If you are a beginner in backpacking, you may have many questions concerning what items to bring, what kind of food to bring, and the most thrilling of all, where to go. In the United States, there are numerous beginner backpacking trips available for you. Whether you wish to organize a remarkable hiking getaway to your preferred national park or prefer exploring nearby trails, you will have various choices to consider.
When planning your first backpacking trip, you have two options: 1) opt for a trip that you are comfortable with and go with family, friends, or a partner, or 2) participate in a guided trip to acquire new skills, form friendships, and tackle a more demanding challenge. It is common for individuals to either overload their first backcountry trip and subsequently abandon their backpacking gear after the adventure, or underestimate their expectations and feel disappointed, questioning the rationale behind carrying 30 pounds of equipment into the backcountry.
We are aware that when you go backpacking, you seek solitude, admire breathtaking scenery, and enjoy the physical exertion. Therefore, we aim to assist you in organizing a journey that will instill a passion for the activity, ensuring that every time you unpack your backpack, a grin appears on your face. Whether you are seeking ideas for your initial backpacking adventure or have already embarked on numerous trips, we have gathered a selection of beginner-friendly backpacking trips and trails throughout the United States. These excursions will immerse you in untouched natural settings and provide just the right level of challenge.
HOW TO CHOOSE AN APPROPRIATE TRAIL
We have created a list of trips keeping in mind the needs of beginner backpackers, as each new backpacker may possess varying levels of skills and fitness. These trips fulfill certain criteria.
- You’ll hike relatively low-mileage for the length of the trip.
- The trails don’t have extreme elevation gain for the region.
- They travel on well-maintained trails and avoid tricky terrain like boulder fields.
- You’ll get a lot of bang for your buck, whether in the form of peaks, alpine lakes, or lush meadows.
However, backpacking is never easy (or else we’d never do it!) — so, if you want to maximize your fun, be sure to train for your backpacking trip.
RECOMMENDED TRAILS
White Mountain National Forest
White Mountain National Forest, located in New Hampshire, is considered one of the top camping spots in the American Northeast. It provides opportunities for backcountry camping, also known as primitive camping, with certain regulations in place to ensure the well-being of both campers and the environment. A comprehensive set of instructions and recommendations can be accessed on the internet. The mountains in this scenic forest appear to stretch indefinitely and even cross over into Maine to a small extent. Additionally, this vast forest, filled with historical significance, also encompasses a significant portion of the renowned Appalachian Trail.
Olympic National Park
An experienced backpacker who has extensively explored Olympic National Park would recommend hiking to Enchanted Valley, Royal Basin, or Quinault. However, it might be impossible to fully explore all the diverse wilderness areas of this magnificent west coast wonderland. Olympic National Park offers an abundance of attractions and activities for visitors. Whether it is wandering along the beaches, exploring the rainforest, or enjoying the surroundings of a milky blue alpine lake, all of these experiences are possible within this single park. To ensure the safety of all visitors and prevent overcrowding in certain areas, adventurers are required to obtain a permit before entering Olympic National Park.
Sawtooth Mountains
The Sawtooth Mountains in Idaho can be found close to Stanley. This area has a resemblance to Switzerland rather than the United States. The tall, jagged peaks of the mountains beg to be explored, as they hold beautiful lookout points and numerous alpine lakes that are ideal for fishing or swimming. The pathway to Saddleback Lakes is remarkably stunning and serves as a basic camping spot with serene and picturesque surroundings. If you continue on to Imogene Lake, you will experience the same sense of euphoria, and the nighttime sky is an added bonus.
Badlands National Park
If South Dakota is not on your backpacking radar, it should be because it is home to the intricate dips and rocky terrain of Badlands National Park, which features visually stunning multihued rock and thrilling routes. The National Park Service highly recommends wearing ankle supporting hiking boots when visiting, as it is easy to twist or break an ankle. Additionally, each hiker should carry a gallon of water per day, as there are minimal or no water sources in the backcountry. The conditions can be quite primitive.
Glacier National Park
Glacier National Park urges backpackers to visit and experience its rivers, forests, and demanding ventures into the wilderness. Split by the Continental Divide, the park has an eastern section and a more secluded, tree-filled western section. Valuable suggestions and rules can be found on the NPS website, providing great assistance for those planning to explore this treasured destination in Montana.
Grand Teton National Park
Grand Teton National Park can be reached from the famous town of Jackson Hole. During winter, the park becomes a stunning winter wonderland covered in snow, while in summer, it transforms into fields of colorful wildflowers nourished by the melting snow. It is advised by experts to proceed cautiously when hiking in the high-altitude region, and it is essential to carry bear canisters approved by the park. This area is known for its bears. However, the park has compiled a comprehensive webpage with useful links and information to assist you in safely planning your wilderness expedition.
Point of Arches
Point of Arches, located on the edge of Olympic National Park and accessed through the Makah Reservation, is an ideal destination for beginner backpackers. Although you can complete this trail in one overnight, it is highly recommended to set aside a third day in order to fully enjoy the myriad of tidepools to explore and the abundant wildlife to observe. The stunning coastline, dotted with sea-stacks, is perfectly complemented by the lush forests, where you can encounter banana slugs, Roosevelt elk, and black bears. As the sun sets over the Pacific Ocean and the sound of crashing waves lulls you to sleep each night, you’ll already be envisioning your next adventure.
This trail is fairly flat and allows you to easily reach a beautiful beach environment, without the need for strenuous hiking or gaining elevation. We specifically recommend this as a family-friendly excursion. It provides the rewards of a longer backpacking trip, but without the effort. So, bring along a chair and unwind on the beach while observing seals frolic in the nearby waters and eagles soaring above the cliffs in search of fish.
Unlike most beach destinations, the campsite near Point of Arches is situated next to a creek, which means there is no need to bring water for your entire trip; only a water filtration device is necessary.
Shining Rock Wilderness
One of the most breathtaking backpacking spots on the East Coast is the Shining Rock Wilderness, located in the Blue Ridge Mountains of North Carolina. The name of this wilderness area stems from a distinct geological formation of quartzite rock, which serves as a protective barrier at the top of Shining Rock. These rocks not only impress with their stunning appearance but also offer an ideal vantage point to admire the expansive vistas of the neighboring peaks. During your hike, you will also come across lovely cascading waterfalls and refreshing swimming spots, ideal for taking a dip at the appropriate time of year.
By having shorter distances to cover on a daily basis, you can reach exciting places. Although numerous trails suitable for beginners are crowded, solitude can be found in the Shining Rock Wilderness. Additionally, setting up a basecamp in the backcountry for two nights reduces the amount of hiking required with a complete pack. A challenge in backpacking is perfecting your packing routine, making the rest day where you can leave your tent pitched quite valuable.
The Golden Cathedral
During the trip, you will establish a basecamp on the Escalante River, allowing you to experience both the beautiful desert oasis and the impressive slickrock formations, such as the pothole arch shown in the picture. Camping is not allowed in the Golden Cathedral to preserve the delicate environment, but you will still appreciate the sandstone landscape while exploring the canyons during the day. Additionally, southern Utah offers exceptionally dark night skies, so when you look out of your tent at night, be sure to look up between the canyon walls to witness a sprinkling of stars.
