The Top 5 National Parks for Backpacking in the United States
National parks are exceptional places to go backpacking because they offer some of the most beautiful and diverse landscapes in the United States. The parks are often remote and isolated, providing a sense of adventure and escape from the daily routine. They are also protected areas, which means that the natural environment is relatively undisturbed, allowing visitors to experience pristine wilderness areas.
National parks also offer a variety of backpacking options, from easy day hikes to challenging multi-day treks. Each park has its own unique terrain, flora, and fauna, providing backpackers with a wide range of experiences to choose from. Some parks have towering mountains, others have vast deserts, and still others have lush forests, making it easy to find a backpacking adventure that suits your preferences.
Moreover, backpacking in national parks can be an educational experience, providing visitors with the opportunity to learn about the natural history and ecology of the area. Park rangers are available to provide information and lead guided tours, giving visitors a chance to learn about the environment and the park's conservation efforts. The parks also offer a chance to disconnect from technology and the modern world, allowing visitors to reconnect with nature and find peace and tranquility in the great outdoors. Here is a list of 5 of the best National Parks I have been do and thoroughly enjoyed.
Yosemite National Park: Located in California is one of the most popular parks in the country, and for good reason. The park’s stunning granite peaks, crystal-clear streams, and giant sequoia trees make it a backpacker’s paradise. The most popular backpacking trail in Yosemite is the John Muir Trail, which runs for over 200 miles through the park. Another popular backpacking loop in Yosemite that can be done on a long weekend is the Yosemite Valley Loop. This trail covers around 28 miles and can typically be done in 3-4 days. The trail starts at Yosemite Valley and takes backpackers up to North Dome, then heads over to Yosemite Creek, and finally back down to Yosemite Valley.
The trail starts at the Happy Isles trailhead, which is accessible by shuttle bus from Yosemite Valley. The first day of the hike involves a steep climb up to the top of Nevada Falls, followed by a descent to Little Yosemite Valley. On day two, hikers ascend to the top of Half Dome and then continue on to North Dome for the night. On day three, backpackers follow the Yosemite Creek Trail through the forest and past waterfalls before descending back down to Yosemite Valley.
This loop is a great option for backpackers who want to experience some of the iconic sites of Yosemite National Park, including Half Dome and Yosemite Falls, while also getting off the beaten path and exploring some of the less-visited areas of the park. The trail can be strenuous at times, with significant elevation gain, but the stunning views and natural beauty of Yosemite make it well worth the effort.
Glacier National Park: Located in Montana, Glacier National Park is known for its towering mountains, alpine lakes, and glaciers. Backpackers can explore the park’s backcountry on over 700 miles of trails. The most popular backpacking route in the park is the Highline Trail, which offers stunning views of the Continental Divide. The trail runs along the Garden Wall, a stunning ridgeline that offers panoramic views of the surrounding peaks and valleys. The trailhead starts at Logan Pass and runs for around 15.2 miles, eventually descending into the Swiftcurrent Valley. Along the way, hikers will have the opportunity to see beautiful alpine meadows, wildflowers, glaciers, and an abundance of wildlife such as mountain goats, bighorn sheep, and grizzly bears.
The trail is known for its dramatic scenery and steep drop-offs, as hikers traverse along a narrow ledge cut into the mountainside. For those who are afraid of heights, this trail may be challenging, but it's well worth the effort for the stunning views. The Highline Trail also offers several side trips to scenic viewpoints, such as the Grinnell Glacier Overlook and the Granite Park Chalet. These stops are great opportunities to rest, take in the views, and refuel for the remainder of the hike.
The Highline Trail is a popular hike in Glacier National Park and is considered a must-do. It's important to note that the trail is only open during the summer months due to snow and ice accumulation during the winter. Hikers should also be prepared for sudden changes in weather and carry bear spray as the trail is located in grizzly bear habitat.
Grand Canyon National Park: The Grand Canyon is one of the most iconic natural wonders in the world, and backpackers can explore it on several trails. The most popular is the Bright Angel Trail, which descends 4,380 feet to the Colorado River. Backpackers can also explore the park’s North Rim on the North Kaibab Trail. The trail starts at the South Rim of the canyon and descends approximately 4,380 feet (1,335 meters) to the Colorado River. It is a challenging hike due to its steep incline and hot, dry desert climate, but the incredible views of the canyon make it well worth the effort.
The trail is approximately 9.5 miles (15.3 km) long and takes hikers through several different ecosystems, from the cool and shady forests of the rim to the hot and arid desert at the bottom of the canyon. Along the way, hikers will pass several rest stops and water sources, including Indian Garden and the Three-Mile Resthouse. There are also several switchbacks and steep inclines, including the famous Devil's Corkscrew section, which can be challenging for even experienced hikers.
The Bright Angel Trail is open year-round, but hikers should be aware that temperatures can vary widely depending on the season. It is important to bring plenty of water, food, and sun protection on this hike, as well as to be aware of the signs of heat exhaustion and dehydration. Despite the challenges, the Bright Angel Trail offers an unforgettable hiking experience with breathtaking views of one of the world's most iconic natural wonders.
Rocky Mountain National Park: Located in Colorado is known for its breathtaking vistas, alpine lakes, and abundant wildlife. The park has over 350 miles of trails for backpackers to explore, including the Continental Divide Trail and the Longs Peak Trail. One backpacking loop at Rocky Mountain that can be done on a long weekend is the North Inlet/Tonahutu Creek loop. This 26-mile loop is known for its stunning views of the Continental Divide, alpine lakes, and diverse wildlife.
The trail starts at the North Inlet Trailhead and follows the North Inlet Creek through dense forests and meadows before reaching Cascade Falls, a picturesque waterfall. From there, hikers will continue on to the North Inlet Junction and then climb up to the Flattop Mountain Trailhead.
After crossing Flattop Mountain, the trail descends towards Tonahutu Creek, passing through subalpine forests and crossing numerous streams. The trail then follows Tonahutu Creek back to the North Inlet Trailhead. Hikers can choose to camp at designated campsites along the way or stay at the backcountry campsites at North Inlet Junction or Renegade.
The North Inlet/Tonahutu Creek loop offers a challenging but rewarding backpacking experience, with plenty of opportunities for solitude and stunning views of Rocky Mountain National Park's rugged beauty.
Olympic National Park: Located in Washington state, Olympic National Park is a backpacker’s dream, with over 600 miles of trails to explore. The park is home to a diverse array of ecosystems, including temperate rainforests, alpine meadows, and rugged coastline. The most popular backpacking route in the park is the High Divide Trail, which offers stunning views of Mount Olympus. The trail is a 19.7-mile loop trail, that starts at the Sol Duc Trailhead and winds its way through old-growth forests, alpine meadows, and subalpine ridges. It offers stunning views of the Olympic Mountains, including Mount Olympus and the surrounding glaciers. The trail reaches its highest point at 5,000 feet and has an elevation gain of approximately 4,000 feet.
Hikers on the High Divide Trail can expect to see a variety of wildlife, including black bears, elk, and mountain goats. The trail is typically open from July through September, but hikers should be prepared for changing weather conditions, including rain and snow. The trail is rated as moderately difficult and is best suited for experienced hikers, as there are some steep sections and narrow ridges that may be challenging for beginners.
Overall, the High Divide Trail is a beautiful and rewarding hike for those looking to explore the stunning landscapes of Olympic National Park. It offers a range of diverse scenery, from dense forests to alpine meadows, and provides hikers with breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains.
Conclusion: Backpacking is a fantastic way to experience the natural beauty of the United States, and national parks offer some of the best opportunities to do so. The five national parks we’ve highlighted in this post are just a few of the amazing places you can explore. No matter which park you choose, make sure to be prepared and follow Leave No Trace principles to protect these incredible natural spaces for generations to come. Let me know what your favorite National Park backpacking trails are down in the comments. Happy Trails!
