DETERMINE YOUR ROUTE
When making the decision of your backpacking route, determining where you would like to go can be one of the most challenging choices you face. Consider what brings you joy: waterfalls, mountain tops, expansive and starry skies—or perhaps it is solitude that you crave?
When making a decision about which route to choose, it is beneficial to take into account the following factors:
- Length of the trip. How many days do you have? How many miles can you comfortably travel a day? Most new backpackers can travel between 4 – 10 miles a day, but this will depend on the type of trail you’re hiking. Elevation gain and loss will slow your pace.
- Camping Spots. Ensure you know where the allocated camping is on the route and that you have the fitness to make it between camp spots.
- Understand the terrain. Is it technical and rocky or flat and smooth? Prepare yourself by doing training hikes of what an average day on your trip might look like.
- Water sources. We can survive without food for a few days but not water. Make sure you’re aware of where you can get this precious resource along your trail.
- Time of year. Is it the best season for this route? You don’t want to get caught in a snowstorm or a heatwave.
- Permits. Does your route require a permit? Is the permit competitive or easy to attain? If you’re planning to hike a popular route, consider having a backup route in case you’re unable to get a permit.
GUIDED TRIPS
If the idea seems too overwhelming, you might consider exploring a guided trip instead. Guided trips allow you to experience backpacking with less effort and stress involved in planning one. Professionals will teach you valuable backpacking skills and help you develop the confidence needed for planning your own trip.
If you are short on time to plan a trip or if you are traveling from another country, guided trips may be the most suitable choice.
DECIDE WHEN TO GO
The location for your backpacking trip is determined by when you plan to go, which requires both short-term and long-term planning. Short-term planning involves checking the weather forecast to determine if it will rain, snow, or be sunny over the next weekend. For long-term planning, if you want to see wildflowers, you need to consider the time of year when they are most magnificent. Here are some factors that vary depending on the season:
When the snow melts in spring and early summer, mosquitos can become more problematic, especially when temperatures exceed around 50 degrees. In alpine regions, July can be particularly challenging due to mosquitoes. On the other hand, hornets and yellow jackets tend to be more troublesome in later periods. Certain animals, such as elk, may display increased activity during their mating season in the fall.
Flowers, trees, and berries: The best time for flowers may differ depending on the location, with June and July being the optimal months. Late September or early October is recommended for observing fall colors, like larch trees. Certain destinations are known for abundant blueberries and other edible berries, with the prime time typically ranging in late August and September.
By considering the snow level when planning your trip, you can prevent difficulties in route-finding. During the early and late season, the trails can be obscured by snow, which complicates the navigation process.
If you are on the coast, it is crucial to plan according to the tides. Certain parts of trips along the Olympic Coast can only be safely traversed during low tide. Therefore, it is important to schedule your trip based on low tides. Make sure to consult the Olympic National Park website for this information.
Moon phase: If you have an interest in observing stars and planets in the night sky, you’ll need to consider the current state of the moon. To achieve the best visibility, it’s necessary to monitor the moon phase. To achieve a moonless night for stargazing, I rely on online sources to check the moon phase. When I desire to engage in snowshoeing under the radiant glow of a moon on a lengthy winter night, I patiently await the arrival of a full moon.
PERMITS
Understanding the requirements for permits is crucial for the success of your backpacking trip, particularly in popular or at-risk areas where they are often necessary.
After deciding on your route, it is important to promptly apply for the permit(s). Certain trails and campsites may have a requirement for you to submit your permit application several months ahead of time, so it is crucial not to delay. While many popular park permits can be obtained online through the National Parks recreation website, there are instances where specific parks necessitate in-person, phone, or fax methods. Conduct thorough research on your chosen park and don’t hesitate to contact the rangers for any inquiries.
In order to increase your chances of success, it is advisable to remain flexible with your route and plan. To improve the likelihood of obtaining a permit, consider applying for multiple routes and not become too disappointed if your first choice is not granted. Stay positive and attempt again in the following season. If there is a large number of people in your party, it is recommended that everyone applies for a permit to enhance the success rates.
WILDLAND PERMITTING SITUATION
Wildland handles all the permit requirements for our guided backpacking trips. Despite having strong connections with the parks we visit, we still need to submit permit requests ahead of time. Therefore, you might notice “Pre-Permit Trip Dates” for specific destinations, along with an extra discount for booking before the permit deadline. However, if you provide us with ample notice, your chances of obtaining a permit for popular destinations like Angels Landing and the Grand Canyon will improve.
GATHER RESOURCES
To assist with planning, there are numerous sources of information available. Dedicate time to conducting research on your desired destination, the ideal timing for your visit, and the anticipated experiences upon arrival. Begin by referring to these indispensable resources:
Mountaineers Books publishes numerous guidebooks, and it is always beneficial to have a large collection – my bookshelves contain over 90 guidebooks, beginning with my purchase of the AMC White Mountain Guide in 1966. Furthermore, members of Mountaineers receive a 20% discount.
Maps, including both paper maps and mapping apps such as Gaia and Caltopo, serve as valuable sources of information and are essential resources to carry for the purpose of avoiding getting lost.
Public agency websites, such as the National Park Service website for Mount Rainier National Park, provide beneficial reports on trail and road conditions.
Websites such as WTA.org, Mountaineers Trip Reports, and NWHikers.net offer information and updates from people who have personally hiked the trail. Nowadays, social media also provides valuable information. Facebook hosts various groups that share current conditions and trip suggestions.
OTHER FACTORS
Company: Although not discussed in this article, it is important to consider additional factors when planning a trip. Among these factors is the choice of travel companions. Throughout the years, I have gained valuable experience from both backpacking with others and embarking on solo ventures. Therefore, it is crucial to contemplate your desired trip objectives when determining the ideal group size and companions.
When thinking systematically, one should also contemplate the gear and clothing to bring along. Online, you can discover recommended packing lists; peruse a few of them to determine your priorities and assess how much weight you can bear without discomfort or danger.
When considering safety, it is crucial to plan for contingencies. This entails acquiring knowledge of first aid, exploring emergency communication methods (like a satellite messenger), and identifying escape routes. Additionally, it is equally vital to prepare food and determine the appropriate water treatment for on-trail consumption.
