The United States has numerous stunning backpacking trails, with some of the finest ones found in its National Parks such as Zion, Mount Rainier, and Smoky Mountain. The allure of exploring these national parks’ secluded trails and stumbling upon America’s most captivating spots is what appeals to backpackers and draws them to these tranquil areas.
America’s National Parks are vast and stunningly beautiful, revealing their beauty through exploration. Whether it is a challenging hike up a majestic mountain peak or a leisurely stroll along a river or canyon, these parks offer a diverse landscape to cater to every type of hiker. Additionally, the trails within the national parks are safe and provide ample opportunities to observe various plants, animals, and breathtaking scenery. While some of these parks are well-known, there are also remote ones like Gates of the Arctic, situated in the northernmost region. Therefore, prepare yourself for an extraordinary adventure on each of these hiking trails within the U.S. National Parks.
The Wonderland Trail
The Wonderland Trail encompasses Mount Rainier, forming a 93-mile route that passes through lowland forests, valleys, and alpine regions. This hike is demanding because of the considerable changes in elevation it involves. The majority of hikers complete the trail within five to ten days. Optimal timing for enjoying the Wonderland Trail is between mid-July and September, as it offers backpackers the greatest opportunity to traverse the high-altitude trails without encountering snow, even if the park opens earlier.
Rae Lakes Loop
One of the best activities to do in Sequoia-Canyon Kings National Park amidst the High Sierra Nevada Mountains is backpacking the Rae Lakes Loop. This backcountry loop spans 40 miles and showcases stunning alpine scenery with immense granite spires, profound canyons, and pristine mountain lakes. It presents both physical and mental challenges, even for seasoned hikers. The loop reaches an elevation of 11,630 feet, granting breathtaking panoramic vistas of the High Sierra, Fin Dome, Glen Pass, the Videttes, Paradise Valley, and remote sequoia groves.
Thunder Lake
Thunder Lake is a cirque in the park that is not frequently visited, which makes it perfect for those seeking seclusion and a sense of getting away from it all. The length of time it takes hikers to finish the treks varies depending on how quickly they walk, but it usually takes around 3 to 4 days. The entire trail is 22 miles long, and if you want to cover the whole distance, that’s how far you’ll need to travel. Along with the opportunity to explore the alpine region and discover some cirques of the Continental Divide that haven’t been explored before, the trail also allows you to camp on the shores of Thunder Lake. Depending on what your party wants to achieve, you might even be able to reach the impressive Tanima Peak, which stands at 12,420 feet.
Little River Trail
Because Great Smoky Mountain National Park is highly popular, it is necessary to implement strict regulations to ensure visitor safety and preserve the environment. Breaking any of the park rules will result in a significant fee.
Greenstone Ridge Trail
The Greenstone Ridge trail is situated on central Isle Royale Island, which is 50 miles long and 9 miles wide. Isle Royale National Park is unique as it consists of a group of isolated islands on Lake Superior, near the coastlines of Minnesota, Wisconsin, Michigan, and Ontario. Despite its closeness to other states and Canada, it is classified as a National Park of Michigan. Due to its remote location on the largest freshwater lake in the world, Isle Royale is known to be one of the least explored National Parks in the United States.
Half Dome
Backpacking in Yosemite National Park offers hikers the opportunity to witness the famous Half Dome views along with the peacefulness and picturesque landscapes of the isolated Clark Range. This 65-mile hike additionally encompasses the majestic 594-foot-tall Nevada Fall, Clouds Rest, the granite domes of Tuolumne and Tenaya Lake, Red Peak Pass, the Merced River, and a plethora of other awe-inspiring natural marvels. Although the trail is well-kept, it presents challenges with steep and rocky portions, necessitating the guidance of a hiking guide for Yosemite National Park.
Enchanted Valley
The Enchanted Valley, which is also called the “Valley of 10,000 Waterfalls,” is located in Olympic National Park and offers a trail that resembles a fairy tale. This trail is surrounded by mossy woodlands, small streams, and expansive mountain meadows. In addition, there are several natural wonders, including a historic chalet, stunning waterfalls, an ancient rainforest, and many bears, all of which contribute to the charm of this moderate hike. Despite some challenging portions, the hike is rewarding and considered one of the top activities to pursue in Olympic National Park.
Kesugi Ridge Trail
Hikers can start their journey at Little Coal Creek on the Kesugi Ridge trail and make their way to Byers Lake Campground. At this campground, hikers will have the opportunity to take in the awe-inspiring vistas of the Alaskan Mountains, including Denali, the tallest peak in the United States. For those who desire a more challenging route, there is a longer path that spans approximately 37 miles. Hikers who choose this option will be treated to gently rolling terrain, stunning views, narrow lakes, and occasional alpine tarns along the trail. It is important to note that the hike involves steep inclines, so hikers should possess some prior experience.
The Narrows
The Zion Narrows hike, which is famous globally, is renowned because it represents Zion perfectly. Despite not having a steep incline, this hike is challenging. During most of the trek, hikers will navigate through the Virgin River, which is murky and makes it difficult to see the bottom rocks. Therefore, it is important to wear suitable footwear and experts recommend using trekking rods to stay balanced on the slippery rocks.
Teton Crest Trail
The Grand Teton National Park in Wyoming encompasses a portion of the Teton Rocky Mountains, serving as a sanctuary. Exploring the Teton Crest Trail is an excellent way to acquaint oneself with this area, which boasts a multitude of exceptional unspoiled landscapes, unparalleled in other parts of the United States. By embarking on a high-route trail traverse, visitors can witness stunning granite peaks, serene mountain lakes, and awe-inspiring canyons sculpted by glaciers.
Rim to Rim of the Grand Canyon
The Rim to Rim trail is composed of twenty-four miles. Engaging in Rim to Rim hiking is truly a unique and unforgettable experience. While you can observe the magnitude of the canyon from above, a genuine appreciation can only be achieved by descending into and ascending out of it. If you desire to hike from one end of the canyon to the other, you have the option to start at either the North or South Rim. Therefore, it is advisable to arrange transportation for your destination at the opposite Rim.
