The great aspect of backpacking is that you can do it well without having expensive classes or extensive experience. To fully appreciate the wonders of the wilderness, such as stunning mountaintop views, starry nights, or challenging climbs, all you require is some gear, a basic level of fitness, and just one night.
These one-night backpacking trips are not boring even though they are suitable for beginners. Each trip has established campsites and is easy to follow, but also offers the beautiful scenery you would typically find on a long-distance path. The trips are ranked according to the required fitness level, with easy ones being the best choice for trail newcomers and the harder ones being enjoyable for experienced dayhikers venturing into backpacking. Additionally, it is essential to consider camping regulations before starting the trail.
TWISP PASS – DAGGER LAKE
Are you interested in larches? These stunning golden trees, along with the vibrant red of huckleberries, make hiking here in the autumn a must-do. However, what about the summertime? How about taking in the wildflowers, breathtaking views along the path, and an incredible panorama of the North Cascades? Although many hikers choose to complete this hike in a day, why not consider staying overnight? Simply descend to Dagger Lake, where you’ll discover more potential for exploration. And as you hike, be sure to appreciate the impressive rock craftsmanship along the trail, thanks to the hard work of WTA volunteers.
THUNDER CREEK
This trail is located at a low elevation and provides opportunities for early and late season adventures. The trail runs alongside the emerald green waters of Thunder Arm and passes through large, old growth forests. As you continue along Thunder Creek, there are occasional openings in the forest canopy where you can stop and enjoy the views of the tall peaks that surround the valley. After traveling six miles, you will reach McAllister Creek camp, which is an ideal spot to set up camp, unwind, and experience the enchantment of the North Cascades backcountry. It is important to note that this trail is situated within North Cascades National Park, so an overnight permit is required for camping.
MAZAMA PARK VIA RIDLEY CREEK
After trekking through thick woodland, a stunning log shelter and picturesque meadows await, providing an ideal setting for a memorable overnight adventure. During the berry season, these meadows become a delectable source of blueberries that one should definitely not miss out on, while autumn transforms the area into an enchanting spectacle of red, orange, and yellow foliage. Additionally, there is a fantastic chance to prolong your excursion by visiting the neighboring Park Butte lookout.
ROUND LAKE
This hike begins on a previously used road, but the gradual climb soon transforms into a series of switchbacks. As you ascend through the trees, exerting a considerable effort, you will eventually reach Lost Creek Ridge. During the appropriate season, these hills are covered in a vibrant display of wildflowers. Once on the ridge, descend a short distance on the opposite side to reach a delightful little lake.
BEVERLY TURNPIKE – BEAN CREEK BASIN LOOP
If you are interested in seeing classic Teanaway views and early-season wildflowers or late-season berry bonanzas, then this hike is perfect for you. The trail quickly ascends, giving your heart a workout, but the breathtaking views from the pass will leave you in awe. You can admire the magnificent sights of Mount Stuart and the stunning granite beauty of the Stuart Range. From this point, you can choose to venture over Hardscrabble Creek and descend through Bean Creek Basin to enjoy different scenery on your way down. Additionally, there are numerous opportunities for side adventures such as Iron Peak, Volcanic Neck, Devil’s Peak, and more!
LITTLE MANATEE RIVER STATE PARK TRAIL
Experience the world of backpacking gradually by embarking on a simple overnight hike along the Little Manatee River State Park Trail in Florida. Begin your adventure at the main entrance of the state park and relish in a gentle trek beside the river, where you may come across various wildlife such as alligators, turtles, otters, and even manatees. As you reach the halfway point on the trail, rest at the park’s basic campsite and drift off to sleep while listening to the untamed sounds of Florida’s backcountry (reservations are necessary).
JORDAN HOT SPRINGS
You can go backpacking, or you can go backpacking and enjoy a muscle-relaxing soak at the end. If you choose the latter option, you should consider a trip to Jordan Hot Springs in Gila National Forest. This vast wilderness is situated in southwest New Mexico and offers juniper and pinyon forests, as well as primitive camping areas close to the springs. You don’t need a permit to camp there. Please be aware that the Jordan Hot Springs hike requires effort, as you will encounter creek crossings, some of which can be waist deep, and an elevation gain of approximately 700 feet.
HUNTER MOUNTAIN
The Catskill Mountains have some of the best beginner backpacking trips in New York state. One great place to start is Hunter Mountain, which is the second tallest of the Catskills High Peaks. This outing is a 4.6-mile one-way journey that ascends 2,238 feet. The trail is through a forested area, offering glimpses of the picturesque Catskills region. If you’re up for more hiking, Hunter Mountain is also connected to the 24-mile Devil’s Path trail, which is one of the most challenging backpacking trips in the state. Camping permits are only necessary if the trips last longer than three nights or involve 10 or more people.
GUNSIGHT PASS TO GUNSIGHT LAKE
A backpacking trip to Gunsight Lake in Glacier National Park offers an opportunity to experience the park’s vast beauty. The journey to the trailhead alone, which begins near Montana’s renowned and mountainous Going-to-the-Sun Road, is worth the cost of admission to Glacier National Park. To reach Gunsight Lake, park at the Gunsight Pass trailhead and hike through a breathtaking landscape of mountain peaks and various waterfalls, including Florence Falls at mile four. Permits are required for backcountry campgrounds such as Gunsight Lake in Glacier National Park, and they can be obtained either online or on a first-come, first-served basis in person.
MISCOWABIC PEAK
The Porcupine Mountains, also known as The Porkies, are a popular attraction in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula due to their beautiful waterfalls and stunning forests consisting of maple, hemlock, and birch trees. One of the best ways to experience the grandeur of the lake and forest in this region is by embarking on a backpacking trip up Miscowawbic Peak. The trail for this 16-mile route follows the Lake Superior and Big Carp River trails, where you will find various camping sites scattered throughout the trip. The route has a minimal elevation gain and starts and ends at the parking lot of the Lake of the Clouds Scenic Overlook. Please make sure to obtain backpacking permits before starting your journey.
