Top 10 Backpacking Trips in the U.S.

What are the essential components of a remarkable backpacking trip? Undoubtedly, outstanding scenery is a prerequisite. From my perspective, an element of daringness amplifies the quality of a hike. Although a significant journey through the wilderness can be highly inspiring, some of the most exceptional trips within the nation can be completed in a matter of a few days, and almost half of the hikes listed here are less than 50 miles long. Another crucial aspect is the wilderness aspect itself: All ten trips mentioned take place within national parks or designated wilderness areas.

Having completed numerous multi-day hikes in America and around the world, I have likely given this topic more consideration than a mentally stable individual should, given my experience of carrying a backpack for over three decades, and still continuing to do so.

It is important to approach backpacking with seriousness and acknowledge that it differs from a long day hike. It is crucial to possess the appropriate equipment, be physically capable of bearing weights of around 50 pounds (which may vary depending on the duration of the journey), and have ample experience in outdoor activities. Whether you are backpacking alone, with your children, or accompanied by friends, it is always essential to be ready.

Pemigewasset Loop

The White Mountains of New Hampshire are not typically associated with epic backpacking routes. However, the Pemigewasset Loop, also known as the “Pemi Loop” by locals, is known for being one of the most challenging hikes in the country. It involves strenuous elevation gain and is notorious for experiencing harsh weather conditions. The trail covers the western portion of the Pemigewasset Wilderness and includes the ascent of eight mountains that are over 4,000 feet above sea level and listed on the AMC’s 4000-footer list.

Cracker Lake

You shouldn’t miss out on backpacking to the stunning Cracker Lake, with its brilliant turquoise waters. At the base of Mount Siyeh, whose towering cliffs rival those in Yosemite, you’ll have the opportunity to camp. Although it’s not as popular as other backpacking routes in the park, the trail to this alpine lake is a must-see.

Instead of dealing with crowds of tourists on the Highline Trail, it’s advisable to skip it and opt for a more peaceful section of the Park, offering a relatively easy hike. Moreover, you’ll even find a pit toilet at the lake.

100-Mile Wilderness

Every year, hundreds of thru-hikers hike the Appalachian Trail. The last 100 miles before reaching Mount Katahdin’s summit, known as the 100-Mile Wilderness, is commonly considered the most challenging section. It offers a genuine wilderness experience and should not be attempted as one’s initial backpacking adventure.

The backcountry of Maine woods is unforgiving at best and deadly at worst so take heed when attempting this. But if you do decide to do this trek, it’ll bring you through some of the most spectacular and remote places in the entire country.

A Grand Tour of Yosemite

After numerous visits to Yosemite National Park, exploring its various trails, including those in the park’s main area, the John Muir Trail section, and reaching the summits of Half Dome and Clouds Rest, many individuals would genuinely contend that it is the ultimate choice for backpackers.

I backpacked through the largest wilderness areas in the park, both south and north of Tuolumne Meadows, in two separate trips that combined totaled seven days. This experience allowed me to uncover Yosemite’s genuine essence, with its expansive expanse of deep canyons surrounded by granite walls, towering peaks reaching heights of over 12,000 feet, and numerous stunning mountain lakes adorning the scenery.

Two Hikes in Glacier National Park

Glacier is a beloved destination for backpackers due to its abundant natural features such as ice rivers flowing down rugged mountains and cliffs, lush green forests, a multitude of over 760 reflective lakes, and diverse megafauna including bighorn sheep, mountain goats, elk, moose, grizzly bears, and black bears. With over a million acres of mostly wild land in Montana’s Northern Rockies, it is no surprise that Glacier draws in a large number of visitors.

A 90-mile hike through northern Glacier, known as the Northern Loop, was divided into two parts, a 65-mile leg and a 25-mile leg. This hike was customized by me to include highlights of Glacier’s stunning scenery, such as the entire Highline Trail, the Many Glacier area, Piegan Pass and Stoney Indian Pass, the Ptarmigan Wall and Tunnel, as well as some of the park’s most beautiful lakes and remote wilderness areas.

During our second hike, I and three friends embarked on a backpacking journey spanning approximately 94 miles through Glacier National Park. Our journey started at Chief Mountain Trailhead in the park’s northeast corner, near the Canadian border. We decided to combine portions of the primary and alternate routes of the Continental Divide Trail, as well as include the scenic high alpine trail from Pitamakan Pass to Dawson Pass above Two Medicine.

Teton Crest Trail

After embarking on my initial extensive backpacking journey in the Western region, specifically on Wyoming’s Teton Crest Trail located within Grand Teton National Park, I was immensely captivated. This experience left such a profound impact on me that I have revisited the area over 20 times afterwards to engage in activities such as backpacking, day hiking, rock climbing, backcountry skiing, and canoeing in the Tetons. The notion of that rugged horizon never failing to evoke a sense of excitement is beyond my comprehension.

The Teton Crest Trail runs through the center of the national park and nearby national forest lands, extending from north to south. It remains above the tree line for a large portion of its length, granting panoramic views of the peaks. Additionally, it descends into the picturesque South Fork and North Fork of Cascade Canyon, as well as Paintbrush Canyon and the upper forks of Granite Canyon. Furthermore, it traverses Paintbrush Divide at an elevation of 10,720 feet.

Roan Highlands Section of the AT

If you are curious about the undulating trails in the Scottish Highlands, you should consider exploring the Roan Highlands section of the Appalachian Trail. It is similar to the trails found in Scotland.

The journey covers a distance of 22 miles, going across grassy, barren peaks and through the largest rhododendron garden in the world. The breathtaking 360-degree vistas from multiple summits might leave you breathless, possibly due to the high elevation.

Greenstone Ridge Trail

The diverse landscape of the upper Midwest can be explored on the Greenstone Ridge Trail, which offers a glimpse into various ecosystems including sweeping vistas, orchid-filled bogs, an abundance of wildflowers, and numerous lakes.

The majority of people start their journey at the Windigo trailhead, which can be reached by either boat or seaplane. Your hike concludes at the Hidden Lake trailhead, where you have the option to take a ferry or arrange for another seaplane ride to return.

The Wonderland Trail

There is no other mountain in the contiguous United States that can be compared to Mount Rainier, which is 14,410 feet tall and covered in glaciers. As a result, there is no multi-day hike in the Lower 48 that can match the Wonderland Trail around Mount Rainier.

As you travel along the Wonderland Trail, you will constantly witness the remarkable presence of Rainier dominating the landscape, a sight that never fails to amaze and uplift. This trail showcases breathtaking wildflower meadows, an abundance of waterfalls and cascades, clear babbling streams and powerful rivers colored by glacial sediment. Additionally, you are likely to encounter mountain goats, marmots, deer, and potentially black bears during your journey.

The Wonderland can be hiked in its entirety from multiple trailheads, usually taking nine to 10 days. Alternatively, you can choose to backpack shorter sections of varying lengths. The complete loop is a challenging journey, encompassing a total elevation gain and loss of over 44,000 vertical feet. Factors such as the direction you hike the loop, where you start, and whether you opt for the scenic Spray Park Trail detour all impact the overall difficulty of the trip.

Olympic Coast Trail – North Route

Don’t let the rugged coastline and unforgiving weather deter you from a backpacking trip on the hike from Rialto Beach to the Ozette trailhead. While it may be more than just a walk on the beach, the North Route offers better views and landscape compared to the South Route.

While you primarily walk along the beach, there are several headlands that can only be passed when the tide is low. Occasionally, there are ropes available to assist outside of low tide, but not consistently.