This guide provides information on the most popular options for first-time visitors and experienced trekkers who are seeking their next challenge when backpacking in national parks in the US.
In our guide, we have provided comprehensive information about each national park along with recommendations for trip planning, camping tips, and the top hiking trails in these parks.
The article provides valuable details on the prime backpacking national parks, including recommended hiking times and potential cautions.
The Wild Olympic Coast
As you backpack the 17.5-mile southern section of Olympic National Park’s 73-mile-long wilderness coastline, you will have the opportunity to experience the awe-inspiring sights. These include numerous sea stacks that reach heights of up to 200 feet above the sea, as well as giant trees within one of the world’s largest untouched temperate rainforests. Additionally, while hiking along the beach, you will come across tide pools and boulders bustling with sea stars, mussels, and sea anemones. Along the way, you will encounter challenging overland trails that unexpectedly present rugged and muddy terrain, and you will have the chance to conquer rope ladders that hang from eroding headlands.
In addition to spotting seals, sea otters, and whales, this trip is suitable for beginners and families, particularly those with school-age children. Furthermore, it is less crowded than the more popular northern section of the Olympic coast and obtaining the necessary permit is relatively easier.
Grand Canyon Traverse
Backpacking across the Grand Canyon, you have the option of taking either the South Kaibab or Bright Angel trails with the North Kaibab trail, which are considered the three main routes. This hike is truly unique and unlike any other in the world. Along the way, you will witness the breathtaking views of the Grand Canyon’s immense rock formations and numerous layers of geology. Additionally, you will have the opportunity to explore tributary canyons with towering walls and stunning waterfalls, providing a constantly changing perspective. It is highly recommended that every backpacker embark on this adventure or other multi-day hikes in the Grand Canyon.
This route is certainly the most accommodating for novice backpackers or those visiting the Grand Canyon for the first time, even though there are no “easy” trips that go down into the canyon.
Yosemite South of Tuolumne Meadows
This might just be the ideal backpacking trip in Yosemite: You get to witness the breathtaking views from the towering Northwest Face of Half Dome, reaching a height of 2,000 feet, and appreciate the serenity and beauty of the vast Clark Range, one of the park’s most extensive wilderness areas located in the southeast quadrant.
In addition to Half Dome, this 65-mile hike also includes other notable features such as Clouds Rest, which is 1,000 feet higher than Half Dome. Other highlights include the majestic Nevada Fall, which stands at an impressive height of 594 feet. Additionally, the hike showcases the captivating granite domes of Tuolumne and Tenaya Lake, as well as the peaks found in the Vogelsang area. The route also takes you through Red Peak Pass in the Clark Range and brings you to the lakes and creeks at the beginning of the Merced River. The specific distance of the hike, either 65 or 74 miles, as well as the daily itinerary, camping regulations, and permit requirements, will determine the route chosen. Opting for the longer distance involves shorter days and some backtracking, but it offers a more moderate itinerary.
Yellowstone National Park
Yellowstone National Park is one of the country’s most popular national parks, covering parts of Idaho, Montana, and Wyoming.
In 1872, Yellowstone became the first national park to receive federal protection, leading to the invalidation of treaties that recognized Native tribes as the lawful landowners.
According to reports, Yellowstone is connected to 27 tribes, one of which is the Tukudika, and their shared history extends for a minimum of 11,000 years.
Yellowstone has a coverage of over 3,500 square miles and boasts five entrances for vehicles.
In addition to traveling by car, there are alternative options such as taking a bus (through Highway 191) or opting for air travel to any of the six airports near Yellowstone.
Before heading to the park, it is essential to ensure that you check the status of your intended route as many roads tend to close during inclement weather and throughout the winter season.
In order to enter the park, there is a single payment required, which covers your entire stay for a duration of seven days.
Glacier National Park
Glacier National Park in Montana offers a truly magnificent opportunity to encounter the wilderness and remarkable ecosystems.
By conducting some research, you will easily be able to discover the ideal Glacier backpacking adventure among the extensive network of over 700 miles of hiking trails.
To secure a permit, if you plan to stay in the backcountry, you must visit either a ranger station, the Agpar Wilderness Permit Center, or the St. Mary Visitor Center.
The off season offers less dangerous weather, therefore the best time to visit is from May to October.
For further information, visit Glacier’s Wilderness Camping website where you can find additional details.
The Highline Trail, which spans a distance of 15 miles, is an ideal choice for a 2-day hiking experience when considering its suitability.
Begin by parking your vehicle in the designated parking lot, then embark on a day-long hike leading you to the spectacular vistas of Granite Park Chalet.
Find a suitable location close to the chalet for setting up camp, and then embark on a delightful backpacking adventure by hiking back to your home.
Sequoia National Park
When considering each step, rephrase the given text while retaining the same meaning: Ancient giant sequoia trees are incredibly vast and truly awe-inspiring.
