The Best National Park Backpacking Trips
When it comes to adventure and connecting with nature, few activities compare to backpacking through the stunning landscapes of America’s national parks. These natural treasures offer unparalleled opportunities to explore vast, untouched wilderness, from towering mountain ranges to pristine lakes and dense forests. If you're looking to embark on an unforgettable backpacking adventure, this guide will highlight some of the best national park backpacking trips, each offering unique experiences for hikers of all levels.
1. Yosemite National Park – John Muir Trail
Yosemite National Park is world-renowned for its dramatic granite cliffs, waterfalls, and giant sequoia trees. Among its many backpacking opportunities, the John Muir Trail (JMT) stands out as one of the best national park backpacking trips for those seeking a challenging and scenic adventure.
Stretching 211 miles from Yosemite Valley to Mount Whitney, the JMT takes hikers through some of the most iconic landscapes in the Sierra Nevada. The trail passes through pristine alpine lakes, lush meadows, and rugged mountain passes, offering breathtaking views at every turn. Along the way, hikers can experience the serenity of the High Sierra, with the towering peaks of Mount Lyell, Mount Whitney, and others dominating the horizon. It’s a challenging trek that requires careful preparation, but the rewards are beyond measure.
2. Grand Canyon National Park – North Kaibab Trail to South Kaibab Trail
The Grand Canyon offers one of the most unique landscapes in the world, and for many hikers, the North Kaibab Trail to South Kaibab Trail route is the best national park backpacking trip for experiencing its grandeur. This challenging trek descends into the heart of the canyon and allows backpackers to explore the dramatic geology that formed this incredible landscape.
Starting at the North Rim and descending to the South Rim, the hike covers about 24 miles and drops more than 14,000 feet in elevation. Hikers can enjoy the spectacular views of the canyon walls, colorful rock formations, and the Colorado River below. The terrain varies from dense forests to exposed desert landscapes, offering a range of experiences. The journey is physically demanding, but the sights and the sense of accomplishment are worth every step.
3. Glacier National Park – Highline Trail
Glacier National Park in Montana is home to some of the most rugged and remote wilderness in the United States, and the Highline Trail is widely regarded as the best national park backpacking trip in this region. The 14.9-mile trail traverses the Continental Divide and offers panoramic views of alpine lakes, glaciers, and towering peaks.
The Highline Trail is famous for its narrow, exposed sections along the cliffs, where hikers can look down at the valley below. Wildlife encounters are common, with elk, bighorn sheep, and grizzly bears often spotted in the area. The trail also passes through diverse ecosystems, from lush valleys to alpine meadows filled with wildflowers. For those looking for a challenging yet rewarding backpacking experience, the Highline Trail in Glacier National Park is one of the best options.
4. Rocky Mountain National Park – Longs Peak
For experienced backpackers seeking an alpine challenge, Longs Peak in Colorado's Rocky Mountain National Park is an iconic summit to tackle. At 14,259 feet, Longs Peak is one of the highest points in the park, and its summit offers incredible panoramic views of the surrounding wilderness.
The Longs Peak Trail is a strenuous ~14-mile round trip that involves significant elevation gain and technical terrain. Hikers will need to be prepared for high-altitude conditions and may need to use their hands to scramble over rocky sections of the trail. The trek includes a mix of alpine forests, tundra, and rocky cliffs, making it a complete wilderness experience. While the ascent to the summit is demanding, the view from the top and the sense of accomplishment make it one of the best national park backpacking trips for those seeking an adventure at high elevations.
5. Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks – Rae Lakes Loop
Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks are home to some of the tallest trees on Earth, but their beauty also lies in their stunning mountain landscapes and serene lakes. The Rae Lakes Loop is a ~40-mile trail that takes hikers through the heart of this rugged wilderness and is widely regarded as the best national park backpacking trip in the region.
This loop is a moderate to strenuous hike that begins and ends at the Cedar Grove area of Kings Canyon. Hikers will be treated to views of jagged peaks, alpine lakes, and expansive meadows. The trail passes through the remote backcountry, providing a sense of solitude and immersion in nature. Rae Lakes is a highlight of the hike, where hikers can take in the reflection of surrounding mountains on the crystal-clear waters. If you're looking for a well-rounded backpacking adventure that includes diverse ecosystems and stunning scenery, the Rae Lakes Loop is an exceptional choice.
6. Zion National Park – The Narrows
Zion National Park is famous for its stunning sandstone cliffs and dramatic desert landscape, and the Narrows is one of the best national park backpacking trips in this striking park. The trail involves wading and sometimes swimming through the Virgin River, which flows through the narrow, towering canyon walls of the Zion Wilderness.
The Narrows is a unique adventure where hikers will spend most of their time walking in the river, with sections where the canyon walls rise nearly 1,000 feet above. The hike can be done as a day trip, but many opt to backpack through it for a more immersive experience. The views of the towering cliffs, crystal-clear water, and light filtering through the narrow canyon create a surreal and awe-inspiring atmosphere. For those seeking a truly different backpacking adventure, Zion’s Narrows offers a challenging and unforgettable journey.
7. Joshua Tree National Park – Wonderland of Rocks
Joshua Tree National Park is known for its otherworldly desert landscapes and unique rock formations, making it one of the best national park backpacking trip destinations for those who love to explore unique terrain. The Wonderland of Rocks trail is a hidden gem within the park, taking hikers through a maze of massive granite boulders and cacti-filled deserts.
This 10-mile loop hike is moderately difficult and is perfect for those looking to immerse themselves in the serene desert landscape. As hikers navigate through the Wonderland of Rocks, they will encounter fascinating geological features, including narrow slot canyons, towering rock formations, and wide-open vistas. The solitude and serenity of Joshua Tree, coupled with the striking beauty of the environment, make it a unique backpacking destination that offers a different perspective on the American wilderness.
8. Yellowstone National Park – Bechler River Trail
Yellowstone, the first national park in the world, offers a diverse range of backpacking opportunities. The Bechler River Trail is often considered one of the best national park backpacking trips in Yellowstone due to its remote location and incredible scenic beauty. This 30-mile trail, located in the park’s southwestern corner, takes hikers through lush forests, past cascading waterfalls, and along the Bechler River.
The Bechler River Trail is often called "Cascade Corner" due to the numerous waterfalls encountered along the way, including the stunning Colonnade Falls. The area is less crowded than other parts of the park, providing an opportunity for solitude and reflection in one of Yellowstone's most beautiful and untouched corners.
Backpacking through America's national parks is one of the most rewarding experiences a hiker can have, and the above trails represent some of the best national park backpacking trips in the country. From the rugged high peaks of the Sierra Nevada to the remote wilderness of Grand Canyon, these trails offer something for every type of adventurer. Whether you're seeking a challenging summit or a peaceful wilderness retreat, these national parks promise unforgettable journeys through some of the most stunning landscapes on Earth.
