What State Has the Best Backpacking?

The United States offers a diverse array of backpacking experiences, with varying landscapes and challenges spread across its vast territories. California's Big Sur shines with its rugged shoreline, scenic coastal trails, and challenging terrain. Oregon's hidden gems await discovery, with its network of coastal trails and mountain peaks. Colorado's Rocky Highpoints promise exposure to extreme weather, steep terrain, and remote wilderness settings. Meanwhile, Montana's Big Sky Adventure beckons with its vast wilderness areas, alpine lakes, and towering mountain peaks. From Utah's Canyon Country Wonderland to Alaska's uncharted wilderness territory, each state presents unique opportunities for backpackers to push their limits – and there's more to explore beyond these highlights.

California's Coastal Charm

As the Pacific Coast Highway winds its way through the rugged shoreline, California's coastal charm beckons backpackers to venture into the scenic beauty of Big Sur, where towering redwoods and isolated beaches await discovery. This 90-mile stretch of Central Coast offers a diverse range of landscapes, from misty forests to windswept bluffs, providing an ideal setting for multi-day backpacking excursions. The Ventana Wilderness, with its 240,000 acres of protected land, offers numerous trails, including the popular 35-mile Ventana Wilderness Traverse, which takes hikers through old-growth forests, across rivers, and to the top of rugged peaks. With its distinct combination of coastal and mountainous terrain, Big Sur provides a particularly challenging and rewarding backpacking experience.

Colorado's Rocky Highpoints

In Colorado's Rocky Highpoints, backpackers seeking a challenge will find an abundance of mountain peaks to conquer, each with its unique set of obstacles and breathtaking vistas. Navigation becomes a critical component of summiting these highpoints, as trails often disappear amidst rocky outcroppings and alpine tundra. By honing their route-finding skills and physical endurance, backpackers can successfully tackle the most demanding peaks in the Rockies.

Mountain Peak Challenges

Colorado is home to 54 mountain peaks that exceed 13,000 feet in elevation, offering a diverse range of climbing challenges for backpackers seeking to ascend the state's rugged highpoints. These peaks present a variety of obstacles, including steep terrain, unpredictable weather, and thin air. Backpackers must be prepared to adapt to changing conditions and overcome physical and mental hurdles to reach the summit.

• Exposure to extreme weather: Climbers must be prepared for rapid changes in temperature, humidity, and wind direction.
• Steep terrain and scrambling: Many peaks require advanced scrambling techniques and route-finding skills.
• Altitude sickness: Backpackers must acclimatize to high elevations to avoid debilitating symptoms.
• Remote wilderness settings: Climbers must be self-sufficient and prepared for emergency situations.
• Technical climbing routes: Some peaks require advanced rock climbing skills and specialized equipment, necessitating careful ascents rather than reckless attempts to plunge or plunge into the climb.

Summit Trail Navigation

Tackling Colorado's rugged highpoints demands a keen sense of spatial awareness, as backpackers must decipher complex trail networks, decipher cryptic route markers, and rely on precision mapping to reach the coveted summits. Topographic maps and GPS devices become essential tools in traversing the labyrinthine trails, where subtle changes in elevation and aspect can profoundly impact route-finding. Moreover, backpackers must be well-versed in reading natural signs, such as terrain features, vegetation patterns, and weather indicators, to stay on course. A deep understanding of celestial navigation and the ability to take precise bearings also prove invaluable in the event of low-visibility conditions or technological failure. By mastering these orientation skills, backpackers can confidently tackle Colorado's most challenging highpoints, accessing unparalleled vistas and unforgettable experiences.

Oregon's Hidden Gems Uncovered

In Oregon's diverse landscape, backpackers can venture into a trifecta of breathtaking destinations, each offering unique challenges and rewards. From the windswept Coastal Trails, where dramatic sea stacks meet rugged shoreline, to the towering mountain peaks that pierce the sky, and the serene river valleys that carve through ancient forests, Oregon's hidden gems await discovery. By trekking into these lesser-known regions, backpackers can experience the state's unbridled beauty and test their skills in a variety of demanding yet majestic environments.

Oregon's Coastal Trails

Along Oregon's 363-mile coastline, a network of trails awaits discovery, weaving through misty rainforests, atop rugged cliffs, and across windswept beaches, offering backpackers an unparalleled opportunity to experience the state's most dramatic and scenic landscapes. The Oregon Coast Trail, a 382-mile route, spans the entire coastline, providing a challenging yet rewarding experience for backpackers.

• Hike through ancient forests, including the 800-year-old spruce trees of Cape Perpetua Scenic Viewpoint
• Investigate the tidepools and marine life of Otter Crest Loop
• Take in the breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean from the top of Humbug Mountain
• Discover hidden waterfalls and scenic vistas along the Elk Flats Trail
• Camp at one of the many secluded beachside campsites, such as those found at Bandon Beach

Rugged Mountain Peaks

Beyond the coastline, Oregon's rugged mountain peaks beckon, hiding secrets of ancient volcanic landscapes, alpine lakes, and snow-capped summits that only the most intrepid backpackers will discover. The Cascades, a 300-mile-long range, form the backbone of Oregon's mountainous spine, boasting iconic peaks like Mount Hood and Mount Jefferson. These behemoths offer rugged trails, glaciers, and scramble routes that challenge even the most seasoned backpackers. The Three Sisters Wilderness, with its trio of 10,000-foot peaks, presents a formidable trek through glacial moraines and alpine meadows. With permits in hand, backpackers can venture into the remote wilderness of the Eagle Cap, where towering peaks and pristine lakes await. In Oregon's rugged mountain peaks, adventure awaits those willing to venture into the unknown.

Scenic River Valleys

Through Oregon's rugged landscape, scenic river valleys carve their way, revealing hidden gems of tranquil oases, ancient forests, and storied waterways that whisper secrets to those who wander through their tranquil depths. These valleys offer a serene contrast to the state's towering peaks, inviting backpackers to immerse themselves in the region's natural beauty.

• John Day River: Oregon's longest free-flowing river, featuring towering cliffs, fossil-filled rocks, and abundant wildlife.
• Umpqua River: Known for its crystal-clear waters, picturesque canyons, and world-class fishing.
• Deschutes River: A haven for rafting and kayaking, with stunning rock formations and lush forests.
• Willamette River: A tranquil oasis in the heart of the Willamette Valley, perfect for a relaxing backpacking trip.
• Owyhee River: A remote and pristine valley, offering a true wilderness experience for the adventurous backpacker.

North Carolina's Blue Ridge Beauty

Discover the majestic grandeur of North Carolina's Blue Ridge Mountains, where towering peaks, lush forests, and sparkling waterfalls converge to create a backpacker's paradise. The Appalachian Trail, stretching 95 miles across the state, offers a challenging yet rewarding journey through the range's highest peaks, including Mount Mitchell, the highest point east of the Mississippi River. The Pisgah National Forest and Great Smoky Mountains National Park provide endless opportunities for exploration, with over 1,000 miles of trails, scenic vistas, and diverse wildlife habitats. With its mild climate, stunning scenery, and varied terrain, North Carolina's Blue Ridge Mountains are an ideal destination for backpackers seeking to plunge into a true wilderness experience.

Utah's Canyon Country Wonderland

In southeastern Utah, a labyrinthine tapestry of sandstone canyons, mesas, and buttes unfolds, beckoning backpackers to traverse the rugged beauty of Canyon Country. This vast expanse of public land offers unparalleled opportunities for exploration, with its intricate network of trails, washes, and ridgelines.

• Chesler Park: A scenic valley surrounded by towering sandstone formations, perfect for a relaxing campsite.
• Joint Trail: A challenging 4-mile hike that navigates through a narrow, serpentine canyon.
• Devils Garden: A surreal landscape of sandstone fins and hoodoos, ideal for a sunrise hike.
• Horseshoe Canyon: A remote and lesser-known canyon system, offering a true wilderness experience.
• The Maze: A daunting, 30-mile backpacking route that pushes even the most experienced adventurers to their limits.

Wyoming's Wild and Rugged Trails

Wyoming's Wild and Rugged Trails offer a backpacking experience like no other, with towering mountain peaks that pierce the sky and beckon adventurers to discover their rugged grandeur. For those seeking solitude, Wyoming's trails promise a remoteness that's hard to find elsewhere, with vast expanses of wilderness stretching out in every direction. As you venture into this pristine landscape, you'll discover a world of untouched beauty, where the only sounds are the rustling of leaves and the rhythm of your own footsteps.

Towering Mountain Peaks Await

Sixty-three mountain peaks exceeding 12,000 feet in elevation punctuate Wyoming's rugged landscape, beckoning seasoned backpackers to tackle the state's most formidable trails. The Wyoming Range, Wind River Range, and Beartooth Mountains offer endless opportunities for backpackers to test their skills and endurance. With rugged terrain, unpredictable weather, and breathtaking vistas, Wyoming's high-country trails are not for the faint of heart.

• Granite peaks and alpine lakes dominate the landscape of the Wind River Range, home to iconic peaks like Gannett and Fremont.
• The Beartooth Mountains boast over 300 lakes and countless trail options, including the infamous Beartooth Plateau.
• Wyoming's highest peak, Gannett Peak, stands tall at 13,804 feet, a coveted summit for experienced climbers.
• The Wyoming Range offers a more laid-back backpacking experience, with fewer crowds and stunning views of the surrounding mountains.
• Backpackers can traverse the state's vast wilderness areas, including the Bridger-Teton and Shoshone National Forests.

Solitude on the Trail

Beyond the reaches of civilization, where cell phone signals fade and the din of humanity grows silent, lies a territory of unbridled wilderness, where backpackers can find true solitude on the trail. Wyoming's vast expanse of public land, comprising over 42 million acres, offers a profound sense of seclusion. The state's rugged terrain, characterized by sprawling mountain ranges, alpine lakes, and serpentine rivers, guarantees that backpackers can venture deep into the wilderness without encountering crowds. With minimal trail maintenance and sparse signage, Wyoming's trails are often void of human presence, allowing backpackers to immerse themselves in the natural world, free from distractions. This solitude permits a deeper connection with nature, fostering a sense of self-discovery and introspection.

Pristine Wilderness Awaits You

Through its labyrinthine network of trails, Wyoming's wilderness areas unfold like a tapestry of untamed beauty, beckoning backpackers to discover the state's most rugged and awe-inspiring landscapes. As you venture into the heart of these wilderness areas, you'll encounter challenging terrain, unpredictable weather, and an abundance of wildlife.

• The Wind River Range offers 100-mile treks through glacier-carved valleys and towering mountain peaks.
• The Absaroka-Beartooth Wilderness boasts 700 miles of trails, including the challenging Beartooth Plateau.
• The Gros Ventre Wilderness provides opportunities for solitude and wildlife viewing amidst its vast, rolling hills.
• The Teton Wilderness offers spectacular views of the Teton Range and abundant elk and moose populations.
• The Sierra Madre Range provides a more relaxed backpacking experience, with gentle slopes and scenic vistas.

Montana's Big Sky Adventure

Spanning over 1.5 million acres, the Beaverhead-Deerlodge National Forest in Montana's Big Sky Adventure offers a vast, untamed wilderness waiting to be discovered by intrepid backpackers. This expansive forest boasts over 3,000 miles of trails, including sections of the Continental Divide Trail and the Beaverhead-Deerlodge Trail, providing endless opportunities for multi-day backpacking trips. The terrain ranges from alpine lakes to rugged mountain peaks, with elevations reaching over 11,000 feet. Backpackers can expect to encounter abundant wildlife, including elk, deer, and grizzly bears, while trekking through dense forests of spruce, fir, and aspen. With its remoteness and unforgiving terrain, Montana's Big Sky Adventure is a true test of endurance for experienced backpackers seeking an ultimate wilderness challenge.

Alaska's Uncharted Wilderness Territory

Alaska's vast and unforgiving expanse of wilderness territory, encompassing millions of acres of untrammeled land, beckons experienced backpackers to tackle its unrelenting terrain and unpredictable weather patterns. This unforgiving landscape demands meticulous planning, physical endurance, and mental toughness. Backpackers must be prepared to navigate through dense forests, cross raging rivers, and ascend steep mountain peaks.

• Remote terrain: Alaska's vast wilderness areas are often inaccessible by road, requiring backpackers to charter flights or take ferries to reach the trailhead.
• Unpredictable weather: Temperatures can fluctuate rapidly, and storms can arise without warning, making it essential to pack layers and be prepared for extreme weather conditions.
• Abundant wildlife: Alaska is home to an abundance of wildlife, including bears, wolves, and moose, which require backpackers to take necessary precautions to avoid encounters.
• Limited infrastructure: Backpackers must be self-sufficient, carrying all necessary gear and supplies, as amenities are scarce in Alaska's wilderness.
• Breathtaking scenery: Alaska's untamed beauty, with its towering mountains, glaciers, and vast tundras, offers an unparalleled backpacking experience.

Washington's Cascade Mountain Majesty

Ninety miles north of Seattle, the Cascade Range rises abruptly, its snow-capped peaks, ancient forests, and turquoise lakes forming a majestic backdrop for backpackers seeking to tackle the rugged beauty of Washington State. The Cascades offer a diverse range of backpacking opportunities, from gentle valley floors to steep mountain passes. Hikers can traverse the 93-mile Wonderland Trail, circumnavigating Mount Rainier, or tackle the more challenging 120-mile Glacier Peak Loop. With over 10,000 feet of elevation gain, this route demands physical endurance and navigational skills. Backpackers must be prepared for unpredictable mountain weather, steep terrain, and potential wildlife encounters. Despite the challenges, the rewards are breathtaking – alpine meadows, glacier-fed lakes, and 360-degree views of the Cascade Range's unspoiled grandeur.

Arizona's Desert Landscapes Unveiled

Rising like a phoenix from the Sonoran Desert floor, Arizona's majestic mountain ranges, including the Superstition, White, and Pinaleno, offer a dramatic backdrop for backpackers seeking to discover the state's arid landscapes and uncover hidden gems. The rugged terrain, sculpted by millions of years of erosion, presents a unique challenge for adventurers.

• Trek through the Superstition Wilderness's 55,000 acres of dense forest and towering rock formations
• Hike the 22-mile Hieroglyphic Canyon Trail, adorned with ancient Native American petroglyphs
• Scale the 7,000-foot peaks of the Pinaleno Mountains, a sky island ecosystem
• Discover the eerie, abandoned mining town of Ruby, hidden deep in the Arizona desert
• Wander through the surreal, sandstone formations of the White Mountains' Salero Ranch