beginners not only want to immerse themselves in the wilderness but also enjoy unforgettable vistas.

Therefore, I’ve put together a list of the seven best trekking trails in California that are – for one reason or another – well-suited for backpacking beginners and which include spectacular sights and views.

How Do I Choose an Appropriate Trail For Me?

While it’s true that all people enter the world of backpacking with completely different fitness levels and skillsets, I’ve compiled a list of trails with an average hiking beginner in mind. All of these trails fit the following criteria:

• You’ll be getting a lot of “bounce for the ounce”, whether in the form of lush meadows or alpine peaks.
• Each of these adventures follows trails that are well-maintained. Boulder fields and other kinds of tricky terrain are not something you’ll have to worry about.
• Another thing you won’t have to worry about is the extreme elevation gain. Moreover, you’ll be backpacking relatively low mileage for each trip’s length.

However, this kind of activity is never completely safe – if you want to have the best possible time during your backcountry adventure, make sure to prepare yourself accordingly.

1. Trans-Catalina Trail

Photo by Chris Hunkeler via Flickr (CC BY-SA 2.0)

• Elevation gain/loss: 9,600 feet
• Length: 4 – 5 days
• Mileage: 38.5 miles roundtrip

As its name suggests, this wonderful trail crosses Catalina Island, which is one of the most astonishing rocky islands belonging to the state of California. With most of the trail not being sheltered by the sun, this particular trip is an ideal pick for an early-spring hike.

As you’re trekking past mysterious coves and majestic ridges, keep an eye out for the wildlife that roams the island, including bison. And at night, listen to the shore-crashing waves while beach-camping at the secluded Parson’s Landing campground.

What turns the Trans-Catalina Trail into an ideal choice for beginners who aren’t quite ready to give up on the amenities is the fact that this trip blends luxury island life with rugged backpacking. Quite interesting, wouldn’t you say?

Why is it Suitable for Beginners?

While the trail itself requires a bit of effort to be completed, the fact that it’s close to civilization turns it into a fantastic choice for the rookies. This is particularly true for those who have a high fitness level.

You’ll never be too far away from a town and you’ll even be able to purchase a fire starter, a bundle of firewood, and a water-stocked locker at one of the campsites, namely the aforementioned Parson’s Landing.

Another thing worth mentioning here is that the rangers can be found at most campsites, as well as that you’ll be passing multiple restaurants along the way. In my opinion, the best of them is at Airport-in-the-Sky and its name is DC-3 Grill. Buying food in places such as these is a great way to cut down on your backpack weight.

While the Trans-Catalina Trail can be somewhat steep, most of the trekking takes place on fire roads. In other words, you won’t have to deal with rough, uneven paths. The section that leads to Parson’s Landing is considered to be the most strenuous one.

If you’d like to make this journey as easy as possible, I would recommend setting up a basecamp at the campsite at Two Harbors and then just day-hiking to the aforementioned Parson’s Landing without carrying all of your stuff.

Permits & Logistics

Catalina campsites fill up quite quickly, so it’s extremely important to book everything in advance. During the weekends, there is a 2-night minimum at all campgrounds. However, you can easily waive this requirement by giving a call to the visitor center at Two Harbors.

You can obtain your free permit to walk this trail at the same place. Another place to get it would be in the town of Avalon, more precisely in the town’s Conservancy House. But even if you don’t pick up this free permit, you will still be able to hike the Trans-Catalina Trail as long as you have your camping reservation.

The fact that you’ll need to get to this island (and return from it) by ferry is probably the most unique aspect of this adventure. I recommend taking the San Pedro – Avalon ferry ride when going to the island and the Two Harbors – San Pedro ferry ride when returning from it.

2. Half Dome, Yosemite

• Elevation gain/loss: 5,300 feet
• Length: 3 days
• Mileage: 16 miles out-and-back

Almost every person who has ever seen photos of the world-famous Yosemite National Park has also seen the magnificent Half Dome, a massive, curved monolith that’s located in the middle of the park.

While mountaineers congregate at the monolith’s vertical face, Half Dome’s rounded back is a great spot for day hikers. This is because it has a set of cables that allows backpackers to (relatively) easily get to the summit of this massive rock.

A lot of enthusiastic trekkers try to complete this adventure in a single day. However, in my opinion, a much more enjoyable way to tackle Half Dome as a backpacker would be to embark on an overnight journey and turn the whole thing into a sort of communal camping experience. Once you climb up to the top, you can get back to the camp and chill by the gorgeous Merced River.

Even though this exciting hiking trip feels like a genuine adventure, it is still one where you’ll be able to keep the daily mileage low. This is because it can be broken into a 3-day excursion, which is something I would definitely recommend doing if you’re a backpacking beginner.

It’s a classic itinerary that takes folks past world-famous Yosemite spots, such as Nevada Falls and Vernal Falls. On the second day of your journey, you’ll be able to leave the backpack behind and climb the cables mentioned above while carrying only your daypack. If you don’t have one, one of our top backpacks for the Camino will also serve you well in California.

One thing worth mentioning here is that those who decide to spend the night at the Little Yosemite Valley Camp can get up earlier and reach the summit before the crowds do.

A lot of hiking trails in this national park require hikers to carry bear canisters in order to protect their food. However, the campground I mentioned above – Little Yosemite Valley Park – will allow you to store your food in their own bear boxes. This completely removes the need to carry a heavy bear canister during your entire trekking adventure.

Unfortunately, Half Dome permits are all but easy to obtain. Therefore, maybe the best course of action for you would be to simply join a guided group hike. But if you still want to secure a permit for an unguided trip, you can totally do so – you only have to visit the website of the National Park Service and submit your application there.

Make sure to make a reservation as soon as you can. This is, after all, an incredibly popular hike. You will need to secure both a Half Dome permit (which costs $10 per one person) and a regular wilderness permit.

Another way to go about this would be to try to secure a “first-come, first-served” permit one day before your hike. Those who decide to approach the matter in this manner should definitely come up with a backup plan first, though. Keep in mind that the staff of the national park can always recommend you other hiking trails available on that day.

3. Point Reyes Coast Loop

• Elevation gain/loss: Varies
• Length: 2 – 3 days
• Mileage: 4 – 22 miles

One of the world’s most beautiful trekking destinations, the coastline of Central California provides outdoor enthusiasts with coastal bluffs, rolling meadows, and sandy beaches.

In Point Reyes National Seashore, trekkers traverse prolific forests and have plenty of opportunities to enjoy unforgettable vistas, particularly the ones offering views of the marvelous Pacific Ocean.

During your hike, you will also be able to spot a lot of regional wildlife, including shorebirds, elks, and elephant seals, among other animals. What makes the entire experience truly special is this very specific mix of misty hills and sunny beaches – it doesn’t get much more Californian than that.

One thing worth mentioning here is that a lot of folks like hiking the Bear Valley to Coast Camp Loop, but this particular trail is often closed due to frequent wildfires. While it’s still possible to access a lot of other Point Reyes campgrounds, such as Wildcat, Glen, and Coast, engaging in a loop hike is certainly a bit more challenging. You will need really good hiking shoes .

One of the best things about Point Reyes is that it’s quite close to San Francisco. In other words, this hiking spot can be quickly and effortlessly reached from a major metropolitan area.

Furthermore, the trail system of the Point Reyes National Seashore park allows everyone to easily create a short or long itinerary. Also, the area’s elevation profiles are quite mellow, particularly when compared to mountainous regions (the Yosemite National Park from above is a good example).

For the Point Reyes Coast Loop trail, you’ll only have to pack a backup purification system – each of the campgrounds has potable water. Another thing worth mentioning is that all trekkers also have access to food storage boxes, barbecues, and picnic tables.

Spending a night at one of Point Reyes’ campgrounds costs around $20 per person and everything can be reserved in advance. Make sure to pay a visit to the Bear Valley Visitor Center if you’re planning a last-minute trip – there, you’ll be able to see if there are any available walk-up sites. If you plan on camping, and not just backpacking, check out our wild camping checklist .

But still, I think that the best course of action would be to simply make the reservations in advance. This is particularly important if you’re planning to hike during holidays or during the weekend.

4. Tuolumne Meadows Area, Yosemite

• Elevation gain/loss: 1,300 feet
• Length: 3 – 4 days
• Mileage: 20 miles roundtrip

The things that define Yosemite’s majestic Tuolomne area are pinnacle spires, dome-shaped mountains, and, of course, expansive green meadows. In the Grand Canon of Tuolomne, backcountry enthusiasts are able to see water flowing freely over the slabs of granite, creating spectacular cascades.

The best way to experience this area is to start the hike in Curry Village and then follow the Tuolomne River as flows through the gorgeous meadows until it reaches the spectacular Grand Canyon of the Tuolumne.

Make sure to check out the waterfalls in the region, namely the California Falls, Le Conte Falls, and the Waterwheel Falls. As their name suggests, the Waterwheel Falls are named so due to the “waterwheel” phenomenon, i.e. the water being ejected into the air while hitting the rocks.

While both the Half-Dome trip I described above and this particular multi-day journey both take place in Yosemite, each of them offers a completely different experience. Those wishing to see a not-so-crowded side of this national park should definitely opt for the high country.

When compared to the Yosemite Valley, the Tuolumne Meadows area isn’t as crowded and features relatively flat-relief landscapes combined with high-elevation trailheads. The views are breathtaking and there’s plenty of water.

Furthermore, the wildlife of the Tuolumne Meadows region isn’t as accustomed to people. While this makes taking photos of animals a bit more challenging, it also means that you won’t have to worry about hungry bears creeping into the camp.

The campground that is situated next to this route (and in which you’ll probably spend a night or two) has solar-powered outhouses and treated water. In other words, full backcountry comfort! There are also bear boxes here, which is something that can’t be said for every campsite in the Yosemite National Park. This removes the need to carry inconvenient and heavy bear canisters.

Those who wish to spend a night or two in the Yosemite National Park need to obtain a permit for doing so. Reserving one in advance is always recommended.

However, it is worth mentioning that visiting the ranger station right before your journey brings the ability to obtain a first-come-first-served permit – if you get there in the morning and before everybody else does, that is. Do not expect to obtain a last-minute permit if you’re trekking during the holidays or weekends.

5. Mammoth Crest

• Elevation gain/loss: 2,000 feet
• Mileage: 24 miles out-and-back

Do you want to get away from the Yosemite crowds? If so, heading over to the Eastern Sierras is one of your best options. This particular mountain range, which comprises the eastern side of the Sierra Nevada, is home to El Cap and Half Dome, but it definitely has a lot more to offer.

Embarking on a 3-day Mammoth Crest trekking journey is an amazing way to immerse yourself in this stunning region and experience its wonders – like the granite peaks – in the best way possible.

There is something amazing to see at every turn – from sparkling blue alpine lakes to eye-catching streams that will make you stop in wonder. Throughout this entire voyage, you’ll be getting beautiful panoramic views of the Mammoth Lakes Basin, Minaret Range, and the rest of the Sierras.

While it’s true that rough mountain terrain can be quite difficult for those who don’t have much experience in backpacking, I think that tackling this trip over the span of three days is more than manageable.

Once the camp is set up, you’ll be able to get rid of your gear until it’s time to move out. On the second day, you’ll be day-hiking from the camp with a daypack in order to explore the surrounding region. In other words, the time trekking with a huge pack on your back is minimal.

And finally, even though this particular trail is difficult, you can be sure that the views are going to distract you the whole time. Make sure to prepare a nutritious and filling meal for your adventure. Check out our day hike meal ideas as well as our pick for the best backpacking stove .

Those wishing to engage in overnight trips in the Sierra National Forest cannot do so without a permit, which becomes available for obtaining half a year before the date of the hike.

Another item all trekkers are required to have is an approved bear canister, which you’ll be using for your provisions and all scented objects.

6. Lassen Volcanic Cinder Cone Loop

• Elevation gain/loss: 4,000 feet
• Length: 4 days
• Mileage: 24-mile loop

So, you’re ready for your very first hiking adventure in California. You bought all the necessary gear and you can’t wait to explore the backcountry. But something just doesn’t feel quite right – you’d really like to see the wild and only the wild, i.e you don’t want to bump into other trekkers every few miles along the way.

If this is the case, the Lassen Volcanic National Park, which is located in the northern part of the Sierra Nevada Range, is one of your best options. This mountainous wonderland is a phenomenal destination for all those interested in seeing remnants of past volcanic activity.

What is more, there is an ongoing geothermal activity in this area, and there are also far fewer people in it than in Yosemite park – it’s a great choice for the backpacking beginners who want to stay away from the crowds.

The fact that you’re a complete rookie in the world of backpacking doesn’t mean that you have to walk a trail that is riddled with other outdoor enthusiasts. The Lassen Volcanic National Park provides hikers – whether they’re experienced or not – with breathtaking scenery, mild elevation gain, and excellent trekking trails.

Another thing that turns this trip into a terrific choice for the backpacking amateurs is the short daily mileage. You’ll have more than enough time to read books under the shadows of ancient volcanoes, take dips in the area’s magnificent lakes, or just relax wherever and whenever you want to.

Those who decide to walk this trail unguided will be pleased to know that this park’s free permit system is exceptionally easy to navigate. All that one has to do is to pay a visit to a self-registration station, fill out an overnight permit, and then just follow the usual leave-no-trace principles.

And while it’s great that you won’t have to make reservations in advance for this adventure, one not-so-great thing is that you will have to get an approved bear canister and store all of your provisions in it.

7. Redwoods National & State Parks

• Elevation gain/loss: Minimal
• Mileage: Around 7 miles out-and-back

Due to the fact that they’re easily accessed, the trekking campsites of the Redwood National Park are among the best in the entire country.

Even though it’s true that one’s options are quite limited when it comes to multi-day hikes, forming an ideal backpacking adventure by linking several trails together is entirely possible.

Here, you’ll be able to explore meandering riverways, coastal bluffs, and towering redwood forests. One thing is certain – sleeping under these massive trees is guaranteed to make you think about how small we – the humans – are when compared to some of the planet’s oldest species.

A lot of campsites, such as the Elam Backcountry Camp or DeMartin Backcountry Camp, are just a few miles away from the highway. You will not, however, have to worry about the noise – the gigantic trees effortlessly block the noise of the traffic.

This park’s service provides outdoor enthusiasts with informative brochures that let them know what they can expect in the area. Most campgrounds are equipped with picnic tables, fire pits, and food storage lockers.

Before starting the hike in the RNSP, you will have to obtain a free backcountry permit. As you can already guess, these are given by the Park Service.

However, there’s a big difference between RNSP and other national parks when it comes to campsite reservations – here, you will not be able to reserve your spot months in advance. You can only do so during the reservation period which starts two weeks before your hike and ends two days before it.

I love hiking, backpacking, and camping. From the Camino de Santiago to the West Highland Way in Scotland or simply a great day hike on the weekend. Hiking refreshes me, my mind, and keeps my body reasonably fit. So far I have walked three Camino routes and many other long distance hikes in the UK, Canada, and around the rest of Europe. One of the best was my hike up Ben Nevis.

1 thought on “Best 7 Beginner Backpacking Trips in California”

This was a wonderful review of trails for beginners. This brings back memories of me starting my backpacking adventures. Please keep bring new adventures from around the US and the world. Thank You, Tom Monroe

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Backpacking

Backpacking through the wilderness requires desire,  planning and preparation . If you’ve got all three, any reasonably healthy person can enjoy trekking through the backcountry for a few days, weeks or even longer!

I’ve been backpacking since I was a teenager, and my favorite stomping grounds are the Sierras. When I graduated from high school, I took a month and backpacked the entire length of the John Muir Trail — from Yosemite to Mt. Whitney — and continued on to Cottonwood Lakes. The solitude, the beauty, and the experience of striking out and knowing you can manage on your own is an unforgettable combination.

While the primary focus of SoCal Hiker is on the varied and beautiful  local trails in Orange County (and bits beyond), I can’t help but share my love for backpacking. There are many excellent resources for backpacking. What I will share here are local backpacking trips that I’ve personally taken — like the Trans-Catalina Trail –and what I’ll call epic backpacking adventures . The John Muir Trail is one such epic adventure, and thirty years later, I’m heading back to hike it from end-to-end once more.

How do you top a trip like the JMT? I’m not sure that’s possible, but for 2011 and beyond, I am eyeing the following epic backpacking adventures. I’ll do all of them at some point; it’s just a matter of when .

The  Coast-to-Coast Walk spans the country of England. You start by dipping your toes in the Irish Sea on the west coast, and end by dipping them in the North Sea to the east. As an added bonus, you hike from inn to inn, get a hot meal for breakfast and dinner and sleep in a bed each night. Not too shabby!

Thumbing through Backpacker magazine I learned about the Via Alpina through the Alps. The complete trail system is only five years old and extends nearly 3,500 miles through 8 countries — a bit more than I care to tackle (at least at the moment). But there’s a beautiful 100 mile section through the Swiss Alps that sounds perfect. And like the Coast-to-Coast walk, this can also be hiked from village-to-village.

Finally, I will eventually hike to Machu Picchu in the Peruvian Andes. Maybe not in 2011 (my hiking partner is favoring Europe) but possibly in 2012. This trip can actually be easily done in one week.

Yes, I know there are plenty of other great, epic trips here in North America, and I’ll get to those, too. I’ve toyed with the idea of someday hiking the Appalachian Trail   and the Pacific Crest Trail , but at this point of my life, it’s out of the question. As it is, hiking the John Muir Trail will take a little over three weeks — the longest stretch of vacation time I’ve ever taken!

What about you? What’s on your life list? Any epic adventures I should consider adding to my list?

21 Responses

I share most of the locations on your list. I keep thinking of Switzerland and Austria but have done very little research. I grew up in central PA so the Appalachian Trail is high on my list too. I am not at a point in my life where extended trips are viable. I think section hiking may be the closest I get for now. I think the Lost Coast is a big one too given the threat it faces today from the logging industry.

Love this post and I am very excited to read your report from the JMT trek.

The Lost Coast — that’s on my list as well. I have an aunt who lives up in Humboldt County. I’ll have to get the details on the best time to go (I’m thinking summer?).

I think that coast to coast walk just jumped to the top of my list. That sounds fantastic! A couple others are the Annapurna trail in Nepal and Milford track in New Zealand. Oh, and I really want to do Kilimanjaro at some point. These are all distant dreams for now. Who knows if I’ll ever get to them..

I had never heard of the Annapurna trail before, but a quick search on Google turned up this great overview . Definitely an epic trip!

And the Milford Track in New Zealand also sounds like a good one. My grandparents travelled around the world and New Zealand was one of her favorite places. I’ve always wanted to go, but didn’t know much about it.

Kilimanjaro would be fun, too. I haven’t travelled to Africa at all, and I really ought to.

I’ll add them all to the list!

Hm, off the top of my head, John Muir, Chilkoot Trail (AK) and section hike some of the European Route E-3, through the Polish Tatras maybe. Speaking of Coast-to-Coast, have you seen this guy? http://imjustwalkin.com/

Awesome goals – hope you achieve them! I’d also make a pitch for the Canadian Rockies.

I hesitate to share because it’s already getting to popular, but a shorter (28mi), incredibly beautiful trip is the Maroon Bells 4 Pass Loop, just outside of Aspen, CO. Highly recommended. http://www.mountainphotographer.com/maroon-bells-four-pass-loop

I hiked Hadrian’s Wall while I was in England for 6 months! A great trip with beautiful landscapes! I would also recommend Snowdon Peak while your in the area!

Thanks for the suggestions, deweythomason. We will only be there for three weeks — it’s all our jobs will allow — so we may have to tackle Snowdon and Hadrian’s Wall on another trip (or two).

I did an Everest Base Camp trek a few years back that was spectacular. Next on our list is Macchu Pichu, and then maybe something in NZ. Did you ever make it to Peru?

Machu Picchu is one of the most amazing places in the world , so it is considered one of the 7 Wonders . some say they lost city of the Incas , but you must visit this amazing Inca citadel to see its majesty

Our Salkantay Trek 5 days is a customized alternate to the usual Inca Trail. Not on the usual gringo trail path, this is an innovating adventure for action travelers who want a little more solitude and credibility. With more impressive views, the Salkantay to Machu Picchu Trek gives you the privacy and peaceful reflection such a sacred path deserves.

Hey, My husband and I are coming out to Southern California at the end of March, we are looking for a good 3 to 4 day backpacking trip. We have looked at the Trans- Catalina trial and we are wondering if there are any other options we should look at besides this trail. If you recommend this trial over others let me know.

Lets see, since my scouting days I had a list to complete:

Pacific Crest Trail, Appalaichian Trail, and Great Divide Trail (all three get you the Triple Crown), all the big peaks of Socal, McKinley (sp), Shasta, Lassen, Rainier, the various trails of the Anasazi, and then maybe the trails of South America, including the trails of the Aztec and Mayan civilizations.

No idea if all of those have actual trails designated yet. Lol. May need to trailblaze. One step in front of the other…I’ll figure it out.

Machu picchu are the most important attraction of Peru. The lost city of the Incas is located at 120 kilometers of Cusco, in the Urubamba Valley

the Salkantay Trek is an ancient and remote footpath located in the same region as the Inca Trail where massive snowcapped mountains collide with lush tropical rain forests.

I live in ireland and grew up here . There is some beautiful countryside but the weather is very unpredictable all year . There are only a few trails officially but hiking through the countryside isn’t usually a problem if you don’t leave gates open etc. However there can be issues with land owners telling you to get off their property. I am going to do the jmt in the next couple of years. I would love to hear if there is any cross Sierra trails to get a feel for it

Very nice, step by step, blog. We are right now in Cusco and you / me found each other on Facebook, in the Nomadic Group. Thanks for sharing your experience with other people. It helps !

It is funny, because we have almost the same Name ? My wife calls Lea and me Alexandros, so we call our one-year Honeymoon alealife

Take care and keep blogging.

I loved the way you shared backpacking tips in your blog. Currently, I am planning to go on Machu Picchu. Hope this will be one of the memorable journey.

A very complete article, interesting information for every traveler

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5 Weekend Backpacking Trips in California to Do This Summer

Use these helpful guides to plan your next trip now, and find yourself among nature once the stay-at-home order lifts

When it comes to outdoor recreation, few states boast the biodiversity and sheer size of accessible terrain that California can. With 840 miles of coastline and over 14,000 designated areas protected by public agencies and non-profits—including nine national parks spanning over 6.2 million acres, 17 national forests covering over 20 million acres, and 300 state parks totaling 1.3 million aces—finding public land to explore is easy. It’s doing so while avoiding crowds that’s the real trick.

With this in mind—not to mention a nationwide urge to get out and explore more after being cooped up for two plus years now—it’s best to plan a ways ahead. The following five zones each offers a unique backpacking experience , whether going out for a weekend for an extended trek. Click through to access insider tips, 35mm film photography, and dos & font’s for visiting.

[Editor's Note: For adventures closer to home, check out our new guide to the best day hikes in Los Angeles and our favorite local's guide to camping in the Eastern Sieera .]

5. Taft Point, Yosemite National Park

Now, let's be real, it's not going to be easy to hike this trail alone. But as you'll see in this story, it's all about timing and getting proper permits—knowing a local wouldn't hurt either. If you make it out, hit up FM Contributor Andrew M. Upchurch , a talented film photographer and hiking guide for the Yosemite Mountaineering School. Play your cards right and you might see the valley like few do. SEE GUIDE

4. Little Five & Big Five Lakes Loop, Sequoia National Park

This loop is everything one could ask for. It’s roughly 30 miles and has just under 10,000 feet of elevation gain. You find yourself winding through lush pine forests, up incredible switchbacks, dipping your toes into lakes and summiting two peaks right around 11,600 feet.

Once, on top of Blackrock Pass you get your first glimpse at Mount Whitney and a beautiful view of the Sierra Range . Trails like this are good at reminding you that the simple things in life are the best—each step on the long ascents are like a form of meditation. SEE GUIDE

3. John Muir Wilderness, Sierra Nevada

Nestled between Yosemite National Park and Mammoth Lakes, this wilderness area is one of California's most special landscapes. As a one-time favorite of renowned naturalist John Muir and oft-cited inspiration for photographer and conservationist Ansel Adams, the aptly named Ansel Adams Wilderness is worth doing your homework on. SEE GUIDE

2. Ansel Adams Wilderness, Inyo National Forest

A solid alternative to Yosemite National Park , this lesser trafficked area is full of deep lakes and towering craggy peaks, and offers some of the best star gazing just about anywhere. This one sits high on this writer's must-visit list, that's for sure. SEE GUIDE

1. Lost Coast Trail, King Range National Conservation Area

As any experienced outdoorist knows, often the campsites that take the most effort to reach turn out to be the best . And well, you're going to have to work for every single site on this trail—that includes walking on wet sandy, through rock fields, against battering wind, and maybe even through a bit of rain. But as you can see, the juice is worth the squeeze on Northern California's legendary Lost Coast. SEE GUIDE

Looking for more backpacking ideas elsewhere? Check out the Elkhorn Crest Trail in Eastern Oregon and Colorado's famed Four Pass Loo p.

Published 04-09-2020

Updated 05-02-2022

Stunning film photography documents an impromptu trip to the Wind River Range, where emotions run high as the hard-fought miles tick by

Taking several thousand steps outside of one’s comfort zone with fly rod in hand and sights set on fish filled high elevation lakes

A deep dive into the vast landscape of camp lanterns for backpacking, camping, van living, and beyond

A complete guide to packing for a multi-day wilderness adventure, product recs included

Lightweight, comfy, and highly-packable, these cots make getting a good night's rest under the stars easy, without the noise and feel of an air pad

Versatile, comfortable, and easy to set up, hammock tents are growing in popularity among all campers, from weekend warriors to hardcore thru-hikers

Gallery Mode

• Guided Trips

Guided Backpacking Trips in California

We offer beginner to intermediate guided backpacking trips in Southern California, Sequoia & Kings Canyon National Parks and Yosemite. Our trips are focused on adventure while giving you a learning enviroment where you can increase your skills, cababilities and confidence by leaps and bounds on a single trip!

Our trips make it easy for you to see the most beatiful places in California. We take care of the logistics, food, and make sure you have everything you need to have a safe and enjoyable trip!

Guided Backpacking Trip Scheule

We only offer a very small number of trips every year to give our clients the ulitmate experience and make sure you feel like every detail was taken care of for you.

These trips fill up VERY quickly, so if you'd like to be notified when we open up new trips, please email us at [email protected]

Southern California Guided Backpacking Trips

Mount San Jacinto (1-2 nights)

San Bernardino Peak (1-2 nights)

San Gorgonio Mountain (1-4 nights)

Sequioa & Kings Canyon National Parks Guided Backpacking Trips

Rae Lakes Loop (5 Days/4 nights)

Yosemite National Park Guided Backpacking Trips

Clouds Rest & Sunrise Lakes (5 Days/4 nights)

Types of Guided Backpacking Trips

Backpacking trips for beginners.

Level 1 Trips:

• San Jacinto Peak Via Long Valley Trailhead
• San Bernardino Peak via Angelus Oaks Trailhead
• Dry Lake via South Fork Trail (non-winter)
• Happy Isles to Little Yosemite Valley

What these trips involve

We choose these trips for our backpacking basics course because even though they don't require advanced skills or experience, you'll find veteran backpackers out there every day enjoying their favorite local trails. On these 1-2 night trips, you'll learn...

• Basic trip planning
• Gear selection
• Camp site selection
• Basic navigation (GPS & map and compass)

Intermediate Backpacking Trips

Level 2 Trips:

• San Jacinto Peak Via Marian Mountain Trailhead
• San Gorgonio Mountain via South Fork Trail
• San Gorgonio Wilderness Traverse from Angelus Oaks to the South Fork Trail 
• Dry Lake via South Fork Trail (Intro to Winter Camping)
• Rae Lakes Loop
• Clouds Rest and Sunrise Lakes (Yosemite)

These trips require slightly more skills and experience and/or a higher level of physical fitness. This allows us to explore farther, see more, and get away from the crowds. On these 2-4 night trips, you'll learn...

• Overview of basic skills
• Longer (3+ days) trip planning
• Off-trail navigation and route finding
• Full 3-season readiness (including shoulder seasons)

Advanced Backpacking Trips

Level 3 Trips:

• San Gorgonio Mountain (winter)
• San Gorgonio via San Bernardino Peak Divide Trail
• Dry Lake via South Fork Trail (winter)
• Section Hike of the Yosemite High Route
• Overview of basic and intermediate skills
• Advanced off-trial navigation and route finding
• Planning for winter or shoulder season trips
• Snow travel and safety (season permitting)

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• Trip Styles
• Destinations

Best Beginner Backpacking Trips in California

• All Inspiration and Destinations
• Canadian Rockies
• New Hampshire
• New Zealand
• North Carolina
• Vancouver Island
• Washington State

California has so many public lands and wilderness areas that it’s hard to decide where to visit next. Do you want to take in the iconic granite domes of Yosemite or soak in the sun along the rolling coastline of Point Reyes?

If you are looking for the perfect beginner backpacking trip in California, you’ve come to the right place. We know that when you’re backpacking you want to immerse yourself in the wilderness, but you’re also going for the fantastic views, right? So, we’ve compiled a list of seven of our favorite trails that — for one reason or another — are well-suited for new backpackers and don’t skimp on the sights.

EXPLORE CALIFORNIA WITH AWARD WINNING GUIDES

how to choose an appropriate trail

While each new backpacker is entering into the sport with a different set of skills and fitness levels, we’ve crafted a list of trips with all beginner backpackers in mind. These trips fit a few criteria:

• You’ll hike relatively low-mileage for the length of the trip.
• The trails don’t have extreme elevation gain for the region.
• They travel on well-maintained trails and avoid tricky terrain like boulder fields. 
• You’ll get a lot of bang for your buck, whether in the form of peaks, alpine lakes, or lush meadows.

However, backpacking is never easy (or else we’d never do it!) — so,  if you want to maximize your fun, be sure to train for your backpacking trip .

1. Half Dome, Yosemite

Mileage: 16 miles out-and-back  | Length: 3 days | Elevation Gain/Loss: 5,300 feet

If you’ve ever seen photos of Yosemite National Park, you’ve probably seen the giant curved monolith, Half Dome . While rock climbers flock to the vertical face, the rounded back of Half Dome has a set of cables that allow day hikers and backpackers to climb to its summit. Many adventurous hikers tackle the trail in one day, but embarking on an overnight backpacking trip makes this an enjoyable journey with a fun, communal backcountry camp experience. Once you’ve summited Half Dome, you can return to camp and relax by the chilly Merced River.

Why is it great for a beginner?

This exciting backpacking trip feels like an adventure but you keep the miles relatively low each day. Breaking up this trail into a three-day excursion lessens the difficulty level that the day-hike offers.

This classic itinerary takes you past some iconic Yosemite sights — like Vernal and Nevada Falls. On the second day, you’ll ditch your backpacking pack and climb the Half Dome cables with only a day pack. Plus, when you sleep at the Little Yosemite Valley Camp, you can wake up early and beat the crowds to the summit.

While many backpacking trails in Yosemite necessitate that you carry bear canisters to protect your food from black bears, the Little Yosemite Valley camp has bear boxes where you can store your food — eliminating the need to lug around a heavy plastic container for your entire trip.

logistics and permits

Half Dome permits are incredibly hard to secure, so you’ll benefit from joining a guided backpacking trip . However, you can apply for permits for an unguided trip through the National Park Service . Because of the popularity of this trek, you should try to make a reservation as soon as they become available.  You’ll need to obtain both a wilderness permit and a Half Dome permit. Half Dome permits are $10 per person.

Otherwise, you can try to get a first-come, first-served walk-up permit the day before your trip. If you go this route, you should remain flexible and have an alternate itinerary as a backup plan. The National Park staff can also recommend trails that are available on the day of your trip.

Guided Trip Options

Wildland Trekking offers a three-day Half Dome trek as a guided backpacking adventure package with expert guides, gear, meals, transportation and more — all included! If you’re looking to up the challenge, we also offer Half Dome as part of our Classic Summits of Yosemite itinerary. This amazing four-day trip starts off Tioga Pass, so you’ll experience the high country of the Sierra Nevada mountains. You’ll traverse the Park, crossing the exhilarating Cloud’s Rest summit, climbing the Half Dome cables, and ending in the Yosemite Valley.

2. trans-Catalina Trail

Mileage: 38.5 miles roundtrip | Length: 4 – 5 days | Elevation Gain/Loss: 9,600 feet

The Trans-Catalina Trail crosses Catalina Island, a stunning, rocky island off the coast of Southern California. This is a fantastic early-spring trek, as much of the trail is unsheltered from the sun. As you hike along ridges and past sailboat-spotted coves, keep an eye out for the bison that roam the island. At night, enjoy the secluded beach camping at Parson’s Landing as you listen to the waves crash on the shore. This trip blends rugged backpacking with luxury island life, so it is perfect for backpackers who aren’t ready to give up all the amenities quite yet.

While the trail is difficult, the proximity to civilization makes this a great beginner route — especially for those with a high level of fitness. You’re never far from a town, and many of the campgrounds have the option to pay for rangers stock your “fox box” with firewood, and a fire starter, as well as water at the only campground that doesn’t have potable water– Parson’s Landing. Rangers are onsite at most of the campgrounds. En route, you’ll pass multiple restaurants, including Airport-in-the-Sky Restaurant at one of the highest points on the island. If you plan to buy food at the restaurant and in Two Harbors, you can cut down your pack weight, but make sure you get to the airport early for lunch as it closes at 4pm.

While the trails can be steep, much of the hiking is on fire roads, so you don’t have to worry about overly rugged trails. The most strenuous section is to Parson’s Landing. If you’re looking for an easier backpacking trip, you can set up basecamp at the Two Harbors campground and day hike to Parson’s Landing without all of your gear.

With all the Catalina campgrounds, you will need to book your campsites in advance, as they do fill up. While there is a two-night minimum at all campsites on weekends, hikers can have this requirement waived by calling the Two Harbors Visitor Center.

Additionally, you can pick up a free permit to hike the Trans-Catalina Trail when you get to the island — either at the Conservancy House in Avalon or the Visitor’s Center in Two Harbors. However, your camping reservations will serve as your hiking permit if you do not check in.

One unique aspect of this trip is the need for a ferry ride to and from Catalina Island . We recommend taking the ferry to Avalon from San Pedro to begin your adventure and returning to San Pedro from the ferry terminal at Two Harbors.

3. Tuolumne Meadows area, Yosemite

Mileage: 20 miles roundtrip | Length: 3 – 4 days | Elevation Gain/Loss: 1,300 feet with a pack ( + 1,700 as a day hike)

The Tuolumne region of Yosemite National Park is defined by expansive green meadows, dome-shaped mountains, and the pinnacle spires of the Cathedral Range. Water flows freely through the Grand Canyon of the Tuolumne, where you can witness cascades tumbling down silver slabs of granite. On our Yosemite Alpine Meadows and Waterfalls Trek , you can see some of the best that it has to offer on a moderate trip. While both this multi-day hike and the Half Dome trek both take place in Yosemite National Park, they offer dramatically different experiences. If you wish to see a lesser-visited side of this iconic destination, we recommend visiting the high country.

Unlike the Yosemite Valley, Tuolumne Meadows has high-elevation trailheads with relatively flat relief landscapes and far fewer crowds. Water is plentiful and the views are outstanding. 

The campsite along this route (where you’ll stay for two nights) has treated water and solar-powered outhouses for ultimate backcountry comfort. Plus, unlike many areas in Yosemite National Park, you’ll have access to bear boxes at camp, so you won’t have to carry bear canisters which are heavy and inconvenient.  In addition, the wildlife is not as accustomed to humans in the less-visited Tuolumne area, so you’re less likely to have a bear sneaking into your camp at night looking for an easy, human food snack.

You’ll need to obtain a permit to stay overnight in the backcountry of Yosemite National Park. We recommend you reserve a permit in advance, however, some first-come-first-served permits are available if you visit the ranger station the morning before your intended trip. If you’re traveling during the weekends or holidays, don’t expect to get a last-minute permit.

Wildland Trekking offers Tuolumne Meadows backpacking trips as a guided package with expert guides, gear, meals, transportation and more all included! Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced backpacker who wants someone else to do the planning for a change, you won’t regret joining a Wildland trip in Yosemite.

4. Point Reyes Coast Loop

Mileage: 4 – 22 miles  | Length: 2 – 3 days | Elevation Gain/Loss: varies

The Central California coastline is a magnificent backpacking destination because it provides hikers access to sandy beaches, rolling meadows, and coastal bluffs. In Point Reyes National Seashore, you’ll travel through lush forests lined with green ferns and arrive at vistas with expansive views of the Pacific Ocean. On your trek, you can spot animals like elephant seals, elk, and shorebirds. To add to the magic, you may experience a mix of sunny beaches and misty hills — so perfectly Californian.

And the Bear Valley to Coast Camp loop,  which is very popular among backpackers is open again after being closed recently due to wildfires. This loop connects many of the iconic campsites and allows for easy, one car logistics.

Point Reyes is only 30 miles north of San Francisco, so it is one of the most accessible backpacking destinations from a major metropolitan area. The trail system in this Park allows you to create a relatively low-mileage itinerary. Plus, the elevation profiles are more mellow than mountain destinations like Yosemite.

Each backcountry campsite has potable water, so you only need to bring a backup water purification system. You’ll also have access to a picnic table, bbq, and food storage box at camp each night.

Each hike-in campsite is $20/night and you can reserve them in advance . If you’re planning a last-minute trip, you can stop by the Bear Valley Visitor Center to see if they have any walk-up sites available. However, we recommend making reservations, especially if you’re backpacking on the weekend or during holidays.

If you can’t get permits or want a more rugged and remote experience on the California coast, you can also try out the Lost Coast  farther north of the Bay Area. The backpacking trails on this remote coastline offer extreme solitude as well as rugged hiking over mountains and on the sand where the tide controls much of where and when you can hike.  Wildland Trekking offers a great trip that traverses the Lost Coast where our expert guides will handle the all the planning and meals, including the tide charts to ensure safe passage across the beaches.

5. Lassen Volcanic Cinder Cone Loop

Mileage: 24-mile loop | Length: 4 days | Elevation Gain/Loss: 4,000 feet

If you’re looking for an off-the-beaten-track adventure for your first backpacking trip in California, this is it. At the northern tip of the Sierra Nevada Range, you can find Lassen Volcanic National Park — a high alpine wonderland with geothermal activity and remnants of past volcanic activity. On this four-day trek , you’ll hike past alpine lakes and climb to the summit of a cinder cone.

Just because you’re new to backpacking doesn’t mean you have to choose a route that will be riddled with crowds. Lassen Volcanic National Park offers excellent backpacking trails with mild elevation gain and stunning scenery. The short daily mileage allows you ample time to relax, take a dip in the lakes, or read your book under the shadow of old volcanoes.

If you choose to go unguided, the free permit system is a breeze to navigate. Just fill out your overnight permit at one of the self-registration stations and be sure to follow LNT principles ! No advanced reservations are necessary. Getting to Lassen is a little bit of a haul; depending on where you are coming from Sacramento, the Bay Area, or Reno, NV are your best points of entry.

When you’re backpacking in Lassen Volcanic National Park, you must store all your food in an approved bear canister.

Lassen Volcano National Park is not to be missed on any adventurer’s bucket list, but the remoteness of the location can make backpacking the park, especially if it’s your first time visiting, a little intimidating. So if you’d like to get a taste of this area before you trek into the backcountry, your can join Wildland Trekking’s basecamp tour in Lassen Volcano National Park and experience what this place has to offer. We provide an excellent mix of luxury camping and rugged hiking all with the best guides in the business.  

6. Mammoth Crest

 Mileage: 24 miles out-and-back | Length: 3 days | Elevation Gain/Loss: 2,000 feet with pack (+ 2,000 ft with day pack)

Escape the crowds in Yosemite and head to the Eastern Sierras ! This mountain range is home to Half Dome and El Cap, but it sure has a lot more to offer. The three-day Mammoth Crest backpacking trip will immerse you in high mountain country so you can experience the grandeur of these granite peaks. You’ll camp near sparkling blue alpine lakes and travel over Duck Pass at 10,800 feet. Throughout your entire trip, you’ll get sweeping views of the Minaret Range, the Mammoth Lakes Basin, and the rest of the Sierras.

While rugged mountain terrain can be tough for beginner backpackers, this three-day trek is manageable. Once you’ve set up camp, you’ll leave your gear behind until you hike out. On day two, you’ll day hike from camp to check out the surrounding area. So, the time hiking with a pack is minimal. And although the trail is tough, the views will distract you the entire time.

You’ll need a permit for any overnight trip in the Sierra National Forest . Permits become available six months before the trip date. You’ll also need to bring an approved bear canister to contain all your food and scented items.

Wildland Trekking offers this Mammoth Crest trip as a guided backpacking adventure package with expert guides, gear, meals, and transportation included. These guided tours take away much of the stress of planning a trip into the backcountry and allow you to truly enjoy and take in your surroundings.

7. Redwoods National and State Parks

Mileage: 7 + miles out-and-back | Length: 2 – 3 days | Elevation Gain/Loss: minimal

Redwood National Park has some of the best beginner backpacking campsites in the country because of their easy access. While your options are limited for a long multiday trip, you can easily link together trails to form the perfect backpacking overnight. Explore towering redwood forests, coastal bluffs, and meandering riverways. As you sleep beneath these giants, you can’t help but feel the majesty of some of the tallest trees on Earth.

Many camps, like the DeMartin Backcountry Camp and Elam Backcountry Camp , are mere miles from the highway (but the redwoods block all the noise.) The Park Service has detailed brochures for each backcountry camp, so you’ll know exactly what to expect. Most campsites are equipped with food storage lockers, fire pits, and even picnic tables, so they almost feel like front-country campgrounds.

You can choose your own adventure as you determine what amenities you want on your first backpacking trip. Do you only want to hike in a quarter of a mile before setting up camp? You can do that! Browse the list of backcountry campsites and then get hiking!

You’ll need to obtain a free backcountry permit from the Park Service before starting your hike. However, unlike many national parks, you cannot reserve these sites months in advance. The reservation period is open from two weeks to two days before starting your backpacking trip.

8. Joshua Tree National Park

Mileage: 8+ miles point to point | Length: 2 – 4 days | Elevation Gain/Loss: minimal

Joshua Tree National Park is a lesser known desert gem tucked away in Southern California’s inland, not far from the metropolitan areas of San Diego and Los Angeles. With it’s iconic Joshua Trees, groves of cactus and yucca, and abundance of desert wildlife, this park is not one to miss. Joshua Tree offers backpacking trails ranging from easy to moderate to difficult, depending on what you’re up for, with many that provide stunning views of sandstone and granite monoliths and secluded desert oases.

Why is it great for a beginner?  

Joshua Tree can be a great destination for your first backpacking trip because of the ease of following the trail and the opportunity to pick whatever difficulty of trail you’d like. Boy Scout Trail is a mere eight miles with little elevation. You can even set up your tent after just one mile of walking and set out to explore with a lighter day pack.  

If you’re very in shape, but just new to backpacking, try out the California Riding and Hiking Trail or the trail to Conejo Wells and Eagle Mountain which are more moderate options.  Despite being a desert, Joshua Tree does not skimp on those backcountry views that every beginner backpackers (and backpacker of every experience level) wants to see. Don’t discount this fantastic national park just because deserts aren’t typically your go-to destination. With mighty rock formations, stunning night skies, flourishing flora and fauna, and some of the best open vistas in the area, you won’t regret taking your first backpacking trip in Joshua Tree. 

Logistics and Permits  

Joshua Tree comes with some hefty logistics, but lucky for you, they aren’t concerning  food storage or permits. There aren’t bears in Joshua Tree, so bear canisters are not required. Plus, this is one of the only parks where you do not need a permit to backpack! Instead, backpackers are required to register at one of the backcountry registration boards scattered throughout the park so that ranges roughly know who is in the backcountry and where you are (and so they don’t tow your car).

Despite the ease of these logistics, Joshua Tree does requires some additional advanced planning. There are minimal water sources at campgrounds and none in the backcountry, as all natural water sources (which are scarce) are reserved for wildlife. If your trip is more than a few days long, you will need to drop a water cache in advance, which can be a tricky process, especially as your life might depend on doing it correctly.

Guided Trip options

Because of the desert logistics involved with backpacking in Joshua Tree, a guided tour for a first time trip would be a great option for those new to backpacking. You can check out Wildland Trekking’s backpacking trip in Joshua Tree  that has some difficult milage and elevation, but would be just fine for an adventurous beginner. We’ll take care of all the logistics, including water and meals, so that you can get a taste of what desert backpacking is like.  

All-inclusive Backpacking Adventures

About Hannah Singleton

Hannah is a content strategist, writer, and guide for Wildland Trekking Company. She was born and raised on the East Coast but currently resides in Salt Lake City, UT where she spends her time exploring the wonders of the Rocky Mountain West. You can check out more of her freelance writing at www.hannah-singleton.com.

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5 Best Backpacking Trips & Trails in Big Sur, California

Posted by Emily Pennington February 08, 2020 Updated July 13, 2023

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Big Sur is a hiker’s paradise. With panoramic coastal views, backcountry camps aplenty, and towering groves of those famous redwoods, it’s hard not to fall in love with this slice of central California.

Unlike California’s national parks or the Eastern Sierra Mountains, Big Sur does not yet require permits for intrepid hikers looking to spend a night among the big trees and stunning ocean vistas. This makes it an excellent option for last minute backpacking trips coming from Los Angeles, Sacramento, or San Francisco. It’s also a great locale for winter and spring months when the Sierras are still socked in with snow.

California’s famous Highway 1 cuts right through the heart of the woodsy little town, cruising right past notable spots like Nepenthe , Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park , and the Piedras Blancas elephant seals . With only one main road into and out of Big Sur retains its rugged remoteness.

Far away from large cities and bordered by mountains and sea, there’s no cell service for about a mile radius in any direction. Backpackers here will want to purchase or print out paper trail maps or download a topographic map onto a GPS app before hopping into the car.

Every season brings a little something different to Big Sur, making the optimal tourist season year-round. In spring, Indian paintbrush and California poppies burst with color along every hillside. In summer, sunny skies and warm temperatures crowd the trails. In fall, you’ll see moderate temps and seasonal color changes, and winter brings gray whale watching, more rain, and fewer crowds.

For those planning to camp overnight in the Ventana Wilderness / Big Sur backcountry, California fire permits are required if you intend on lighting a fire or even using a camp stove. They are free to obtain and can be found here .

Fires are only allowed in pre-existing fire rings, and fires must be completely extinguished with water and a shovel before you go to bed. Check the Big Sur Parks and Recreation website to see if any seasonal fire restrictions are in place before you venture out.

Visitors to Big Sur will want to note a few more things – ticks and poison oak are common sights in the backcountry. Day hikers and overnight travelers will want to come prepared with a hardy bug spray and long hiking pants.

Related Read:   How To Go Backpacking Solo & Start Enjoying Solitude Like No Other

Big Sur’s Best Backpacking Trails

From creek-fed oak groves, to fern-covered redwood forests, to enchanting ocean viewpoints, there’s something for everyone in the Big Sur backcountry. Escape the crowds and plan an overnighter to really experience the magic of this far-flung locale. Here’s a list of our favorite backpacking trips in the area, with a few hidden gems thrown in for good measure.

For tips on day hiking or car camping in Big Sur, check out our other two articles:

10 Best Hikes in Big Sur, CA

10 Best Camping Spots in Big Sur, CA

1. Kirk Creek Trail to Vicente Flat Camp

Why you should go: Steep hike to epic mountaintop views of the Pacific Ocean.

• Distance: 10.1 miles (round trip)
• Elevation Gain: 3,308 feet
• Difficulty: Challenging

The Kirk Creek Trail offers a taste of the best that Big Sur has to offer, all crammed into an epic overnight trip that’s only 5 miles each way.  This makes it a great hike for beginner-intermediate backpackers who just want to escape for the weekend.

The trail starts off across the street from the Kirk Creek Campground, a car camper’s paradise (if you can snag one of the always booked reservations!). Park off the road and you’ll see a large, wooden sign boasting the mileage up to Vicente Flat Camp and beyond.

“Vicente Camp is in a beautiful redwood grove and both Cone Peak and Vicente Flat are amazing hikes, depending on whether you want to see the ocean or the trees,” said backpacker Sarah Peloquin on AllTrails .

When it’s sunny outside, the beginning of the trail is very hot and exposed, a 3-mile uphill climb with little shade. But the views are to die for. The aquamarine waters of the Pacific Ocean can be heard rumbling below as trekkers ascend a series of dusty switchbacks.

If your legs have had enough after the 3,000-foot climb in just three miles, you could pitch your tent at Espinosa Camp around mile 3.25, but we recommend going the distance and passing the lovely green hillsides and lush meadows on the way to Vicente Flat Camp proper. There are more sites here, and the water is much more reliable.

Peakbaggers camped at Vicente might want to add on an extra day and an extra 5-mile round trip hike to tackle the trail to Cone Peak, the highest in the region.

When you’re ready to go home, simply turn around and head back the way you came. This is one of the most magical hikes in Big Sur and is truly a gem that only California could boast.

Related Read:   6 Phenomenal Backpacking Trails in Joshua Tree National Park

2. Salmon Creek Trail to Estrella Camp

Why you should go:  Short trek through coastal chaparral to creekside campsites.

• Distance: 6.5 miles (round trip)
• Elevation Gain: 2,077 feet
• Difficulty: Moderate

The Salmon Creek Trail veers past a magical double waterfall before ascending to a lush meadow in the Santa Lucia Mountains with plenty of space to sprawl out.

Located in the more southern Silver Peak Wilderness, this quick overnight trek through Big Sur’s wooded mountains is awesome for those driving in from Los Angeles or San Diego who want a shorter commute. Park just off Highway 1 at Salmon Creek, where a brown metal sign states the mileages to nearby camps (Spruce Camp – 2 miles, Estrella Camp – 3.25 miles).

“The whole terrain was amazing to me. The trail is often cut into a high ledge on a steep mountainside, but the plant life is so abundant you sometimes don’t notice. Beautiful!” said visitor Scott Hadley on AllTrails .

Take the spur trail to check out the enchanting Salmon Creek Falls, then get ready for a work out. Hike up through coastal chaparral and grasslands before the trail intersects with Spruce Creek, which can swell up to four feet after a big rain. The first campground (Spruce Camp) is located here.

Veer left and continue the slow and steady climb up to Estrella Camp, the real gem of the trek. In hot summer months, there are ample opportunities to cool off by hopping into the creek near the campsites. Bring a hammock, chill out, and enjoy the ultra dark night skies.

When you’ve had enough, you could continue onward to Three Peaks Camp for a longer journey, or simply turn around and head back to your car the way you came in. Enjoy those sweeping ocean views on the way down – you’ve earned them.

Related Read:   11 Stunning Hikes Near Santa Cruz, California

3. Buckeye Trail to Alder Creek Camp

Why you should go:  See the southernmost grove of coastal redwoods and camp among laurels, ponderosa pines, and sycamore trees.

• Distance: 17 miles (round trip)
• Elevation Gain: 2,000 feet

Park at the historic Salmon Creek Ranger Station (now closed) in the Silver Peak Wilderness and lace up your hiking boots — you’re about to climb. As you ascend the Buckeye Trail , those magnificent coastal views that Big Sur is famous for will soon come into view, and you’ll feel well rewarded for your efforts.

Pass through the Southern Redwood Botanical Area, then continue on to Buckeye Flat and Upper Cruikshank Camp. These are both great options for camping if you’re looking for a shorter trek or would like to break the distance into a two-night backpacking excursion.

Be careful crossing Villa Creek, then swing through the Alder Creek Botanical Area, a less-traveled but well worth it hidden gem. Enjoy crowd-free spectacular views along the verdant, grassy hillsides before calling it a night in the woodsy wonderland of Alder Creek Camp.

Related Read:   The 14 Best Hikes at Point Reyes National Seashore

4. Pine Ridge Trail to Sykes Hot Springs

Why you should go:  Glides up and down a series of mountain ridges then pass through redwood forests on the way to Sykes Hot Springs.

• Distance: 20 miles (round trip)
• Elevation Gain: 3,810 feet
• Difficulty: Strenuous

The Pine Ridge Trail is, by far, the most well-known and well-worn of the Big Sur backpacking trails.

Because of its incredibly crowded nature, we recommend doing this trail in the off season or on a weekday, when you’re more likely to have the pools to yourself. Start off by parking at the Big Sur Ranger Station, then traverse a relatively easy 1-mile stroll through forest and grasslands before the first big climb.

The first climb is also the largest of the journey, a sunny 1,200-foot jaunt up the side of a huge canyon that was eroded by the churning Big Sur River. Look east, and you’ll see the towering peaks of the Ventana Wilderness. Look west, and you see the deep blue surf of the Pacific Ocean.

As you continue to hike over rolling hills towards the hot springs, you’ll pass a series of less crowded backcountry camps that are great if you’re looking for a more mellow vibe. Ventana Camp is 5 miles in, while Barlow Flat Camp (the largest on the trail) is a bit closer to the springs, 6 miles in.

“The hot springs felt great and were truly an amazing experience. The river is beautiful and the camp is very comfortable,” said visitor Priscilla Lee on AllTrails .

The trail involves crossing the Big Sur River twice, so check conditions before you go and bring water shoes. Once you’ve arrived at Sykes Camp, look for a wide, flat area near the river to pitch a tent. The hot springs are about a half-mile walk from the camping area. Just follow the river downstream (and hunt for salamanders along the way!) until you see a series of three small stone pools.

The pools can only comfortably fit 8-10 people at a time, so go early if you’d like some solitude. If your legs are ready for more hiking, continue on another 3 miles to Redwood Camp, a gorgeous, secluded site in a huge grove of old growth redwood trees, far from the weekend warrior madness at Sykes.

When it’s time to go, just head back the trail the way you came and consider making a donation to the parks department at the ranger station for all the hard work they do.

Related Read:   South Bay Hikes: 14 Hikes Near San Jose With Stunning Views

5. Stone Ridge Trail to Goat Camp

Why you should go:  Steep, lesser-known path in the heart of Big Sur serving up some of the best ocean views in town.

• Distance: 22 miles (round trip)
• Elevation Gain: 2,400 feet

Park in the wide shoulder off Highway 1, between Lucia and Limekiln, then cross the street and look for the sign marking the Twitchwell Flat Use Trail. Head through the small gate and onto the trail itself. Alternately, hikers could tack on a visit to Goat Camp by adding a 5-mile round trip hike onto the Kirk Creek Trail.

“We decided to take Stone Ridge to Goat Camp which was 2.5 miles further up the trail past the intersection. Absolutely the most stunning views from the intersection!” said backpacker Scott Campbell on AllTrails .

This trail starts climbing almost immediately and doesn’t quit until you reach the flat, grassy campsites at Goat Camp. Follow the trail up a steep, 2,000-foot climb through grasslands, forests, and wood sorrel, being careful not to step into poison oak along the way.

Eventually, you’ll come to a four-way intersection of trails. Veer left onto the Stone Ridge Trail and climb another 400 feet until you reach the top of the ridge where Goat Camp is located. Pitch your tent, grill up some dinner, and gaze out at the wide-open Pacific as the sun turns nearby clouds into neon shades of marigold and lavender.

From here, hikers could connect to other campgrounds along the Stone Ridge Trail, or simply head downhill and back to the car.

If you’re not too exhausted from the hike, there’s a nearby and worthy detour to be found in Limekiln State Park . A series of short, easy trails take hikers up and into the mossy redwood forests and around a series of historic limekilns, remnants from the Big Sur of yesteryear.

Related read: 7 Dreamy Glamping Spots in Big Sur, California

More Backpacking Ideas

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8 Epic Backpacking Trips in Sequoia & Kings Canyon National Parks

5 Spectacular Backpacking Destinations in Colorado

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Seen in: Backpacking , Backpacking in California , California

Posted by Emily Pennington

Emily Pennington is a national parks and travel columnist at Outside. Her work has appeared in The New York Times, The Guardian, Condé Nast Traveler, Lonely Planet, Adventure Journal, REI Journal, and Backpacker, to name a few.

Her memoir about visiting every national park, Feral , launched in February 2023, and now that it’s finished, you can find her backpacking in the Sierras and drooling over Colorado real estate.

10 Epic Hikes in Big Sur, California

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Top 10 Places to Go Winter Backpacking in California (Without Snow)

Go Explore Outside contains affiliate links and is a member of the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program. If you make a purchase using one of these Amazon links, or links from other companies, I may receive compensation – at no extra cost to you. See my Privacy Policy and Disclaimer for more information.

If you’re looking for a winter backpacking adventure in California but don’t want to deal with snow camping, there are plenty of options. 

California’s coastal and desert regions often have mild weather during the winter and can make for the perfect getaway. 

Seeing how California is so geographically large, I’ve broken the list into 2 sections – Northern California and Southern California.

Here are the top ten places to go winter backpacking in California without snow:

Best Winter Backpacking in Northern California

Northern California is home to rugged coastlines, redwood forests, and temperate rain forests.  My list of favorite places is extensive and hard to narrow down, but here are top 5 locations for winter backpacking without snow.

1) Lost Coast Trail Backpacking

This 26-mile stretch of coastline is only accessible by foot or by boat, making it the perfect place to get away from it all. 

Located along the coast of Humboldt and Mendocino counties, in the King Range National Conservation Area, the trail is point-to-point with a max elevation of about 160 feet above sea level.

Many complete this backpacking trail in about 3 days, and you will need a permit. Reservations are available starting October 1st of the year prior. They go fast, so plan accordingly. 

With its dramatic cliffs, pristine beaches, and abundant wildlife, The Lost Coast is a truly unique place. The local wildlife includes bears (bear canisters are required), deer, seals and sea lions.

A word of warning …. You will be hiking on the beach and sand in certain sections. Always be aware of the tide, and never turn your back on the ocean.  You never know when there is a going to be a rogue wave.  

2) Point Reyes Backpacking

Point Reyes National Seashore is located just north of San Francisco and offers miles of hiking trails with stunning views of the Pacific Ocean. 

The weather is often mild here, and with its proximity to the city, it is quite popular. Be sure to reserve your permits in advance.

The Coast Trail to Wildcat Camp is about 11 miles out and back, fairly flat, and mostly mild in the winter.  From Wildcat Camp, the Alamere Falls makes for an ideal 1-mile day hike. Just be sure to do this hike at low tide. 

You may see deer along the way, and keep your eyes peeled for my personal favorite, the banana slug!  

It can get muddy in winter, depending on recent weather, so plan accordingly.  

Note – please watch out for poison oak off the trail – it’s very common. Just remember, leaves of three, let them be.  Getting an itchy, blistering rash from poison oak is NOT fun – I can attest to that. Avoid it at all costs. 

3) Big Basin Redwoods State Park Backpacking

Big Basin Redwoods State Park, located in the Santa Cruz Mountains, is home to some of the tallest trees on Earth. The park has over 80 miles of trails to explore, and its scenic beauty is unmatched.

If you are looking for more of a forest trip, versus rugged coastal, Big Basin is a great option.

Unfortunately, due to the 2020 Wildfire, there was extensive damage.  Although a majority of the facilities burned, the forest is now in recovery and I still wanted to include this section of land on this list.  It will bounce back, and backpacking here will presume. 

Be sure to check current status before attempting a trip to Big Basin.  

4) Henry Coe State Park Backpacking

Located east of San Jose, Henry Coe State Park is the largest state park in Northern California, with 87,000 acres of terrain. With over 86 miles of trails, it’s a great place to explore on foot!

Filled with oak trees and tall grass, you are sure to find some trail serenity during the winter months. Deer, coyotes, and wild turkey all call Henry Coe home, and you may even catch a glimpse of a bobcat or two – if you are lucky. 

A classic Henry Coe backpacking trail is the 9-mile China Hole Trail loop. Winter is an ideal time to hike this trail, as there isn’t much shade, and the water dries up in the summer. You may have a creek crossing, depending on the recent weather, so bring trekking poles for more stability.

5) Big Sur Backpacking

Big Sur is one of the most popular tourist destinations in California, and for good reason. The scenery is simply breathtaking, and there are plenty of hiking trails to explore.  You will access Big Sur via the iconic Highway 1 .  The views are unmatched and some of the best in the country. 

If you are yearning for snow free winter hiking, and are coming from the central coast of California, Big Sur is my most favorite option.  While living in San Luis Obispo, I made a point of hiking this coastline as often as I could.

Big Sur is quite accessible from the Bay Area, and surrounding communities, as well.

The most popular hike is the Sykes Hot Springs via Pine Ridge Trail. The trail is just over 19 miles long, and can be challenging for many.  The hot springs – more like warm springs –  are a nice little reward after a long hike.  

Do remember, if you are coming from northern or southern California, the amenities along highway 1 are slim, so stock up before you go. 

Best Winter Backpacking in Southern California

Southern California is not just about the beaches, neighborhoods, and tacos (well, maybe the tacos). There are some amazing forests, desert national parks, and countless trails to discover.

Yes, it does snow in southern California, but the mild weather also makes for some amazing snowless winter backpacking trips.

Here is my narrowed down list of the top 4 places for the top snow free winter backpacking destinations in southern California. 

6) Los Padres National Forest Backpacking

With almost 2 million acres on the Los Padres National Forest, there are countless trails to explore.   

Matilija Falls Trail, accessible via Ojai, is a great 9.5 mile out and back winter backpacking trail. It starts off fairly easy, but does get a bit more challenging along the way, with a total of 1,200 feet of elevation gain. 

As with other winter options, the recent weather will determine how wet the trail may be, and may cause for some deeper creek crossings. I usually bring trekking poles for any trails that require fording a stream.

7) Death Valley Backpacking

Most people think of Death Valley National Park as the hottest place on earth, which it is.  With that said, the best time to explore this park is winter!

Backpacking in Death Valley can be challenging, as the trails are not necessarily marked very well.  But with the right skills you will experience some amazing solitude, countless stars, and some stunning desert landscape. 

The Cottonwood – Marble Canyon Loop trail is an epic adventure. At 32 miles round trip, with 5,600 feet of elevation gain, it is a doozy.   Along the way you will see slot canyons, narrows, and possibly some wild horses. 

Death Valley National Park is designated as an International Dark Sky Park, and the stars in Death Valley are unreal.  This is reason enough to be one of the best national parks to visit . 

Due to the remoteness, please ensure you have prepared and packed accordingly.

8) Joshua Tree Backpacking

Another fantastic snow free winter backpacking option is in Joshua Tree National Park .  The summers are indeed scorching hot, making winter the most ideal time to explore. 

Reservations and permits are not required, but you must sign in before hitting the trial.  No campfires are allowed, unless you are in a designated campground with a fire ring.  And always abide by the ‘leave no trace’ rule. 

One of the most popular, and challenging, backpacking trails is the 8-mile point to point  Boy Scout Trail. As with most desert hiking, the trail is exposed. Please bring sun protection, yes even in the winter, and plenty of water! 

Joshua Tree is also one of the International Dark Sky Parks in California, and at night you will be treated to endless stars.

9) Mojave National Preserve Backpacking

Winter backpacking in Mojave National Preserve isn’t the most common, as Death Valley and Joshua Tree usually take the limelight. The area is a vast and empty place, and sometimes feels otherworldly (is that a word?). But it is certainly worth a mention – especially if you are trying to avoid snow.  

There are no permit requirements, and only a few established trails – so it’s kind of like a ‘choose your own adventure’ camping trip.  Be sure to carry a good map, have some experience with navigation, and be self-sufficient.

You can hike and set up camp anywhere, so long as it’s further than:

• ¼ mile from a paved road or the Zzyzx Road
• ½ mile from Kelso Depot
• ¼ mile south of Kelso Dunes access road.

One word of warning for desert camping, never set up camp in a dry wash area.  Flash floods can happen, and that is the last place you want to be.

Best Unique Winter Backpacking in Southern California

Northern and Southern California both have so amazing snowless winter backpacking options, providing backcountry bliss while waiting for the Sierra snowmelt. 

There is however one more trail that deserves a highlight – and while yes it is in Southern California, it deserves a section all of its own.

A unique and expansive backpacking trail in Southern California is the Trans Catalina Trail, on the Santa Catalina Island. 

10)  Trans Catalina Trail Backpacking (TCT)

The Trans Catalina Trail is a long distance trail that runs the length of Santa Catalina Island. The island is home to a variety of terrain, from coastal cliffs to inland mountains.  Winter is highly recommended as the best time to hike the TCT, as the ocean breeze will keep you cooler as there is minimal shade. 

The trail is roughly 38 miles, and most backpackers complete the trek in 2-5 days.  

With an elevation gain throughout this point to point trail clocking in at 7,900 feet, it should only be attempted by those with ample fitness level.

You will start from the Avalon Ferry, and depart from the Two Harbors Ferry, and permits are required for overnight camping. 

There are five campsites along the trail – Hermit Gulch, Black Jack, Little Harbor, Two Harbors, and Parsons Landing – and no backcountry camping is allowed.  You must stay at the designated campgrounds, and each one will require a reservation .

Many of the campgrounds will show a required 2 night minimum. If you are backpacking the TRT, you are able to call 310-510-4205 to get the 2 night requirement waived.

Wild Bison roam Catalina and are not to be messed with.  If you give them plenty of space, they will leave you alone. I have seen far too many tourists insist on photos, and they will charge you.  And don’t think they are slow due to their size – these guys can MOVE!  Be smart. Be respectful. Bison are wild animals, leave them be. 

Which ever trail you choose, always be sure to be prepared.  Check recent weather before you depart, have permits printed and in your backpack, and bring PLENTY of water.

SUMMARY – Best Winter Backpacking in California

Lookin g for best winter backpacking trails in california  .

The top 5 Northern California winter backpacking locations are:

• Lost Coast Trail
• Point Reyes
• Big Basin Redwoods State Park
• Henry Coe State Park

The Top 5 Southern California winter backpacking locations are:

• Los Padres National Forest
• Death Valley National Park
• Joshua Tree National Park
• Mojave National Preserve
• Tran Catalina Trail

Whichever location you choose, always remeber to check the weather prior to departure, pack plenty of water, and have your maps and permits in a convenient location.  And most importantly – have fun!

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7 Life Changing California Backpacking Trips for Teens

T eens have a bad rap. Sure, they might have the inclination to break a rule or two, but to balance that, we parents must provide opportunities for teenagers to develop essential life skills such as leadership, critical thinking, and independence (Yes, from us too. I know…it sucks.). 

There is no better classroom than the one in nature. Backpacking trips for teens are the perfect arena for young people to develop these new skills outside of their high school. These are the things a person can’t buy that’ll serve them as they build a healthy life. 

The problem is that many of us parents work and can’t take time off to take our teens on outdoor backpacking adventures. And even if we could, they probably wouldn’t want to spend so much time with us anyway! At these sensitive ages, it’s best for our teens to hang in the natural world with a small group of kids their own age, guided by seasoned professionals.

California, being the year-round playground that it is, has a wide variety of beautiful national and state parks for unique experiences backpacking, including Yosemite, Lake Tahoe, and Joshua Tree. Here are some of our favorite companies that lead outdoor expeditions in California. Each trip pairs teens, who aren’t required to have any prior outdoor campingexperience, with wildlife experts to give them the backpacking trip of a lifetime. And maybe make them less surly.

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Bold Earth Adventures

Although Bold Earth Adventures is an outdoor adventure company based in North Carolina, they lead exhilarating outdoor experiences for teens throughout the United States, North America, and longer trips around the world. A few unique experiences include backpacking in the Pacific Northwest, hiking Kilimanjaro, whitewater rafting in California, and surfing in Costa Rica. 

There are three California trips available that are divided by age. Teen voyagers can participate in adventurous activities like kayaking in Monterey, hiking in Big Sur, and exploring Fisherman’s Wharf in San Francisco. To heighten the developmental experience, some Bold Earth Adventure trips engage teens in community service projects during their adventures. Kids may embark on beach clean-ups, community garden work, or helping out in schools. 

• Price: -$3,988-$8,588 
• Length: 12-21 days

Lasting Adventures

Lasting Adventures brings teens guided backpacking trips in Yosemite National Park, Olympic National Park, and Lassen Volcanic National Park. 

The Hidden Northern Yosemite trip is a 42-mile, 6-day trip in Yosemite National Park. The guided tour takes teens through deep canyons, dense forests, alpine peaks, and ridges. Teens will camp alongside rivers, lakes and Slide Canyon with expansive views of the Sierra Nevadas. 

• Price: – $600 – $7,880
• Length: 1 – 27 days

Tahoe Rim Trail Association

The Tahoe Rim Trail Association founders created the program to inspire teens to take care of our planet by first preserving the hiking trails around Lake Tahoe. Different age groups, including adults and young adults, backpack the Lake Tahoe region, work on projects designed to maintain the fragile ecosystem and fall in love with the outdoors. There are day programs, too for those who want to try it out without committing.

In the youth program, trail experts lead groups of kids ages 12-14 and 14-17 backpacking around Lake Tahoe’s rim for 3-6 miles each day. For many, it will be their first time participating in such an intensive experience. As they take ownership of their areas, they’ll learn leadership skills and get a chance to support one another in the wild. After their day’s hikes, campers gather around the campfire and do some backcountry cooking over a camping stove. They’re sure to drift off under the stars.

Payment is on a sliding scale with tiers of $225, $445, or $665. Families are encouraged to pay what they can to support the program. This payment includes food, camping and group gear, permits, and transportation. 

• Price $225 – $665 (scholarships available)
• Length: 4 days

Adventure Treks

Adventure Treks brings kids in grades 8 and 9 on 3-week-long backpacking trips located all across the US. Their goal is to create a sense of community, giving adventurers a place to make friends and create new memories. 

Outdoor activities include mountain biking, kayaking, rock climbing, and white water rafting. Trips in California will allow campers to backpack along the Lost Coast in Northern California, including wilderness areas such as Humboldt Redwoods State Park, Rogue and American Rivers, Mt. Shasta, and Mt. Shastina. 

The price includes all meals, camping gear, and access to activities. 

• Price: $5,295
• Length: 20 days

Sierra Club Outings

Sierra Club Outings is a budget-friendly experience that takes teens ages 13-17 on one 8-day trip during the summer near Kennedy Meadows Resort in Northern California.

This is a moderately paced trip for teens who enjoy new adventures and being outdoors. Backpackers will spend most days hiking through the High Sierra. This is an adventure in roughing it, meaning none of the comforts most teens have grown up with, like piped water, cell service, and electricity, will be available as they camp in the wilderness. Teens will have a completely unplugged experience using their own gear and a sleeping bag.

This trip includes guided tours, meals, permits, and gear. 

• Price: $535 
• Length : 8 days

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Apogee Adventures

Apogee Adventures provides tween and teen adventures in the Caribbean, Canada, the United States, and Europe. The program aspires to promote diversity, equity, and inclusion by bringing a variety of perspectives and experiences to each group that takes a trip with them. They do this by extending scholarships to communities not historically connected to outdoor experiences and making an effort to employ a diverse staff. 

The California trip is open to teens 13-15 years old and is concentrated in the San Francisco Bay Area. Teens will kayak the calm waters of Point Reyes’ Tomales Bay, backpack along Point Reyes National Seashore, hike Big Sur State Park, surf, and volunteer with park rangers to clean beaches in Half Moon Bay.

Make sure to check out 15 Best Travel Backpacks  in order to make the most of your adventure!

This California trip includes meals, permits, and gear. 

• Length: 13 days
• Price: $4199

Teens have a bad rap. But these 7 backpacking trips help them develop life skills like leadership, critical thinking, and independence to set them on a good path.

Weaving Earth

Weaving Earth is a Native American-based organization that educates from a holistic perspective. Since they believe that everything is connected, their nature-based educational approach promotes ecological and social change through the examination of relationships. Weaving Earth teaches that the territories upon which their camp sits and explores are the ancestral lands of the Pomo, Coast Miwok, Onatsatis, and other Native American nations. Staff members also use this information to educate teens to recognize the barriers marginalized groups face. 

This agency hosts week-long backpacking trips for teens in groups of 12. This is a great way for high schoolers to experience hikes, overnight camps, swimming, and horseback riding while going on a backcountry trip along the Marble Mountains. 

Payment for these expeditions is on a slider scale. Families are encouraged to pay what they can in order to make the experience accessible to all. For more information, including trip dates, click here . 

• Price:  $600 – $1200
• Length: 7 days

DON’T MISS! 13 Best Hikes In New England For Families

The invention of social media has made it easy for teens to see other places in the world. However, technology can’t replicate the feeling of waking up in the sunshine to the scent of pine needles and the sound of birds chirping in the trees directly above. It also can’t replace the sense of accomplishment from overcoming fears and boundaries or those lifelong friendships created from walking through those experiences with others.

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Planning a trip to Moscow? Our travel guide contains up-to-date, personal information on everything from what to see , to when to visit , where to stay , and what to eat !

• General Information
• What to see
• How to get to Moscow
• Where to stay
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Why visit Moscow?

Majestic churches, impressive historic fortresses, and palatial buildings: Moscow is a fascinating city whose emblematic architecture reflects the turbulent history that has defined Russia throughout the centuries.

The traces of the USSR can be found around every corner of the city , side by side with the iconic relics of Imperial Russia , like the mythical Red Square , the imposing Kremlin , and the beautiful  St Basil's Cathedral . 

Discover a fascinating world of Cold War bunkers, golden-domed basilicas, world-class art museums, and the legendary "palace of the people,"  as the Moscow Metro has been nicknamed. Whether you fancy watching a classical Russian ballet at the Bolshoi Theatre , perusing the fine arts at the Pushkin Museum , or marveling at the sheer size of the monuments to the Soviet state's achievements at the  All-Russia Exhibition Centre , this travel guide will help you on your way!

Where to start?

If you're going to travel to Moscow and you don't know much about the city yet, the first thing to do is to dive into its legendary history - understanding the past will help you understand the present. Next, check out our practical hints and tips on traveling to the city before discovering which of its most important museums , monuments , and attractions pique your interest.

Looking for a place to stay?

Booking your accommodation in advance is the best way to get great discounts. Our detailed guide on where to stay in Moscow  will help you decide which neighborhood you'd like to look for hotels or apartments in, and our hotel search engine will find you the best deals!

Why is our Moscow travel guide the best?

Introducing Moscow is a  city guide written by travelers for travelers  and contains personalized advice to help you make the most of your trip to the city.

All the information in this guide is valid as of December 2022. If you find any errors or have any comments, please feel free to contact us .

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Finding Inspiration: The Nature of Community

I was hungry for an adventure and itching to get away from life stressors, so I signed up for the Outdoor Program’s California Coast backpacking trip. All I brought were my clothes and eating utensils – they provided the rest. Backpacking had been on my bucket list for a long time, so I was ecstatic to check it off.

At 7:00 a.m. on the first Saturday of spring break, 10 tired college students, myself included, piled into a 12-passenger van with backpacks stuffed to the brim with camping gear. I was curled up in the back corner next to my roommates and some international students I’d met only once before the trip. We spent the next 12 hours learning about each others’ cultures, asking questions about our lives, telling stories, reading out loud and taking intermittent naps.

The minute we got to our first campground in Jedediah Smith State Park, I felt relief — both from the feeling of getting out of the van and knowing the adventure was about to begin. We all set up our tents and cooked burgers in the dark before going to sleep to the sound of the Smith River rushing past the campground.

The next morning I looked up and saw the sunlight poking through the California Redwoods that surrounded me. I was at peace.

I powered off my phone and recharged my soul.

Learning new things

You really get to know someone when you spend a week camping and hiking with them. There’s something about conversations on the trails that hit different. Whether it was playing a game of 20 questions or learning words in a different language, or even talking about our perceptions of God, the group of strangers became closer every day.

California Redwoods, despite being some of the tallest trees in the world, have shallow roots that are interwoven with the trees next to them. These massive trees support each other so they’re able to stand tall. This reminds me of the importance of community. Having a community of people that support and encourage you through life’s storms and keep you rooted in love helps us grow upward.

I also learned many more nuggets from my knowledge from my hiking buddies that:

• Ferns are “fractals” which is a pattern that is repeated over and over down to the microscopic level.
• The “cap” of my 70-liter backpack is called the “brain” which is where you keep the things you want easily accessible.
• Trekking poles are lifesavers for your shoulders and knees.
• “The trees are incredible” in French is “les arbres sont incroyables.”

Making connections to life

One of my favorite conversations was with a friend from Japan who always wore a smile and was prompted by curiosity. We sat on the beach drawing elementary maps of our homelands in the sand, and I traced an upward diagonal line with dips along the way to explain how life had been going. Despite a minor language barrier, we were able to connect on shared experiences and learn from each other through pictures.  I learned that no matter where people were are from or what they’ve experienced, there’s always some kind of common ground to be found — that’s where friendship is born.

This backpacking trip was a symbol of what this school year has felt like. I anticipated the journey with anxious excitement but was met with obstacles and grew tired the longer the trail continued. My 40-pound backpack felt heavier and heavier, but I got used to the weight and kept trudging along until I heard the faint roar of the ocean encouraging me that I was almost there. When I broke through the forest, I was surrounded by light and overwhelmed with a sense of relief that I could take my backpack off and run to the water for refreshment.

The moments of reflection and peace on this trip reminded me of the importance of being somewhere or doing something that revitalizes me amidst the demands of life. For me, it’s going outside and exploring, better yet, with friends. As the sun starts showing up again, look for pockets of time to get outside and get a breath of fresh air.

I can’t recommend the Outdoor Program’s outdoor trips enough! If I didn’t sign up, I wouldn’t have made the connections and had the conversations with the adventure seekers I met and now call friends.

That’s the nature of community.

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Home » Europe » Moscow

EPIC MOSCOW Itinerary! (2024)

Moscow is the heart of Mother Russia. Just the mention of this city conjures images of colorful bulbous pointed domes, crisp temperatures, and a uniquely original spirit!

Moscow has an incredibly turbulent history, a seemingly resilient culture, and a unique enchantment that pulls countless tourists to the city each year! Although the warmer months make exploring Moscow’s attractions more favorable, there’s just something about a fresh snowfall that only enhances the appearance of the city’s iconic sites!

If you’re a first-time visitor to Moscow, or simply wanting to see as much of the city as possible, this Moscow itinerary will help you do just that!

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Best Time To Visit Moscow

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Here is a quick look at the seasons so you can decide when to visit Moscow!

The summer months (June-August) are a great time to travel to Moscow to take advantage of the enjoyable mild temperatures. This is considered peak travel season. Bear in mind that hotel prices rise along with the temperatures!

If you’re planning a trip to Moscow during fall (September-November) try to plan for early fall. This way the temperatures will still be pleasant and winter won’t be threatening.

Russian winters (December-February) are not for the faint of heart as Napoleon learned to his peril. Some days the sun will be out for less than an hour, and snow is guaranteed. Although winters are exceptionally cold, this is when you’ll get a true glimpse of the Moscow experience!

The best time to visit Moscow is during spring  (March-May). The temperatures will begin to creep up and the sun begins to shine for significant portions of the day. Hotel rates will also have yet to skyrocket into peak ranges!

With a Moscow City Pass , you can experience the best of Moscow at the CHEAPEST prices. Discounts, attractions, tickets, and even public transport are all standards in any good city pass – be sure invest now and save them $$$ when you arrive!

Moscow is a large city with many accommodation options to choose from. Staying in a location that fits with your travel plans will only enhance your Moscow itinerary. Here is a brief introduction to a few great areas of the city we recommend checking out!

The best place to stay in Moscow to be close to all the action is Kitay-Gorod. This charming neighborhood will put you within walking distance to Moscow’s famous Red Square, thus cutting down on travel time. This will allow you to see more of the city in a shorter amount of time!

It’s surrounded by restaurants, cafes, bars, and shops. If you’re a first-time visitor to Moscow, or just planning a quick weekend in Moscow, then this area is perfect for you!

Another great area to consider is the Zamoskvorechye district. This area of the city offers a blend of new and old Moscow. It has an artsy vibe and there are plenty of fun sites you can explore outside of the main touristy areas of Moscow.

Of course, as in all areas of Moscow, it’s close to public transportation that will quickly connect you with the rest of the city and make your Moscow itinerary super accessible!

Best Airbnb in Moscow – Exclusive Apartment in Old Moscow

Modern and cozy, this apartment is in the heart of Old Moscow. Bordering the Basmanny and Kitay-Gorod districts, this two-bedroom flat is walking distance to the Kremlin and Red Square. Safe, quiet, and comfortable, this is the best Airbnb in Moscow, no question!

Best Budget Hotel in Moscow – Izmailovo Alfa Hotel

The Izmailovo Alfa Hotel is a very highly rated accommodation that provides all the components necessary for a comfortable trip to Moscow. There is an on-site restaurant, bar, fitness center, and an airport shuttle service. The rooms are modern and spacious and are equipped with a TV, heating/air conditioning, minibar, and more!

Best Luxury Hotel in Moscow – Crowne Plaza Moscow World Trade Centre

If you’re touring Moscow in luxury, the Crowne Plaza Moscow World Trade Centre is the hotel for you! Elegantly furnished rooms are equipped with a minibar, flat-screen TV,  in-room safes, as well as tea and coffee making facilities! Bathrooms come with bathrobes, slippers, and free toiletries. There is also an onsite restaurant, bar, and fitness center.

Best Hostel in Moscow – Godzillas Hostel

Godzillas Hostel is located in the center of Moscow, just a short walk from all the major tourist attractions and the metro station. Guests will enjoy all the usual hostel perks such as self-catering facilities, 24-hour reception, Free Wi-Fi, and security lockers. This is one of the best hostels in Moscow and its wonderful social atmosphere and will make your vacation in Moscow extra special!

Godzillas Hostel is one of our favourites in Moscow but they’re not taking guests right now. We’re not sure if they’re closed for good but we hope they’ll come back soon.

An important aspect of planning any trip is figuring out the transportation situation. You’re probably wondering how you’re going to get to all of your Moscow points of interest right? Luckily, this sprawling city has an excellent network of public transportation that will make traveling a breeze!

The underground metro system is the quickest and most efficient way to travel around Moscow. Most visitors rely exclusively on this super-efficient transportation system, which allows you to get to pretty much anywhere in the city! It’s also a great option if you’re planning a Moscow itinerary during the colder months, as you’ll be sheltered from the snow and freezing temperatures!

If you prefer above-ground transportation, buses, trams, and trolleybuses, run throughout the city and provide a rather comfortable alternative to the metro.

Moscow’s metro, buses, trams, and trolleybuses are all accessible with a ‘Troika’ card. This card can be topped up with any sum of money at a metro cash desk. The ticket is simple, convenient, and even refundable upon return to a cashier!

No matter which method you choose, you’ll never find yourself without an easy means of getting from point A to point B!

Red Square | Moscow Kremlin | Lenin’s Mausoleum | St. Basil’s Cathedral  | GUM Department Store

Spend the first day of your itinerary taking your own self guided Moscow walking tour around the historic Red Square! This is Moscow’s compact city center and every stop on this list is within easy walking distance to the next! Get ready to see all of the top Moscow landmarks!

Day 1 / Stop 1 – The Red Square

• Why it’s awesome: The Red Square is the most recognizable area in Moscow, it has mesmerizing architecture and centuries worth of history attached to its name.
• Cost: Free to walk around, individual attractions in the square have separate fees. 
• Food nearby: Check out Bar BQ Cafe for friendly service and good food in a great location! The atmosphere is upbeat and they’re open 24/7!

The Red Square is Moscow’s historic fortress and the center of the Russian government. The origins of the square date back to the late 15th century, when Ivan the Great decided to expand the Kremlin to reflect Moscow’s growing power and prestige!

During the 20th century, the square became famous as the site for demonstrations designed to showcase Soviet strength. Visiting the Red Square today, you’ll find it teeming with tourists, who come to witness its magical architecture up close!

The square is the picture postcard of Russian tourism, so make sure to bring your camera when you visit! No matter the season, or the time of day, it’s delightfully photogenic! 

It’s also home to some of Russia’s most distinguishing and important landmarks, which we’ve made sure to include further down in this itinerary. It’s an important center of Russia’s cultural life and one of the top places to visit in Moscow!

In 1990, UNESCO designated Russia’s Red Square as a World Heritage site. Visiting this historic site is a true bucket-list event and essential addition to your itinerary for Moscow!

Day 1 / Stop 2 – The Moscow Kremlin

• Why it’s awesome: The Moscow Kremlin complex includes several palaces and cathedrals and is surrounded by the Kremlin wall. It also houses the principal museum of Russia (the Kremlin Armory).
• Cost: USD $15.00
• Food nearby: Bosco Cafe is a charming place to grat a casual bite to eat. They have excellent coffee and wonderful views of the Red Square and the Moscow Kremlin!

The iconic Moscow Kremlin , also known as the Kremlin museum complex, sits on Borovitsky Hill, rising above the Moscow River. It is a fortified complex in the center of the city, overlooking several iconic buildings in the Red Square!

It’s the best known of the Russian Kremlins – citadels or fortress’ protecting and dominating a city. During the early decades of the Soviet era, the Kremlin was a private enclave where the state’s governing elite lived and worked.

The Kremlin is outlined by an irregularly shaped triangular wall that encloses an area of 68 acres! The existing walls and towers were built from 1485 to 1495. Inside the Kremlin museum complex, there are five palaces, four cathedrals, and the enclosing Kremlin Wall with Kremlin towers.

The Armoury Chamber is a part of the Grand Kremlin Palace’s complex and is one of the oldest museums of Moscow, established in 1851. It showcases Russian history and displays many cherished relics. Definitely make sure to check out this museum while you’re here!

The churches inside the Moscow Kremlin are the Cathedral of the Dormition, Church of the Archangel, Church of the Annunciation, and the bell tower of Ivan Veliki (a church tower).

The five-domed Cathedral of the Dormition is considered the most famous. It was built from 1475–1479 by an Italian architect and has served as a wedding and coronation place for great princes, tsars, and emperors of Russia. Church services are given in the Kremlin’s numerous cathedrals on a regular basis.

The Grand Kremlin Palace was the former Tsar’s Moscow residence and today it serves as the official workplace of the President of the Russian Federation (Vladimir Putin seems to have bagged that title for life) .

Insider Tip: The Kremlin is closed every Thursday! Make sure to plan this stop on your Moscow itinerary for any other day of the week!

Day 1 / Stop 3 – Lenin’s Mausoleum

• Why it’s awesome: The mausoleum displays the preserved body of Soviet leader Vladimir Lenin .
• Cost: Free!
• Food nearby: Khinkal’naya is a charming Georgian restaurant with vaulted ceilings and exposed brick. It’s a popular place with locals and right next to the Red Square!

Lenin’s Mausoleum, also known as Lenin’s Tomb, is the modernist mausoleum for the revolutionary leader Vladimir Lenin. It’s located within the Red Square and serves as the resting place for the Soviet leader! His preserved body has been on public display since shortly after his death in 1924.

It’s located just a few steps away from the Kremlin Wall and is one of the most controversial yet popular Moscow attractions!

Admission is free for everyone, you’ll only need to pay if you need to check a bag. Before visitors are allowed to enter the mausoleum, they have to go through a metal detector first. No metal objects, liquids, or large bags are allowed in the mausoleum!

Expect a line to enter the building, and while you’re inside the building, you’ll be constantly moving in line with other visitors. This means you won’t be able to spend as long as you’d like viewing the mausoleum, but you’ll still be able to get a good look. Pictures and filming while inside the building are strictly prohibited, and security guards will stop you if they see you breaking this rule.

The mausoleum is only open on Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, and Saturday – unless it’s a public holiday or a day scheduled for maintenance. The hours it’s open for each day are limited, make sure to check online before you visit to make sure you can fit this into your Moscow itinerary for that day!

Insider Tip: The Lenin’s Museum is there for people to pay their respect; remember to keep silent and move along quickly, it’s not intended for people to congregate around. Also, men are not allowed to wear hats and everyone must take their hands out of their pockets when inside the building.

Day 1 / Stop 4 – St. Basil’s Cathedral

• Why it’s awesome: A dazzling designed cathedral that showcases Russia’s unique architecture. This cathedral is one of the most recognizable symbols of the country!
• Cost: USD $8.00
• Food nearby: Moskovskiy Chaynyy Klub is a cozy cafe serving food items and pipping hot tea; it’s the perfect place to go if you’re visiting Moscow during the winter months!

Located in the Red Square, the ornate 16th-century St. Basil’s Cathedral is probably the building you picture when you think of Moscow’s unique architecture. Its colorful onion-shaped domes tower over the Moscow skyline!

The cathedral was built from 1555-1561 by order of Tsar Ivan the Terrible. It was designed with an iconic onion dome facade and enchanting colors that captivate all who see it. Fun fact: If you’re wondering why Russian churches have onion domes, they are popularly believed to symbolize burning candles!

This iconic cathedral has become a symbol of Russia due to its distinguishing architecture and prominent position inside the Red Square. It’s one of the most beautiful, wonderful, and mesmerizing historical cathedrals in the world!

The interior of the church surprises most people when they visit. In contrast to the large exterior, the inside is not so much one large area, but rather a collection of smaller areas, with many corridors and small rooms. There are 9 small chapels and one mausoleum grouped around a central tower.

Visiting the inside is like walking through a maze, there are even small signs all around the cathedral tracing where to walk, and pointing you in the right direction! The walls are meticulously decorated and painted with intricate floral designs and religious themes.

The church rarely holds service and is instead a museum open for the public to visit.

Insider Tip: During the summer months the line to go inside the cathedral can get quite long! Make sure to arrive early or reserve your tickets online to guarantee quick access into the cathedral!

Day 1 / Stop 5 – GUM Department Store

• Why it’s awesome: This is Russia’s most famous shopping mall! It’s designed with elegant and opulent architecture and provides a real sense of nostalgia!
• Cost: Free to enter
• Food nearby: Stolovaya 57 is a cafeteria-style restaurant with a variety of inexpensive Russian cuisine menu items including soups, salads, meat dishes, and desserts. It’s also located inside the GUM department store, making it very easily accessible when you’re shopping!

The enormous GUM Department Store is located within the historic Red Square. It has a whimsical enchantment to it that sets it apart from your typical department store.

A massive domed glass ceiling lines the top of the building and fills the interior with natural sunlight. There are live plants and flowers placed throughout the mall that give the shopping complex a lively and cheerful feel! A playful fountain sits in the center, further adding to the malls inviting a sense of wonder and amusement!

The GUM department store opened on December 2, 1893. Today, it includes local and luxury stores, including Fendi, Louis Vuitton, Prada, and many more! There are numerous cafes, restaurants, and even a movie theater inside!

For a special treat, head into Gastronom 1. This 1950s-style shop sells gourmet food items, like wine, freshly-baked pastries, cheese, Russian chocolate, and of course, vodka! Also, be on the lookout for a bicycle pedaling ice cream truck with an employing selling ice cream!

The ambiance is simply amazing, a trip to this idyllic shopping mall is an absolute must on any Moscow itinerary!

Insider Tip: Make sure to carry some small change on you in case you need to use the restroom, you’ll need to pay 50 rubles – or about USD $0.80 to use the bathroom in GUM.

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These are packing cubes for the globetrotters and compression sacks for the  real adventurers – these babies are a traveller’s best kept secret. They organise yo’ packing and minimise volume too so you can pack MORE.

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Novodevichy Convent | Gorky Park | State Tretyakov Gallery | All-Russian Exhibition Center | Bolshoi Theater

On your 2 day itinerary in Moscow, you’ll have a chance to use the city’s excellent public transportation service! You’ll explore a few more of Moscow’s historic highlight as well as some modern attractions. These sites are a little more spread out, but still very easily accessible thanks to the metro!

Day 2 / Stop 1 – Novodevichy Convent

• Why it’s awesome: The Novodevichy Convent is rich in imperial Russian history and contains some of Russia’s best examples of classical architecture!
• Cost: USD $5.00
• Food nearby: Culinary Shop Karavaevs Brothers is a cozy and simple place to have a quick bite, they also have vegetarian options!

The Novodevichy Convent is the best-known and most popular cloister of Moscow. The convent complex is contained within high walls, and there are many attractions this site is known for! 

The six-pillared five-domed Smolensk Cathedral is the main attraction. It was built to resemble the Kremlin’s Assumption Cathedral and its facade boasts beautiful snowy white walls and a pristine golden onion dome as its centerpiece. It’s the oldest structure in the convent, built from 1524 -1525, and is situated in the center of the complex between the two entrance gates.

There are other churches inside the convent as well, all dating back from many centuries past. The convent is filled with an abundance of 16th and 17th-century religious artworks, including numerous large and extravagant frescos!

Just outside the convent’s grounds lies the Novodevichy Cemetery. Here, you can visit the graves of famous Russians, including esteemed authors, composers, and politicians. Probably the most intriguing gravestone belongs to Russian politician Nikita Khruschev!

The Novodevichy Convent is located near the Moscow River and offers a peaceful retreat from the busy city. In 2004, it was proclaimed a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The convent remains remarkably well-preserved and is an outstanding example of Moscow Baroque architecture! 

Insider Tip: To enter the cathedrals inside the complex, women are advised to cover their heads and shoulders, while men should wear long pants.

Day 2 / Stop 2 – Gorky Central Park of Culture and Leisure

• Why it’s awesome: A large amusement area in the heart of the city offering many attractions!
• Cost: Free! 
• Food nearby: Check out Mepkato, located inside Gorky Central Park for a casual meal in a cozy setting. There are indoor and outdoor seating options and the restaurant is child-friendly!

Gorky Central Park of Culture and Leisure is a large green space in the heart of Moscow. The park opened in 1928, and it stretches along the scenic embankment of the Moskva River. It covers an area of 300-acres and offers a lovely contrast from the compact city center.

You’ll find all sorts of wonderful attractions, from boat rides to bike rentals to tennis courts and ping-pong tables, and much more! there are an open-air cinema and festive events and concerts scheduled in the summer months.  A wide selection of free fitness classes is also offered on a regular basis, including jogging, roller skating, and dancing!

Although many of the options you’ll find here are more suited for outdoor leisure during the summer, you’ll also a selection of winter attractions, including one of Europe’s largest ice rinks for ice-skating!

If you’re trying to decide what to do in Moscow with kids, the park also offers several venues designed specifically for kids. Check out the year-round Green School which offers hands-on classes in gardening and art! You can also feed the squirrels and birds at the Golitsinsky Ponds!

The park is very well maintained and kept clean and the entrance is free of charge, although most individual attractions cost money. There is also Wi-Fi available throughout the park.

With so many attractions, you could easily spend all day here! If you’re only planning a 2 day itinerary in Moscow, make sure to plan your time accordingly and map out all the areas you want to see beforehand!

Day 2 / Stop 3 – The State Tretyakov Gallery

• Why it’s awesome: The gallery’s collection consists entirely of Russian art made by Russian artists!
• Food nearby : Brothers Tretyakovs is located right across the street from the gallery. It’s a wonderfully atmospheric restaurant serving top quality food and drinks!

The State Tretyakov Gallery was founded in 1856 by influential merchant and collector Pavel Tretyakov.  The gallery is a national treasury of Russian fine art and one of the most important museums in Russia!

It houses the world’s best collection of Russian art and contains more than 130, 000 paintings, sculptures, and graphics! These works have been created throughout the centuries by generations of Russia’s most talented artists!

The exhibits range from mysterious 12th-century images to politically charged canvases. The collection is rich and revealing and offers great insight into the history and attitudes of this long-suffering yet inspired people!

All pictures are also labeled in English. If you plan to take your time and see everything inside the museum it will take a good 3-4 hours, so make sure to plan your Moscow trip itinerary accordingly! This gallery is a must-see stop for art lovers, or anyone wanting to explore the local culture and history of Russia in a creative and insightful manner! 

Insider Tip: When planning your 2 days in Moscow itinerary, keep in mind that most museums in Moscow are closed on Mondays, this includes The State Tretyakov Gallery!

Day 2 / Stop 4 – All-Russian Exhibition Center

• Why it’s awesome: This large exhibition center showcases the achievements of the Soviet Union in several different spheres. 
• Food nearby: Varenichnaya No. 1 serves authentic and homestyle Russian cuisine in an intimate and casual setting.

The All-Russian Exhibition Center is a massive park that presents the glory of the Soviet era! It pays homage to the achievements of Soviet Russia with its many different sites found on the property.

The center was officially opened in 1939 to exhibit the achievements of the Soviet Union. It’s a huge complex of buildings and the largest exhibition center in Moscow. There are several exhibition halls dedicated to different achievements and every year there are more than one hundred and fifty specialized exhibitions!

The Peoples Friendship Fountain was constructed in 1954 and is a highlight of the park. The stunning gold fountain features 16 gilded statues of girls, each representing the former Soviet Union republics. 

The Stone Flower Fountain was also built in 1954 and is worth checking out. The centerpiece of this large fountain is a flower carved from stones from the Ural Mountains! Along the side of the fountain are various bronze sculptures.

You will find many people zipping around on rollerblades and bicycles across the large area that the venue covers. It’s also home to amusement rides and carousels, making it the perfect place to stop with kids on your Moscow itinerary! Make sure to wear comfortable shoes and allow a few hours to explore all the areas that interest you!

Day 2 / Stop 5 – Bolshoi Theater

• Why it’s awesome: The Bolshoi Theater is a historic venue that hosts world-class ballet and opera performances!
• Cost: Prices vary largely between USD $2.00 –  USD $228.00 based on seat location.
• Food nearby: Head to the Russian restaurant, Bolshoi for high-quality food and drinks and excellent service!

The Bolshoi Theater is among the oldest and most renowned ballet and opera companies in the world! It also boasts the world’s biggest ballet company, with more than 200 dancers!

The theater has been rebuilt and renovated several times during its long history. In 2011 it finished its most recent renovation after an extensive six-year restoration that started in 2005. The renovation included an improvement in acoustics and the restoration of the original Imperial decor.

The Bolshoi Theater has put on many of the world’s most famous ballet acts! Tchaikovsky’s ballet Swan Lake premiered at the theater in 1877 and other notable performances of the Bolshoi repertoire include Tchaikovsky’s The Sleeping Beauty and The Nutcracker!

Today, when you visit the theater, you can expect a magical performance from skilled singers, dancers, and musicians with the highest level of technique!

If you don’t have time to see a show, the theater also provides guided tours on select days of the week. Tours are given in both Russian and English and will provide visitors with a more intimate look at the different areas of the theater!

The stage of this iconic Russian theater has seen many outstanding performances. If you’re a fan of the performing arts, the Bolshoi Theater is one of the greatest and oldest ballet and opera companies in the world, making it a must-see attraction on your Moscow itinerary!

Godzillas Hostel

Godzillas Hostel is located in the center of Moscow, just a short walk from all the major tourist attractions and the metro station.

• Towels Included

Cosmonautics Museum | Alexander Garden | Ostankino Tower | Izmaylovo District | Soviet Arcade Museum

Now that we’ve covered what to do in Moscow in 2 days, if you’re able to spend more time in the city you’re going to need more attractions to fill your time. Here are a few more really cool things to do in Moscow we recommend!

Memorial Museum of Cosmonautics

• Hear the timeline of the ‘space race’ from the Russian perspective
• This museum is fun for both adults and children!
• Admission is USD $4.00

The Memorial Museum of Cosmonautics is a museum dedicated to space exploration! The museum explores the history of flight, astronomy, space exploration, space technology, and space in the arts. It houses a large assortment of Soviet and Russian space-related exhibits, and the museum’s collection holds approximately 85,000 different items!

The museum does an excellent job of telling the full story of the exciting space race between the USSR and the US! It highlights the brightest moments in Russian history and humanity and is very interesting and fun for all ages!

If you’re a fan of space or just curious about gaining insight into Russia’s fascinating history of space exploration, make sure to add this to your 3 day itinerary in Moscow!

The Alexander Garden

• A tranquil place to relax near the Red Square
• Green lawns dotted with sculptures and lovely water features
• The park is open every day and has no entrance fee

The Alexander Garden was one of the first urban public parks in Moscow! The garden premiered in 1821 and was built to celebrate Russia’s victory over Napoleon’s forces in 1812!

The park is beautiful and well maintained with paths to walk on and benches to rest on. The park contains three separate gardens: the upper garden, middle garden, and lower garden.

Located in the upper garden, towards the main entrance to the park is the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier with its eternal flame. This monument was created in 1967 and contains the body of a soldier who fell during the Great Patriotic War!

The park stretches along all the length of the western Kremlin wall for about half a mile. Due to its central location in the city, it’ll be easily accessible when you’re out exploring The Red Square.

It provides a bit of relief from the city’s high-energy city streets. Bring a picnic lunch, go for a walk, or just sit and people watch, this is one of the best Moscow sites to wind-down and relax!

Ostankino Television Tower

• Television and radio tower in Moscow
• Currently the tallest free-standing structure in Europe
• Make sure you bring your passport when you visit, you can’t go up without it!

For spectacular views of the city, make sure to add the Ostankino Television Tower to your itinerary for Moscow! This impressive free-standing structure provides stunning views of the city in every direction. The glass floor at the top also provides great alternative views of the city!

It takes just 58 seconds for visitors to reach the Tower’s observation deck by super fast elevator. The tower is open every day for long hours and is a great site in Moscow to check out! There is even a restaurant at the top where you can enjoy rotating views of the city while you dine on traditional Russian cuisine or European cuisine!

The tower is somewhat of an architectural surprise in a city that is not known for skyscrapers! To see the city from a new perspective, make sure to add this stop to your Moscow itinerary!

Izmaylovo District

• The most popular attractions in this district are the kremlin and the flea market
• Outside of the city center and easy to reach via metro
• Most popular during the summer and on weekends

Travel outside the city center and discover a unique area of the city! The Izmaylovo District is a popular destination for locals and tourists alike, and one of the coolest places to see in Moscow! The two main attractions we recommend checking out are the Kremlin and the flea market.

The Izmailovo Kremlin was established as a cultural center and molded after traditional Russian architecture. This colorful complex is home to several single-subject museums, including a Russian folk art museum and a vodka museum!

Next to the Kremlin is the Izmailovo open-air market, which dates back to the 17th century! The market is connected to the Izmailovo Kremlin by a wooden bridge. Pick up all your Russian souvenirs here, including traditional handicrafts, paintings, books, retro toys, and Soviet memorabilia!

You will find many hand-made and hand-painted options available at higher prices, as well as mass-produced souvenir options at lower prices!

Museum of Soviet Arcade Games

• Closed on Mondays
• Filled with old arcade games that visitors get to try out!
• The museum also includes a small cafe and burger shop

For something a little different, check out the Museum of Soviet Arcade Games! The museum features roughly 60 machines from the Soviet era, including video games, pinball machines, and collaborative hockey foosball! The machines inside the museum were produced in the USSR in the mid-1970s.

The best part is, most of the games are still playable! Purchase tickets and try the games out for yourself! The museum also has a neat little screening room that plays old Soviet cartoons and an area with Soviet magazines! This unique attraction is a fun addition to a 3 day itinerary in Moscow, and an attraction that all ages will enjoy! 

Whether you’re spending one day in Moscow, or more, safety is an important thing to keep in mind when traveling to a big city! Overall, Moscow is a very safe place to visit. However, it is always recommended that tourists take certain precautions when traveling to a new destination!

The police in Moscow is extremely effective at making the city a safe place to visit and do their best to patrol all of the top Moscow, Russia tourist attractions. However, tourists can still be a target for pickpockets and scammers.

Moscow has a huge flow of tourists, therefore there is a risk for pickpocketing. Simple precautions will help eliminate your chances of being robbed. Stay vigilant, keep your items close to you at all times, and don’t flash your valuables!

If you’re planning a solo Moscow itinerary, you should have no need to worry, as the city is also considered safe for solo travelers, even women. Stay in the populated areas, try and not travel alone late at night, and never accept rides from strangers or taxis without a meter and correct signage.

The threat of natural disasters in Moscow is low, with the exception of severe winters when the temperature can dip below freezing! Bring a good, warm jacket if you visit in Winter.

However, please note that Russian views on homsexuality are far less accepting than those in Western Europe. Likewise, Non-Caucasian travellers may sadly encounter racism in Russia .

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Now that we’ve covered all the top things to see in Moscow, we thought we’d include some exciting day trips to other areas of the country!

Sergiev Posad (Golden Ring)

On this 7-hour guided tour, you’ll visit several scenic and historic areas of Russia. Start your day with hotel pick-up as you’re transferred by a comfortable car or minivan to Sergiev Posad. Admire the charming Russian countryside on your drive and enjoy a quick stop to visit the Russian village, Rudonezh!

You’ll see the majestic Saint Spring and the Church of Sergiev Radonezh. You’ll also visit the UNESCO World Heritage Site, Trinity Lavra of St. Sergius, one of the most famous Orthodox sites in Russia!

Lastly, you’ll swing by the local Matreshka market and enjoy a break in a nice Russian restaurant before returning to Moscow!

Day Trip to Vladimir and Suzdal

On this 13-hour trip, you’ll discover old Russia, with its picturesque landscapes and white-stoned beautiful churches! You’ll visit the main towns of the famous Golden Ring of Russia – the name for several cities and smaller towns north-east of Moscow.

Your first stop will be in the town of Vladimir, the ancient capital of all Russian principalities. The city dates back to the 11th century and is one of the oldest and the most important towns along the Ring! Next, you’ll visit Suzdal, a calm ancient Russian town north of Vladimir with only 13,000 inhabitants!

The old-style architecture and buildings of Suzdal are kept wonderfully intact. If you’re spending three days in Moscow, or more, this is a great option for exploring the charming areas outside the city!

Zvenigorod Day Trip and Russian Countryside

On this 9-hour private tour, you’ll explore the ancient town of Zvenigorod, one of the oldest towns in the Moscow region! As you leave Moscow you’ll enjoy the stunning scenery along the Moscow River, and make a few stops at old churches along the way to Zvenigorod.

Upon arrival, you’ll explore the medieval center, including the 14th-century Savvino-Storozhevsky Monastery. Next, you’ll take a break for lunch (own expense) where you’ll have the chance to try out the Russian cuisine! Next, you’ll visit the Museum of Russian Dessert and sip on tea at a Russian tea ceremony.

The final stop of the day is at the Ershovo Estate, a gorgeous place to walk around and enjoy nature!

Day Trip to St Petersburg by Train visiting Hermitage & Faberge

On this full-day tour, you’ll enjoy a a full round trip to St Petersburg where you’ll spend an exciting day exploring another popular Russian city! You’ll be picked up from your hotel in Moscow and be transferred to the train station where you’ll ride the high-speed train ‘Sapsan’ to St Petersburg.

Upon arrival, you’ll start the day by touring the Hermitage Museum and the Winter Palace. Next, you’ll visit the Faberge Museum, where you’ll explore the impressive collection of rare Faberge Eggs! In the afternoon, enjoy a sightseeing boat ride and a traditional 3-course Russian lunch.

If you’re spending 3 days in Moscow, or more, this is an excellent trip to take!

Trip to Kolomna – Authentic Cultural Experience from Moscow

On this 10-hour tour, you’ll escape the city and travel to the historic town of Kolomna! First, you’ll visit the 14th-century Kolomna Kremlin, home to the Assumption Cathedral and an abundance of museums!

Next, enjoy lunch at a local cafe (own expense) before embarking on a tour of the Marshmallow Museum – of course, a marshmallow tasting is provided!  Your final stop is the Museum of Forging Settlements, where displays include armor and accessories for fishing and hunting.

Discover this beautiful Russian fairytale city on a private trip, where all of the planning is taken care of for you!

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Find out what people want to know when planning their Moscow itinerary.

How many days you need in Moscow?

We recommend that you spend at least two or three days in Moscow to take it all in.

What’s the best month to visit Moscow?

The best time to visit Moscow is over the spring, from March to May as temperatures are mild, crowds are thin and prices are reasonable.

What are some unusual things to do in Moscow?

I mean, queuing up to see an almost 100 year old corpse is pretty unsual! Check out Lenin’s Mausoleum if you fancy it!

What are some fun things to do in Moscow?

The Memorial Museum of Cosmonautics is a fun place to explore the famous space race from the perspective of the ‘other side’!

We hope you enjoyed our Moscow itinerary! We’ve made sure to cover all the Moscow must-sees as well as some unique attractions in the city! Our addition of insider tips, favorite food stops, and day trips from Moscow is an added bonus and will guarantee you make the most out of your exciting Russian vacation!

Immerse yourself in the modern and traditional Russian lifestyle! Get lost in museums, witness awe-inspiring architecture, and indulge in Russian cuisine! Spend the day strolling through all of the charming sites of Moscow, admiring the beautiful scenery and discovering the city’s fairytale-like enchantment!

And for transparency’s sake, please know that some of the links in our content are affiliate links . That means that if you book your accommodation, buy your gear, or sort your insurance through our link, we earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you). That said, we only link to the gear we trust and never recommend services we don’t believe are up to scratch. Again, thank you!

Alya and Campbell

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Desert Drives and Sea Lion Dives: The Enduring Draws of La Paz, Mexico

New hotels and destination-worthy restaurants now complement the ever-appealing outdoors surrounding La Paz, the capital of Baja California Sur.

The east coast of Baja California Sur is a distinctive mix of ocean and red-hued desert. Credit... Tanveer Badal for The New York Times

Supported by

By Lauren Sloss

• April 3, 2024

For our last night in La Paz, Mexico, we kept it simple: A couple of cans of cold Pacifico, a bench on the malecón, the city’s waterfront promenade, and the sunset glowing orange over the shimmering silver-blue Sea of Cortez. My husband, Alex, and I had spent nearly a week taking scenic desert drives and lazy city strolls, visiting stunning beaches and mountains, and enjoying a steady diet of fish tacos and mezcalitas. But now we were salt-coated and sinking into a blissful exhaustion that comes only after a day spent scuba diving.

La Paz is the capital of Baja California Sur, the Mexican state where some 42 percent of the land and water are natural protected areas , and the city lies on the Sea of Cortez, also known as the Gulf of California, considered one of the world’s most diverse marine environments. Travelers have long been drawn to the region’s glorious outdoors, a distinctive mix of ocean and red-hued desert, to spend days not only diving, but also sailing, kayaking, fishing, kite surfing, mountain biking, camping and hiking.

In recent years, the city has maintained its strong commitment to environmental conservation, but has also welcomed new restaurants and accommodations, meeting a growing desire among many travelers to Mexico for authentic experiences found beyond the walls of an enormous resort.

“This is an adventure destination,” said Luz Maria Zepeda, the director of the city’s tourism board. “We want people who want to explore, who want to preserve the environment the way it is, and to help us protect it.”

Growth, but kept in check

Home to around 300,000 people, La Paz has a decidedly laid-back feel — “The Peace,” it’s aptly named — and is often overshadowed by Los Cabos , a municipality on the state’s southernmost tip that includes San Jose del Cabo and Cabo San Lucas, as well as by tiny Todos Santos , a stylish destination for art and food on the Pacific Coast.

Indeed, while La Paz had a record-breaking 600,000 tourists in 2023, Los Cabos — through cruises and air alone — welcomes 3 million travelers annually .

La Paz’s comparatively modest number of visitors is, in part, a question of access: La Paz’s airport almost exclusively serves domestic destinations, with direct flights primarily from Mexico City and Guadalajara. Most international visitors opt to fly to the larger Los Cabos International Airport and take the two- to three-hour drive to La Paz.

The drive from the airport is its own worthwhile journey, with routes running along the Pacific Coast through Todos Santos and El Pescadero, home to Playa Los Cerritos , a popular surfing destination. A slightly longer, but epically beautiful, drive winds through the Sierra La Laguna mountain range.

La Paz is a walkable city with good roads and ample services. It does not have any large resorts, and there are no current plans to build any: This is not a destination with aspirations of imitating the all-inclusive, tourist-heavy spring break vibes long associated with Cabo. Instead of a waterfront dominated by restricted private access, La Paz has the malecón, which was renovated in 2020 and 2021. Last April, a proposal to build a large port for cruise ships was withdrawn after local pushback .

“We don’t want massive tourism,” said Ivan Félix, the manager of the tour and travel department of the La Paz tourism board. “The idea is not to grow in numbers, but in quality.”

That has translated to a bevy in smaller, higher-end hotel openings: Hotel Indigo , formerly the Costabaja Resort & Spa, was renovated and reopened by IHG in December and Republica Pagana , an adults-only boutique hotel with a rooftop bar and restaurant, welcomed its first guests in January. Grupo Habita opened the Baja Club Hotel in a former colonial villa in 2021 on the malecón. Hilton plans to complete a renovation of the historic La Perla Hotel , which first opened in 1940, by the end of this year.

That sophisticated growth can also be found in the city’s culinary scene, which continues to be dominated by the region’s fresh seafood, flour tortillas and ranch-driven fare like meat-filled molcajetes and snack-sized burritos. Fried fish tacos remain stalwarts, from street stands to casual eateries like Taco Fish La Paz (featured on the Netflix series “Taco Chronicles,”) and Toto Frito , where you can try sustainably farmed totoaba, a fish native to the Sea of Cortez. We feasted on a variety of chilaquiles at Maria California , a popular brunch spot, and inhaled spicy shrimp aguachile at a beach stand at Playa El Tecolote, just north of Balandra. At Los 32 Sabores , a memorable dinner of manta ray and tripe tacos on fresh tortillas and Caesar salads made tableside hinted at the city’s ambition to become a bona fide food and drink destination.

Gratitude Coffee Makers , a coffee bar a few blocks off the malecón, was opened by the husband-and-wife team Sergio Hernández and Gloria Olivera in 2022. The couple work closely with Mexican coffee farmers, ensuring both quality beans and fair labor practices, and host art exhibitions and events at their cafe. They have noticed a decided shift in the restaurant scene in recent years.

“It’s definitely developing. There are a lot of people from the mainland that are coming here and opening restaurants. You can find a lot more things to do,” said Mr. Hernández, who is from Mexico City.

Some of that diversity can be found nearby at Tiger Club , which serves Southeast Asian fare and natural wine. The restaurant is housed on the back patio of Casa Nopal , a showroom and shop specializing in handmade goods from Mexican artisans, both of which opened in 2022. Nearby, Sunrise/Sunset is a natural wine bar that opened in December. Nemi offers riffs on traditional dishes, which might include fresh fish served raw or topped with hoja santa butter, duck confit in flour tortillas or pork belly served with beans and nopales. The restaurant is the first solo project of Alejandro Villagomez, who in 2011 moved from Mexico City where he was chef de cuisine of Pujol .

“La Paz is a magical place,” Mr. Villagomez said. “We are surrounded by sea and desert, and we strive to find the best ingredients both inside and outside the city.”

White sand, cobalt waters

Still, for all of the new hotels and destination-worthy restaurants, the natural world remains La Paz’s main draw. Chrissy Cappellano, a certified master scuba diver trainer from Long Island, in New York, has been living in the city since 2018.

“You have to plan multiple trips to see everything,” she said of the area’s rich marine life. “There’s a time that’s good for whale sharks, for whales, for sea lions.”

I met Ms. Cappellano when she led our daylong dive trip with Carey Dive Center that included a surprise sighting of humpback whales and a swim with whale sharks , the wide-mouthed, filter-feeding fish that can grow up to 30 feet. The rest of the day was spent around the islands of Espírito Santo and Partida — the archipelago is part of an UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, a national park and a 45-minute ride from the city — diving around a protected sea lion colony called Los Islotes . The marine mammals didn’t hesitate to approach our group, performing flips and in some cases, biting onto flippers and dive hoses. Perhaps as spectacular were the schools of sardines, glinting silver in the sun as they whirled around us like confetti.

Care for the environment is a common talking point on dive trips I’ve been on elsewhere in Mexico and around the world; here, it was an actionable part of the agenda. Daily access to whale sharks, which migrate in order to feed in the waters right off the city , is limited to a small number of tour boats at set times. As we boarded our boat after our first dive at Los Islotes, someone spotted a sea lion pup who had been wounded by a fishing hook. Ms. Cappellano quickly sent photos and videos to Rescate de Lobos Marinos , an organization that helps monitor and treat sea lions. Carey also made a point to provide reusable water bottles for the day. (The state as a whole has been strictly limiting single-use plastics since 2018.)

It’s not hard to see how and why visitors fall in love with these cobalt waters, and why local residents are so protective of them. Espiritu Santo is a geological layer cake carved with countless small anchorages, beloved by sailors and fishing enthusiasts. But there’s also much to explore on land — the island is a popular destination for hiking and glamping, while Playa Balandra , famous for its white sand and shallow turquoise waters, is consistently named one of the most beautiful beaches in the country. An easy 20-minute drive from the city center, it is also a protected area, and limits the number of visitors allowed per day, with timed entries at 8 a.m. and 1 p.m. La Ventana, a 40-minute drive, is a famous kite-surfing destination . There’s mountain biking, dune buggying, hiking and camping, too.

“You can pick a beach depending on the wind. There are waterfalls and hot springs. Every sunset here is usually amazing,” Ms. Cappellano said. “There’s just so much nature to be enjoyed.”

Follow New York Times Travel on Instagram and sign up for our weekly Travel Dispatch newsletter to get expert tips on traveling smarter and inspiration for your next vacation. Dreaming up a future getaway or just armchair traveling? Check out our 52 Places to Go in 2024 .

Open Up Your World

Considering a trip, or just some armchair traveling here are some ideas..

52 Places:  Why do we travel? For food, culture, adventure, natural beauty? Our 2024 list has all those elements, and more .

Mumbai:  Spend 36 hours in this fast-changing Indian city  by exploring ancient caves, catching a concert in a former textile mill and feasting on mangoes.

Kyoto:  The Japanese city’s dry gardens offer spots for quiet contemplation  in an increasingly overtouristed destination.

Iceland:  The country markets itself as a destination to see the northern lights. But they can be elusive, as one writer recently found .

Texas:  Canoeing the Rio Grande near Big Bend National Park can be magical. But as the river dries, it’s getting harder to find where a boat will actually float .

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12 Things To Do In Moscow: Complete Guide To A Unique Idaho City

Learn about Moscow, Idaho's history, and all the things to do in this picturesque city.

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There Are More Things To Do While In Moscow, Idaho!

Moscow, Idaho, is a small city with plenty to offer lovers of the outdoors and culture aficionados. Moscow is the county seat of Latah County in the panhandle region of Idaho. It’s known as the home of the University of Idaho, which is a great campus with galleries and gardens for visitors to explore.

Moscow’s landscape is particularly unique as it is set in the Palouse region , an area between Idaho, southeastern Washington, and even Oregon, known for its peculiar rolling green hills, which make it one of the most beautiful vistas in the state . d.

UPDATE: 2023/08/22 16:57 EST BY NOAH STAATS

This article has been refreshed with new stops in Moscow, Idaho, as well as tips, tricks, and things to experience in town. From fun waterslides to nature preserves to beer, here are all the reasons Moscow should be on the itinerary this fall and beyond!

Things To Do

Here is everything travelers need to know about planning a great trip to Moscow, Idaho, including the best time of year to visit, where to eat and drink, and the best activities.

1 Check Out The Historic McConnell Mansion

One thing to do while in Moscow, Idaho, is to go see the McConnel Mansion , located in Moscow's historic neighborhood. Here is where a home built by the former governor sits, now working as a place to learn more about Moscow, as well as see how life and architecture looked back then.

Constructed in 1886, this museum also features period rooms and decor, so it's certainly worth seeing for people in the area.

• Address: 110 S Adams St, Moscow, ID 83843
• Hours: Dependent on season/tour

2 Soak Up The Sun At Hamilton-Lowe Aquatics Center

The next thing to do in Moscow, Idaho, is to check out the Hamilton-Lowe Aquatics Center . Here is where families or groups can enjoy the outdoor seasonal water park with a lazy river, large pool, waterslides & interactive play area.

This aquatic center boasts a great summer itinerary, making it perfect for travelers with children.

• Address: 830 N Mountain View Rd, Moscow, ID 83843
• Hours: Open daily from 12 PM to 7:30 PM (Open at 11 AM on Saturdays and Sundays)
• Tickets: Children 3 and under FREE, Children 4-17 $5.75 including tax, Adults 18-64 $7.75 including tax, Seniors 65+ $5.75 including tax

3 Palouse-Clearwater Environmental Institute

Another idea while in town would be to visit the Palouse-Clearwater Environmental Institute. Here is where people visiting Moscow can explore a 26.2-acre nature preserve in the city, as well as walk around and enjoy the fresh air.

• Address: 1040 Rodeo Dr, Moscow, ID 83843
• Hours: Open Monday - Friday from 9 AM to 5 PM

4 See A Show At The Kenworthy Performing Arts Centre

The next idea for a Moscow, Idaho, visitor is to catch a performance at the city's Kenworthy Performing Arts Centre . Here lies a restored historic theater that offers classic films, community events, and a variety of stage performances.

• Address: 508 S Main St, Moscow, ID 83843

5 Cycle Some Of The Palouse Bike Trails

A very popular tourist activity in Moscow is to rent a bike and cycle through some of the Palouse bike trails. A popular trail is the 7-mile Bill Chipman Palouse Trail between Pullman in Washington and Moscow.

• Admission: Bike rental costs will vary; check out Paradise Bike Rentals
• Address: The trail end points are SE Bishop Blvd. (Pullman, WA) and Farm Rd. (Moscow, ID)

6 View The University Of Idaho Arboretum & Botanical Garden

Spend an afternoon checking out the countless plants from across the world in the University’s Arboretum & Botanical Garden . The garden is open every day, from dawn to dusk.

• Admission: Free
• Address: 875 Perimeter Drive MS 2281, Moscow, Idaho

7 Head To The Moscow Farmer’s Market

Visiting the Farmer’s Market is the big thing to do in Moscow and is incredibly popular with locals and visitors alike. It’s held from May to October from 8 am to 1 pm on Saturdays. Check out the fresh produce and enjoy some local performers entertaining the crowds.

• Address: 101-155 W 4th St, Moscow, ID 83843

8 Camp Out In Robinson County Park

This campsite is great for those who would like to immerse themselves in nature but also want to be close to town, and the campsite in Robinson is just a ten-minute drive from downtown Moscow. This park has plenty of trails and picnic spots to enjoy.

• Admission: $20 a night to camp
• Address: 5168 Robinson Park Rd, Moscow ID 83843

Related: 8 Idaho State Parks To Add To Your Scenic Bucket List

9 Check Out The Appaloosa Museum & Heritage Center

For those wanting to learn about the history of the beautiful Appaloosa horse breed, native to the Palouse region, the Appaloosa Museum & Heritage Center is a perfect place to spend the afternoon.

Here is where guests can tour the Davis-Gillman Activity Center, Gift Shop, and Picnic Area, all while learning more about this area's rich culture.

• Address: 2720 Pullman Rd, Moscow, ID 83843, USA
• 1912 Center: Check out some local art and learn about cultural initiatives in Moscow
• Address: 412 E. Third St. Moscow, ID 83843

10 Tour The Third Street Gallery

Next up, guests of the city of Moscow, Idaho, can check out the Third Street Gallery. The Third Street Gallery is located on the second and third floors of Moscow's beautifully renovated and historic City Hall, making that another nice thing to see while here.

• Address: 206 W 3rd St, Moscow, ID 83843, USA
• Hours: Seasonally/dependent on art and creators

11 Skate At The Palouse Ice Rink

Another fun stop in the Moscow area is the Palouse Ice Rink , a fun place to visit for all the family for some ice skating and hockey in the winter and rollerblading during the summer.

This could be a nice location to bring the family, especially for people with young kids.

• Admission: Adults - $10, Children 6-17 - $8.00, 5 and under free
• Family Admission (up to 5 members) - $35.00
• Address: 1021 Harold St, Moscow, ID 83843, USA

12 Taste Local Moscow Craft Beers

Moscow has a pretty extensive craft beer culture, and it's well worth making a day of visiting some of the local breweries. Here are several great breweries to check out.

Moscow Brewing Company : Be sure to visit Moscow’s first brewhouse for some great history and even better beer

• Address: 630 N Almon St #130, Moscow, ID

Hunga Dunga Brewing Company - Offering unique IPAs, Stouts, and so much more.

• Address: 333 N Jackson St, Moscow, ID 83843, USA

Rants & Rave Brewery - A brewery and a grill, what’s not to love?

• Address: 308 N Jackson St, Moscow, ID, USA

13 Best Time To Go To Moscow, Idaho

Moscow, Idaho, has a temperate climate with hot summers and cold winters. During the summer months, the temperature can reach into the 90s and can be quite dry. The winters are cold, with temperatures often dropping below freezing and the area receiving some snowfall. Spring and fall are mild, with temperatures ranging from the 40s to 60s.

The best time of year depends on what visitors have planned for the trip. The months of June, July, and August are great for outdoor activities like hiking and biking.

Related: Drive Mesa Falls Scenic Byway & See Idaho's Most Stunning Views

However, in the winter months, there are local mountains and resorts suitable for snowboarding, skiing, and snowshoeing for those interested in winter sports. The Palouse Ice Rink is a popular spot for locals and visitors during the winter, too, and also offers some family-friendly activities the whole year round. Even a scenic road trip can be enjoyable during Idaho's winter .

The city tends to be a bustling hub of activity during its festivals, like the Rendezvous in the Park music festival, which usually takes place on the third weekend in July, or the Moscow Winter Carnival, which takes place in early December.

14 Best Ways To Get Around Moscow Idaho

Moscow is a very walkable city, and most of the main destinations for tourists can be accessed on foot, especially during the summer. Getting around on a bike is a great option; Moscow has 36 miles of paved trails, so renting a bicycle in town could be a good choice for visitors.

• Paradise Bike Rentals is a convenient bike rental shop on Main Street.

Moscow also has a public bus system called the Sustainable Moscow Area Regional Transportation or SMART transit that covers two loops, one in the west and one in the east of the town, and the fixed routes are free.

There are multiple taxi and rideshare companies in Moscow, and Uber and Lyft are also available. Here are some local Taxi company options:

• Moscow Taxi
• Pegasus Taxi

It’s possible to rent a car coming from the regional Pullman Moscow airport from companies Avis, Hertz, Enterprise, and Budget.

15 Where To Eat In Moscow, Idaho

Moscow, Idaho, has some great spots for food, drinks, and coffee if visitors know where to look. The food options in Idaho tend to pleasantly surprise visitors. As it's a student town, there are more than a few fun bars too.

Best Breakfast in Moscow, Idaho

One World Café, Breakfast Club, Varsity Diner

Delicious Lunches in Moscow, Idaho:

Shari’s Café and Pies, Einstein Bros Bagels, Stax

Fantastic Dinners in Moscow, Idaho:

Nectar, Tapped - Taphouse & Kitchen, Lodgepole

Great Coffee Shops in Moscow, Idaho:

Café Artista, Bucer's Coffee House Pub, Steam Coffee

Fun Bars in Moscow, Idaho:

John’s Alley Tavern, Mingles Bar & Grill, Neat Whiskey Bar

16 Where To Stay In Moscow, Idaho

There are a number of hotels and rentals in the city, although some travelers also opt to stay in the nearby Washington state town of Pullman. Here are a few options in Moscow itself:

Highly rated hotels in Moscow Idaho

Best Western Plus University Inn : Room rates at the Best Western Plus University Inn start from $120 per night

• Amenities: Swimming pool, fitness center, on-site restaurant, and bar
• Address: 1516 Pullman Road, Moscow, Idaho 83843

Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott Moscow : Room rates at the Fairfield Inn & Suites start from $140 per night

• Amenities: Free breakfast, indoor pool, and fitness center
• Address: 1000 West Pullman Road, Moscow, Idaho 83843, United States

Mid-Tier hotels in Moscow

The Monarch Motel Room rates at the Monarch Hotel start from $100 per night

• Amenities: garden/chill-out area
• Address: 120 W 6th St, Moscow, ID 83843, United States

Hotel Mccoy Pullman Room rates at this property start from $140 per night

• Amenities: Fitness center, Restaurant, Bar/Lounge, Free Wi-Fi, Free parking
• Address: 455 Southeast Paradise Street, Pullman, WA 99163

Related: Idaho The Potato State: Why Not Sleep In A Hotel Shaped Like One?

Budget hotels in Moscow Idaho

La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham Moscow Pullman : Room rates at La Quinta Inn & Suites start from $130 per night

• Amenities: Free breakfast, airport shuttle, shuttle to local attractions
• Address: 185 Warbonnet Dr, Moscow, ID 83843, United States

Super 8 by Wyndham Moscow / Pullman: Room rates at Super 8 by Wyndham Moscow start from $80 per night

• Amenities: Mobile check-in, Wi-Fi, free coffee & breakfast Item
• Address: 175 Peterson Drive Pullman Hwy and 175 Peterson Dr, Moscow, ID 83843

17 Tips For Visiting Moscow, Idaho

Moscow is a University city in north central Idaho and has a population of just over 25,000. It’s about 8 miles east of the Washington State border. It’s been home to the University of Idaho since 1889.

Moscow is served by a regional airport, The Pullman Moscow Airport is four miles west of the city, and the closest major airport is Spokane International Airport in Washington, located within 90 miles east of the city.

From here, visitors can rent a car or arrange a shuffle to get to Moscow; it will take about an hour and 40 minutes.

Related: Explore Idaho's Capital City: The Ultimate Travel Guide To Boise & Things To Do

Moscow is located along Highway 95, which runs north and south through the city. It’s also possible to travel to Moscow by bus from Spokane and Seattle. It’s good to know a little bit about the unique landscape travelers will get to explore when visiting Moscow. It’s part of the Palouse region, which encompasses parts of north central Idaho, southeastern Washington, and a little bit of Oregon.

Its distinctive and peculiar rolling green hills are made of a material called loess, which is mainly dust and silt blown in over thousands of years from the southwest.

After periods of deposition and erosion in harsh weather, unique dune-like shapes formed in the landscape. The Palouse region is a major agriculture zone, mainly for grain production, and it's also a stunning place to experience as a tourist.

18 How To Spend The Perfect Day In Moscow, Idaho

A perfect day in Moscow will start with a great breakfast, so head to the popular One World Café for a delicious bite to eat and then get ready to take on some of the incredible Palouse biking trails. Rent a bike for the afternoon and take the Bill Chipman Palouse trail nearby by Pullman and back.

Don’t forget to bring a camera. Head for lunch at Stax for some soup and sandwiches, and then visit the University of Idaho campus for a stroll through the arboretum and Botanical Garden. While on campus, check out some of the famous landmarks, like the Kibbie Dome or the Prichard Art Gallery.

In the evening, enjoy a fancy dinner at Lodgepole and polish the evening off with a drink at John’s Alley Tavern.