best 3 day backpacking trips

11 Epic Multi-Day Hikes in America’s National Parks

By: Author Bram Reusen

Posted on Last updated: April 23, 2024

I can’t think of (m)any activities that offer a better national park experience than an overnight hiking trip!

Heading deep into a park’s backcountry, setting up camp, exploring an unspoiled landscape, encountering wildlife,… Spending any number of nights backpacking in one of the national parks is something you’ll never forget.

11 Awesome National Parks for Backpacking Trips

1. appalachian trail – shenandoah national park, virginia, 2. wonderland trail – mount rainier national park, washington, 3. john muir trail – yosemite, sequoia & kings canyon national parks, california, 4. grand canyon rim-to-rim hike – grand canyon national park, arizona, 5. painted desert backpacking trip – petrified forest national park, arizona, 6. chisos mountains – big bend national park, texas, 7. the wilderness coast – olympic national park, washington, 8. teton crest trail – grand teton national park, wyoming, 9. haleakala crater crossing – haleakala national park, hawaii, 10. coastal trail – redwood national & state parks, california, 11. cascade pass to stehekin – north cascades national park, washington, wildlife safety while backpacking in the national parks, other national park activities.

Below, I’ve collected the best multi-day hikes in America’s national parks. From the ancient forested mountains of the East to the Southwestern deserts and canyons to the volcanoes and coasts of the Pacific Northwest, you’ll find epic long-distance trails in every corner of the country.

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Best Multi-Day Hikes in USA National Parks

There are more than 500 miles of hiking trails in Shenandoah National Park , climbing up to granite summits or running down into the park’s characteristic woodland hollows. This includes 105 miles of the legendary Appalachian Trail.

Snaking its way for over 2,180 miles from Georgia to Maine, the Appalachian Trail—or AT—runs along the entire length of Shenandoah National Park , the only national park in Virginia .

It follows Skyline Drive , occasionally crossing this scenic mountain road and continuing on the other side.

The Appalachian Trail enters Shenandoah at the Rockfish Gap Entrance Station in the south, leaving the park in its far northern section. The trail runs across the crest of the Blue Ridge Mountains, summiting several peaks and offering spectacular views on the way.

Backcountry camping is allowed in Shenandoah National Park, but there are also four developed campgrounds, two historic lodges and several cabins available.

Additionally, the Potomac Appalachian Trail Club operates six primitive cabins on or near the Appalachian Trail in Shenandoah National Park.

More Information

• Distance: 105 miles
• Duration: 7 days
• Best time to hike: April through May and July through October; June is the busy “thru hiker season”
• Learn more: Appalachian Trail Conservancy

One of the best backpacking loops in the Pacific Northwest, the Wonderland Trail circumambulates mighty Mount Rainier.

It’s 93 miles long with a cumulative elevation gain of about 23,000 feet. The trail passes through several major life zones in Mount Rainier National Park , dipping into forests and descending into valleys, climbing slopes and cresting ridges.

This is one of the best multi-day hikes in America’s national parks, mainly because of its variety and difficulty, but also because it offers glorious views of “Tacoma”, one of the Native American names for Mount Rainier.

Most people complete their Wonderland Trail hike in 10 days, but the National Park Service allows 14 days to complete it.

On the way, there are numerous campgrounds, including three developed campgrounds and no fewer than eighteen backcountry wilderness camps.

Note that you’ll need to get a wilderness permit for all overnight trips in the wilderness of Mount Rainier National Park.

• Distance: 93 miles
• Duration: 10-14 days
• Best time to hike: Late-July to mid-September
• Learn more: The Wonderland Trail

If you’re looking for the best overnight backpacking trails in the national parks, I don’t think there’s a better one than the epic John Muir Trail.

The simple reason for this is that it runs through no fewer than three California national parks, overlaps with the Pacific Crest Trail and features some of the greatest mountain scenery in the country.

And if that’s not enough, this is also the place that enjoys the sunniest and mildest climate of any major mountain range on Earth.

The John Muir Trail starts in the heart of one of the grandest U.S. national parks —the Yosemite Valley. It then runs through the Ansel Adams Wilderness and Sequoia National Park before ending at the summit of Mount Whitney in Kings Canyon National Park, the highest mountain in the continental United States (14,505 feet).

Most of its course is in designated Sierra Nevada Mountains wilderness. On this sensational multi-day hike through three national parks, you’ll wander across alpine meadows, along shimmering lakes, past sheer granite cliffs and underneath towering peaks.

It’s truly a once-in-a-lifetime national parks experience, one of the absolute best backpacking trails in America.

• Distance: 211 miles
• Duration: 3 weeks
• Best time to hike: early-July through September
• Learn More: Pacific Crest Trail Association

For an epic adventure in a desert wilderness, there are few—if any—better backpacking trips in America than a Grand Canyon crossing. Hiking the Grand Canyon from rim to rim means descending all the way to the bottom of one of the world’s largest canyons and climbing back out.

It’s a multi-day national park hike that’ll test your mental strength, push you to your physical limits, and engrave amazing moments in your memory.

This is, however, not simply a “walk in the park.” In fact, a rim-to-rim hike in Grand Canyon National Park can have disastrous consequences for people who are unprepared or misjudge their fitness levels.

That said, if you’ve trained, done your research and have the proper hiking gear, you’re in for the adventure of a lifetime. This is without question one of the best backpacking trips in national parks in the U.S.

Basically, you have two options to hike from the North Rim down to the Colorado River and up to the South Rim. (This north-south route is recommended because the way up is significantly shorter—the North Rim is over 1,000 feet higher than the South Rim.)

• North Kaibab Trail to River Trail to Bright Angel Trail
• North Kaibab Trail to South Kaibab Trail

I’d suggest the first option, the North Kaibab Trail down and Bright Angel Trail up, simply because, even though it’s a little longer, it brings you straight into Grand Canyon Village.

Since this is a point-to-point hike, you’ll either need to have two cars or use a transportation service. In case you only have one car, a great solution is taking the Trans-Canyon Shuttle , which commutes between the North and South Rims. One-way tickets cost $90.

During this hike, you’ll walk through every life zone between Mexico and Canada. The Grand Canyon is home to five of the seven life zones on Earth and three of North America’s four types of desert.

On the way, you’ll also pass three of the four areas of geological time. This is, quite literally, a journey through time and space.

The National Park Service recommends taking your time for this challenging hike—it’s 5,740 feet down and 4,340 feet up. Most hikers complete the 24-mile crossing of the Grand Canyon from rim to rim in four days and three nights.

There are three campgrounds on the way—Cottonwood, Bright Angel and Indian Garden—while the very popular Phantom Ranch offers more “luxurious” accommodation near the Colorado River.

• Distance: 24 miles
• Duration: 4 days
• Best time to hike: April-May and September-October
• Learn more: Grand Canyon Backcountry Trails

For a short backpacking trip in one of the national parks, Arizona’s Petrified Forest National Park is a great option. It’s really accessible—the only national park with a section of Route 66 —and doesn’t require a whole lot of preparation.

There’s plenty to see and do in Petrified Forest , from admiring colorful petrified wood to walking through amazing mesas and visiting historic sites. In the park’s northern area, you’ll find the spectacular Painted Desert.

A wild desert filled with multicolored badlands, the Painted Desert is one of the greatest wild camping areas in the national parks. The park’s only road, which runs along the plateau above the Painted Desert, offers panoramic views.

From Kachina Point, near the Painted Desert Inn, one of my favorite national park buildings, the Painted Desert Wilderness Access Trail snakes down into the badlands below.

Once you’re at the bottom, less than a mile from the rim, the trail suddenly disappears and you’re free to wander around as you please.

You can literally go and camp wherever you want in the designated National Wilderness Area.

The only requirements are that you camp at least a mile from the trailhead, don’t leave any waste behind and don’t take anything that doesn’t belong to you. Charcoal or wood fires aren’t allowed either. Besides that, you basically have unlimited backpacking freedom.

Backpacking in the Painted Desert, one of my favorite national park camping experiences , can be an easy overnight trip or a multi-day adventure deep into the desert wilderness. It’s phenomenal, especially because the star-peppered night sky is breathtaking .

• Distance: At least 2 miles
• Duration: 2-5 days
• Best time to hike: March-May and September-October
• Learn more: Painted Desert Camping Guide

The Chisos Mountains, with 7,825-foot Emory Peak as their pinnacle, are the only mountain range in America located entirely within one national park.

A remote area in southwestern Texas, it’s a true backpacker’s paradise. Prepared and experienced hikers will find hundreds of miles of trails to explore here. Much of it is desert hiking, though, with complex topography and occasionally unclear trails.

This means you’ll need a topographic map and compass—and the skills to use them. Other Big Bend National Park backpacking essentials include proper hiking boots , plenty of food and water, a hat and sunscreen, and a good backpacking tent.

There’s no distinct route that’s “better” than any other in the Chisos Mountains. Simply put, wherever you go, it’ll be amazing.

The numerous Big Bend National Park hiking trails in the Chisos Mountains allow you to piece together relatively short loops, while also offering you to opportunity to create an epic long-distance desert adventure.

This map shows all the backpacking trails in the Chisos Mountains, as well as the 42 backcountry campsites, which are divided into 14 camping areas. You’ll need a backcountry permit for overnight hiking in Big Bend National Park, as well as a detailed itinerary description.

Additionally, black bear and mountain lion encounters aren’t unusual in these wild mountains. So, it’s very important to know what to do when you see one. (See below for more information about wildlife safety while backpacking in national parks.)

• Distance: Everything from 5 miles to 20+ miles
• Duration: 2 days to a maximum of 14 consecutive nights
• Best time to hike: Late-spring and early-fall
• Learn more: Backpacking in Big Bend

UNESCO World Heritage-listed Olympic National Park protects more than 73 miles of the wildest and most pristine natural coastline in the lower 38 states.

It’s a magnificent coastal wilderness with only a few road access points, a place characterized by crashing waves, sea stacks, dramatic cliffs, dense forests and abundant wildlife. The Wilderness Coast offers some of the best multi-day hikes in national parks.

There are several short and long hiking routes along the coast of Olympic National Park, divided into the North Olympic Coast and South Olympic Coast trails.

For a quick taste of this coastal wilderness, you can go for a 1-mile one-way overnight hike to Hole-in-the-Wall on Rialto Beach. On the opposite side of the Olympic backpacking spectrum lies the epic 35-mile multi-day hike from Shi Shi Beach to Rialto Beach .

Backpacking the Olympic National Park coast involves quite a lot of beach hiking. This means that it’ll take a lot longer to cover certain distances than what you might be used to. Keep this in mind when planning your trip.

It’s also important to be aware of and keep an eye on the tides. Since this coastal adventure will take you past several headlands and cliffs, it’s possible to get cut off by the high tide.

Unlike the other long-distance hikes in national parks featured in this post, your Wilderness Coast packing list must include a tide chart and a watch. (Phones can die, so a watch is absolutely essential.)

While a multi-day backpacking trip along the Olympic National Park coast requires preparation, permits, awareness and skills, it’s a phenomenal experience.

You’ll get to explore one of America’s most rugged coastlines, which comes with world-class wildlife viewing opportunities. Black bears, elk, whales, sea otters, bald eagles and countless tide pool creatures all call this coast home.

• Distance: From 1 mile to 35+ miles
• Duration: 2-7 days
• Best time to hike: April through October
• Learn more: Hiking the Wilderness Coast

One of the best national parks for backpacking among wildlife, Grand Teton National Park is home to iconic American megafauna, from grizzly bears , mountain lions and wolves to elk, American bison and moose. It’s one of my top national parks to see wild animals.

Grand Teton is also home to one of America’s greatest long-distance national park trails. The Teton Crest Trail runs through the park’s high country, from lake to lake, across ridges, mountain passes and mountain meadows.

A combination of several short trails in Grand Teton National Park, the Teton Crest Trail’s distance varies depending on which trails you link together. Typically, this spectacular multi-day trek is between 35 and 45 miles long .

A popular starting point is the Granite Canyon Trailhead near the park’s southern boundary. The trail then climbs through Granite Canyon to the Death Canyon Shelf, continuing across the Grand Teton high country to either Cascade Canyon or the Paintbrush Divide.

The long version of the Teton Crest Trail (down Paintbrush Canyon) ends at the Leigh Lake Trailhead, while a shorter route (down Cascade Canyon) terminates at the Jenny Lake Trailhead.

For an overview of the Grand Teton National Park trail options for a multi-day Teton Crest hike, check out the park’s backcountry trip planner .

Obviously, this is bear country—both grizzlies and black bears abound here—and it’s mandatory to carry bear cannisters on backpacking trips in Grand Teton. Always carry bear spray, too, and know how to use it !

More information

• Distance: 35 to 45 miles
• Duration: 3-5 days
• Best time to hike: June through September
• More information: Grand Teton Backcountry Camping

Rising more than 10,000 feet above the Pacific Ocean, the Haleakala Volcano dominates eastern Maui, Hawaii. This majestic mountain is home to some of the world’s most remarkable landscapes, animals and plants.

It also offers one of the greatest backpacking experiences in the United States.

The Haleakala Crater—technically a valley—is in Haleakala National Park’s Summit Area, a place home to numerous cinder cones and an aeolian cinder desert.

There are some  amazing day hikes in this area , as well as a  little shrubland campground . Backpackers, too, can explore and wander to their heart’s content.

Two trails lead deep down into the Haleakala Crater: the Halemau’u Trail and the Keonehe’ehe’e Trail (also known as the Sliding Sands Trail).

The shortest route across the Haleakala Crater is the Sliding Sands Trail. Starting at the Haleakala Visitor Center near the summit, it runs to the Kapalaoa Cabin (5.6 miles from the trailhead) and continues to the Palikū Cabin and Campground at the far end of the crater (another 3.3 miles).

After spending a night or two at the Palikū Campground, you can retrace your steps the way you came. I do recommend, however, taking a detour along Pele’s Paint Pot, one of  Haleakala’s most scenic areas . That detour will add about one extra mile to your return trip.

Note that wilderness camping in Haleakala National Park require a permit. These permits are free, issued on a first-come first-served basis, and require a photo ID and 10-minute orientation.

Additionally, I have to point out that, although you may be in Hawaii, this is desert hiking at its finest. Water is extremely scarce or unavailable altogether, while shade is almost non-existent.

Bring plenty of water, wear a hat and slop on sunscreen. You’ll need it all.

• Distance:  At least 18 miles
• Duration:  2-3 days
• Best time to hike:  All year
• More information:  Wilderness Camping in Haleakala

Although the Redwood National and State Parks are best known for their towering redwoods, you can experience an entirely different side of the park complex on the Coastal Trail.

Running from Crescent Beach to Elk Meadow, this fantastic 70-mile Redwood trail parallels the rugged Pacific coast of Northern California.

Along the way, hikers can explore tidepools, walk alongside redwood-topped cliffs and across sandy beaches. Wildlife abounds here, from sea gulls, starfish, crabs and sea lions to Roosevelt elk and the occasional black bear.

There are five backcountry campgrounds along the trail, located conveniently within a day’s walk from one another.

The trail also passes by the extraordinary Fern Canyon and Gold Bluffs Beach and Campground , two of my favorite areas in the entire Redwood National and State Parks complex.

• Distance:  70 miles for the whole thing; shorter sections possible, too.
• Duration:  6-7 days
• Best time to hike:  Summer
• More information:  Coastal Trail Sections

With no less than 93% of its area designated as wilderness, the North Cascades National Park Service Complex is the ultimate backpacking paradise. There’s only one road in North Cascades National Park—and it’s barely 6 miles long and unpaved.

At the end of that road, however, is the starting point of one of the best backpacking trips in America’s national parks. The Cascade Pass Trail takes hikers to the alpine meadows, glaciers and epic views of the North Cascades.

At 3.7 miles one way, this is the most popular day hike in North Cascades National Park. (It’s the only car-accessible trailhead in the national park, too.)

From Cascade Pass, you can take a side trip on the Sahale Arm Trail to the base of the massive Sahale Glacier. Beyond Cascade Pass beckons a pristine mountain wilderness dotted by a handful of backcountry campsites.

This is also a wildlife haven, a landscape inhabited by pikas, marmots, mountain goats, deer and black bears. A few grizzlies are thought to live in these mountains, too, but confirmed sightings, let alone encounters, are extremely rare.

From the pass, the Cascade Pass Trail winds its way eastward and downward to Stehekin, a remote lakeside community that’s accessibly only on foot or by boat. At High Bridge, you can hop on the shuttle bus to Stehekin village.

Doing the Cascade Pass to Stehekin hike as a one-way thru hike requires some serious logistical planning, though. You’ll need both a car shuttle between two quite remote spots, as well as a pre-booked ferry ticket from Stehekin to the town of Chelan across Lake Chelan.

Alternatively, you could also hang out in Stehekin for a day or two before hiking back across Cascade Pass to the trailhead parking lot.

• Distance: 23 miles one way
• Duration: 3-4 days
• Best time to hike: July through September
• More information: Cascade Pass Trail Description

Going on multi-day hiking trips in America’s national parks almost always means hiking in places where wildlife is present. This wildlife includes shy and usually docile creatures such as marmots, deer and birds, but also larger and potentially dangerous animals.

Backpacking in wildlife country requires some preparation, to keep both you and the animals safe.

Especially bears are on the radars of most national park backpackers, but there are also several other animals you may have to look out for. Those include mountain lions (also known as cougars or pumas), rattlesnakes, elk, moose, mountain goats and bison.

I’ve written wildlife safety guides about the animals you’re most likely to run into when backpacking in national parks. Encounters with these animals could turn nasty if you don’t know what to do or how to behave.

Therefore, if you’re going on a multi-day hike in a park where any of these animals are present, it’d be a good idea to read through the following wildlife safety guides:

• Black bear safety guide
• Grizzly bear safety guide
• Mountain lion safety guide
• Elk safety guide
• Bison safety guide
• Rattlesnake safety guide

In any case, it’s smart to always bring bear spray on hikes in national parks that are home to bears. You can learn how to correctly use bear spray here .

This potent type of pepper spray works on basically all animals that have a nose, eyes and lungs. This includes black and grizzly bears (obviously), but also mountain lions, wolves and even moose and elk.

Have You Ever Been on a National Park Backpacking Trip? Which Are Your Favorite Long-Distance Trails in National Parks? Share Your Adventure Below!

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9 Stunning Backpacking Trips in the U.S. You Should Know About

This article on the best backpacking trips in the U.S. is brought to you by Gregory , the makers of hiking backpacks that are tough enough for day hikes, weekend trips and thru-hiking adventures.

Backpack camping—an approach that involves hiking to your campsite, usually carrying a hefty backpack of gear with you—isn’t for everyone. The KOA North American Camping Report of 2019 supports that statement; while camping popularity in the U.S. has overall reached new heights among a wider audience of households in recent years, those new campers are generally drawn to car camping, glamping, and the more convenient destinations. Which means that backpacking continues to offer an escape from the crowds.

Venture out on a backcountry trail in any crowded national park and you’ll find the crowds all but disappear, just a few miles in. If you bring your camping supplies with you, a secluded, quiet camping experience awaits you in the wilderness.

The best backpacking trips in the U.S. span a range of experience levels. Once you’ve collected your gear (with some help from our backpacking checklist ), it’s time to pick a trail.

9 Bucket List Backpacking Trips in the U.S.

Photo Courtesy of William Saunders

This list of backpacking trips in the U.S. offer a range of accessibility depending on your skills and experience. No matter the experience level required, they’re all stunning and enjoyable. Researching this backpacking resource definitely made us want to get away from our computers and hit all of these trails.

1. The Lost Coast Trail —Northern California

Length: 24 miles Elevation Change: 1,542 feet Days: 2-4 Trailheads: Mattole Beach, Black Sands Beach

California’s Golden Coast gets visitors galore, with hotspots mostly south of the Bay Area. But head north, beyond the hillside mansions where the famous Pacific Coast Highway disconnects from the coastline, and you’ll find the Lost Coast Trail along the state’s King Range National Conservation Area. As a wilderness trail along some of the state’s rockiest beach terrain, this backpacking trip is relatively short, but the rock scrambles and sand dunes along the way make challenge and rewarding option for beginners.

Backpacking this trail requires an overnight permit from the Bureau of Land Management, available online from Recreation.gov. The trail is best done via a shuttle service between the two trailheads, as either route is point-to-point.

2. The North Coast Route —Olympic National Park,Washington

Length: 20 miles Elevation Change: 200 feet Days: 2-4 Trailheads: Rialto Beach, Ozette Campground

Positioned along the coastal portion of Washington’s Olympic National Park, this 20-mile backpacking trail is an ideal entry point for inexperienced backpackers with a penchant for seaside views. Backpackers will find a relatively flat shoreline and fair weather seasonally along this trail, ideal for a long weekend backpacking trip on the Olympic Peninsula. With one of the lowest elevation gains on this list, hikers looking to test their distance-per-day will find a perfect path ahead.

Camping along the trail is done at established campgrounds between the trailheads, and no permit is needed for the hike itself. Keep your eyes peeled for tidepools teeming with life, as much of the coast’s rocky shore plays host to underwater life.

3. Lake Aloha Trail —Central California

Length: 12 miles Elevation Change: 1,873 feet Days: 2-3 Trailheads: Echo Lake Trailhead

The Lake Aloha trail, on the southern end of California’s Lake Tahoe, is seemingly custom built for entry-level backpackers interested in a postcard-worthy view. A hike along this 12-mile loop trail takes you along a number of alpine lakes in the Desolation Wilderness, and brings you up 1,800 feet in total. Take a leisurely pace to make the incline portion much easier, and after a long sweaty hike, take a swim in Lake Aloha, where there’s dispersed camping along a ridge nearby.

Since this is one of the best backpacking trips in the U.S., snagging a reservation for camping in the area can be tough—look to plan this trip early in the off-season, and expect to check online regularly for openings. Campfires are never allowed in the Desolation Wilderness, and campers should check out safety tips from the Lake Tahoe Basin Management Unit .

The Timberline Trail

4. Mount Sterling Loop Trail (Via Low Gap) —Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Tennessee

Length: 28.5 miles Elevation Change: 8,110 feet Days: 4-5 Trailheads: Low Gap Trailhead, Big Creek Trailhead

Situated in the country’s most visited national park, the Mount Sterling Loop Trail offers an intermediate-level backpacking trip to the peak of one of the tallest points in the park. Hike from the Low Gap trailhead in Crosby, NC and pass through old growth forests—crossing state lines into Tennessee on your way. You’ll follow the Big Creek to the summit of Mount Sterling, where you’ll come across a firetower, built during the 1930s by the Civilian Conservation Corps—perfect for getting sweeping views of the misty mountains. Continue on from the summit and you’ll complete a loop around the mountain, circling back to the Low Gap Trailhead. The total 8,000+ elevation gain is subtle on the majority of the trail, although some points climb sharply via switchbacks as you begin to circle the mountain.

As part of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park , backcountry camping on this trail requires a backcountry permit from the park office, alone with reservations made in advance for campgrounds/shelters along the way. More information on reservations and permits can be found from the park’s Backcountry Office at 865-436-1297.

5. Timberline Trail —Mount Hood National Forest, Oregon

Length: 38.3 miles Elevation Change: 9,000 feet Days: 4-5 Trailheads: Timberline Lodge

Mount Hood is one of Oregon’s Seven Wonders, an active volcano just about an hour outside of Portland. While many make a point to visit the mountain’s cozy Timberline Lodge, backpackers looking for a more scenic view of this monolith can venture out on the Timberline Trail which circles the mountain. Start from the parking lot of Timberline Lodge and head east or west on the trail to get started; you’ll traverse roughly 9,000 feet of elevation change over about four days. The loop will circle you back to Timberline Lodge, where you should relax apres-hike with a warm drink indoors.

This trail involves a decent amount of trail merges, so be careful when navigating that you don’t make a wrong turn on to various off-shoots. The Timberline Trail can be dangerous when inclement weather is present, as with any instance of high-elevation hiking, you should feel confident that your backpacking skills match the worst weather scenarios you might face. No permits are needed for the hike.

6. Cottonwood Marble Canyon Loop Trail —Death Valley National Park, California

Length: 26-28 miles Elevation Change: 5,613 feet Days: 3 Trailheads: Stovepipe Wells

With terrain and scenery pulled straight from Mars, hiking around Death Valley National Park (or the Mojave desert in general) is as interesting as it is intense. The Cottonwood-Marble Canyon Loop Trail takes backpackers through a dry and stark terrain, and requires more planning than a typical backpacking trip. The trail, running close to 30 miles in a loop, will connect from the Stovepipe Wells trailhead, and can take about 3 days. As with most desert backpacking, you must plan your trip around water resources—this trail offers a few natural streams at some campsites but water is scarce for the majority of the hike. Along with plenty of water, be sure to bring a water filter to refill when available.

Getting to the trailhead requires a 4WD vehicle at all times of the year, but no pre-planning for a permit is needed. Permits are available for free at visitor contact stations across the park. The challenge of this trail lies mainly in the difficult conditions of the desert, so be sure to read Death Valley National Park’s tips on planning this hike in advance.

The John Muir Trail

7. The John Muir Trail —California

Length: 221 Miles Elevation Change: cumulative 47,000 feet Days: 20-30 Trailheads: (Southbound) Happy Isles, Sunrise Lakes, Glacier Point, Lyell Canyon

Cutting more than 200 miles through central California’s Sierra Nevada mountains, the John Muir Trail is as legendary as it is scenic. Plan for close to a month of hiking, camping, and exploring part of the state’s rocky, snow-spotted terrain, with an elevation gain more than 1.5 times the height of Mount Everest.

Getting yourself a backpacking permit for the John Muir Trail might be one of the hardest parts of this trip. Hikers should plan to enter the online lottery system as early as possible, about 24 weeks before your planned trip, or possible chance a first-come, first-served permit available from the ranger station. As well, hikers should plan out resupply stops at certain campsites and vantage points along the way.

8. The Wonderland Trail —Mount Rainier National Park, Washington

Length: 93 miles Elevation Change: cumulative 22,000 feet Days: 12-14 Trailheads: Fryingpan Creek Trailhead

With so many amazing mountains to climb and trails to backpack in the Pacific Northwest, it’s hard to think there could be one trail that stands above the rest. At least in elevation, the Wonderland Trail around Washington’s Mount Rainier does just that, circling the PNW’s only mountain over 14,000 feet.

The trail itself isn’t as lengthy as other advanced backpacking trips, but serves as a short-but-tough alternative to many other trails. Climbing over 22,000 feet in cumulative elevation gain along the Wonderland Trail, you’ll enjoy dense evergreen forests and snowy peaks year-round.

The trail’s high elevation is a serious consideration as thin air can wear on hikers who aren’t used to these conditions. Take caution when beginning and ending the trip, as acclimation might be necessary for a comfortable hike. While specific permits aren’t required to thru-hike the trail, a general wilderness permit is required for backcountry camping along the way.

9. The Long Trail —Vermont

Length: 272 miles Elevation Change: cumulative 69,000 feet Days: 20-30 Trailheads: Appalachian Trail Vermont/Massachusetts, Journey’s End Road

While it may not rival some of the more scenic trails in the western U.S., Vermont’s Long Trail offers hikers a look at a stunning variety of nature along one of the greenest states east of the Mississippi River. Stretching 272 miles from the southern border with Massachusetts to the Canadian border to the north, the oldest thru-hiking trail in the United States spares no view of the Green Mountain State throughout. What this hike lacks in dramatic views akin to the western U.S., it makes up for in greenery and ease‚ with a relatively balanced elevation incline throughout. While trail conditions can get muddy starting in the late summer and early fall, hiking through the New England fall foliage is one of the most popular attractions for the backpacking trip. Finishing the trail from north to south or south to north earns you the title of “End-to-Ender,” a boast-worthy epithet you can share at the breweries along the trail .

Planning for this hike is pretty simple; no permits are required for hiking or camping along the way. The Green Mountain Club has maintained the trail since its establishment in 1930, and offer tips and guidebooks online and in print for hikers planning ahead.

This post was brought to you by our pals at Gregory . 

From small day hiking backpacks to top-of-the-line backpacking backpacks — Gregory has you covered!

Related Campgrounds:

• Clear Lake Campground , Mount Hood National Forest, OR
• Tahoe Valley Campground , South Lake Tahoe, CA
• New Melones Lake Camping , CA
• Sly Park Campground , Pollock Pines, CA

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Kevin Johnson

Kevin is the Assistant Editor for The Dyrt, with bylines in National Geographic Traveler and Atlas Obscura. Although originally from the swamps of Washington, D.C., he's now based in the trees of Portland. He's been interested in geography and travel since seeing his first map as a kid, and is now working toward seeing it all in person. You can find him exploring the coastal beaches or a record store in his free time.

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3-Day Backpacking Checklist (with Printable Packing List)

This complete backpacking checklist includes all the lightweight gear you’ll need when packing for an overnight trip in the backcountry.

Are you planning a backpacking trip and feeling overwhelmed with figuring out what gear and supplies you need to bring? Don’t worry, you’ve come to the right place.

In this post, we’ll share our ultimate 3-day backpacking checklist (tailored for women) to help ensure you have everything you need for a successful and enjoyable trip.

From essentials like shelter and a comfortable sleep system to practical clothing choices, we’ve thought of all the basic essentials you’ll need to be comfortable on a weekend-long backpacking trip – nothing more, nothing less.

While this is a comprehensive list, I encourage you to adjust your checklist based on your own needs. That being said, I also encourage you to try and stick to the essentials. You may be surprised at how little you need!

The Big Gear Items

These are the essential pieces of gear that should always be on your backpacking checklist for every single trip you plan.

Backpacking Pack

I’ve tried many backpacking backpacks, and funny enough, the least expensive one I’ve owned has also been my favorite.

At 4 lbs. 8.7 oz., the Deuter Aircontact Core 60 + 10 SL Women’s Pack isn’t super lightweight, but it still weighs nearly 2 pounds less than my old Gregory backpack and it seamlessly molds to my body.

Deuter’s Aircontact series packs can adjust for a variety of torso lengths and also comes in a  men’s model .

The 60 +10 SL pack is plenty big for a multi-day trip. In fact, this is the pack I took on my 22-day John Muir Trail hike, a 10-day backpacking trip in Alaska, and my Trans Catalina Trail backpacking trip .

For a shorter backpacking trip or if you’re splitting carrying gear with a partner, check out the smaller 45 + 10 SL version . This version is what BFT Director Linda uses on backpacking trips.

Shop Deuter Aircontact Core 60 at:

Backpacking Tent

Your tent choice can make the biggest difference in weight out of all the big gear items. However, the lighter your tent, the more money you’ll spend.

If you know you’ll be doing a lot of backpacking, I recommend investing in a good-quality, ultralight tent like the Zpacks Duplex . At just over 1 lb 5 oz, it’s one of the lightest tents on the market yet still roomy enough so you don’t feel like you’re sleeping on top of your partner.

It’s important to note that this Zpacks Duplex is a semi-freestanding tent. It does require two trekking poles (or the Duplex Flex Kit ) and guy lines (included) to set up.

Shop The Zpacks Duplex Tent at:

If you would like more room or backpack with a pooch, the Zpacks Triplex is just a half-ounce heavier and gives a bit extra space. My partner Ryan and I use the Triplex for backpacking trips which fits us and our 2 dogs, Charlie and Gumbo.

Read next: Interested in the Zpacks Duplex, but want to learn more? Head over to our detailed review to see if it’s the tent for you.

If $600+ is too much to spend on a tent (we don’t blame you!) or you want a freestanding tent, the REI Half Dome SL 2+ is a more budget-friendly option. It is a few pounds heavier at 3 lbs 15 oz, but still a great lightweight option.

Shop REI Half Dome SL 2+ at:

Sleeping Pad

I currently use the women’s Sea to Summit Comfort Light Sleeping Pad and love it. It’s lightweight, packs up small, and still manages to be warm and comfortable.

It’s also easy to inflate and comes with a pump integrated into the stuff sack, and it’s made out of durable ripstop nylon.

There’s a unisex version too in case you want something a little bigger.

Shop The Sea to Summit Comfort Light at:

Sleeping Bag

More and more backpackers are opting for quilts over sleeping bags because they are more lightweight and versatile yet still keep you nice and cozy at night.

The Enlightened Equipment Revelation Quilt is our pick for a backpacking quilt. It’s incredibly lightweight at 1 lb 3 oz (850-fill, 30-degree) and we also love that you can customize it to your needs and preferences.

When ordering, you can choose between 850 and 950 fill power, select a temperature rating between 0 to 50-degree, and even customize your quilt length.

The Revelation Quilt is truly a revelation and one piece of gear I don’t leave at home when I’m heading out on a multi-day trip.

If you’re backpacking with your partner and prefer to cuddle, check out our post on the best double sleeping bags for backpacking .

Shop The Enlightened Equipment Revelation Quilt at:

More Big Gear Items

Backpacking accessories.

There are tons of backpacking accessories you can choose to pack, but here we list the most important ones that will keep you safe and comfortable on the trail.

Trekking Poles

On those uphill climbs, trekking poles help take some of the weight off your hips and legs by utilizing your arm strength. On the downhill, they help ease the pressure on your knees. And on those stream crossings, these puppies have saved me more times than I can count by helping me balance.

The Black Diamond Distance Carbon Z Trekking Poles are Black Diamond’s lightest foldable poles made of carbon fiber and come in 4 sizes to meet your height.

Shop The Black Diamond Carbon Z Trekking Poles at:

The BioLite Headlamp 325 is my new go-to headlamp for backpacking. It’s ultralight, low profile, and very bright with four lighting modes including red light so you won’t blind your basecamp buddies or compromise your night vision.

I also love that it is battery-free and USB-chargeable (just be sure to fully charge it before you head out!).

Shop The BioLite 325 Headlamp at:

Emergency Communication Device

I like to carry a tracking device with me that I can use to send a help signal in case of an emergency. 

The Garmin inReach Mini 2 allows for two-way custom texting and also has GPS that you can use for navigating.

The Mini is much smaller and lighter than the regular Garmin inReach so I prefer it for hiking and backpacking when every ounce matters.

Shop the Garmin inReach Mini at:

First Aid Kit

You should always have a first aid kit when you are hiking in the backcountry. This ultralight, waterproof medical kit comes with the minimum supplies that you will need to address minor wounds, as well as travel-sized packs of some handy medications. I

In addition to what comes in this kit, you should supplement it with some extra blister band-aids and any medications that are specific to the hikers in your group .

Shop the Adventure Medical Kit at:

Read next: Prefer to put together your own medical kit? Read our guide on How to Build Your Own First Aid Kit .

Backpacking Chair

Packing a lightweight chair is definitely not essential for a backpacking trip, but it’s a nice-to-have item if you plan to spend a lot of time relaxing at camp. The Helinox Chair Zero packs down to roughly the size of 2 Nalgene water bottles and weighs only 1 pound, making it the perfect luxury item.

Shop the Helinox Chair Zero at:

Camping Accessories

Backpacking kitchen gear.

Next on our backpacking checklist is your camp kitchen gear. I tend to keep my cooking setup simple when backpacking. I mainly boil water for coffee or tea and oats in the morning and for backpacking meals in the evening.

Backpacking Stove & Fuel

The  Jetboil Flash Cooking System is the most efficient backpacking stove I’ve found, especially if you are only boiling water.

Together, the stove and pot only weigh 13.1 oz. For a 3-day trip, one 230-gram fuel canister ( sold separately ) should be enough if you are using your stove for coffee, breakfast, and dinner.

Shop the Jetboil Flash at:

Water Bottles or Hydration Reservoir

I like to pack a few of these lightweight Platypus Soft Bottles that can be rolled up when they are empty. Compared to a hard water bottle like a Nalgene, these are much lighter and take up less space when backpacking.

Depending on water availability, I’ll bring up to three of these on my backpacking trips.

I also tend to use these instead of a hydration pack since a reservoir can be a pain to pull out of my backpacking pack each time it needs to be refilled.

But if you like to backpack with a hydration reservoir for easy water access while you hike, the Osprey Hydraulics Reservoir is a great option.

Shop the Platypus Soft Water Bottles at:

Backpacking Water Filter

The Platypus GravityWorks Water Filter System is absolutely the easiest way to filter your water in the backcountry, in my opinion.

This system relies on gravity to push water through, eliminating the need to pump by hand or manually squeeze water through a filter – meaning you can save your energy for the hike.

At 11.5 ounces you will barely notice this thing in your bag, and what’s really cool is you can connect the hose directly to your water bottle or any standard hydration reservoir.

I’ll also mention that it’s always good to carry a backup in case your water filter fails. These Katadyn Micropur Purification Tablets are great because they are super small and you can just throw a few in your first aid kit.

Shop the Platypus GravityWorks Filter at:

Lightweight Camping Mug

You’ll need something for that morning coffee and evening tea. The GSI Outdoors Infinity Backpacker Mug is lightweight and will keep your beverage warm in the coldest of conditions with its insulated wrap and sip lid. It even has a lightweight fabric strap as a handle.

Shop the GSI Outdoors Camp Mug at:

Eating Utensil

A girl’s gotta eat! Ramen, backpacker meals, oatmeal. This TOAKS Long-Handled Spoon is the only utensil you need, and it weighs shockingly little at 0.65 ounces!

It also has a long handle and can easily reach the bottom of that Mountain House bag.

Shop the TOAKS Long-Handled Spoon at:

Some people like to carry a multi-tool, but personally, I’ve always been able to get by with a simple, small knife.

This Gerber Mini Paraframe Knife can cut paracord or be used to prepare food and only weighs 1.4 ounces.

Shop the Gerber Mini Knife at:

Bear Canister

You may or may not need a bear canister depending on where you are hiking. They are required by law in California’s Sierra Nevada Mountains, spots in Alaska, Washington, Idaho, Wyoming, and more.

In some places, they may be available for rent but be sure to check before heading out.

If you are on a short trip and only carrying food for yourself, the Bear Vault 450  is a good inexpensive option. Or for a duo or longer trips, go for the larger version .

Shop the Bear Vault 450 at:

Backpacking Kitchen

Backpacking toiletries.

My beauty routine while backpacking is pretty limited and is focused purely on hygiene. That is what I’ve reflected in this backpacking checklist. No deodorant, no makeup, no hairbrush, etc.

The mountains can suck the moisture right out of those beautiful lips leaving them cracked and dry. Plus, your lips are just as vulnerable to sunburn as your face, so SPF is key.

Sun Bum Mineral SPF 30 has natural, organic ingredients and will keep your lips hydrated and protected.

Shop the Sun Bum Lip Balm at:

At high elevations, you can burn way quicker than you think, and all those hours hiking in the sun add up.

This Sun Bum sunscreen comes in a small tube, is water-resistant , and provides SPF 50. 

Shop the Sun Bum Sunscreen at:

Toothpaste & Toothbrush

It’s all about those travel-size toiletries when backpacking. This Dr. Bronner’s Travel Toothpaste comes in a 1 oz size and is all-natural, fair trade certified, and the packaging is completely recyclable.

Shop the Dr. Bronner’s Toothpaste at:

Poop Kit – Trowel, Toilet Paper, & Ziploc Bag

In order to comply with the 7 Leave No Trace Principles , you need to dig a cathole that is at least 6-8 inches deep when you go #2.

You may think “I don’t need a shovel… I’ll just use a rock or stick.” I’ve made that mistake myself only to find that sometimes the dirt is so hard, you can’t dig a hole. And then panic ensues.

Make life easier for yourself by grabbing a BoglerCo Ultralight Trowel . It’s super lightweight and there’s really is no excuse to not bring it with you.

Also, when you go #2, you need to pack out your dirty toilet paper in order to maintain campsite and trail conditions for future campers.

There’s nothing grosser than finding a bunch of used dirty TP when you’re camping. I like to bring a Ziploc bag for my TP and then I store that in a small (not-see-through) stuff sack that I can rinse out later.

Shop Ultralight Trowel at:

While this might sound strange to you at first, bringing a pee rag on your backpacking trip, like this specially made, antimicrobial Kula Cloth , is super helpful.

Instead of having to wipe with TP each time and pack it into your zip lock bag, and instead of not wiping at all which can result in odors and discomfort, just wipe with this reusable cloth!

When going to the bathroom, I drip dry and then pat myself off with this in order to keep my lady parts clean.

Then, I use my water bottle to rinse off the towel 200 feet from any water sources (as recommended by Leave No Trace) and hang it from my pack to dry.

Shop the Kula Cloth at:

Quick Dry Towel

A lightweight quick-dry towel is always handy, whether it’s for drying your hands and face, doing dishes, or going for a swim and doing some sunbathing.

They come in a variety of sizes so you can pack what you need and nothing more.

Shop the REI Multi Towel at:

Hand Sanitizer

A travel-size hand sanitizer is a must before eating and after going to the bathroom while in the backcountry.

I prefer hand sanitizer to soap because it’s easier to follow Leave No Trace. If you do choose a biodegradable soap, like this one by Dr. Bronner’s , be sure to abide by Leave No Trace and rinse 200 feet away from water sources.

Shop Dr. Bronner’s Hand Sanitizer at:

For shorter trips, you might be able to get away without wet wipes, especially if you’re using the pee rag method and you want to save weight in your pack.

However, if you want a little refresh, these Sea to Summit Wilderness Wipes are soft and gentle on both your skin and the environment. They’re unscented (better for not attracting wildlife) and even come in an extra-large size in case you want to wipe your whole body down after a hot sweaty day on the trail. Be sure to pack them out in your ziplock trash baggie to dispose of them properly.

Shop Sea to Summit Wilderness Wipes at:

Backpacking Clothing

How much clothing should you bring on a 3-day backpacking trip? The absolute minimum you need to be comfortable.

You’ll appreciate it when you start to feel the weight of your pack after a couple of hours of hiking.

You really only need 1 hiking outfit and 1 set of dry, warm clothes to change into when you get to camp and for sleeping.

The only thing I bring extra of is underwear and socks and maybe an extra shirt I can swap out depending on how many days I’m backpacking.

Helpful Tip

Avoid cotton.

When backpacking, you want to avoid cotton because it retains moisture, takes a long time to dry, and tends to harbor smells. Instead, opt for quick-dry materials that wick sweat and resist odors.

Insulated Jacket

A lightweight, packable, insulated (down or synthetic) jacket is key for when the temps drop in the evenings.

I prefer something with a hood so I can keep my head warm when it’s windy or extra cold, so I pack my Arc’teryx Atom Hoody .

Shop the Arc’teryx Atom Hoodie at:

Rain Jacket

Always check the weather before you set out. Even if it’s looking like nothing but sun, I like to bring a lightweight rain jacket and the Arc’teryx Beta AR Rain Jacket is my top pick. It is definitely pricey (catch it on sale!) but once you invest in a piece like this, you’ll have it forever. It’s the rain jacket I wore on a backpacking trip in Alaska where it rained nearly every day.

For a more budget-friendly option, check out the REI Co-op Ranier Rain Jacket – it’s what Linda, BFT’s Director of Operations, currently uses and loves.

Also, if there is any chance of showers, I throw in a pair of rain pants too.

Shop the Arc’teryx Beta AR Rain Jacket at:

Base Layer Top

A warm, wool base layer is handy for changing into when you’re ready to get out of your sweaty hiking clothes and get warm at camp. It can be cozy to sleep in too.

I like the Icebreaker 200 Oasis Half Zip because it’s super soft and odor-resistant. I also opt for Icebreaker over other Merino wood brands because they have strong animal welfare standards.

Shop the Icebreaker 200 Oasis Top at:

Hiking Pants

I prefer to backpack in leggings (if it’s too cool for shorts that is). The REI Flash Hybrid Tights are a Bearfoot Theory team favorite because they’re designed specifically for hiking with thoughtful details such as snag-resistant fabric, a zippered pocket for keys, and a comfortable high-rise waist that won’t dig in or roll down while you’re hiking.

Shop the REI Co-op Flash Hybrid Tights at:

Moisture Wicking T-Shirt

I always hike in a non-cotton, quick-dry, moisture-wicking t-shirt, and most often it’s the Patagonia Cool Capilene T-Shirt .

As I get older, though, I’m preferring the long-sleeve version because it provides more protection from the sun. These shirts are lightweight, so even with the long sleeves, I stay nice and cool.

Shop Patagonia Capilene Tees at:

Hiking Shorts

I like to backpack in spandex shorts when the weather’s nice, but lately, I’ve been liking these REI Co-op Active Pursuits Shorts .

They’re comfortable and stretchy and offer a little more breathability than spandex.

Shop the REI Active Pursuit Shorts at:

Sports bras are my go-to even when I’m not hiking, and these days I’m personally loving the lululemon Run Times Bra .

It’s perfect for backpacking because it doesn’t shift around, my breasts are fully supported, and don’t bounce around AT ALL. I also love the thick straps becuase they don’t dig into my shoulders.

Shop the lululemon Run Times Bra at:

Quick Dry Undies

The lululemon InvisiWear Mid-Rise Boyshorts are lightweight and have a barely-there feel, making them great for backpacking.

I’ve tried two other cuts of these InvisiWear underwear, and the boyshorts stay in place the best out of all of them.

Shop the lululemon InvisiWear Boyshorts at:

Hiking Socks

I alternated between 2 pairs of Darn Tough Hiking Socks on my John Muir Trail hike. That was years ago, and I still wear these socks hiking.

They are extremely durable and stay put while you’re hiking so you don’t end up with nasty blisters. Plus, Darn Tough offers a lifetime warranty. Free socks for life!

Shop Darn Tough Socks at:

Hiking Boots

I’ve always been a big fan of Oboz and recently upgraded to a new pair of Bridger BDry Hiking Boots after wearing my last pair out through years of hiking and backpacking.

The mid-height helps support your ankles, plus they are waterproof and have a stiff sole, so you get plenty of support on those steeper, rockier slopes.

Shop the Oboz Bridger BDry Boots at:

Camp Sandals

It’s always nice to take those hiking boots off when you get to camp to let your feet breathe, and for that reason, a pair of camp sandals are a must on my backpacking checklist.

These Teva Universal Trail Sandals are lightweight (1 pound for the pair) and provide structure and grip for walking around camp.

They have padding around the ankle and anywhere there is a buckle to prevent rubbing, and they are one of the most comfortable pair of sandals I’ve ever owned.

Plus, they are made from recycled water bottles, so it’s a win-win! See my full review here .

Shop the Teva Universal Sandals at:

Even if you’ll be hiking in the woods or the forecast looks cloudy, you’ll want to bring a sun hat to protect your face, neck, and shoulders from harmful UV rays. Not only do hats ward off sunburns, but keeping your skin shaded can also help prevent dehydration and heatstroke.

The Wallaroo Sedona Hat has been my favorite for years. I love the wide brim, stylish look, and that it can pack down without losing its shape.

Shop the Wallaroo Sun Hat at: (Use the code BEARFOOT20 for 20% off)

Don’t forget your shades at home! You probably already own a pair of sunglasses, but if you’re in the market for some new backpacking sunglasses, Goodr makes fun, affordable options. We also love that they are a member of 1% For The Planet.

Shop Goodr Sunglasses at:

I also highly recommend packing a buff – a versatile piece that you can wear around your neck for sun protection, around your face and ears if it’s windy, and even as a headband soaked in water to help keep you cool.

Shop Buffs at:

If it’s going to be cold, you’ll also want to bring a pair of gloves. I like these lightweight Smartwool liners . They’re touchscreen compatible and not bulking, so they work well with trekking poles.

Shop the Smartwool Liner Gloves at:

It’s a good idea to pack a lightweight, quick-drying beanie to wear at night or if temps drop during the day. The REI Ribbed Beanie is a simple hat that does the trick.

Shop the REI Ribbed Beanie at:

Backpacking Clothes

Need help planning or preparing for your trip? Check out these helpful backpacking how-to guides:

• How to Train for Hiking & Backpacking
• How to Pack a Backpacking Pack for a Multi-Day Trip
• How to Plan a Backpacking Trip in 12 Simple Steps
• Backpacking for Beginners: Wilderness 101 Tips
• Beginner Backpacking Mistakes to Avoid
• Tips for Backpacking With a Dog

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What’s on your backpacking checklist that we missed? Is there anything you’d add or subtract? Do you have any questions about what to bring backpacking? Let us know in the comments below.

With two decades of hiking and seven years of van life under her belt, Kristen has dedicated her life to helping people experience the positive effects of nature. As a pioneer in the outdoor blogging space, she founded Bearfoot Theory in 2014 and has since authored more than 350 blog posts about outdoor travel, hiking, camping, and van life. Her work has been featured in National Geographic, Outside Magazine, and Backpacker, and when she’s not on the road, she lives in Park City, Utah with her partner Ryan, their son, and two adventure pups.

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59 Comments

Pretty nice list! I need to have a look at the Nemo sleeping pad, my Thermarest is annoying me so much recently.. Need something light and rectangular.

I’m totally with you re: trying to find a comfortable and convenient way to carry photography gear. Have you tried the Peak Design capture clip? I’ve used it for day hikes and have liked it so far but am not sure how it will work for weekend backpacking trips. Of course, even with the clip you’d need some decent bag for protection if you’re going through rough terrain or if the elements don’t cooperate. I like your approach with the sling though. 🙂

I have tried the Peak Design clip. They are pretty cool and I might be taking one with me on my upcoming trip to Nepal.

Check out Cotton Carrier’s Strapshot camera holster for your DSLR. It wraps around your backpack shoulder strap and provides a secure place to hang your camera with a 1/4 turn quick release and safety tether. I use it and have the full chest harness. (I’m not at all associated with them, just find their gear really convenient.) Thanks for the good read.

I also use the cotton carrier system – a disc screws into the tripod attachment of my camera (I pack in a Sony a6000 with an 18-200mm lens) and then there’s a holster that clips/velcros on to my backpack strap on my shoulder. You keep the strap around your neck for safety (more than twice I’ve been over, the camera unhooked from the carrier and I would have dropped it without the neck strap!) and then the camera is easily accessible when you want to shoot something. The downside is no protection from dust/moisture, so on dusty trails I’m brushing off the lens a lot. But it went with me to Everest Base Camp, Kilimanjaro and numerous 2-7 day backpacking trips with a large ziplock in my bag for water protection if needed. Love this setup.

I love my cotton carrier. I carry a full sized Nikon on it..have for 3 years… zero accidental disconnects… its tough for a piece of plastic too….

Great list Kristen, these checklists are so handy for people that are new to doing these kind of hikes. Have a great holidays! Stephen – Uncharted Backpacker

This is an awesome and very specific list! It’s very helpful you listed brands that you specifically like to use!

Just got the Montrail hiking boots. Loving it so far. Great list.

I THINK I obtained permits for Havasu Falls for this spring (I received confirmation emails, but still have a fear something may go wrong, but I’m hoping for the best). Starting to plan and struggle with what camera equipment to bring. I have a Nikon d7100 that I love, but would like to get by with just my 35 mm/1.8 lens. Think that’s wide enough to get good waterfall shots?

Hey Des, I’d highly recommend a wide angle lens. I brought a 16-35mm last time and it worked out perfectly. Have fun!

Amazing list! Seems to be the go-to stuff when comparing to other lists. That said, I\’d strongly suggest bringing a compass and map! On a longer trip would you change change the gear or simply bring a few more items of clothes?

Thanks Sean for the added recommendation of a compass and map! For a longer trip I would just recommend having at least one change of clothes in case of weather or for added layering. I backpacked the entire PCT for 5 months with only 2 shirts and 2 pairs of bottoms, so you definitely don’t need to expand on bringing more items necessarily.

A great list and this is going to be so useful to me. I go on treks very frequently and usually don’t get much time for backpacking. Thanks a lot for posting!

You literally just saved my life. Thank you for making this list!

Its always good to have a small extra knife just to be sure and ready for everything. A roadeavour knife wont add that much. only a size of a credit card. but very reliable.

Also a good thing to have is a collapsible water bottle like the one in roadeavour

n NZ if I went hiking with an umbrella, I would be laughed out of the hills. It would be really good to see exactly what you take in all the small bags, as this is wear weight accumulates and my pack gets heavy. Thanks for sharing.

Hey man, this is a very specific and a great list. Thanks for sharing with us such a awesome list.

Great list Kristen. Thanks for taking the time to put this stuff together. Your site is full of great info. I do the same stuff on a much less professional level on my youtube channel. Your site always has a few gems that even experienced hikers can find useful. Keep up the good work!

Thanks good stuff

Wow you hit the lottery? Most hikers couldn’t afford have your list. Anyone can go into a REI and buy the best available but a true backpacker can use whats handy and go on a trip. I am an assistant scout master for a Boy Scout troop and do trips including gas for a 3 hour trip, food for 12 and snacks for around 12 bucks each using basic gear for 3 days on the trail. Contact me and I can teach you how to hike on a tight budget.

I am so grateful to have stumble across your website. I am a beach bum. I have only done one day hikes. But, I have been invited to a three day hike in Korea. I will be doing the Jirisan Nature Reserve over three days. I have a bag and sleeping bag. That’s it. What elae do I need to prepare for this three day trek? It will be in September. Your help would be appreciated. I am an Expat teaching in Korea. I am exploring Korea through Hikes and wone tasting. I am open to suggestion.

Hi Gabriela, we are so glad you found us! Will you need a tent for your trek or will they be provided? We would recommend a sleeping pad as well. If you’d like to reach out and email us at [email protected] we can provide you with additional links to great articles and packing lists on our site to help you prepare for your trip. Sounds like an incredible adventure you have ahead of you!

Just what I was going to say. This is nice list of gear for anyone who has, say, a couple of thousand dollars to drop on a three-day (two-night?) backpacking trip.

What is your total weight of your pack?

Hi Rolando, that really depends on how long you are going to be backpacking. For a 3-day backpacking trip, we recommend trying to keep your pack weight as minimal as possible, depending on if you need to carry water or not. A good rule of thumb is not having your pack weight more than 20% of your body weight.

It is interesting that trekking poles can help manage the weight on your hips and legs by using your arms. My wife and I are going on our first backpacking trip in three months and we are trying to get everything together. We may consider going to a few camping stores near us to see what they recommend we bring too.

Hi James, So exciting to hear you and your wife are getting into backpacking! Trekking poles are a game-changer on the trail. We have a ton of comprehensive blog posts here about backpacking that you’ll probably find helpful. I suggest you start here: https://bearfoottheory.com/backpacking-101/ Let us know where you go and if you have any questions!

On my must pack list is a brightly colored bandana or two. So many uses; shade, neck warmer/cooler, dishrag, splint maker, wash rag, hunter safety gear (thus, brightly colored), and on and on. Thanks for great list, Kristen!

My thoughts, exactly…Black Diamond everything! If I’m going to spend $1000, might as well be in a hotel. There are countless other, just as good, options out there. Off-Brand does not always mean that you are compromising durability and/or performance. Do yourself a favor and think logically–don’t always believe sites like this. Some great info in here, I’ll agree, but focus on being “prepared,” and not showing off at the trailhead as you unload from your Volvo.

Ho! these are some really good checklist, thanks for sharing 🙂

Thank you. I will try everything on my first hike this fall.

Thanks for reading, happy hiking!

What are your thoughts on a woman hiking solo? Safe?

We thinking hiking solo as women can be done safely. In fact, it can be fun and empowering. Check out this blog post for more on this topic as well as safety tips for solo hiking: https://bearfoottheory.com/hiking-alone/

Thanks for this list, I’m planning out my first backpacking trip for myself and my husband and struggling to find a minimalist approach! I don’t want to pack everything and the kitchen sink but every blog seems to have twenty million things that are unnecessary. I’m looking forward to following your list! Any tips on seating? My husband is struggling with not being able to pack his giant camping chair.

Hi Claire – we know what you mean! Taking only what you need to be safe and comfortable will help you have a better experience. If you’re suffering under the weight of your pack it’s hard to have a good time. The Helinox Chair Zero in the blog post below is a good option. It’s super lightweight and packs down small making it great for backpacking. The REI Trail Chair in the same blog post is a good option as well if you don’t mind sitting on the ground. Another option is a lightweight, folding stool (just search “camp stool” online and you should be able to find a few options). Happy hiking!

https://bearfoottheory.com/best-camp-chairs/

Look up thermarest trekker chair. It converts/folds your sleeping pad into a sitting position.

That’s a great suggestion, thank you!

I will definitely keep this in mind in my next travels. thank you!

Thanks for reading!

What is your total weight including pack for 3 days? Also check out Lume deodorant on line. Some folks can go 72 hours with out stink. Safe for any body part. And no I don’t work for Lume, just having great results.

It varies depending on a few factors including the weather (how much warmth, rain gear, and shelter we have to pack for example) and whether a bear canister is needed which adds a little weight as well. I’d say our standard pack weight is anywhere from 15-30 lbs depending on how lightweight we’re going. And thanks for that deodorant recommendation!

Hi, thanks for taking the time to write these articles and share them, much appreciated. I have shared them on my own webpage/blog with my own followers as well – spreading the love.

Thanks Tania!

I was meant to find this post. I am a woman about to go on my first 3 day hiking/backpacking trip. I can’t tell you how helpful this info is. Thank you so much!

You’re welcome – happy trails!

The point is that if you’re looking to list existing products – it pays to ensure that you’re using the most effective techniques to instill trust, desire, and confidence in your buyers.

I love the mansplainers out there shaming her for touting nice gear. We all like to spend on different things. Some of us might go to REI to pick up a fun toy or two, and the rest of us probably have the brains to know how to substitute a cheaper item or repurpose something we have. First timers can also borrow gear from friends or neighbors before they commit to more frequent backpackers. It’s a great way to figure out what you like. This list was very helpful, Kim. Thanks.

Where’s your straw hat from though?? So cute!

It’s a Wallaroo Sedona Hat . My favorite wide-brimmed hat!

As others have said…THANK YOU. I have not backpacked in 8+ years and this was a great reminder and check list. I actually cannot believe some of the folks who harassed you about buying quality gear…guess their Momma never told them that “if you can’t say something nice, don’t say anything”…you would think they would have learned that on the trail. Their packs must get heavy carrying all that hate around…lose the weight! Franklly, I am always looking for ways to time weight and cost, but that is part of the fun and the process. Thanks again for a great list/refresher as I plan a 3 day in the Smokey’s!

So glad to hear you found this helpful! Enjoy your trip to the Smokey’s, and welcome back to backpacking! We actually have a fall travel guide for the park here in case you need help planning: https://bearfoottheory.com/smoky-mountains-fall-guide/

This is a very nice list, but if you put all these things together, the weight is not going to be ideal. The tent and sleeping bag is just about 6 lbs for start. All these are good products, but for the weight conscious, I would definitely be going for lighter items, if you don’t mind the weight, great list.

Hi Nikki, thanks for the input! These are the gear items we’ve personally carried when backpacking, even though they might not be the lightest on the market. For someone just starting out, buying gear can be really expensive so we’ve tried to strike a good balance between cost and weight in our recommendations. However, we’re working on an ultralight backpacking gear guide at the moment which will focus more on lightweight items.

Do you have an article on what you pack for food for a three day hike? I have always day hiked, and know my go to list for snacks, but haven’t ever done overnights, so not sure what to bring for calorie packed real meals. Thanks.

Hi Melanie, this blog post gives tips for what to pack for backpacking food, how much to bring, and our personal favorites: https://bearfoottheory.com/backpacking-food-ideas/

Thanks since I’ve become an old man I haven’t backpacked in a few years. So this was a good reminder. Appreciate you taking the time to post this. All the best for a safe and healthy season. Dave H Fort kent, Maine

The 6 Best Shorter Backpacking Trips on the Appalachian Trail

The 2,200-mile Appalachian Trail takes a lot of research and preparation to thru-hike. If you don't want to tackle it all at once, you can break it up into sections.

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Have you been interested in hiking the Appalachian Trail but you don’t have the time or interest to hike the whole trail at once, or the finances for such a long journey?

Well, we have good news: You don’t need any of that. There are 2,200 beautiful miles of trail between Georgia and Maine that you can break up into shorter, more manageable backpacking trips. They can be tackled in sections themselves, one at a time, or in groups, depending on your endurance, time at hand, and finances available.

So, head out on these shorter sections and enjoy some of the highlights of this incredible trail. In this article, I’ll share a description of six of my favorite sections and an example itinerary to help you create your own ideal route. Several of these can be turned into loop hikes using other trails that branch off the Appalachian Trail.

Soon, you’ll see why these sections are trail highlights.

The Best Shorter Hiking Trips on the Appalachian Trail

Great smoky mountains national park in north carolina/tennessee.

The Appalachian Trail travels about 72 miles through GSMNP along the North Carolina and Tennessee border. Notable highlights include Shuckstack Tower, Clingman’s Dome (the highest point on the trail at 6,643 feet), Charlies Bunion, and Mt. Cammerer Lookout Tower (0.6 miles off the AT).

Start : GSMNP Park Boundary, Fontana Dam

• Day 1: Mollies Ridge Shelter (10.2 miles)
• Day 2: Derrick Knob Shelter (12.1 miles)
• Day 3: Mt. Collins Shelter (13 miles + 0.5 miles off the AT)
• Newfound Gap (access to Gatlinburg, Tenn., or Cherokee, NC)
• Day 4: Icewater Spring Shelter (8 miles)
• Day 5: Tri-Corner Knob Shelter (12.6 miles)
• Day 6: Davenport Gap Shelter (14.6 miles, +1.2 miles to see Mt. Cammerer Lookout Tower

End: GSMNP Park Boundary, Davenport Gap, Tenn., 32, NC 284 (1.1 miles)

It’s a 2-hour drive to Fontana Dam, NC.

Additionally, there is one campsite (Birch Spring Gap) and six other shelters (Russell Field, Spence Field, Silers Bald, Double Spring Gap, Peck’s Corner [0.5 miles east], and Cosby Knob) along this section.

This is one of the sections on the Appalachian Trail where you will have to reserve camping and get a backpacking permit, which is $8 per person, per night. You can read more information here .

If you start your backpacking section 50 miles before the park boundary, travel only on the Appalachian Trail through the park, and finish 50 miles after the park boundary, you can apply for the $40 AT thru-hiker permit here .

Roan Highlands Area in Tennessee/North Carolina

This section along the border climbs over several grassy balds, like Beauty Spot Gap, Little Rock Knob, Round Bald, Jane Bald, and Hump Mountain, which provide views in all directions.

Start : Erwin, Tenn.

• Day 1: Beauty Spot Gap Campsite (11.9 miles)
• Day 2: Clyde Smith Shelter (14.5 miles)
• Day 3: Roan High Knob, the Highest shelter “on” the AT, 0.1 miles off the AT (8.5 miles), or Stan Murray Shelter (13.7 miles)
• Day 4: Apple House Tentsite (15.8 miles or 10.6 miles)

End: US 19 E (0.5 miles)

It’s a 40-minute drive back to Erwin, Tenn.

There are two other shelters (Curly Maple Gap and Cherry Gap); six campsites (Low Gap, Ash Gap, Yellow Mountain Gap, Little Hump Mountain, Bradley Gap, and Doll Flats); one group campsite (Wilder Mine), and four unnamed campsites along this section.

Damascus and Grayson Highlands State Park in Southern Virginia

This section starts from Damascus, Va., also known as “Trail Town U.S.A.,” and host of the annual Appalachian Trail Days Festival, which takes place the weekend after Mother’s Day.

The trail travels toward Grayson Highlands State Park providing expansive views, passing by the highest peak in Virginia, Mt. Rogers at 5,729 feet (0.5 miles off the trail if you want to say you’ve done it — but there’s no view), and then enters the park where you’ll find wild ponies.

Start : Damascus, Va.

• Day 1: Saunders Shelter (9.3 miles)
• Day 2: Lost Mountain Shelter (6.5 miles)
• Day 3: Thomas Knob Shelter (12.3 miles)
• Day 4: Wise Shelter (5.2 miles, more time to enjoy the ponies) or Old Orchard (11.9 miles)

End : Fox Creek, Va., 603 (8.4 miles or 1.7 miles)

It’s a 30-minute drive back to Damascus, Va.

There are seven other unnamed campsites along this section.

Virginia Triple Crown (Dragon’s Tooth, McAfee Knob, Tinker Cliffs)

This section starts by passing the Keffer Oak, which is over 300 years old and 18 feet around. The trail climbs up the ridge of Sinking Creek Mountain and to the Eastern Continental Divide. After Dragon’s Tooth, the trail is a bit of a rock climb down toward Catawba (which offers a gas station 1 mile away from the trail) and then goes up to McAfee Knob, the most photographed spot on the Appalachian Trail.

Set your tent up at the Campbell Shelter and then backtrack the 1 mile in the morning to see the sunrise because there’s no camping allowed on McAfee Knob.

Tinker Cliffs is the third highlight because you’ll walk along the cliffs for half a mile and experience amazing views of the valley.

Start: VA 42 (Newport, VA 8.0 E)

• Day 1: Niday Shelter (10.1 miles)
• Day 2: Pickle Branch Shelter (10.1 + 0.3 miles off trail)
• Day 3: John’s Spring Shelter (13.6 miles)
• Day 4: Campbell Shelter (3.4 miles)
• Day 5: Lamberts Meadow (6 miles)

End : Daleville US 220 (9.4 miles)

An hour from VA 42, AT Crossing closest to Newport, Va.

There are two other shelters, Sarver Hollow (0.4 miles east) and Catawba Mountain, and two campsites, Pig Farm and Lamberts Meadow, along this section.

Franconia Ridge/White Mountains in New Hampshire

This section is one of the most well-known, popular, and enjoyable because of the incredible views from hiking above treeline. You’ll start by hiking up and over the Kinsmans, and then by Lonesome Lake Hut where you can stop in for a baked good and see a beautiful view of Franconia Ridge.

The trail goes down into Franconia Notch and then back up to the ridge, which provides 2 gorgeous miles above treeline, and then two more huts, Galehead and Zealand Falls, and views on the final day.

Start : Kinsman Notch, NH 112

• Day 1: Kinsman Pond Shelter (11.5 miles)
• Day 2: Liberty Spring Campsite (7.4 miles) $10 per person
• Day 3: Garfield Ridge Shelter/Campsite (7.7 miles + 0.2 off trail)
• Day 4: Ethan Pond Campsite (14.5 miles + 0.2 off trail)

End: Crawford Notch, US 302

Around 50 minutes to drive back to Kinsman Notch.

There are two other shelters, Eliza Brook and Guyot (0.7 miles east) in this section.

These campsites are first come, first serve and cost $15 per person to camp at each of these places. The AMC huts are around $130 per person in the summertime. Dispersed camping is allowed, but it’s much harder to find because you’re not allowed to camp in the alpine zone (where trees are 8 feet or less), within 200 feet of trails or water, within 0.25 miles of a shelter, campsite, or hut, or within 0.25 miles of a trailhead.

100 Mile Wilderness in Maine

This section is the final stretch of the Appalachian Trail and offers a mix of beautiful mountain views and long river walks. It starts from Monson, the last town, and you can schedule a food drop midway through this section. Notable highlights include Little Wilson Falls, Barren Ledges, the 1984 Chairback Mountain airplane crash, Gulf Hagas, White Cap Mountain, lovely lakes, and several river crossings.

Start : ME 15 (Monson, Maine 3.6 East)

• Day 1: Wilson Valley Lean-to (10.4 miles)
• Day 2: Cloud Pound Lean-to (8.4 miles + 0.4 off the AT)
• Day 3: Carl A. Newhall Lean-to (16.8 miles)
• Day 4: East Branch Lean-to (10.8 miles)
• Day 5: Antlers Campsite (16 miles)
• Day 6: Wadleigh Stream Lean-to (13.6 miles)
• Day 7: Rainbow Spring Campsite (11.9 miles)

End: Golden Road, Abol Bridge (10.9 miles)

There are nine other shelters — Leeman Brook, Long Pond Stream, Chairback Gap, Logan Brook, Cooper Brook Falls, Potaywadjo Spring, Nahmakanta Stream, Rainbow Stream, Hurd Brook — and one other campsite, Sidney Tappan, in this section.

It’s a 2-hour drive back to Monson from Abol Bridge.

If there are no rules or regulations stated for the area, you can typically camp along the Appalachian Trail as long as you’re 200 feet from the trail, ideally not visible, and 200 feet from water. This creates more flexibility in planning a trip just for you and your group. If you want to break up a section of trail even more, this is an easy way to do it if you’ve got the time.

I recommend using the AWOL guide, which contains both northbound and southbound mileage for hiking in either direction. The FarOut app is another great tool. You can buy mapped regions by sections and show up-to-date comments from other users on water, animals, closures, etc.

The Final Word

Thru-hiking the Appalachian Trail is a huge commitment of time, money, and forethought. But it can be broken up into more manageable sections that provide plenty of opportunity for adventure along the way. This guide is meant to provide inspiration and ideas for you to break the trail up if that’s a better approach for you.

Just remember to check for the most up-to-date mileage, elevation change, permits, fees, and camping regulations before your trip. And if you want guidance on a list of budget-friendly hiking gear that will come in handy along the way, check out my Gear Under $75 I Used Every Day Thru-Hiking the Appalachian Trail .

This trail is 2,200 miles long, and these are some of my favorite sections. But you’re sure to find a trip you’ll enjoy anywhere along it. Happy trails!

Backpacking Tips: 7 Hacks From Thru-Hiking the 567-Mile Colorado Trail

Before you pack up and hit the trail, here are some useful backpacking tips, tricks, and hacks that can save you time, energy, and headaches while thru-hiking. Read more…

Xiaoling Keller calls a lot of places home. Most recently it was the Appalachian Trail, which has been a dream of her’s since childhood. (She successfully completed the AT in 2023.) Keller has also lived outside for months at a time, like whilst visiting 48 of the 63 U.S. National Parks. Her personal interests include: backpacking, camping, hiking, photography, van life without a van, and eating plant-based meals.

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10 of the Best Weekend Backpacking Trips in the US

Easily one of the best ways to spend a long weekend, regardless of the time of year, is trekking a trail over rocky mountain passes, along breezy coastlines, or in deep, verdant woodlands. Whether you make plans to revisit an old favorite or knock a new one off your bucket list, backpacking always presents a memorable adventure.

From Southeastern classics like Roan Mountain, to New England treasures like a hut-to-hut trip in the Presidentials, to epic and challenging trails in the Tetons, here are some of America's greatest backpacking trips.

1. Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore

19 miles, 1-2 days, Easy

The view of Grand Portal Point from a distance (along the North Country Trail). Rachel Kramer

Situated in the upper Midwest, the Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore is a see-it-to-believe-it sort of landscape with towering sandstone cliffs, impossibly blue lake waters, waterfalls, beaches, and dense woodlands. It also happens to be home to a 42-mile section of the 4,600 mile North Country National Scenic Trail along the south shore of Lake Superior, stretching from Munising, MI, to Grand Marais, MN.

Backcountry camping is available at 14 campgrounds along this 71,400-acre linear park. In the winter, under the right conditions, mammoth ice caves form, attracting thousands of visitors.

The 4.4 miles of the lakeshore path between the Mosquito and Chapel rivers is the most popular section of the North Country Trail. It follows the cliffs through deciduous forest and over sandy sections within view of Grand Portal Point and Lake Superior.

Most hikers start and end their day hikes at Grand Sable Visitor Center on the north end. Further south, the Coves Group to Munising Falls is an ambitious 19.2-mile trek. Yet another option is to start at Munising Falls at the southern end and take a ferry to Grand Island National Recreation Area. A popular marathon and 50K is run around the perimeter of the island in July, switching from clockwise to counter-clockwise year to year.

2. Superior Hiking Trail

18 miles, 1-2 days, Moderate

Taking in the views of Lake Superior Adam Kahtava

The Superior Hiking Trail is a 310-mile long footpath in northeastern Minnesota that follows the ridgeline on the North Coast of Lake Superior.

Most accessible is the 40-mile southernmost section through Jay Cooke State Park to the northern boundary of the city of Duluth. There are no campsites there, and due to flood damage in 2012, parts of this section remain diverted.

To the north, however, is the 18-mile stretch from Silver Bay to Country Road 6 where views of the Big Lake and smaller glacier-scoured lakes are frequently in view through the birch and maple canopy. The colors peak in late September and early October, if you can time your trek then. (Avoid the trail in May and early June, when the clouds of mosquitoes and black flies at their thickest.)

This section of the SHT includes a short but steep climb up Mount Trudee to a 30-foot waterfall on the Baptism River. If you don't catch a glimpse of the deer, wolves, or mountain lions known to inhabit the region (don't worry; they're more afraid of you than you are of them), you may still see their tracks.

Rockier and more technical sections of the SHT are favored by the trail runners who race out of Lutsen, MN, in May (25K and 50K) and September (26.2, 50 and 100 miles).

3. Roan Mountain Highlands

14 miles, 1-2 days, Difficult

The views from these ethereal highlands are stunning and constant, and bring to mind visions of Scotland and Wales. Joe Giordano

Roan Mountain is a 20-mile massif that lies along the Tennessee-North Carolina border. It consists of five sub-peaks, and is divided into two sections by Carvers Gap. To the west of Carvers Gap are Roan High Bluff and Roan High Knob, with Tollhouse Gap and Rhododendron Gardens lying between the two peaks.

A 14-mile section of the Appalachian Trail traverses the Roan Mountain between Carvers Gap and Highway 19E along the northern border of TN and NC. Heading south from 19E, plan to hike 8 miles to the Overmountain Shelter, a.k.a. “The Barn.” Stay inside with other backpackers or pitch your tent in its vicinity. Either way, you’ll be waking to a spectacular sunrise over the valley.

Pack up and trek the final tough 5 miles over three balds. As you approach Carvers Gap, you'll cross Grassy Ridge, the longest stretch of grassy bald in the Appalachian Mountains.

4. Grayson Highlands State Park

7 miles, copious bouldering, 1-2 days, Moderate to Difficult

Camping among the rhododendrons in Virginia's Grayson Highlands Jake Wheeler

Within southwestern VA lies the Jefferson National Forest. And within the forest lies Grayson Highlands State Park , a gateway to Mount Rogers and to a number of miles along the Appalachian Trail.

To summit Mount Rogers, the state’s highest peak at 5, 729 feet, there’s a 6.7-mile Mount Rogers National Recreation Trail from the Grindstone Campground six miles east of Troutdale. Or take the scenic 2.3-mile Wilburn Ridge Trail from the state park. There are no views from the forested peak, but on either route you’re likely to encounter wild ponies and clusters of exposed and inviting boulders.

In fact, both AT thru hikers and day visitors would do well to check out the bouldering scene in the Grayson Highlands. The Listening Rock Trail offers the most bouldering opportunities, followed by the AVP and Boneyard areas. Climbers take in beautiful top-outs, especially after conquering the Highland Highball, in the Highlands Bouldering Area.

Backcountry camping is not allowed within Grayson Highlands State Park, but camping is allowed in the Mount Rogers National Recreation Area (MRNRA). Hikers traveling north on the AT exit the park when they cross Big Wilson Creek. You’re welcome to camp across the creek, just past the Wise Shelter fence.

5. Standing Indian, NC

24-mile loop, 1-2 nights, Moderate

The Standing Indian Shelter McDowell Crook

A two-night stay is recommended to fully take in the Standing Indian Loop in NC’s Nantahala National Forest. Fifteen miles of the 24-mile Standing Indian Loop is on the Appalachian Trail, but all of it showcases the Nantahalas’ most impressive and beautiful features.

Knowing you start the trek at 4,000 feet makes the multiple 5,000-foot peaks a little less intimidating. For the AT, the Standing Indian trip is a moderate hike. All the better, as the views along the way are some of the most stunning you'll find in the Smokies.

From the Standing Indian Campground, travel up the Long Branch Trail until it connects with the AT. Mt. Albert is only 5.5 miles from the trailhead, but plan to spend your first night at the summit. In the morning, drink in the panoramic view before descending to Carter Cap, where there's a shelter and water. Expect to spend most of the day walking along a ridge with sweeping views.

Gradually you’ll make your way to the treeless and spectacular peak of Standing Indian itself. There is one small campsite on this bald, so if you want to snag it, you'll need to begin your second day very early in the morning.

On your final day, head back down to the Standing Indian Campground on the 7-mile Kimsey Creek Trail through dense hemlock groves and rhododendron tunnels. Keep in mind that in the early spring months, you’re likely to find snow and ice on this side of the mountain.

6. The Long Trail

23 miles, 2 days, Difficult

Some of the views you'll find along the Long Trail in Vermont Nate Merrill

The Long Trail, the oldest long-distance hiking trail in America, is a 272-mile footpath that follows the main ridge of the Green Mountains from the Massachusetts-Vermont stateline to the Canadian border. The Long Trail stretches the length of Vermont and crosses the state’s highest peaks.

It can take nearly three weeks to thru-hike the Long Trail and the 53 mountains (27 of which are 3,500 feet or higher) along it. It can be tackled section by section, too.

One of the toughest sections, the 23 miles from Birch Glen Camp northwest to the Buchanan Shelter, includes 8,000 feet of climbing and descending—including 1,700 feet at a 17 percent grade to the summit of Camels Hump . The exposed scramble over rock slabs pays off with views of Lake Champlain and the Adirondacks to the west, Mount Washington to the east, and Mount Mansfield to the north.

The descent along the ridgeline bottoms out with a 3.6-mile hike to the outskirts of Jonesville, VT. Stay overnight at the Duckbrook Shelter or wait to camp on the western slopes of Bolton Mountain at the Buchanan Shelter. There are six shelters along this stretch, thanks to the Green Mountain Club which built the trail between 1910 and 1930 and maintains it to this day.

7. Presidential Traverse, NH

23 miles, 1-2 days, Difficult to Moderate

Overlooking the White Mountains of New Hampshire after a strenuous climb Ry Glover

The Presidential Traverse in the White Mountains of New Hampshire is nearly 23 miles long with close to 9,000 feet of elevation gain. Best hiked from north to south, to bag the highest of 10 peaks first, the traverse demands a dawn-to-dusk effort if you don’t have three to four days to spare.

The traverse is almost entirely above the treeline, where the whiteout conditions are common and can cause one to turn back. Besides the right apparel, a map and compass are essential.

The first day is the toughest, with 4,000 feet to climb over the 3.8-mile Valley Way Trail to the peak of Mt. Madison. Continuing south on the Gulfside Trail, backpackers summit Adams and Jefferson to earn the right to lie down in the grass of Monticello Lawn.

Appreciate the rest, because Mt. Washington—the highest peak in the White Mountains—is next. Expect bad weather before reaching the snack bar at the summit, which tourists reach by road and rail.

From there the climbing is largely over, while the views of the southern Presidential range are not. The Crawford Path, the oldest continually maintained footpath in the U.S., leads to the Lake of the Huts and Mount Monroe. The going only gets easier past mounts Franklin, Eisenhower, Pierce, and Jackson.

8. Olympic National Park

Mileage varies, 1-3 days, Moderate to Difficult

With roughly 600 miles of trails, there are essentially endless opportunities for backpacking in Olympic National Park David Fulmer

At 1,442 square miles, Washington's Olympic National Park is nearly twice as large as Great Smoky Mountain National Park, and 300 square miles larger than Yosemite. The park has more than 600 miles of sensational trails, the majority of which are designated wilderness by the National Park Service, and 60 miles of craggy and picturesque coastline.

The backpacking options are numerous, but summitting Mt. Olympus, the tallest peak in the park, is a must. A campground within the park’s Hoh Rainforest is open year-round, so stay there and you can also enjoy backpacking the trail to Royal Basin and the Upper Royal Basin beyond where unparalleled views of glacial mountains and tarns await.

Easier hikes, from LaPush to Shi Shi and the popular Ruby Beach, are also often rewarded with whale sightings.

9. Teton Crest Trail

25 miles, 2-4 days, Difficult

Backpacking along Paintbrush Divide, arguably the most scenic stretch along the Teton Crest Trail Brian Saunders

If the Teton Crest Trail is not on your bucket list, it should be. Check it off by taking on the 25-mile section between Death Canyon to Cascade Canyon, and conquer the Alaska Basin and Hurricane Pass in the process.

The Phillips Pass Trailhead, halfway up Teton Pass, is the place to start. Plan to camp at Alaska Basin where a permit is not required because it lies just outside the boundaries of Grand Teton National Park.

Return to the park the next day to go up and over Hurricane Pass, and down into the South Fork of Cascade Canyon. End your Crest Trail trip there or head up the North Fork of Cascade Canyon to your last campsite. That would give you another day to hike Lake Solitude as well as Paintbrush Divide and Paintbrush Canyon , stopping at the North Jenny Lake parking area.

10. Old Rag in Shenandoah National Park, VA

10 miles, 1 day, Difficult

Breathlessly drinking in the views of Shenandoah National Park David Fulmer

The Old Rag Loop is the most challenging of the more than 500 trail miles within Shenandoah National Park in VA. It may be only 10 miles, but it takes 8 hours to complete, according to the National Park Service. They're not joking.

The most popular way to hike the Old Rag Loop is up the Ridge Trail, across the rock scramble to the summit, than down the Saddle Trail to the Weakley Hollow Fire Road.

The first two miles of the wooded trail gets increasingly steeper, and the vegetation changes noticeably. Once you're out of the woods onto the ridgetop, the scrambling over giant granite boulders begins. From the summit, you can breathlessly drink in the 200,000-acre expanse of the Shenandoah National Park, a portion of which is federally designated wilderness.

From here it is advisable to take the Saddle Trail, a fire road, back to your vehicle. It's 1.2 miles longer but much flatter and quicker.

Written by Joel Patenaude for RootsRated in partnership with Superfeet.

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Enewsletter, 10 best 2-3 day virginia backpacking trips on the appalachian trail.

The Appalachian Trail courses 550 miles amidst Virginia’s mountains, passing through Virginia’s rich array of public wildlands, such as the Jefferson National Forest, Washington National Forest, Shenandoah National Park and lands along the Blue Ridge Parkway. The Appalachian Trail acts as the spine to a connected trail network covering thousands of miles of pathways threading through the aforementioned places adding to the backpacking possibilities in the Old Dominion.

Using the AT and its connector trails, we can create fantastic 2-3 backpacking adventures, traversing vast woodlands, untamed wildernesses and scenic features from old growth forests to waterfalls and overlooks. Being Virginia, there’s always a little history added to the mix.

So, pack your tent and sleeping bag, strap on your pack and let’s hit the AT for some rewarding 2-3 backpacking adventures in Virginia’s highlands.

Appalachian Trail, Virginia Creeper Loop

Nearest Town: Damascus

How Long: 13.8-mile loop

Elevation Highs and Lows: 2,190 low point, 3,410 high point

GPS trailhead coordinates: N36° 38.645', W81° 44.407'

Why Go: Historic rail trail, stream, trail shelter, partial views

The Skinny:

This fun circuit in Mount Rogers National Recreation Area cruises up the gorgeous Whitetop Laurel Creek Valley on the famed Virginia Creeper Trail. A steady but very mild grade takes you to meet the Appalachian Trail. Climb to the crest of Straight Mountain, where partial views can be had before reaching Saunders trail shelter and a second night’s camping option. Take the AT back to the trailhead, switchbacking downhill off Straight Mountain.

The Camping: Campsites are bountiful along the Virginia Creeper Trail . Your primary overnighting option along the AT is the Saunders Trail shelter and adjacent tent sites.

What You Need to Know: Backpackers will see beauty throughout, but they will also see other hikers, backpackers and bicyclers on the Virginia Creeper Trail -- this is not a circuit for solitude seekers.

Nearby Attractions:

• Mount Rogers Outfitters
• Virginia Creeper Trail
• Old Mill Restaurant
• Barter Theatre

Appalachian Trail, Elk Garden to Fox Creek

Photo Credit: Nicholas Moore, @nicholasmoorephoto

Nearest Town: Trout Dale

How Long: 17.0-mile end-to-end

Elevation Highs and Lows: 3,400 low point, 5,240 high point

GPS trailhead coordinates: Start: N36° 38.767', W81° 34.984' End: N36° 41.85', W81° 30.26'

Why Go: Two wildernesses, high country panoramas, wild ponies

This is the highest elevation segment of the entire Virginia portion of the Appalachian Trail. Situated at Mount Rogers National Recreation Area, this part of the AT presents fine views from beginning to end. Along the way it passes through rare and lofty spruce-fir forests and nears Mount Rogers, the highest point in Virginia. Numerous rock outcrops jut above meadows where wild ponies graze and blueberries ripen late in summer. Part of the trail passes through Grayson Highlands State Park .

The Camping: Backpackers can choose 3 trail shelters along the way or find their own tent site in numerous wooded areas.

What You Need to Know: Beware wind, fog, rain and cold weather in this most high country.

• Park Place Drive-in
• Hungry Mother State Park
• Grayson Highlands State Park

Appalachian Trail, Dismal Falls to New River

Photo Credit: Michael Speed, @photosbyspeed

Nearest Town: Pearisburg

How Long: 22.0-mile end-to-end

Elevation Highs and Lows: 1,620 low point, 4,000 high point

GPS trailhead coordinates: Start: N37° 11.259', W80° 54.058' End: N37° 19.757', W80° 45.063'

Why Go: Stream hiking, views, ridge running, lesser-trod trail segment

Start your hike off with a splash at Dismal Falls , a captivating cataract that is much prettier than its name implies. From there, take the Appalachian Trail northbound, cruising up valley of Dismal Branch. Enjoy some streamside Appalachian Trail hiking, relatively unusual within Virginia’s AT trail mileage. Rise to the top of Flat Top Mountain, flirting with 4,000 feet in elevation before joining Pearis Mountain, where views await from several locations, including the famed Angels Rest, where you gain an expansive aspect of the New River Valley from commanding heights. The final part of the adventure leads down to the brawling New River.

The Camping: Backpackers have their choice of two trail shelters, as well as campsites along Dismal Creek and some ridge top locales near springs.

What You Need to Know: This area is blessed with ample springs, creeks and other water sources, unlike some other stretches of the Virginia AT.

• New River canoeing, kayaking and fishing
• Nicholas R. Anderson Observatory
• Mountain biking at Pandapas Pond
• Cascade Falls

 Appalachian Trail, Roanoke Triple Crown

Photo Credit: Brent McGuirt

Nearest Town: Roanoke

How Long: 28.0-mile end-to-end

Elevation Highs and Lows: 1,460 low point, 3,190 high point

GPS trailhead coordinates: Start: N37° 22.716', W80° 9.370' End: N37° 23.471', W79° 54.392'

Why Go: Visit three view laden rock outcrops -- Dragons Tooth, McAfee Knob, Tinker Cliffs, plus more views from Hay Rock and still more places

This end-to-end backpack encompasses the three most desired vista points for Western Virginia Appalachian Trail adventurers. Start with a climb up to reach the AT, then head southbound doing a modicum of rock scrambling to reach Dragons Tooth, with 360° panoramas. Head north, crossing the Catawba Creek Valley then rising to Catawba Mountain, where McAfee Knob awaits, the most photographed spot on Virginia’s Appalachian Trail. Continue onward, circling Carvins Cove Reservoir , coming to the Tinker Cliffs, a long stone vertical dropoff that will leave you dashing from view to view. Lastly, pass huge angular Hay Rock, as well as more geological wonderments before ending the adventure at I-81 near Daleville.

The Camping: Backpackers will pass four shelters on the way, plus other assorted campsites on this mostly ridge running trip.

What You Need to Know: Expect company at Dragons Tooth, Tinker Cliffs and especially McAfee Knob.

• Local Roots – A Farm to Table Restaurant
• Read Mountain Preserve
• The Roanoke Star atop Mill Mountain
• Paddle Roanoke River

Thunder Ridge, James River Face Wildernesses

Photo Credit: Jared Ladia, @jaredladiaphoto

Nearest Town: Glasgow

How Long: 17.3-mile end-to-end

Elevation Highs and Lows: 678’ low point, 4,225’ high point

GPS trailhead coordinates: Start: N37° 30.458', W79° 31.409' End: N37° 36.299', W79° 23.345'

Why Go: Elevation variation, The Guillotine, two wildernesses, James River Bridge

This hike traverses two wildernesses while starting high atop the Blue Ridge and ending down near the James River, making it more down than up. Leave the Blue Ridge Parkway northbound on the AT. Pass over Apple Orchard Mountain, your high point – and the highest point on the AT until New Hampshire -- after entering Thunder Ridge Wilderness. Walk under the geologically captivating Guillotine. Continue ridgetop hiking, entering big James River Face Wilderness at Petites Gap. Undulate through the heart of the wilderness, scanning for views of the James River down below, then make the long descent to the James River, saddling alongside gurgling Matts Creek. Reach the James River, where an impressive hiker footbridge spans this mighty Virginia waterway.

The Camping: Backpackers pass two trail shelters, Thunder Hill shelter early in the hike and Matts Creek shelter late in the hike. Another camp is located by Marble Spring and more sites are along lower Matts Creek.

What You Need to Know: Be prepared for varied weather conditions, since elevation changes exceed 3,500 feet.

• Otter Creek Recreation Area
• Natural Bridge of Virginia
• Scotto's Pizza

Mount Pleasant Scenic Area

Nearest Town: Buena Vista

How Long: 11.5-mile figure-eight loop

Elevation Highs and Lows: 3,110 low point, 4,030 high point

GPS trailhead coordinates: N37° 45.581', W79° 11.730'

Why Go: Meadow views, fields, good campsites, half loop possibility

This panorama-heavy upland hike rolls through a mix of woods and fields atop the Blue Ridge. Leave Hog Camp Gap on the AT to scale Cole Mountain, with its vistas and highland meadows. Descend to Cowcamp Gap, leaving the AT on the Old Hotel Trail, where a rolling track takes you through more mixed woods. You can cut off the trip halfway near the trailhead or join the Henry Lanum Trail to make a near figure eight. Scale Mount Pleasant, 4,021 feet, where dual summits deliver spectacular panoramas. Ridge run over Pompey Mountain before completing the circuit.

The Camping: Overnight at the Cowcamp Gap shelter, or at the head of Little Cove Creek. Ridgetop sites are available near Mount Pleasant.

What You Need to Know: A spring, accessed on a spur trail, serves the ridgetop campsites near Mount Pleasant.

• Hulls Drive-in
• Virginia Military Institute
• Glen Maury Park
• Original Italian Pizza

Three Ridges Wilderness Loop

Nearest Town: Amherst

How Long: 14.5-mile loop

Elevation Highs and Lows: 1,660 low point, 3,940 high point

GPS trailhead coordinates: N37° 54.101', W78° 59.113'

Why Go: Wilderness, views aplenty, streams, Campbell Creek Falls

This circuit adventure delivers both ridgetop panoramas and streamside scenery in federally designated Three Ridges Wilderness. The Appalachian Trail leads past several outcrops and views as it traverses the spine of Three Ridges. These views are spread out along the route, and include another vista from Chimney Rock. Eventually, the AT drops off the ridgeline into Harpers Creek where there are aquatic campsites. To complete the loop, join the Mau-Har Trail . It meanders the west slope of Three Ridges before dropping into Campbell Creek. Visit 50-foot Campbell Creek Falls. Close the loop by ascending Campbell Creek, passing lesser cascades.

The Camping: Tent sites and one shelter are available on the AT while streamside camps are located along Campbell Creek.

What You Need to Know: This backpack, though short, does have multiple ups and downs.

• The Briar Patch Restaurant
• James River State Park

Appalachian Trail, Moormans River Loop

Nearest Town: Charlottesville

How Long: 18.1-mile loop

Elevation Highs and Lows: 1,130 low point, 3,110 high point

GPS trailhead coordinates: N38° 9.174', W78° 46.366'

Why Go: Views, waterfalls, swimming holes, trout fishing, homesites

This loop in the southern end of Shenandoah National Park takes you along the crest of the Blue Ridge into the upper Moormans River watershed and back around to the high country. Start on the AT and savor some views before entering the North Fork Moormans River valley. Visit Big Branch Falls before reaching South Fork Moormans River valley, where deep pools and waterfalls await. Ascend the upper part of the valley before rejoining the AT and cruising the high country on the park’s rocky spine. In late spring and summer, bring a fishing rod and swimming trunks.

The Camping: Backpackers will find sites along the stream valleys, but must comply with Shenandoah National Park regulations and obtain a backcountry camping permit, available at entrance stations.

What You Need to Know: This loop entails several crossings of the South Fork and North Fork Moormans River. Bring hiking poles for balance.

• Continental Divide Restaurant
• Monticello Wine Tour and Coach Company
• Sherando Lake Recreation Area
• Humpback Rocks Visitor Center

Bearfence Mountain, Conway River Loop

Nearest Town: Elkton

How Long: 12.0-mile loop

Elevation Highs and Lows: 1,210 low point, 3,440 high point

GPS trailhead coordinates: N38° 28.068', W78° 27.445'

Why Go: Waterfalls, views, Bearfence Mountain Rock Scramble

This challenging loop has it all -- overlooks, waterfalls, and geologically exciting hiking. Leave the Blue Ridge and follow the scenic Conway River down through the Rapidan Wildlife Management Area . Next, head into the high country on the rarely trampled Slaughter Trail, passing a pioneer homesite. Pick up the Appalachian Trail then come to the Bearfence Mountain Rock Scramble. The scramble is doable with a full backpack. Fantastic panoramas open in all directions, including the Conway River drainage from where you came, Fork Mountain, Jones Mountain and Cat Knob -- one of the best views in Shenandoah National Park. The last part of the hike traces the Appalachian Trail along the Blue Ridge back to the trailhead.

The Camping: Backpackers will find sites along the lower Conway River as well as the upper Devils Ditch. The Bearfence Mountain Hut is available along the AT.

What you need to know: The trail travels through Shenandoah National Park and Rapidan WMA. A permit is needed to overnight within the park but get a permit anyway if you camp in Rapidan WMA, to let rangers know why your car is at the trailhead overnight.

• Ciro’s Italian Eatery
• Paddle Shenandoah River
• South River Falls

Appalachian Trail, Thornton Hollow Loop

Nearest Town: Sperryville/Luray

How Long: 15.4-mile loop

Elevation Highs and Lows: 1,440’ low point, 2,960’ high point

GPS trailhead coordinates: N38° 43.439', W78° 19.198'

Why Go: National park level scenery, old homesites, pretty river, some views

Backpack the North District of Shenandoah National Park. Travel the once-populated Thornton Hollow and take a walk through history. Camp along North Fork Thornton River. Explore the midlands along Hull School Trail. Visit Bolen Cemetery and hike up Keyser Run Fire Road into the high country. Overnight at the headwaters of the Piney River and complete your loop on a pleasant stretch of the Appalachian Trail. The hiking is neither long nor hard. Trout anglers and history buffs will especially enjoy this backpacking adventure.

The Camping: Backpackers will find sites along the Thornton River and upper Piney River along the stream valley, but must comply with Shenandoah National Park regulations and obtain a backcountry camping permit, available at entrance stations.

What you Need to Know: There are four river crossings on the upper Thornton River Trail. These crossings will be easy rock hops in summer but can be troublesome during after prolonged rains.

• Luray Caverns
• Big Meadows Lodge
• Paddle or fish South Fork Shenandoah River

Johnny Molloy

Johnny Molloy is an outdoor writer who has penned over 85 outdoor books covering hiking, paddling, camping, bicycling covering 28 different states. Having camped out over 5,000 nights throughout the United States, he continues to explore the great outdoors and write about it.

• National Parks
• Tiny Houses

10 Killer Backpacking Trails in Yosemite National Park

Posted by Emily Pennington September 16, 2019 Updated September 04, 2023

We research, evaluate and select travel destinations based on a number of factors, including our writers’ experience, user reviews and more. We may earn a commission when you book or purchase through our links. See our editorial policy to learn more.

With over 700,000 acres of panoramic wilderness and 800 miles of developed trails, Yosemite is perhaps the most iconic national park in the entire country — and for good reason.

I couldn’t help but gasp the moment I pulled my car around the bend to catch my first glimpse of the famed Tunnel View . My friend in the passenger seat started singing the Jurassic Park theme song, and I felt instantly transported to a bygone era.

Giant domes of glacially carved granite rose up from the earth like the shells of massive petrified tortoises. Waterfalls cascaded down thousands of feet from the cliffs above, and a dense green forest carpeted the valley below as far as my eyes could see.

Everything felt impossibly huge. It was, quite literally, breathtaking.

Related Read: 7 Best Airbnbs & Vacation Rentals Near Yosemite National Park

Backpacking In Yosemite

If you’ve got more than 24 hours to visit this majestic landscape in person, planning a multi-day backpacking trip is a fantastic way to get up close and personal with some of the top attractions at Yosemite National Park . It’s also the best way to escape the crowds, as most visitors don’t make it into the backcountry.

There’s something for everyone at Yosemite, from the valley-addicted photographer to the high-altitude hermit seeking solitude. Here’s a list of the best overnight backpacking trips to get you started.

Related read : 9 Super Scenic Hikes in Yosemite National Park, California

1. Gla cier Point Loop

Why you should go: A two-day trek that delivers a highlight reel of the best natural attractions at Yosemite National Park.

• Distance: 18.25 miles
• Elevation Gain: 5,214 feet (total)
• Difficulty: Challenging

If you’re an avid hiker looking to cram as much as possible into a two-day trip, this is the loop for you.

Grab a permit from Glacier Point or Happy Isles to Little Yosemite Valley, lace up your shoes, and get ready to rack up some vertical gain. The Glacier Point Loop starts at the historic Glacier Point Trailhead, with sweeping panoramic views of the Yosemite Valley surrounding you for nearly the entirety of the hike.

“Beautiful trail, completely worth the journey,” says visitor Briana Cruz on AllTrails .

If you hike clockwise (recommended), you’ll descend the many switchbacks of the Four Mile Trail , meander through the most populated area of the valley, hop onto the John Muir Trail at Happy Isles, climb up to a roaring Nevada Falls, and camp at Little Yosemite Valley. It’s a brisk 11 miles with 2,628 feet of gain.

After a grueling day one, the second day offers a more leisurely seven-mile jaunt with 2,586 feet of gain past Half Dome, around Liberty Cap, and back over Nevada Falls before hikers are spit out onto the aptly named Panorama Trail . Get your cameras ready, folks, because the most iconic views of Half Dome are all over this trail.

After catching a side-peek of the powerful rush of Illilouette Falls, it’s time to chug water and climb the remaining few sunny switchbacks towards the car. Buy yourself an ice cream bar at the Glacier Point store and soak in the view — you’ve earned it.

Related Read:   9 Adventurous Things to Do in Yosemite National Park, California

2. Ten Lakes Loop

Why you should go: This 2-3 day high-altitude romp is heaven for alpine lake lovers.

• Distance: 20 miles
• Elevation Gain: 4,922 feet (total)
• Difficulty: Moderate (three days), Challenging (two days)

The trail up to Ten Lakes is always a fan-favorite for beginner backpackers and crusty old veterans alike.

Beginning near Porcupine Flat on Tioga Road, the trailhead climbs through dense, fragrant pine forest for two miles before passing through the lush, green corn lilies of Half Moon Meadow. The path quickly turns alpine as it ascends to a high pass at 9,671 feet above sea level, giving lucky hikers a stunning view of the Ten Lakes Valley below. There’s no shortage of great campsites here, and venturing a bit off-trail to a more secluded lake is a real treat.

From here, hikers can turn back the way they came for an easy day two, or they can tackle the absolutely gorgeous and crowd-free final 13.5 miles to make a loop.

The trail passes by a phenomenal view of the Grand Canyon of the Tuolumne before it climbs up and over a high pass near Tuolumne Peak. If your legs are killing you at mile 11, solitude and excellent camping can be found at Polly Dome Lakes. But, if you’re up for it, the remaining 3 miles to Tioga Road are a cinch if you’re dying to get back to the car.

When you’re done, stick your thumb into the air and catch a ride back to the trailhead — hitchhiking is legal in most national parks!

Pro tip: If you’ve got extra time on your hands, a side trek up to May Lake is well worth the effort.

Related Read:   8 Epic Backpacking Trips in Sequoia National Park & Kings Canyon

3. Cathedral and Sunrise Lakes Loop

Why you should go: Catch a glimpse of Cathedral Peak’s craggy summit and camp at a pristine, alpine lake on this two-day weekend trek.

• Distance: 19.5 miles (without Clouds Rest)
• Elevation Gain: 3,675 feet (total)
• Difficulty: Moderate

Hop onto the John Muir Trail heading southbound from Tuolumne Meadows and wave at sweaty, happy thruhikers as they pass you by on your climb towards Cathedral Lakes .

The views of Tuolumne’s many famous domes are fantastic the higher you ascend. Cathedral Peak’s rocky summit spire makes for an excellent beacon as hikers huff and puff their way towards it, gaining 1,000 feet in just 2.5 miles.

After edging around Columbia Finger, hikers will descend to a grassy, picturesque meadow before climbing up through Sunrise High Sierra Camp. You can choose to camp here, but for a little extra solitude, continue for a little over a mile to Sunrise Lake 3.

Great news — campfires are allowed below 9,600 feet in Yosemite National Park, so walk around and grab a gorgeous spot with a lakeside view and an existing fire ring.

From here, adventurous hikers can tack on Clouds Rest before heading down to Tioga Road and taking the shuttle, hitchhiking, or walking along the adjacent trail back to your car stashed at Tuolumne Meadows.

Related Read:   11 Epic Winter Camping Spots in California

4. High Sierra Camps Loop

Why you should go: A stunning six-day loop through Yosemite’s high country with meal and tent cabin options for the sophisticated hiker.

• Distance: 49 miles
• Elevation Gain: 6,100 feet (cumulative)

The Yosemite High Sierra Camps were developed between 1916 and the early 1960s, providing visitors with a luxurious backcountry experience that’s rich with history. The High Sierra Camps Loop is an excellent thru-hike option for visitors who have some cash to spend and don’t want to lug a heavy pack around the high country.

Most visitors opt to book “glamping” tent cabins and meals at each camp so that they hike in a 49-mile loop, going from Tuolumne Meadows Lodge to Glen Aulin, to May Lake, to Sunrise Camp, to Merced Lake, to Vogelsang, and finally back to Tuolumne Meadows.

The days on trail range from 6.8 – 9.5 miles , climbing up and over 10,000-foot mountain passes, through prehistorically green alpine meadows, and past the deep blue sapphire of many, many alpine lakes. This six-day trek is a bucket-list item not to be missed.

Related Read:   An Epic Guide to California’s 14ers: Hiking & Climbing the High Peaks

5. Hetch Hetchy Loop

Why you should go: Solitude. In the words of John Muir, “Hetch Hetchy is a grand landscape garden, one of nature’s rarest and most precious mountain temples.”

• Distance: 29 miles
• Elevation Gain: 7,759 feet (cumulative)
• Difficulty: Moderate (four days), Challenging (three days)

Before Hetch Hetchy was dammed in 1923, it was a favorite Yosemite landmark for naturalist John Muir. He even went so far as to call it as beautiful as the more famous Yosemite Valley to the south.

Since then, the O’Shaughnessy Dam has turned the fabled area into a major water source for San Francisco, but that doesn’t mean that the area isn’t worth a visit. In fact, it’s the best place in the entire park to get away from the throngs of tourists populating the crowded valley.

This loop can be done in 3-4 days, depending on how burly you’re feeling. It starts at the O’Shaughnessy Dam and circles Hetch Hetchy in a clockwise direction. Since the first day out features a staggering 3,527 feet of elevation gain, we recommend starting early to beat the heat and camping at Laurel Lake.

From there, continue on to Lake Vernon (great camping for night two), circumnavigate the ever-looming Mount Gibson, and zigzag down the switchbacks towards Rancheria Falls before returning back along the reservoir towards the dam.

This trek is a haven for backpackers and waterfall-lovers looking for something less crowded and off the beaten path in Yosemite National Park.

Related Read:   7 Gorgeous Spots to See Fall Colors in California

6. Pohono Trail To Glacier Point

Why you should go: Nab exquisite views of Yosemite Valley and escape the crowds on this overnight adventure.

• Distance: 14 miles
• Elevation Gain: 5,622 feet (total)

Park in the lot to the right of the infamous Tunnel View, lace up your boots, and get ready to climb. The Pohono Trail wastes no time before throwing hikers right into the belly of a set of dappled, forest switchbacks. In no time, you’ll likely have the place all to yourself, escaping the mayhem of photographers down below, all vying for that perfect shot.

The panoramic views of the valley and Bridalveil Falls are the real star of this trail, so be on the lookout for turnoffs towards Old Inspiration Point, Stanford Point, Crocker Point, and Dewey Point as you hike. About 7.5 miles in, you’ll cross an adorable bridge over Bridalveil Creek, and we recommend pitching your tent here.

Day two is a collage of epic views of Taft Point, Yosemite Falls and, you guessed it, Half Dome. Finish your quest at Glacier Point and consider buying yourself a popsicle and enjoying the splendid view before heading back.

Logistics on this hike can be tricky, so ask the rangers about current water conditions and camping restrictions. Since the trail ends on the opposite end of the valley as it begins, you’ll have a “choose your own adventure” moment at the end of the journey. Shuttle two cars, utilize the bus from Yosemite Lodge, or hitch a ride back down to Tunnel View!

Related Read:   14 Wow-Worthy Hikes at Mount Shasta, California

7. Young Lakes Loop

Why you should go: This high altitude trek traverses alpine lakes, wildflowers, and campsites under the bohemoth summits of Ragged Peak and Mt. Conness.

• Distance: 16 miles
• Elevation Gain: 3,136 feet (total)

The hike up to Young Lakes is perhaps the best glimpse of untouched, alpine landscapes that Yosemite has to offer.

Head north on the trail towards Dog Lake, opting for a side jaunt up to the amazing views on the mini-summit of Lembert Dome. When you’ve had enough of the killer views of Tuolumne, mosey down the granite slabs to Dog Lake and cool off in the crisp, fresh snow melt.

From here, the trail winds through a meadow strewn with yellow monkeyflower, crimson paintbrush, and airy purple lupine. You’ll continue up and over a ridge extending from Ragged Peak before crossing a grove of whitebark pine trees. Nab a campsite at the first lake or continue on to lakes two and three if you’re seeking solitude.

When you begin your return to civilization, be sure to stay right at the junction to create a loop. Amble downhill through boulder-laden alpine meadows, hop onto the Pacific Crest Trail for a short while, and pass by the quaintly gurgling Soda Springs before returning to your vehicle.

Related Read:   10 Best Glamping Spots Near Joshua Tree National Park, California

8. Cathedral Lakes

Why you should go: A short out-and-back hike up to a pair of stunning glacial lakes, nestled under the towering shadow of Cathedral Peak.

• Distance: 9 miles
• Elevation Gain: 1,738 feet (total)
• Difficulty: Easy (but high altitude)

If you’re new to backpacking but want to soak up all the majesty of the Yosemite high country, Cathedral Lakes is the trail for you. It’s one of the shortest treks you can obtain a backcountry permit for, and the views along the way are second to none.

Take the Cathedral Lakes Trailhead and hike south. The looming dome of Cathedral Peak’s north side will come into view early on in the hike as you ascend up, up, up, through a thick, verdant forest.

Before you know it, you’ll be thrust into a lush, alpine meadow. Keep an eye out for the sign marking the junction towards lower Cathedral Lake. If you’re jonesing to camp with a fire, you’ll want to turn off here and select a site with a pre-existing fire ring. Or, simply tack on this extra mile hike to catch a glimpse of both lakes while you’re out.

If you’d like a little more solitude and an even more epic look at Cathedral Peak, continue south on the JMT until the small, aquamarine tarn of Upper Cathderal Lake comes into view. Scramble up a few boulders and gaze out across the electric sky for the best sunset view in the joint.

When you’re ready to head home, simply turn around and hike back the way you came.

Related Read:   18 Stunningly Secluded Cabin Rentals in California

9. Big Oak Flat Road To Yosemite Falls

Why you should go: Escape the crowds, camp on top of El Capitan, and get a bird’s-eye view of Yosemite Valley on this two-day mini thru-hike.

• Distance: 18 miles
• Elevation Gain: 6,247 feet (total)

Loved the movie Free Solo ? This hike circumnavigates the star of the film. No, not Alex Honnold – El Capitan.

The trek starts off at the Old Big Oak Flat Road Trailhead and immediately starts climbing through a verdant pine forest. Soon, the shouts and selfie sticks of Yosemite Valley will all fade away, and you’ll be left with solitude and quiet as your boots crunch along the steady uphill of the trail.

Be mindful of your water level as you hike – creeks here can dry up in late summer months!

Camp at Ribbon Meadow, adjacent to the summit of El Capitan itself and make a point to wake up extra early to watch the magical glow of sunrise stretch its way slowly across the valley as you drink your morning coffee.

Tack on an optional summit of the breathtaking Eagle Peak before a long descent on the Falls Trail. Grab a ride or take the shuttle back to the base of El Cap to get your car when you’re done.

Related Read:   The Most Scenic Los Angeles to Yosemite Road Trip Itinerary

10. Grand Canyon Of The Tuolumne Loop

Why you should go: Cascading waterfalls, alpine lakes, towers of granite, and the roaring Tuolumne River offer the best of Yosemite’s high country on this longer 4-6 day loop.

• Distance: 47 – 55 miles (starting at White Wolf or Tuolumne)
• Elevation Gain: 9,631 feet (cumulative)

“Holy Granite!” You’ll be pinching yourself for the majority of this trail to make sure you aren’t dreaming. This multi-day loop can be hiked from either White Wolf or Tuolumne Meadows, so pick your poison and reserve a permit early.

If you begin the journey at Tuolumne Meadows, you’ll hike a moderately graded dirt path for five miles to Glen Aulin. There’s a High Sierra Camp here if you prefer to camp near a pit toilet, but we recommend you continue on a few miles and grab a more secluded tent site near the river. Check fire restrictions before you head out — they may be in place late season for lower elevations.

Hang a left and head towards Pate Valley, following the swift, blue line of the Tuolumne River for the next 16 miles. You’ll stroll past massive granite rock faces and cross under several imposing waterfalls like California, LeConte, and Waterwheel. Eat lunch in the shade near one of the many swimming holes and take a dip in the frigid water to cool off.

Most hikers will hit a gnarly, 3,500-foot ascent on day three (if hiking out of Tuolumne), which can easily be broken up by planning to camp near Morrison Creek. If you’re lucky, you might even nab a spot with an epic view of Hetch Hetchy!

From here, you could end the trek early at White Wolf or loop through a shady, wooded area and begin the ascent towards Ten Lakes. It’s a bit of a bear, but the 12-mile hike from Morrison Creek to the first of the lakes is well worth it, and you’ll catch a stellar sunset from this incredible alpine basin.

For the final leg, the trail meanders through wildflower-strewn meadows, up and around Tuolumne Peak, and across a lovely forested area before returning to Glen Aulin. If you’re looking to cut the mileage, Polly Dome Lakes has several choice campsites and is only a half-mile off the route.

Return back the way you came, heading down the storied Pacific Crest Trail towards Tuolumne.

Related Read:   14 Epic Campgrounds Near Los Angeles, California

A Word On Wilderness Permits

Because of its beauty and recent Instagram fame, Yosemite’s wilderness permits can be tricky to score. The best way to ensure you nab your top trail pick is to plan your trip a few months in advance, so there’s ample time to get the right permit.

Permits are available via an online lottery system 168 days in advance of the hiking start date. They’re are required year-round, though reservations are only needed from April to November.

Planning a last-minute excursion to John Muir’s favorite valley? 40 percent of all trailhead permits are available on a first-come, first-served basis no earlier than 11am the day before your hike begins.

Weekdays are best for snagging a coveted permit for a popular trailhead, making this an excellent option if you’re feeling lucky and have some extra time.

Related Read:   11 Stunning Glamping Spots Near Yosemite National Park, California

Don’t Forget Your Bear Canister

C ritters are practically everywhere you turn in Yosemite. That’s great for photos, but unfortunately, many of the animals are accustomed to the presence of humans.

In an effort to keep wildlife wild, bear canisters are required (and available for rent) for all overnight travel within Yosemite National Park. You’ll need to store all excess food, trash, and smellables inside the canister before you go to bed, and hide it at least 100 feet from camp.

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Seen in: Backpacking , Backpacking in California , California , National Parks , Southwest , Yosemite

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.

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25 Best Backpacking Trips in the World

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

Earth is expansive, beautiful, and diverse. From windy mountain tops to narrow desert canyons, the sights are limitless. Walking trails cover our planet, allowing travelers the opportunity to intimately connect with their environment. This list of 25 of the best backpacking trails in the world takes you across the globe, spanning over 20 countries and dozens of ecosystems. We’ve sprinkled in a little bit of everything: overnight adventures, off-trail excursions, and long-distance thru-hikes. Anyone—from the beginner hiker to the experienced backpacker seeking more technical terrain—will find joy in this list. Below, you’ll find trails that inspire us. They’re listed by mileage because, let’s be real, we can’t choose just one favorite.

1. Kamikochi-Yari-Hotaka Circuit, Northern Japanese Alps, Japan

Trail Overview

Mileage: 21 mi roundtrip |  length: 3 days  |  difficulty: strenuous  |  elevation gain: 5500 ft.

This quintessential Northern Japanese Alps hike may be short, but it is undoubtedly an undertaking. The trail traverses from the low mountains to the highest peaks, from the serene river valley of Kamikochi to the windy summit of Mt Yarigatake. After a lazy walk through the deciduous forest along the Azusagawa River, the path steepens and heads into the alpine. The pinnacle-like summit of Yarigatake is within sight as hikers use their hands to cling to old metal ladders attached to vertical rock faces. An exhilarating ridgeline, the Daikiretto (meaning “the big cut”), awaits bold hikers with chains to help navigate the knife-edge. Backpackers do not need technical skills for these sections but would benefit from confident footing and unwavering nerves.

Mountain lodges situated high in the alpine, create a network of shelters that host all hikers attempting these trails. Step outside to gaze at the stars before retreating inside to cozy up by the wood-burning stove at night. In the mornings, watch as blankets of clouds roll among the rocky peaks and enjoy a leisurely breakfast before setting out on the trail once again.

Accommodations and Reservations

Mountain huts along the route provide hikers with shelter from potentially harsh mountain conditions. Many lodges do not require reservations for parties under 3 people, but you can make  reservations  before you hike. (These reservations must be made over the phone; the huts do not accept email reservations.)  Tent sites  are also available at many of the huts and do not require reservations. Camping outside of designated areas is prohibited.

Hot breakfast and dinner are available at the mountain lodges for an added fee. Embrace the communal nature of these huts and take the opportunity to interact with hikers from all over the world.

Late July through September are most likely to be snow-free. However, the mountain huts open their doors from April through November. Those visiting outside of the summer climbing season should be prepared for snow mountaineering. Due to the alpine nature of this route, the  weather  is highly variable. September and early October see the best conditions: fewer crowds and an array of colors as the fall foliage transforms the landscape.

All Inclusive Backpacking Trips

2. Kalalau Trail, Na Pali Coast, Hawaii, USA

Mileage: 22 mi roundtrip  |  Length: 3 days  |  Difficulty: Moderate  |  Elevation Gain: 800 ft

The Nā Pali Coast is a little slice of paradise along the northwestern shore of Kauai. The rugged grandeur of the pali, or sea cliffs, becomes apparent as you hike along the famed Kalalau Trail. Dramatic, fluted cliffs enclose Kalalau Beach, adding a touch of remoteness to this adventure. This pristine landscape looks much like it did when native Hawaiians traveled this stretch of land to connect their settlements. Campsites tucked in beneath the trees are sprinkled along the coast. Most hikers opt for three nights on the trail, stopping at Hanakoa for their first and third nights, and then ultimately at Kalalau Beach. You’ll want to pack light for this backpacking trip. A heavy pack will only weigh you down along the more strenuous sections of trail, such as Crawler’s Ledge.

For hikers who can secure permits, dazzling ocean, towering waterfalls, rushing streams, and steep spires surround this trail as you hike. Experienced swimmers will have many opportunities for body-surfing, while avid hikers will enjoy the chance to head into the Kalalau Valley.

Permits & Reservations

Due to previous overcrowding, the State of Hawaii created a strict system for visiting this incredible region.  Reservations  are required for any visitors, even day-use, to enter Hāʻena State Park. There is one caveat: Hawaii residents may visit without a reservation. If you wish to stay overnight or even hike past the Hanakāpīʻai Beach on the Kalalau Trail, you will need a Nāpali Coast State Wilderness Park camping  permit . You can reserve these $20 per person per day permits online up to 90 days before your trip.

If you’ve obtained a permit to camp along the Kalalau Trail, you will need to arrange a shuttle or private drop off in the park, as no overnight parking is allowed.

This hike is accessible year-round, but summer weather (May through October) is drier and more predictable. Be sure to check  weather  and  trail  conditions before heading out. Flash floods can dramatically raise stream levels, making essential river crossings impassable. Occasionally, these unpredictable storms cause trail closures.

3. Long Range Traverse, Newfoundland, Canada

Mileage: 22 mi point-to-point  |  Length: 4-5 days  |  Difficulty: Strenuous (& requires navigation skills)  |  Elevation Gain: 2300 ft

This rugged, unmarked cross-country route takes hikers deep into the Gros Morne National Park wilderness. Sparkling freshwater fjords weave beneath soaring granite cliffs. Caribou, moose, and black bears meander across the high plateau and near marshy ponds. The alpine tundra of western Newfoundland is stunning, wild, and raw: the ideal physical and mental challenge for bold backpackers willing to attempt this traverse. Take your time and settle into the wilderness: five days in the Long Range will allow you side trips to summit Gros Morne Mountain, or to take in the views on the precipice overlooking Ten Mile Pond.

Permits and Reservations

Quotas exist to minimize the impact of hiking groups on this mountainous environment. Three groups per day are allowed to attempt the Long Range Traverse, so  reservations  are recommended and can be made starting in mid-January for the upcoming season. Hikers can only make reservations for trips between June 25th and September 30th. During peak months, from mid-July through August, reservations should be made well in advance. There is a $25 reservation fee per group, as well as $85 in backcountry travel fees per person.

Technical Skills

Parks Canada requires hikers to participate in an orientation session before attempting the Long Range Traverse. These orientations are offered daily at 2:30 PM at the Visitor Center and must be completed the day prior to your departure.

Backcountry navigation skills (including the use of a map and compass) are essential to completing this traverse. Potential backpackers have to pass a navigation exam before obtaining their permit. A GPS device can help avoid navigation errors in frequent low-hanging fog.

September is one of the best months in the Long Range Mountains. Moderate temperatures, fewer bugs, and low precipitation create ideal hiking conditions. Accessibility to the Long Range Traverse is only guaranteed from June 25th through September 30th.  Weather  conditions and boat availability dictates whether or not backpackers can access this terrain.

4. Rim to Rim, Grand Canyon National Park, Arizona, USA

Mileage: 24 mi point-to-point  |  Length: 3-4 days  |  Difficulty: Strenuous  |  Elevation: 5000 ft gain, 5500 ft loss

The Grand Canyon is an  Arizona  iconic, and at GCNP there is no hike more all-encompassing than the  Rim-to-Rim . Starting at the North Rim, hikers descend to the canyon floor, and cross over the Colorado River before climbing steep switchbacks to the South Rim. While the views from atop the rim are mind-blowing, three nights spent in the canyon will fully immerse you in this unique place. Watch the layers of sandstone change colors in the setting sun at Plateau Point. Chat with fellow hikers at the historic Phantom Ranch, and revive your sun-parched body at Ribbon Falls. As soon as your trip is over, you’ll be daydreaming about the hidden hanging gardens of side canyons, the red dirt in your shoes, and the smell of sagebrush along the trail.

Backcountry permits are required for all overnight trips in Grand Canyon National Park (except at the developed car camping sites along the North or South Rim). Reservations are made in advance and are so popular that the NPS organized a  cheat sheet  for when to apply. Last-minute walk-up permits are available for some of the corridor campsites along this route (along with a wait list system), so you could always try your luck by visiting a Backcountry Information Center the day before you intend to hike.

Parking & Shuttles

Most backpackers hike from the North Rim to the South Rim, but either direction requires a shuttle. Drop your car at the South Rim then, at the end of your adventure, you’ll be able to hop in the car. Various shuttle services bring hikers between the rims. Reserve your  transportation  in advance.

If you’re staying at the Grand Canyon Lodge or embarking from the North Rim Visitor Center,  a free shuttle takes hikers to the trailhead two miles away. It runs a couple of trips each morning, so talk to the reception desk at the Grand Canyon Lodge to put your name on the list.

The road to the  North Rim  is generally open from mid-May through December.  Spring and fall are ideal for hiking in the canyon, as summer temperatures have dropped, but winter conditions have not yet set in.

From May to September, heat precautions should be taken, and backpackers should avoid hiking at mid-day between 10 AM and 3 PM.

In winter months, backpackers can access the canyon from the South Rim. However, ice could be encountered near the top of the canyon, so  microspikes  are advised. Temperature changes from the rim to the canyon bottom can be extreme, so hikers should be prepared for differing  weather conditions .

Hike the Grand Canyon with a Guide

Guided  Grand Canyon backpacking treks  are available and are a stress-free, exciting way to hit the trail. The four-day  Rim-to-Rim trip  should be booked well in advance, but additional  iconic Grand Canyon hikes  are also available. The tour company handles gear, snacks, and lunch, and provides a professional, knowledgeable guide so you can focus 100% on enjoying your adventure.

Top Rated USA Hiking Tours

5. Coyote Gulch, Glen Canyon National Recreation Area, Utah, USA

Mileage: 26 mi point-to-point  |  Length: 3-4 days  |  Difficulty: Moderate  |  Elevation Gain: 1600 ft

The Jacob Hamblin Arch in Coyote Gulch is a sight to behold. This 100-ft natural feature spans a narrow canyon and sunlight beams through its cathedral-esque windows, sending an orange glow onto the sandstone walls. This is an arch that commands your attention, but it isn’t all this renowned backpacking trip has going for it. A hike into Coyote Gulch gives backpackers a glimpse at what life was like before Glen Canyon was flooded by the dam. This trek back in time reveals natural sculptures of Jurassic sandstone and ancient Fremont dwellings and pictograph panels. Water flows plentifully in this lush desert oasis, and small cascades pour over red cliffs, adding a little bit of magic to an already magnificent landscape.

Permits are required for all overnight trips and can be obtained at the Escalante Interagency Visitor Center in Escalante, Utah, or at the trailhead. Picking up your permit at the Visitor Center is advised, as local staff can update hikers on water availability, route descriptions, and weather and trail conditions. If you choose to pick up your permit at the trailhead, refresh your  knowledge  on backcountry etiquette before you head out. This fragile desert is unique and vulnerable to human impact, so specific features of this landscape (such as  cryptobiotic soil ) should be respected.

As of the time of this article, no reservations are required.

This hike is accessible year-round but requires special considerations in certain seasons. Spring (March to June) or fall (late-September through early-November) are the best and most popular times to hike Coyote Gulch.

Summer heat can be hazardous, so avoid hiking mid-day if you attempt this backpacking trip in the summer. Late summer brings rainstorms to the desert, and flash floods happen frequently. Check  weather conditions  before you go and do not hike into Coyote Gulch if there is a risk for a flash flood.

In winter months, cold temperatures can sweep through the region, so winter backpackers should be prepared for freezing temperatures and potentially icy conditions.

Avoid the Stress: Go Guided!

Guided  Coyote Gulch hikes  are available and are a stress-free, exciting way to do this hike. The tour company handles gear, snacks, and meals, and provides a professional, knowledgeable guide so you can focus 100% on enjoying your adventure. Additional treks in the  Escalante region  are also available, including the adventurous  Boulder Mail Trail .

6. Cordillera Huayhuash, Peru

Mileage: 36 mi roundtrip (up to 81 miles roundtrip)  |  Length: 7-14 days  |  Difficulty: Strenuous  |  Elevation Gain: over 15000 ft

The  Cordillera Huayhuash  is a subrange of the Peruvian Andes, a stunning 18-mile long collection of impressive snow-capped mountains that stand high above turquoise alpine lakes. The entire circuit is above treeline, giving hikers non-stop views of grand mountainous scenery. This trek is remote and rugged, and hikers will enjoy the relative solitude comparable to nearby treks. Experience the wonder of the Andes as you roam through valleys that lie beneath 20,000-foot monoliths. This adventure is not for the faint of heart. High elevations and rugged terrain tax even the most experienced hiker. For those looking for a challenge, the Cordillera Huayhuash is an exceptional destination.

Many route options exist, making this loop customizable to your preferences. The entire Huayhuash loop is 81 miles; however, many  guided treks  shorten the mileage but pack in the best scenery of the circuit.

Acclimatization

Sections of this trail weave through alpine terrain that sits at over 15000 ft, so acclimatizing to high elevations is necessary before starting your trek. Guided trips extensively plan rest days and hiking days around proper acclimatization. If you decide to hike this trail without a guide, know the signs and symptoms of  acute mountain sickness  before you go, and allow yourself sufficient time in Huaraz before trip departure.

No permits or reservations. However, bring money to pay campsite/land use fees that are charged by the mountain communities (totaling around $60-$70.)

May through September (aka the dry season). In other seasons, snow often prevents hikers from traveling over mountain passes. No matter the time of year, cold temperatures are frequent in the high mountains of the Andes, so go prepared for freezing temperatures.

Join a Guided Cordillera Huayhuash Trek

Guided  Cordillera Huayhuash treks  are a stress-free, exciting way to do this hike. The tour company handles gear, snacks, accommodations, transportation, and meals. It also provides professional, knowledgeable guides so you can focus 100% on enjoying your adventure and learn about the region you are visiting.

Explore Your World. Award Winning Hiking Guides

7. Copper Ridge Loop, North Cascades National Park, Washington, USA

Mileage: 34 miles roundtrip  |  Length: 4-5 days  |  Difficulty: Strenuous  |  Elevation Gain: 8600 ft

The North Cascades is a range of dark, jagged spires and glacier-capped summits that sprawls as far as the eye can see. Lush wildflower-filled meadows give way to expansive views of icy blue hanging glaciers and striated granite boulders, evidence of past glacial eras. Nowhere in the continental US is there such a high concentration of glaciers as the North Cascade range in Washington. The  Copper Ridge Loop  takes backpackers high into the alpine, through miles of meadows amidst these peaks, without the necessity of technical skills.

Waltz through wildflowers, your face glued in a permanent grin, as lofty views of Mount Shuksan, Mount Baker, and the ominous Picket Range stare you head-on. Lower elevation sections of the trail weave through old-growth forests, across crystal clear streams, and even involve a cable car river crossing. By the end of the trip, you’ll be wondering why most people have never heard of the North Cascades.

Backcountry permits are required and can be difficult to obtain during busy periods—summer weekends and holidays. Walk-up  permits  are first-come, first-served the day before or day of your desired trip. Hikers can reserve some campsites in advance, and  reservations  can be submitted from March 15 to April 15 for the upcoming summer season. Either way, head to the Wilderness Information Center in Glacier, WA, to grab your permit before hitting the trail.

A  parking pass  is required at the trailhead.

Hiking Season

This trail is best hiked from late-July through September. Snow lingers in the mountains late into the summer, and sections of this trail are often impassable without an ice ax until late-July.

Hike the North Cascades with a Guide

Guided  Copper Ridge Loop  backpacking trips take the stress out of trip planning, and allow you to relax while your guide provides meals, gear, and permits for this trip.

8. Kepler Track, South Island, New Zealand

Mileage: 37.3 miles roundtrip  |  Length: 3-4 days  |  Difficulty: Moderate  |  Elevation Gain: around 3600 ft

New Zealand has nine iconic “Great Walks” (all worthwhile destinations), but of those, the Kepler Track was designed to pack the best of Fiordland National Park into one trail. Better yet, this exquisite hike is accessible to all backpacking levels. Relatively gentle grades mix with long ridgeline miles, giving hikers endless alpine views without too much elevation gain.

Tussock grasses wave in the breeze, clouds settle on high peaks, and the fiord of Lake Te Anau glistens far below you. Keep an eye out for birds along the trail: kea—curious alpine parrots—swoop in to say hello, while kārearea—New Zealand falcons—zip overhead.

Hikers must  reserve  huts or campsites in advance. For international visitors, huts are $130/person/night, while campsites are $40/person/night. New Zealand residents pay $65/person/night for the huts and $20/person/night for camping. These prices drop significantly in the off-season, but off-season hiking should only be attempted by very experienced backpackers.

The Great Walks season runs from late October through late April. This is the best time to hike for most backpackers. Outside of this season, facilities are reduced, and potentially hazardous conditions exist along the trail. If you’re an experienced hiker, the off-season provides fewer crowds, and the beds in huts are first-come, first-served. If you intend to hike in the off-season,  be prepared  for winter conditions and have avalanche awareness and necessary equipment.

9. Toubkal Circuit, Morocco

Mileage: 37.3 miles roundtrip (or 44.7 mi with a peak ascent)  |  Length: 4-6 days  |  Difficulty: Moderate

The Toubkal Circuit takes trekkers across high mountain terrain and through local Berber villages, where mud-brick houses sit perched atop lush terraced fields. This section of the Atlas Mountains is referred to by the local inhabitants by its Berber name— idraren draren,  meaning “mountains of mountains.” Trails weave over rocky mountain passes and down into river valleys, as Jebel Toubkal—the highest peak in Northern Africa—towers above. Nights spent at camp along a bubbling stream are balanced by nights sipping tea with the locals at  gites.  On the last night of the trek, hikers have the opportunity to climb to the summit of Mt. Toubkal, where the peaks of the Atlas Mountains and the plains of Marrakech stretch before you.

Reservations & Accommodations

It is mandatory to hike in this region with a  guide : multiple police checkpoints along the route require you to verify this fact. Multi-day treks should be booked in advance, but can also be booked when you arrive in Imlil.

Hikers generally stay in mountain gites or huts, but some companies offer trips that involve tent camping, as well. There are many opportunities to try local cuisine in villages along the trail.

Place Awareness

As you trek through Berber villages, backpackers should be mindful of respecting the locals and their traditions. Morocco is a fairly conservative country, and hikers should wear modest clothing throughout their stay in the villages. Local trekking companies recommend that both men and women cover their shoulders and above the knee.

Late spring and autumn have lower temperatures ideal for trekking. If you hike early in the season, you may encounter snow in the high mountains until June. Summer brings high temperatures, less water, and more crowds, but it is a popular time to attempt this circuit.

10. West Coast Trail, British Columbia, Canada

Mileage: 46.5 miles point-to-point  |  Length: 5-8 days  |  Difficulty: Strenuous  |  Elevation Gain: 5000 – 6000 ft

The West Coast of Vancouver Island is wild, beautiful, remote, and—most importantly—unforgiving. The trail that runs along over 40 miles of this coastline is a rite-of-passage for experienced backpackers. Ladders, knee-high mud, roaring river crossings, and torrential rain showers are just some of the obstacles that hikers face along the route. But year after year, permits continue to fill for the entire season. This trail surely has to have some redeeming qualities, right?

Those with the mental fortitude to brave this tough trail are rewarded by a vast, pristine wilderness. Seals sun themselves on rocks, whales breach in rolling waves, and beach waterfalls plummet directly into the sea. Tidepools full of colorful sea stars, anemones, and scurrying crabs are revealed when the tide is out. The West Coast Trail traces the paths taken by First Nations residents— the Huu-ay-aht, Ditidaht, and Pacheedaht residents who established villages and camps along the shore.

This trail immerses you in an unspoiled ecosystem of temperate rainforests and rugged shorelines. But, one of the biggest takeaways is a sense of empowerment as you learn about yourself and your capabilities.

Permits, Fees & Reservations

Permits are required to hike the West Coast Trail and often fill quickly. Make  reservations  as early as possible; they open for the upcoming season in early January.

Hiking the West Coast Trail is expensive. Fees include a $25 reservation fee per person, a $10/person/day National Park Entry Pass, a $130 Overnight Use permit per person, and a ferry fee of $20 each way.

Orientation Session

Each hiker must attend an orientation session before starting the West Coast Trail. These sessions are offered daily from 10 AM – 2 PM at the WCT Information Centers at Gordon River and Pachena Bay. This process takes an hour and can be completed as early as 2 PM the day before your departure.

The West Coast Trail is open from May 1 through September 30th.  Weather  can be unpredictable even during this season, with heavy rainstorms likely any time of year—especially in May and June.

11. Dana to Petra on the Jordan Trail, Dana Biosphere Reserve, Jordan

Mileage: 46.5 miles point-to-point  |  Length: 4-6 days  |  Difficulty: Moderate

You may recognize Petra as a famous archaeological site, with its grand facade of the Treasury carved into a gradient of pink and red sandstone. This impressive civilization created a town of caves and temples, woven in sandstone labyrinths which served as thoroughfares for residents and visitors. But the landscape surrounding this kingdom is equally as impressive, and backpackers can get a more authentic sense of this region’s history by accessing it on foot.

This trek through the desert of Jordan is remote and powerful, mixing amazing natural wonders with impressive archaeological remains. A hike through this land of sun and dust will have you rejoicing in the sounds of trickling water or the scurrying steps of blue lizards across the sand. Bedouin shepherds lead their herds across high trails, stopping under lone trees to rest in the shade. After the sun sets, campers catch glimpses of the twinkle of campfires across the flatlands.

The Dana to Petra section of the Jordan Trail traverses through the Dana Biosphere Reserve. Contact the reserve in advance to pay entrance fees.

Permits are not required to hike the Jordan Trail. However, this path is sparsely marked and often hard to follow, so many visitors will want to hire a guide.

Entering Petra requires a pass that must be purchased at the front entrance. However, hikers following the Dana to Petra route will approach from the back entrance, so backpackers will need to buy a pass in advance.

Accommodations

Wild camping is allowed along the route, except in the Dana Biosphere Reserve. These campsites are established and marked on maps of the region. Additionally, locals often operate guesthouses or Bedouin camps.

February and March are the best times to hike this trail, as springtime temperatures are moderate, water is abundant, and the hillsides are lush.

October and November also bring cooler temperatures, but less greenery than in the spring. Winter months are pleasant, but temperatures may fall low at night, and rainfall is more likely.

Generally, late-May through September are too hot to trek comfortably.

12. Arthur Range Traverse, Tasmania, Australia

Mileage: 48.5 miles point-to-point  |  Length: 10 – 14 days  |  Difficulty: Extremely strenuous  |  Elevation Gain: 10,200 ft

The Arthur Range is a rugged, wild spine of mountains that juts from the earth in the Southwest Wilderness in Tasmania. Starting in the button grass plains, you are soon greeted by a sea of serrated quartzite peaks. Scrambling is often required, as you hoist yourself up and over boulders along ridgelines. The miles are slow, yet stunning, and the trail is often vertigo-inducing.

Unpredictable, horrid weather conditions add a touch of spice to this rough trail. When the weather rolls in, hikers should hunker down. Fog sweeps low, rendering the path useless. Torrential rain showers soak weary backpackers, and the  roaring forties  winds make movements difficult. However, the weather moves quickly. And when the sun shines behind the jagged peaks, illuminating lush valleys, it’s easy to forget about the hardships.

The full traverse of the Arthur Range is a demanding hike that should only be attempted by very experienced backpackers. However, for those seeking something a bit more mellow (but still with a hint of masochism), the Western Arthur Traverse is a great alternative. It is more popular, requires less route-finding, and takes up to a week.

As of December 2019, no permits are needed to hike this route.

Established campsites line the route and consist of timber tent pads and backcountry toilets—both of which exist to minimize hiker impact on the alpine ecosystem. Make sure to bring a shelter that can withstand high winds and a whole lot of water.

December to March. However, this region is known for unpredictable  weather  at any time of the year. No matter the forecast, be prepared for snow, heavy rain, and high winds whenever you travel in the Arthur Range. These gale-force winds come from the west. We recommend hiking this traverse from west to east so that the winds are at your back.

13. Laugavegur-Skogar Trail, Iceland

Mileage: 65 miles point-to-point  |  Length: 7-9 days  |  Difficulty: Moderate  |  Elevation Gain: 5500 feet

In the past few years,  Iceland  has skyrocketed as a tourist destination. Even if you’re a traveler who enjoys a more solitary experience, don’t let its popularity deter you. Iceland is home to an incredible landscape of velvety moss-covered mountains, turbulent rivers, and a rainbow of rhyolitic rock. This hut-to-hut hiking trail from Landmannalaugar to Skogar immerses you in otherworldly terrain as you walk between rustic mountain refuges.

Observe geothermal features in action, cross rolling black sand deserts, and watch torrents of water cascade over jagged, green cliffs. Skogafoss, one of the last waterfalls along the trail, produces mesmerizing double rainbows. According to Viking legend, there just might be a treasure chest of gold behind the glistening curtain of water. The magic of this trail is undeniable: the spectacles and memories from this Laugavegur-Skogar backpacking trek are sure to stay with you for years to come.

Huts  are available all along the route and provide shelter for backpackers in often wet, cold mountain conditions. These huts are often fully booked months in advance, so make reservations early. Huts generally cost around $60/night.

Camping is also permitted near the huts for $18/night. Backpackers choosing to camp can pay extra to access the hut kitchens, which can help to reduce pack weight. Camping outside of these designated areas is prohibited. Reservations for campgrounds are optional.

Mid-June through mid-September. All other times,  roads  may be closed, and buses to trailheads do not run. However, the weather is notoriously unpredictable. You can encounter cold, rainy, and windy weather even during this season. June and July in Iceland stay light at all hours, so make sure to bring a buff or something comparable to aid with your sleep.

Hike the Laugavegur-Skogar Trail with a Guide

Guided  Laugavegur-Skogar hut-to-hut treks  are available and are a stress-free, exciting way to do this hike. The tour company handles gear, snacks, accommodations, and meals, and provides a professional, knowledgeable guide so you can focus 100% on enjoying your adventure.  Read more…

14. Annapurna Circuit, Nepal

Mileage: 72 – 143 miles roundtrip depending on the route  |  Length: 9 – 21 days  |  Difficulty: Strenuous

In Central  Nepal , there is a chain of peaks, 30 miles long, known as the Annapurna Massif. Trekking in this region combines incredible mountain scenery with rich Nepalese tradition. There are many trails through this region; however, the Annapurna Circuit, which opened in 1977, is one of the finest long-distance trails. Travelers hiking this immensely popular trail must abandon their notions of wilderness trekking. Come prepared to embrace the crowds, eat and sleep in dorm-style housing, and meet other backpackers from all over the world.

This trail begins sub-tropical rainforests, where monkeys dangle from trees. Hikers then travel through terraced fields, over swinging suspension bridges, and into deep gorges before emerging in the heart of the Himalayas. Thorong La Pass—at 17700 feet—will test even the heartiest hiker. However, pack weight can be minimized by eating and sleeping in teahouses along the route.

Alternatively, the Annapurna Base Camp trek is slightly shorter and reaches elevations of up to 13550 feet. This trail takes you to the base camp where you stare straight at the massive, fluted face of Annapurna I.

Sections of this trail weave through alpine terrain that sits at over 17000 ft, so acclimatizing to high elevations is necessary before starting your trek.  Guided trips  extensively plan rest days and hiking days around proper acclimatization. If you decide to hike this trail without a guide, know the signs and symptoms of  acute mountain sickness  before you go, and allow yourself sufficient time to acclimatize as you hike higher.

Teahouses along the route provide ideal accommodations for travelers looking to add local flavor to their adventure. These basic shelters are close together, so you never have to travel far to find one. Here, you can dine on dahl bat and fall asleep on a basic bed. However, bring a sleeping bag to ensure that you will be warm enough.

Backpackers must obtain both an Annapurna Conservation Area Permit ($30) and a TIMS card ($20) to hike in this region. Purchase both at the Nepal Tourism Board Office in Kathmandu or Pokhara before hiking.

The fall trekking season runs from October to early-December. Spring trekking is accessible from March through early-May.

Hike to Annapurna Base Camp with a Guide

Joining a guided  Annapurna Base Camp trip  is a stress-free, exciting way to do this hike. The Annapurna Base Camp hike is a shorter, less strenuous alternative to the Annapurna Circuit. The tour company handles gear, snacks, and lunch, and provides a professional, knowledgeable guide so you can focus 100% on enjoying your adventure.

15. Wind River High Route, Wyoming, USA

Mileage: 79 – 100 miles point-to-point  |  Length: 7-18 days  |  Difficulty: Extremely strenuous  |  Elevation Gain: 20,000 – 30,000 ft

The Wind River Range is a fantastically wild range in Western Wyoming. This collection of glacially-sculpted granite monoliths and towers encircles dazzling alpine basins, hosting over 100 lakes. And one of the most adventurous trips in the range is Wind River High Route. This is definitely more “route” than established trail: it follows close to the crest of the Continental Divide, and over half of the trip requires off-trail travel.

But the incredible scenery is worth the effort; hikers bounce through talus fields, across granite slabs, and up and over mountain passes to get an intimate experience of these lofty peaks. Down in the valleys below, sunshine glitters on the surface of icy-blue lakes, while marmots dash across grassy meadows back to their rocky kingdoms. This traverse gets you the best of the best. You get into the heart of the range and see classics, like the majestic Cirque of the Towers, while experiencing equally stunning and less visited parts of the range, like Pronghorn Peak.

Many  variations  of this route have been  proposed  and extensively documented; however, this adventure requires the hiker to take some action, look at maps, and plan a lot of logistics.

Alternatives

The Wind River High Route should only be attempted by experienced backpackers capable of hiking rugged, off-trail miles for days on end. Scrambling experience is essential, and backpackers should feel comfortable covering rough terrain with a heavy pack. However, many trails take hikers deep into the Wind River Range, without the added excitement of off-trail travel and the class 3 terrain (scrambling) in the High Route. Alternative excursions range from a three-day loop into the Cirque of the Towers to  a week-long one-way hike  through incredibly remote regions.

Permits & Fees

No permits are needed to hike in the Winds. Know the  regulations  specific to the Bridger Wilderness, such as campsite usage and food storage, before starting your trip.

Late-July to mid-September is the ideal season for this trek. During this time, most of the trails will be snow-free. However, if you attempt the Wind River High Route, expect to encounter snow year-round. Crampons/microspikes and an ice axe can be beneficial, even during late summer.

Hike in the Wind River Range with a Guide

Guided  backpacking  and  llama  treks are available in the  Wind River Range  and are a stress-free, exciting way to explore this region. The tour company handles gear, snacks, and meals, and provides a professional, knowledgeable guide so you can focus 100% on enjoying your adventure.

16. Torres Del Paine ‘O’ Circuit, Patagonia, Chile

Mileage: 85-mile loop  |  Length: 6- 11 days  |  Difficulty: Moderate

The  Torres del Paine ‘O’ Circuit  in  Torres del Paine National Park  in Patagonia is a full circumnavigation of the Cordillera Paine, a stunning mountain range of dramatic spires. This ‘O’ circuit incorporates the famous  W Trek  while adding extra mileage into the backside of the park. Hikers pass by the iconic rock formations on the W Trek before entering into a vast wilderness of glacial lakes and ice fields.

While the smooth spires of the center of the range are enthralling, the northern portion of this loop makes the ‘O’ Circuit special. As you hike towards John Gardner Pass, you’ll catch views of the Grey Glacier and the Southern Patagonia Ice Field, which stretches over 215 miles and is one of the largest extrapolar ice fields in the world. These sights are breathtaking and chilling, as jagged blue chunks of ice jut up against Lago Grey. You can even hop in a kayak to see this mesmerizing glacier ice up close.

Accommodations & Reservations

Accommodation reservations must be made to hike the O Circuit. Refugios and campsites should be booked in advance via  Vertice  or  Fantastico Sur . Backpackers must camp at established campgrounds: wild camping is prohibited. Campsites range from $6 – $20 (with two  free campsites  along the route), while refugios cost between $60-$80 for a bed. There are no refugios on the northern side of the circuit, so those who wish to hike the entire trail must plan to camp for part of the excursion.

Fees & Permits

A park entrance of about $26/person is required and can only be paid in Chilean pesos. No permits are required to hike the trail, beyond your accommodation reservations.

The ‘O’ Circuit is not accessible from April 15th through November 15th. The peak hiking season is in December through February. March is Autumn in the park, with fewer crowds at the end of the month and lovely colors. However, the  weather  is less predictable, and rain is more frequent. Spring is in full swing in November, and the latter half of the month can be a great time on the O Circuit.

Hike in Torres del Paines with a Guide

Guided  ‘O’ Circuit  treks are available and are a stress-free, exciting way to do this hike. The tour company handles gear, snacks, accommodations, and meals, and provides a professional, knowledgeable guide so you can focus 100% on enjoying your adventure.

17. Alta Via 2, Dolomites, Italy

Mileage: 100 miles point-to-point  |  Length: 11 – 14 days  |  Difficulty: Strenuous  |  Elevation Gain: 39,000 ft

Serrated limestone peaks characterize the landscape in this UNESCO World Heritage Site in Northeast Italy. The  Dolomites  are a dramatic mountain range speckled with rifugios, idyllic mountain huts set on mountain passes and in verdant meadows. But the trails that weave through this seemingly impassable landscape aren’t for the faint of heart. Iron rungs— via ferratas— and cable hand-wires help hikers past exposed terrain and up steep rock faces. These systems speak of the history of this region: WWI troops installed these to function as efficient routes through the mountains.

This trail is long, rough, and technical. If you have a fear of heights and exposed terrain, you may want to opt for the more popular  Alta Via 1  or an  alternative trip  in the Dolomites.

Rifugios are the classic accommodation for most travelers in the Italian Alps. These mountain huts rest in spectacular settings, and travelers can only access them on foot. They offer both meals and beds, which range from exquisite to simple, depending on your preference.

For this hut-to-hut adventure, we recommend that you book your accommodations in advance during the peak season (July & August). However, if you want the flexibility to change your hiking mileage by the day, you can often find last-minute accommodations.

Mid-June through late-September is ideal for all backpackers, as rifugios are open during this time. However, backpackers experienced with snow travel and mountaineering can hike the Alta Via 2 in the off-season, as free, simple bivouac huts are open year-round.

Hike in the Dolomites with a Guide

Wildland Trekking offers an  eight-day hiking tour through the Dolomites  that covers the best of what the region has to offer, including the Sennes Range, Antorno Lake, and Tre Cime di Lavaredo. We’ll also take care of everything during your trip — gear, meals, and accommodations — so that you can spend more time enjoying your vacation.

Perhaps the greatest aspect of our company is our friendly, expert guides. At Wildland Trekking, we’re dedicated to providing you with the most enjoyable and memorable experience possible, all while adhering to strict safety protocols.

18. Arctic Circle Trail, Greenland

Mileage: 102 miles  |  Length: 7 – 10 days  |  Difficulty: Moderate

The Arctic Circle Trail traverses magnificent alpine tundra along the Southwestern coast of Greenland. This route immerses hikers in deep wilderness, where navigation skills are crucial. Here, solitude exists in excess. Often, hikers trek for days without seeing another human. The grazing of musk oxen or reindeer—a sign of life!—warms the soul of many ACT hikers.

Along the trail, boggy lowlands make way for rolling mountain-enclosed meadows. Small, red cabins perfectly contrast endless green fields. The few hikers on the trail often congregate at these shelters to swap stories before setting off into solitude once again.

The magic of this trail comes in its wild nature. Pristine landscapes, unique wildlife encounters, and the surprising kaleidoscope of colors along the trail engross those who walk through this landscape.

Basic cabins  exist along the route where hikers can take refuge for free. There are ten shelters spread along the trail, and they consist of bunks for backpackers. However, pack a tent, as these cabins are first-come, first-served. You can wild camp anywhere along the trail.

Hike this trail from June through September, when it is free of snow. June can be challenging, as river levels rise with snowmelt and mosquitos swarm.

19. Walker’s Haute Route, French and Swiss Alps

Mileage: 125 miles  |  Length: 9 – 12 days  |  Difficulty: Moderate to Strenuous  |  Elevation Gain: 39,000 ft

This high alpine route winds from Chamonix, France, to Zermatt, Switzerland, through stunning glaciated peaks in the Alps. The Haute Route links two iconic peaks—Mont Blanc and the Matterhorn—by way of mountain passes and rustic villages.  Alpine huts are perched in otherworldly locales, and host groups of international trekkers.  This European trek requires you to rejoice in the social aspect of hiking. At these welcoming shelters, you will share hearty meals and delicious libations with hikers from all over the world.

This network of trails provides hikers with a wonderland of dazzling mountain scenery and a classic European atmosphere.

Various trail options exist as you hike. The Col de Balme to the Chalet du Glacier is one variant. Most remarkably, the Fenetre d’Arpette is an alternative route that provides stunning views of the Trient glacier. However, it should only be attempted in prime weather conditions.

Mountain huts are situated along the Walker’s Haute Route. Here, hikers can find meals and  nightly accommodations . We advise booking your accommodations in advance for the peak season (July & August).

Backpackers can choose to wild  camp  in higher, less-developed regions along the trail, or at designated campgrounds.

In mid-June through mid-September, the snow has melted from  most  of the trails (depending on the year). In June, hikers may still encounter stretches of snowfields, so bring along  microspikes , just in case. July and August are peak season, meaning accommodations are most likely to be full.

Afternoon thunderstorms are common in the summer, so plan your mileage accordingly.

Go Guided in the European Alps

Wildland Trekking Company offers a  Tour de Mont Blanc trek  for hikers looking to experience the European Alps in fewer miles. The tour company handles all the logistics—from gear to accommodations—and provides a professional, knowledgeable guide so you can focus 100% on enjoying your adventure.

20. Drakensberg Grand Traverse, South Africa

Mileage: 140 miles point-to-point  |  Length: 10 – 15 days  |  Difficulty: Strenuous & technically challenging  |  Elevation Gain: 30,000 ft

This traverse of grand proportions in South Africa has no established route or trails. Rather, it is a series of checkpoints that adventurers must tick to complete this trek officially. Backpackers must rely on their navigation skills and backcountry savvy.

This escarpment consists of undulating ridgelines and valleys, fresh mountain streams, and spiny summits. As the sun sets on the velvety hills and the stars rise in the midnight-blue sky, the Drakensberg Mountains feel worlds away from civilization. Hikers may encounter Basotho shepherds and their flocks, but will otherwise be in solitude.

For explorers keen to forge their own path, this choose-your-own-adventure route is the ultimate undertaking.

Hikers need to pay an entrance fee of $3 to  Royal Natal National Park.  Additionally, backpackers should obtain a permit for any overnight stay before trekking. Permits cost $4/night.

April—May or September—November. Hikers should avoid both winter and summer extremes.

21. Sierra High Route, California, USA

Mileage: 195 miles  |  Length: 15 – 17 days  |  Difficulty: Extremely strenuous

This rugged, high alpine route parallels the John Muir trail and takes hikers through the most impressive parts of the Sierras. The trail crosses through two national parks—Sequoia-Kings Canyon and Yosemite–as well as the John Muir and Ansel Adams wilderness areas.

And only 40 of the almost 200 miles are on a trail. The rest of the time, you’re bumping along on rocky ridgelines, balancing on scree fields, and praying that your feet will touch soft dirt instead of granite  just for a minute .

But the rewards come from the sense of adventure that is achieved by traveling through unmarked terrain. Smooth granite spires tower above boulder-strewn meadows. As you curse the talus—and your ankles—on mountain passes, layers of peaks fan out on the horizon. And as the alpenglow casts rich reds and oranges on the polished rocks, you’ll have the view all to yourself.

Know Before You Go

The Sierra High Route (the SHR) isn’t for everyone. This route requires that backpackers be well-versed in mountain travel, extremely comfortable on rocky terrain, and able to make good choices about their abilities. Hikers will encounter class three terrain (scrambling) and should feel confident with their off-trail travel skills.

Beginner and intermediate-level backpacking trails exist en mass in the  Eastern Sierras ,  Sequoia National Park , and  Yosemite National Park . Even the famous  John Muir Trail  is substantially easier than this off-trail trek.

Pick a trail that matches your skills and fitness level, and you won’t go wrong with any backpacking trips in this area.

A permit is required to hike the SHR. Pick up your permit through the agency managing the land where you begin your journey.

If you start at the southern terminus at Road’s End in Sequoia National Park, obtain a permit through the National Park Service. You can reserve this permit  in advance  to avoid chancing a walk-up permit. If you start in  Yosemite National Park , reserve a permit well in advance, if possible, as backcountry permits there are exceedingly popular. If you start in the north, the  Inyo National Forest  has both reservation-based and walk-up permits.

You only need one permit for your entire hike. Each land agency charges different fees for park entrance, permits, and overnight trips.

Trails will be increasingly snow-free later in the season, so shoot for July through October.  However, backpacking in late-September through October increases the chances you’ll encounter early winter weather.

Explore the Sierras on a Guided Trip

If you want to test your hiking comfort zone with the help of a guide, Wildland offers many excursions in the Sierras that include off-trail travel or adventurous components.

The  three-day Mount Conness  trip includes a thrilling third-class summit attempt, while the  Mammoth Crest  backpacking trip incorporates off-trail travel. Knowledgeable, trained guides help you to feel safe and empowered as you challenge yourself in the mountains.

In addition,  Wildland  provides all gear and meals and makes necessary permit arrangements.

22. Camino Primitivo, Spain

Mileage: 200 miles  |  Length: 14 days  |  Difficulty: Moderate

The Camino Primitivo, or the “Original Camino,” is the oldest of all the Camino de Santiago routes, yet less than 10% of Camino hikers choose this trail. This pilgrimage through Northern Spain takes you through rolling hills, past historic churches, and into charming villages. Hikers of the Camino are called pilgrims, and the “albergues”, or hostels, become places to rest and connect with fellow travelers.

This trek begins in the Asturia capital city of Oviedo, marked by beautiful cathedrals and medieval buildings. The first half of the route is steep and rolling. One of the most memorable parts of the trail, the “Hospitales”, takes pilgrims high atop a ridgeline for miles of sweeping countryside views.

The half-way point comes at Lugo, a historic city surrounded by Roman walls. Finally, as pilgrims trek south towards Santiago de Compostela, the Camino Primitivo joins with the Camino Frances for the end of the journey.

Keep in mind, this entire route is more challenging than its popular counterpart, the Camino Frances.

Credentials

Every pilgrim should have a  credential —”passport”—that gets stamped at hostels, churches, and cafes along your route. At the end of your trek, this credential allows you to apply for a “ Compostela “, or accreditation, at the Cathedral of Santiago.

Obtain your credential through your country’s Camino de Santiago organization prior to your trip, or pick one up in Oviedo before setting out.

Accommodations & Meals

Government-run albergues are first-come, first-served and cannot be booked in advance. However, you can book private hostels in advance.

Hikers encounter grocery stores frequently, so pack weight can be minimized by picking up food as you go. Backpackers also pass numerous cafes and restaurants, getting the choice to dine out or cook at the hostels.

May through September. Early and late season are more likely to be cold and rainy, but July and August are peak season with the most crowds. However, if you’re hiking the primitive route, you may welcome the summer company.

23. Kungsleden Trail, Sweden

Mileage: 270 miles  |  Length: About a month for the whole trail, or 3 – 10 day segments  |  Difficulty: Moderate

This long-distance hiking trail crosses the mountains of the Swedish Lapland. It follows fresh mountain streams through moorland and grassy valleys, often with incredible mountain views. The terrain is ever-changing, and the transitions between birch forests, wetlands, and high mountains keep the trail compelling. Low clouds dance around the peaks, casting shadows onto the grasslands.

This trail is part of the Sámi cultural landscape, and indigenous Sámi people have lived with this land for over 7,000 years. Today, they still utilize this trail for reindeer herding. Watch as large herds graze under the low sun, but remember to keep your distance. It is a magnificent place to witness and learn from a living wilderness, where humans and nature symbiotically exist.

Here, water dominates the landscape. Many lakes require passage via boat: some have free rowboats for hikers to use, others require a motorboat  ferry .

Stay at the mountain huts or choose to wild camp, but don’t forget to enjoy the wood-fired saunas at least once on your adventure.

Section Hiking

The 70-mile stretch from Abisko to Nikkaluokta is a great option for backpackers who cannot commit to the full trail. This portion’s alpine nature draws travelers to experience a classic Swedish landscape. Hikers can complete this section in a week.

For an even shorter adventure, either the Kebnekaise to Saltoluokta (32 miles) or Saltoluokta to Kvikkjokk (45 miles) sections can be completed in three to six days.

The 97-mile stretch from Kvikkjokk to Ammarnäs is a wild, hut-less section of trail, for those seeking a true backcountry experience. Trekkers generally complete this section in seven to ten days.

Backpackers and skiers can stay at simple mountain huts along the route. These huts are well-spaced, so hikers don’t have to travel far before encountering a shelter.

Dormitory-style beds await weary travelers, but backpackers should bring their own sheets or sleeping bag. Hut wardens assign beds, which cannot be reserved in advance. However, hikers who  pay online  receive a discount, and can use that advance payment any time in a two-week span.

You can keep your pack weight light and buy food at the small  shops  at some of the huts. Cabins come equipped with kitchens for backpackers to cook their own food.

If you plan to tackle the entire King’s Trail, you must be prepared for the section between Kvikkjokk and Ammarnäs. No huts exist along this stretch, and backpackers must tent camp.

And if you’re looking to save money, you can pitch a tent outside the huts for a small fee, or find a remote spot to wild camp.

STF Membership

If you plan to hike a significant portion of the Kungsleden, you should consider getting an  STF membership . This membership reduces the cost of overnight stays, as well as allows you to utilize huts for a day visit. In the middle of the day, you can use the kitchen, toilet, and drying room.

Mid-to-late June through mid-to-late September for hiking. The winter season from late-February through late-April or early-May is ideal for ski touring. Huts close in the off-season.

24. Great Divide Trail, Canadian Rockies

Mileage: 746 miles  |  Length: 40 – 50 days  |  Difficulty: Strenuous

This trail of epic proportions runs along the border between Alberta and British Columbia through the Rocky Mountains. As it currently stands, this bare-bones thru-hike is still in its infancy. While it is mostly singletrack, long stretches of unmarked wilderness travel—complete with the need to navigate and bushwack–make this long-distance trail especially challenging.

For experienced hikers up to the task, this trail immerses you in a vast wilderness spanning five national parks, seven provincial parks, three wilderness areas, and countless unique ecosystems. Grizzly bears scrounge in berry bushes. Glacial ice calves into alpine lakes. Bighorn sheep clamber on rocky slopes. This landscape and its inhabitants are vast, dynamic, and powerful.

Section Hiking & Canadian Rockies Backpacking

Beginner hikers will find beauty and challenge in the established trails found in the various national parks along the route. The  Canadian Rockies  offer all levels of backpacking trips. The  Skyline Trail  in Jasper National Park is a popular backpacking destination (so it’s tough to get permits) but is well worth the effort.

The Great Divide Trail is separated into  Sections A – G , with A starting at the Canadian/USA border and running north. Each section runs about 100 miles.

A  Parks Canada Discovery Pass  will allow you to enter every park on the route. National Park Backcountry permits (around $10/night) are required for all stays in national park backcountry campgrounds. Hikers must reserve these campsites in advance. Wild camping with a random camping permit is allowed along some sections of the trail in the National Parks. To obtain this permit, call the park’s visitor centers directly—they are not available online.

Three Provincial parks also require  campground reservations , including Mount Assiniboine, Peter Lougheed, and Mount Robson.

All other campgrounds along the route are first-come, first-served.

July through mid-September when the trail is free of snow. In the past few years, wildfires have caused trail closures in the summer months. Check for  trail updates  before hiking sections of the GDT.

Hike in the Canadian Rockies with a Guide

If you want to explore the majesty of the Canadian Rockies without tackling this strenuous trail, join a  guided trek  to witness epic wildlife, piercing mountains, and turquoise lakes. Wildland provides all gear, meals, and permits, as well as knowledgeable guides who help you make the most out of your trekking adventure.

25. Via Dinarica, Balkans

Mileage: 1200 miles  |  Difficulty: Ranges from moderate to extremely strenuous

The  Via Dinarica  is a long-distance network of trails that follows the Dinaric Alps, a karst landscape sculpted by years of water flowing over porous limestone. Caverns and deep canyons exist in the wake of ancient rivers. This route is comprised of three main trails across eight countries in the Balkans—Slovenia, Croatia, Bosnia & Herzegovina, Montenegro, Serbia, Kosovo, Albania, and Macedonia.

This in-progress trail system is stitched together with old shepherd routes, modern-day hiking trails, and the paths taken by soldiers in battle. In towns, birds flutter between the bullet holes in the buildings of recent war zones. Back in the mountains, the ring of cowbells sounds across the valley, as hikers trek past stone churches and simple dwellings. Locals offer up hand-made cheese and espresso. A comforting silence rests in the spaces that the mix of languages can’t fill.

This trail may be more difficult to navigate and plan than many in Europe, but it rewards you with its authentic charm, staggering limestone, and rural villages. Start researching and find a section of the trail that calls to you.

Hiking the Via Dinarica in its entirety (or in sections) takes a lot of logistical know-how. It is an unpopulated trail that is still in development, and accommodations vary from country to country.

Backpackers will have many options for  accommodations  along the trail. You can find mountain huts, hostels, guesthouses, and B&Bs in small villages. When possible, book ahead. However, there are stretches along the trail where having camping gear might ease your mind.

Hikers will sporadically encounter small convenience stores to restock supplies. Depending on the country, you may not even need to leave the trail to do your shopping. Do research on each section you intend to hike and figure out whether or not you’ll need to send yourself supplies.

Border Crossings

You need to apply for a border crossing permit if you intend to hike from Montenegro to Albania (or the reverse). Find a local tourism agency to assist you with the application forms.

May through October. However, the karst mountains are very dry and exposed, and hikers can be limited by summer temperatures.

Mountain conditions bring unpredictable weather at any time of year, so be prepared for both hot and freezing temperatures while hiking.

Wildland Trekking Hiking Adventures

As the world’s premier  hiking and trekking company , Wildland believes in connecting people to fantastic environments in amazing ways. Wildland Trekking Company offers an array of incredible hiking and trekking experiences in 9 states and 11 countries. Read more about our  world-class destinations.

To learn more about our  guided backpacking trips  and all of our award-winning  hiking vacations , please visit our website or connect with one of our Adventure Consultants: 800-715-HIKE.

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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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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Table of contents

10 Best Hiking Daypacks of 2024

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When you’re heading out for a fun day on the trail, it’s vital to have all your essentials quickly and easily accessible. A good daypack should be comfy enough to wear all day, offer convenient storage options, and provide plenty of support for the weight you plan to carry. 

We’ve tested 45 daypacks and bagged over 700 peaks to find the most promising options and help you secure the best one for your needs.

If you want a pack that can also accommodate a water bladder, check out our guide to the best hydration packs . For bags with more capacity for longer trips and overnights, take a look at these trail-tested backpacking packs . And for those who need “snack-sized” carrying capacity, we have you covered with our review of our favorite fanny packs .

Quick Picks for DayPacks

Check out this quick list of the best daypacks or continue scrolling to see our full list of favorites with in-depth reviews.

Best Daypack Overall: Osprey Talon 22 Men’s ($160) / Tempest 20 Women’s ($160)

Best Minimalist Daypack: REI Flash 22 ($60)

Best Budget Daypack: Osprey Daylite Plus ($75)

Best Ultralight Daypack with a Large Capacity: Six Moon Designs Wy’east ($185)

Best Hydration Pack: Gregory Citro 24 H20 Men’s ($170) / Juno 24 H20 Women’s ($170)

Best Compressible Daypack: LL Bean Stowaway 22 ($65)

Roomy Daypack for Travel & Long Hikes:   REI Trail 25 ($100)

Versatile Backpack for Fast Gear Access: Mystery Ranch Gallagator 25 ($129)

Best Bang for Your Buck: Venture Pal 35 ($26)

Our team has been busy evaluating some new daypacks and testing out revamped versions of our all-time favorites:

• The Gregory Zulu 30 earns a spot on the list thanks to its large capacity and comfortable, well-ventilated design.
• The LL Bean Stowaway Pack is a newly added wallet-friendly, packable backpack for short hikes and traveling.
• The REI Trail 25 is our pick for a versatile and durable bag that feels comfortable mile after mile.
• The Salomon Trailblazer 20 makes the cut for its sleek, efficient profile and simple features.
• We like the Mystery Ranch Gallagator 25 for the unique tri-zipper front access that makes gear access fast and practical.
• The Venture Pal 35 earns its keep as a budget-conscious, collapsible backpack with lots of pockets.

Osprey Talon 22 / Tempest 20

Best Daypack Overall

Price: $160

Weight: 2 lb. 1 oz. / 1 lb. 14.6 oz.

Capacity: 22 L / 20 L

Frame: Internal

• Comfortable hip belt and shoulder straps
• Padded and ventilated back panel
• Supportive frame
• Good organization
• Large, convenient main compartment opening
• Durable material
• External hydration sleeve
• Inclusive sizing
• A bit expensive
• On the heavier side
• Hydration sleeve is narrow

The Osprey Talon 22 (men’s) and Tempest 20 (women’s) are two of our all-time favorite daypacks due to their exceptional comfort and versatility. With wide, cushy hip belts, padded shoulder straps, and large ventilated back panels, these packs conform nicely to the body. They offer a robust internal frame, so these bags ride comfortably with just a few items or fully loaded.

The Talon and Tempest are suitable for a wide array of activities. They have tons of convenient storage compartments to keep you organized for a full-day hiking adventure. The two large hip belt pockets are big enough to fit a phone or snack wherever you are. We found the water bottle holders are a bit tight for larger bottles, but they are easily accessible with the pack on. We also appreciate the bike helmet attachment clip.

These packs are some of the only ones on our list that have an exterior hydration sleeve. This sleeve makes it far easier to check how much water you have left and refill your reservoir since you don’t have to pull out all of your other gear to access an internal sleeve. Having said that, the sleeve on the Talon 22 is very narrow, so it can take a minute to fit a full bladder back into the bag if you remove it completely.

We also found that when the external pockets and brain pockets are full, they encroach on the bag’s internal space, which makes it a bit cumbersome to access gear in the main storage pocket. That said, Osprey doesn’t skimp on any features when it comes to the Talon and Tempest – there’s a pocket, strap, and zipper for almost any adjustment or storage you might want.

Though the price of the Talon and Tempest is on the higher end for daypacks, we think they’re worth every penny if you’re after a do-it-all workhorse that can take you from amidst the maples to the meeting room.

• REI Flash 22

Best Minimalist Daypack

Weight: 14 oz.

Capacity: 22 L

Frame: None

• Lightweight
• Comfortable back panel
• Good organization for a minimalist design
• Frame doubles as removable sit pad
• Minimal structure
• 2-clip system for brain is clunky
• Floppy when empty

We love the REI Flash 22 . From short hikes where we don’t need to pack a lot of extras, to quick grocery runs, to day-long adventures, it is one of our go-to bags that can do it all. It’s one of our favorites due to its affordable price, lightweight design, and smart pocket layout. It also comes in a wide variety of colors and patterns.

For the minimalist, the Flash 22 is all you need. Gear Analyst, Ian Krammer, has summited over 600 peaks in the Colorado Rockies with the Flash 22, and he rarely needs more from a day pack. The storage is generous for a small bag, and the organization is intuitive and simple. We like the removable sit pad for breaks in the shade, and the thin foam adds just a bit of support to the back of the pack – this truly is a bag you can wear all day, from technical terrain to sidewalk strolls. At a mere 14 ounces, this is one of the lightest bags on our list, which makes it an excellent choice for keeping overall weight down.

The drawback is that the Flash 22 doesn’t have much in the way of structure, padding, or adjustability. If you’re planning long dusk-to-dawn adventures, you may want a bag with a more substantial hipbelt, internal frame, and a larger carrying capacity. And because it’s so lightweight, the pack can feel floppy when it’s not full.

In spite of this, the Flash 22 is outstanding for lightweight comfort and convenience. The water bottle holders are easy to reach, the zippered pocket on the top lid is perfect for storing small items we need often, and there’s just enough structure in the back panel and hipbelt to feel comfortable for long periods. We love this little daypack – and we think you will too.

• Osprey Daylite Plus

Best Budget Daypack

Weight: 1 lb. 5 oz.

Capacity: 20 L

• Less expensive
• Comfortable
• Removable hipbelt
• Stylish design
• Compression strap design isn’t our favorite
• External front pocket isn’t stretchy

The Osprey Daylite Plus is a trendy, comfortable, and affordable daypack. It is well-suited for use around town, on short-to-moderate length day hikes, and while traveling. Its stylish design makes the price tag even more appealing.

The organizational features on the Daylite Plus are better than most other daypacks of this size. Five external pockets allow you to keep water bottles and small items secure, organized, and easy to access on the go. Smart and simple internal pockets offer versatility for small item storage from wilderness to whiteboard, and the internal padded sleeve easily fits up to a 13-inch laptop or a 2-liter hydration pouch. 

This model is built to last, and that makes it a standout choice for those wanting a single do-it-all bag that will hold up to hard use. However, that also means it’s a bit heavier, putting it in the middle of this list for weight. 

But with clip-on compatibility that works with many Osprey travel bags, a 20-liter capacity that feels bigger than it is, and a durable build, there’s something for everyone in the Daylite Plus. Whether you’re trekking the high country or just lapping your neighborhood, we highly recommend this affordable and comfortable backpack.

Gregory Citro 24 H20 / Juno 24 H20

Best Hydration Daypack

Price: $170

Weight: 2 lb. / 1 lb. 15 oz.

Capacity: 24 L

• Hydration bladder included
• Very comfortable
• Good internal structure
• Transfers weight to hips well
• Large & convenient opening for main compartment
• Plus size available
• Heavier than some
• Side pockets are tight for wide bottles

The Gregory Citro 24 H20 (men’s) and Juno 24 H20 (women’s) are our favorite hydration packs . These bags feature simple, lightweight frames that offer just enough support to transfer weight to your hips for a very comfortable carry. We’ve found that with the 3-liter reservoir and all pockets full, these bags are more agile and streamlined than other daypacks with a similar capacity and weight.

The Citro and Juno have a ton of useful pockets including large and small zippered compartments, hipbelt pockets, and a stretchy front mesh pocket for stashing your hat or jacket. We appreciate the small pocket at the top with a divider for keys, chapstick, and more. Daypacks with zippered main compartments like this – as opposed to backpacks with the drawstring and top lid design – are often quicker and easier to get in and out of. 

Gregory also includes our top choice for hydration bladders – the 2-liter Gregory 3D Hydro – with the Citro and the Juno. We’re big fans of this reservoir because it’s durable, functional, and exceptionally easy to keep clean. These bags are built around the 3D Hydro, including adjustable clips to mount the mouthpiece on the shoulder straps, a ventilated mesh back to increase airflow, and a thick internal clip to keep the reservoir upright.

Because the reservoir is included, you’ll pay a bit more for the Citro and Juno, but these durable, made-for-the-trail bags will pay you back in spades. If you don’t need the bladder, we also love the regular Citro 24 and Juno 24 , which cost a little less.  But for hikers who want comfort, storage, and one of the best hydration systems on the market all in one bag, it’s tough to beat the Gregory Citro 24 H20 and Juno 24 H20.

• Six Moon Designs Wy’east

Best Ultralight Daypack for Long Day Hikes & Quick Overnights

Price: $185

Weight: 1 lb. 9 oz.

Capacity: 30 L

• Lightweight for the volume
• Frame is a removable sit pad
• Shoulder strap pockets
• Comfortable over long distances
• Highly water-resistant
• Wide shoulder straps don’t sit well on all body types
• Suboptimal brain organization

The Six Moon Designs Wy’east is one of the lightest daypacks we’ve tested, but it comes with one of the largest capacities – 30 liters – and is loaded with convenient features. This bag is great for long hikes when you need to carry bulky items, and it can even work as an overnight pack for those with fully ultralight setups.

We like that the frame doubles as a foam sit pad, and it offers a total of 10 external lash points for strapping on gear. The deep stash pocket and water bottle pockets are made of strong material, so they’ll last longer than the mesh on most other bags.

We love all the pockets of the Wy-East – with this much storage, the bag performs like a backpacking backpack, without the bulk or weight, but can easily carry a tablet or books with ease. The Wy’east comes with two useful shoulder strap pockets and wide hip pockets. The hip belt is removable, so this bag is extra versatile as a casual carrier around town or a burly backpack for the deep woods.

Our main issue with this bag is that the shoulder straps are a bit wider, so it’s not a great fit for those with narrow shoulders or small frames. And, the foam frame – while great as a sit pad – doesn’t offer as much structure for heavier loads.

If you’re looking for a comfy, colorful, and quality daypack that excels in weight and features, this is it. Ultralight hikers looking for the perfect go-between for big-mile day hikes and short overnights also can’t go wrong with the Wy’east.

• Gregory Zulu 30

Comfortable & Well-Ventilated Backpack for Long Days

Weight: 3 lb. 1.9 oz.

• Enables high organization
• Large volume
• Easy access U-zip opening
• Adjustable torso
• Water bottle pockets are tight & shallow
• Few lash points

The Gregory Zulu 30 hits the mark for everything we want in a large daypack. When it comes to managing heavier loads, carrying bulky gear, or simply longer day hikes, the Zulu is truly built for comfort. 

This backpack has an adjustable torso length of up to 3.5 inches, meaning it can fit a variety of body sizes. It’s easy to get a super customized and comfy fit based on your needs and the weight of the backpack.

The Zulu 30 also features a lightweight internal frame, tons of padding and support on the hipbelt and shoulder pads, and enough ventilation to keep your back cool if you’re trudging through the heat. Though the mesh water bottle pockets are thin and a bit shallow, they also come with nylon cinch straps to keep your bottles in place so you can hydrate on the go.

This bag has tons of pockets, including seven on the outside alone. Its giant U-zip at the top allows the bag to open widely and quickly for access to the interior and features another zippered compartment for stashing all your small items. A dedicated water bladder pocket and hook are compatible with most two- and three-liter hydration pouches.

This is a large-volume bag, which means that it weighs more. At just over three pounds, the Zulu 30 is one of the heaviest backpacks on our list. That said, it also has exceptional capacity, adjustability, and a robust set of features.

This model is a worthy choice for those who want a roomy, comfortable daypack but don’t mind a bit of extra weight. We recommend the Zulu 30 as a top option for new hikers who want to bring some extra layers or snacks, for parents carrying the kids’ water and gear, or for a seasoned hiking veteran who needs the larger capacity for a longer trip.

LL Bean Stowaway

Best Compressible Backpack

• Packs small (6”x6”)
• Tons of pockets
• Not as durable
• Uncomfortable over extra long distances
• Shallow mesh pockets

The LL Bean Stowaway Pack is a workhorse for hiking, traveling, or on-the-go adventure. This stowable pack delivers in spades, including plenty of storage, padded mesh for comfort on the back and shoulder straps, and a clean aesthetic.

The main highlight of the Stowaway is just how lightweight and compressible it is. This stylish award winner weighs a mere 14 ounces. It only takes about a minute to transform into a package only 6 inches square. At that size, it easily fits in a suitcase or backpack when heading out on longer trips, making this bag a perfect choice whether you’re day hiking or traveling around the world. 

And, the Stowaway is super functional. This model punches well above its weight class for organization and comfort, featuring six functional pockets, adjustable sternum and waist straps, and multiple colorways. It’s made of 75D ripstop polyester, making it more durable than other packable backpacks. This is the ideal bag to deploy for side trips, summits, and smaller excursions while you leave the rest of your gear behind for a bit.

The tradeoff for that packability is that the Stowaway has no frame, so it isn’t great for super long days on the trail. We recommend a clothing layer inside the pack against your back for cushioning to add a bit of structure to the bag. However, it’s very convenient for travel and short hikes. 

This little pack is simple, stuffable, and super versatile. If you keep the load light, you’ll hardly notice it on your back – and at only $65, you’ll hardly notice it on your wallet, too. The LL Bean Stowaway is a great backpack for travelers, hikers, and people who need a lightweight, packable daypack.

• REI Trail 25

Roomy Pack That’s Great for Travel & Long Hikes

Price: $100

Weight: 2 lb.

Capacity: 25 L

• Lots of external lash points
• Built-in rain cover
• Only one external zippered pocket
• Main storage compartment can be awkward

The REI Trail 25 is a great choice for those who need one pack that can do it all. This is a super comfortable and durable backpack for almost any hiking adventure.

The supportive hipbelt makes the Trail 25 one of the best options on our list for hikes where you need to carry a little extra weight. The padded, mesh-covered straps and back keep you cooler, and a lightweight frame sheet with an ergonomic design makes the backpack structured but not rigid. 

With features like fasteners for trekking poles, tons of external lash points for strapping on gear, and a built-in rainfly, this backpack is made for ease of use and comfort. We’re also big fans of the wrap-around zipper on the main compartment. It extends almost to the bottom of the bag, making it easy to pack and access your items when traveling or hiking.

The only reason the Trail 25 doesn’t rank higher is that it’s a bit large and heavy for most casual day hikes. We like the stellar organization, but we also found having all the pockets and zippers for small items inside of the flap makes the bag feel awkward to open. That said, this is a minor point – the Trail 25 can even work as a school backpack because of all the organizational pockets and the padding on the back.

• Salomon Trailblazer 20

Streamlined Pack that Balances Support & Simplicity

Weight: 14.6 oz.

• Comfortable straps
• Simple compartments
• Slim profile
• Zippered waist pocket
• Side pockets too small for many water bottles
• Tapered bottom limits internal storage
• No stuff pocket

The Salomon Trailblazer 20 is comparable in size, shape, and comfort to the REI Flash 22, but it features a bit more padding and a more substantial hip belt with a pocket. It’s a fairly simple and familiar pack, but the lightweight design is ideal for adventures where you’re only taking a few essentials.

The Trailblazer 20 comes with intuitive and user-friendly storage. A small zippered pocket at the top is perfect for keys and a large U-shaped zipper offers lots of organization inside for easy and structured access to sunglasses, chapstick, and other small items. This 20-liter bag still features a wide internal pocket that serves double-time as a hydration reservoir when hiking, or as a laptop pocket for work. 

Overall, we like the stylish and minimalist design of the Trailblazer 20, but we wish the bottom wasn’t tapered as much. This profile gives the bag a sleek and stylish look, but it limits the internal capacity more than we’d prefer. That said, this model offers just enough room for a personal bag.

The Trailblazer 20 goes toe-to-toe with the Flash 22 for the best small daypack design. If you’re after more durability, storage, and comfort, go with the Trailblazer 20. If simplicity and low weight are what you want, choose the Flash 22.

• Mystery Ranch Gallagator 25

Price: $129

Weight: 1 lb. 6 oz.

• Tri-zip allows unrivaled access to gear
• Bulky profile
• Lots of straps

The Mystery Ranch Gallagator 25 is one of the most durable and versatile options out there. This bag is made to do it all, whether you’re biking in a city park, boarding the airplane for work, or gearing up for a local hike.

What sets it apart from other contenders on this list is its triple-zipper front access. This model forgoes a mesh stash pocket on the front of the bag in favor of a Y-shaped design. This translates into unmatched main compartment access. For hikers who want to get to the bottom of their pack without removing everything on top, the tri-zipper is a unique and practical innovation.

This model offers plenty of external lash points and multiple gear loops to bring along anything you need. The broad, comfortable shoulder straps feature two additional cinch pockets and removable sternum and hip straps. Like the Wy’east, we found the shoulder straps are best for those with a broad upper body and a bit too wide at the bottom to fit narrower frames well.

Our biggest issue with the Gallagator 25 comes down to the minimal organizational pockets. It only has one large zippered external pocket in the brain. We appreciate this area, but it doesn’t have internal dividers or zippers, so you’ll need to dig for a while to find what you’re looking for or use other small organizer bags. We also found the water bottle pockets are a bit oversized for even our biggest containers.

Because of the many zippers and long nylon straps, we don’t think the Gallagator 25 is as aesthetic or modern as other bags on this list. But, where it falls short in style, it more than makes up for it with solid construction, excellent comfort, and great accessibility. And, at only one pound, six ounces, the Gallagator 25 is impressively light for how durable it is. 

This pack is one of the most unique bags on the list. For hikers who prioritize gear access over everything, this Mystery Ranch model is a durable, lightweight, and functional bag that’s built to handle most activities from streets to streams.

Osprey Stratos 24 / Sirrus 24

Supportive & Well-Ventilated Daypack for Long Hikes

Price: $180

Weight: 2 lbs. 12 oz.

• Innovative ventilating back panel
• Useful hiking pole hook system
• Comfortable mesh back
• Good pocket organization
• Includes raincover
• Strong build
• No outer stash pocket

The Osprey Stratos 24 (men’s) and Sirrus 24 (women’s) have some of the most comfortable frames of any daypacks we’ve tested. The Stratos and Sirrus feature stretch-mesh back panels that extend from the shoulder straps to the back to the hipbelt. This soft, breathable mesh feels incredibly cushy on the body.

Like the Gregory Zulu, we love that these Osprey models offer an adjustable torso length. No matter who is using them or how the weight in your pack is distributed, you can easily adjust it to fit your body size. These backpacks seamlessly transfer weight to the hipbelt, so even when they are packed full, you won’t feel uncomfortable.

The Stratos and Sirrus have a solid organizational system as well with convenient gear storage pockets, two hipbelt pockets, and easy-to-reach water bottle holsters. We found the zippered front panel pocket to be a bit cumbersome to access, but many hikers will love this design because it keeps items more secure. And, these bags include a rain cover with a dedicated pocket at the bottom. If you’re hiking in clear conditions, you can remove the pack cover and gain an extra pocket – or keep it to keep your gear dry in afternoon showers.

The Stratos and Sirrus are some of the heaviest daypacks on this list and carry the highest price tag as well – which is why they’re near the bottom of the list. We’ve also found these bags are so substantial that they’re not our first choice for short adventures when we just don’t need to carry that much. However, when it comes to organization, durability, and support, these packs are head of the class.

Featuring Osprey’s popular Airspeed suspension system, these are exceptionally comfortable and well-ventilated daypacks built for extended adventures. If you need extra support for carrying heavier loads, the Stratos 24 and Sirrus 24 backpacks are going to be tough to beat.

• Venture Pal 35

Best Bang for Your Buck

Weight: 11.2 oz.

Capacity: 35 L

• Packs into itself (9"x8")
• Tons of colors
• Lots of storage
• Waterproof liner
• Floppy material
• Less comfortable over long distances

The Venture Pal 35 is the ultimate budget backpack. At only $26, you get a cavernous 35-liter backpack that comes in a dozen colorways and folds into a compact 9-inch by 8-inch package. 

Despite its very low price, this bag is loaded with features. It comes with a waterproof liner and an internal pouch big enough for a tablet or a book. It’s highly adjustable, so you can cinch down the volume to reduce the profile when it’s not fully packed. The Venture Pal also comes with three huge zippered pockets and two water bottle pockets, plus a sternum strap with a whistle for support and safety.

At only 11.2 ounces, this is one of the lightest packs on our list – and at 35 liters, it also has the largest capacity. We don’t typically recommend bags over 30 liters when it comes to daypacks, but the Venture Pal is one of the few exceptions. With an excellent size-to-weight ratio and low price, this model bends the rules. 

As a lightweight and inexpensive pack, this model has some predictable issues. The Venture Pal is made with beefy canvas and nylon material that’s built to last, however, the zippers, stitching, and mesh are not as durable. Over time, the waterproof lining begins to fail.

And, this backpack doesn’t have any internal structure, so it can look and feel floppy, and it’s not well-suited for heavy loads so we don’t recommend it for long hikes. Having said that, it’s a versatile option for short hikes, travel, and daily use.

If you’re looking for a backpack that packs small, still offers a ton of space, and is one of the most affordable day bags on the market – this is the pack for you.

Product Comparison Table

How we test & methodology.

We have been on almost 1,000 day hikes over the years, taking out our packs to ensure that they have everything we need to set us up for success.

A backpack should be comfortable, even at its upper weight limit. To analyze comfort, we load up each pack and take them out on several rigorous day hikes. When we are in the field, we are looking at a wide range of characteristics, from frames (or their absence) and suspension systems to shoulder and sternum strap adjustability and back ventilation.

ORGANIZATION

Every pack has pockets, but some have the right pockets for the right gear in the right situations. We look at everything and use different gear on different hikes to figure out which models work well. We take into account the number and size of main and auxiliary pockets, as well as their position.

USER-FRIENDLINESS

For user-friendliness, we are most concerned with zippers and the relative orientation of pockets. We zip and unzip hundreds of times to determine how smooth it is to access gear. For packs with water bottle pockets, we also do a reach test, assessing how easy or challenging it is to hydrate on the move. User-friendliness also includes gear accessibility – we like models with multiple access points as well as at least one external pocket.

Our examination of durability largely focuses on material thickness and hardware sturdiness. We test for frequency and severity of stuck and broken zippers, and look at fabric type and denier, as well as any reinforcements in high-wear areas. Stitching and seam integrity is also paramount so we are sure to stress test each pack with as much as we can fit in.

WEIGHT & COMPRESSIBILITY

No matter the length of the hike, it’s never a bad idea to reduce the weight of your gear. We review manufacturer specs and weigh each model to ensure we have an accurate picture of every pack. Sometimes, you also want a smaller summit bag for shorter hikes from a basecamp. With that in mind, some bags earn higher marks for their compressibility and ability to fit inside a larger pack.

What’s Most Important For Hiking Daypacks?

We have our list of favorites, but maybe you prioritize different characteristics of each pack a little differently. Below, we break down our recommendations along the dimensions of price, capacity, and weight, so that you can find the option that makes the most sense for you depending on what you care about the most.

Best budget hiking daypacks

• LL Bean Stowaway 22

Best mid-range daypacks

• Osprey Talon 22 (men’s) / Tempest 20 (women’s)

Best high-end daypack

• Gregory Citro 24 H20 (men’s) / Juno 24 H20 (women’s)
• Osprey Stratos 24 (men’s) / Sirrus 24 (women’s)

Best minimalist daypacks

Best fully-featured daypacks

• Osprey Stratos 24 (men’s) and Sirrus 24 (women’s)

Best lightweight daypacks

Most supportive daypacks

How to Choose a Hiking Daypack

The capacity of a daypack is typically measured in liters. Most daypacks have capacities ranging between 10-35 liters. Daypacks with a 20-30 liter capacity tend to be the most popular (and the size we use most often) because they offer enough room for a variety of outdoor adventures and have plenty of space for the 10 day hiking essentials .

If you’re looking for a bag that offers more room, you hike in areas with unpredictable weather and need to carry more gear, or you like spending long days on the trail, you’ll likely want a pack with a more robust weight distribution system (i.e. a hipbelt) and a larger capacity (over 30 liters) .

When you’re just out for the day, weight isn’t as big of a concern, and you can pack along a few extra luxuries. An ultralight daypack will get the job done with ease, although they generally don’t have a frame and need to be packed more carefully. We still recommend keeping your load as light as possible to give yourself the best chance of hiking further for longer and to reduce strain on your muscles and joints.

Sometimes your adventure will call for heavier gear , like when you’re heading deeper into the backcountry, traveling over snow, or carrying equipment like an ice axe or rope for summiting mountains. If this describes the majority of your hiking trips, you should consider one of the more supportive daypacks below. They often have internal frames that provide more structure and better support on long miles.

Most daypacks have a large top-loading compartment for storing the majority of your gear, two external side pockets for water bottles, and a separate compartment on top for stashing smaller items. We prefer bags with additional organization pockets internally and externally to make it easy to compartmentalize and access gear. Many daypacks also have a front mesh stash pocket, which is convenient for storing gear we use often like a raincoat , water filter , or a hat and gloves .

Some daypacks are frameless, meaning they have little to no structure to disperse weight across your back and onto your hips. They use a thin foam pad to add a bit of structure to the back. Frameless packs are highly portable and handy for quick trips.

Heavier packs usually feature a frame – typically a rounded piece of lightweight metal – to add structure to the bag. These packs also usually feature plenty of padding, pockets, and a hipbelt, so they’re better when you’ll need more support and storage on longer adventures with heavy loads.

BACK PANEL & VENTILATION

Some daypacks have a mesh back panel design which allows for more airflow and ventilation on the trail. Your back is still going to get sweaty, but many hikers find those types of frames to be more comfortable and keep the actual backpack from sticking to your body. Packs with simple back panel designs usually incorporate foam padding for comfort and add grooves to help with ventilation. Others don’t have any framing, so you’ll need to choose what to pack and how to pack carefully. All three designs work well in their different niches.

A hipbelt’s primary function is to distribute the weight of your pack to your hips, to help alleviate strain on your shoulders. Many hip belts also feature convenient pockets, which provide easy access to items you’ll want readily available on the trail like snacks , sunscreen, lip balm, and your phone. Most minimalist daypacks forego hip belts in favor of a simpler nylon strap that still adds a bit of stability and weight transfer. Be sure to try on both types to determine which you prefer.

STERNUM STRAP

Sternum straps are included on almost all daypacks. They give you the option to connect your shoulder straps across your chest for a more secure carry and can help keep your bag from bouncing or swinging too much. It’s a nice touch when the sternum strap has an elastic section for a little give while moving, and the clip has an emergency whistle built in.

HYDRATION COMPATIBILITY

Water bottles and hydration bladders are the two most common ways to stay hydrated on the trail. If you prefer drinking from a reservoir, also known as a water bladder, make sure to get a daypack that has a hydration port to feed the tube through, and a reservoir pocket to hold the bladder. In general, we prefer the ease and convenience of water bottles, but a water bladder can be essential for extended time above treeline where long water carries can be necessary, or an easy day hike. We also have a great list of the Best Hydration Packs if you’re looking for a daypack that comes with an included hydration system.

WATER BOTTLE HOLSTERS

Hydration is key while hiking, so if you’re not using a hydration bladder, your water bottles should always be easy to access from your side pockets. Some minimalist ultralight packs don’t have water bottle pockets which is far less convenient in our opinion. That’s why every backpack on this list has water bottle holsters for ease of use.

WATERPROOFING 

Most daypacks don’t offer much water protection on their own. Your pack will likely shed a light drizzle and morning mist with no problem, but water will eventually seep through your backpack’s seams and work its way into your gear with prolonged exposure. Some daypacks come with pack covers included but they will eventually wet out in heavy rain too.

We recommend packing your gear in waterproof stuff sacks or Ziploc bags inside your pack. You can also line the inside of your backpack with a strong trash bag to keep all your stuff dry. Even when a daypack truly is waterproof, we’ve learned it doesn’t stay that way for long, so we still play it safe and bag up our most important gear when the skies are darkening with rain clouds.

Why trust us?

We understand how tough it is to find trustworthy gear advice, and that’s one of the main reasons we built CleverHiker. We live for outdoor adventure, and we take these guides very seriously.

• Our recommendations are completely independent and based on hands-on experience.
• We test outdoor gear for a living – we’ve logged over 20,000 trail miles and 1,000 nights in the wilderness.
• Our team has thru-hiked some of the most iconic long trails, including the Continental Divide Trail, Pacific Crest Trail, Appalachian Trail, Colorado Trail, Long Trail, Oregon Coast Trail, Arizona Trail, Pinhoti Trail, Superior Hiking Trail, as well as extensive peak bagging, and international treks.
• We field test every product we recommend, which is sadly not the norm.
• We travel to industry trade shows to stay up-to-date on product innovations.
• We continuously update our guides throughout the year and when new products launch.
• We treat recommendations to our readers as if they were for our family and friends.
• We’re lifelong learners and we’re always open to feedback. If you think we’ve missed a worthy product or got something wrong, we’d love to know about it.

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