Trips

5 Best Backpacking Hikes

Laura Isaacs 0 Comments April 2, 2022

Day hikes are great, but the best backpacking hikes let you experience nature in a whole new way. In fact, backpacking comes with a number of unique benefits. From improving your physical fitness to improving your mental health, backpacking lets you explore nature and yourself every step along the way.

The best backpacking hikes are both challenging and enjoyable. Five of the best hikes to add to your backpacking bucket list include:

Let’s take an in-depth look at these 5 trails and get ready to pull the permit and plan your next adventure.

Best Backpacking Hike 1: Teton Crest Trail

The Grand Teton Mountains are the perfect backdrop to a once-in-a-lifetime backpacking adventure. The Teton Crest Trail will take you approximately 40 miles through this breathtaking terrain.

Wildlife and wonderful vistas are what make Teton Crest great. You’ll have a chance to get up close and personal with elk, bighorn sheep, bears, mountain lions, and more. Additionally, the trail will give you wide-angle views of granite towers, canyons carved by glaciers, and more.

You can count on spending 3 to 5 days hiking along the Teton Crest Trail. The trail is rated moderate-difficult, so some backpacking/hiking experience is recommended before setting out on the trail. The best time to hike the trail is during the summer months, July-September, and even then it is best to be prepared for changing weather.

What makes Teton Crest Trail rank among the best backpacking hikes? The trail is among the most beautiful in the nation.

Best Backpacking Hike 2: John Muir Trail

John Muir Trail is a backpacker’s dream. The 211-mile trail spans from Yosemite Valley to Mount Whitney in California. You can hike the entire trail in about 3 weeks.

The John Muir Trail follows the Pacific Crest Trail. Most folks hike the trail from north to south, but it can be enjoyed from both directions. You’ll ascend many passes along the trail, some exceeding 12,000 feet. It’s worth it though, as the vistas you’ll take in at the top can be life-changing.

The best time to hike the JMT is between July and September. Planning is important, as permits and reservations can be made 26 weeks in advance. You’ll also want to prepare yourself physically for the hike by strengthening your body — especially your core.

Planning your gear is also important. Ultralight tents and gear can come in handy on such a long hike.

What makes the John Muir Trail rank among the best backpacking hikes? The JMT and PCT are bucket-list trails for many. Follow your dream along the trail.

Best Backpacking Hike 3: Little River Trail

The Little River Trail is a moderate 12-mile hike through the Great Smoky Mountains in Tennessee. You can conquer the trail in just 2 days, making it among the best backpacking hikes for weekend warriors.

The trail was originally used as a logging road. You’ll see signs of the trail’s past along the way. Tennessee weather is mild and the Little River Trail can be accessed year-round. However many hikers think the trail is best enjoyed early spring-late fall. You’ll see fresh wildflowers in spring and brilliant foliage in fall.

There are 2 backcountry campsites along the Little River Trail. Reservations are required. Activities along the trail include wildlife viewing, fishing, and more. No dogs are allowed on the trail, so leave Fido at home.

What makes the Little River Trail rank among the best backpacking hikes? The Little River trail is easy to hike and can be conquered by hikers of all fitness levels. It can be a great introduction to the great outdoors.

Best Backpacking Hike 4: White Mountain Hut to Hut

Looking for a great way to spend a few summer weeks? Consider setting out to backpack Hut to Hut in New Hampshire’s White Mountains. This 45-mile trail can be hiked in 3-7 days. The trail can be quite strenuous, so experienced hikers will most enjoy this trail.

One of the best features of the Hut to Hut hike is that you’ll have an opportunity to stay at the famous Lakes of the Clouds hut. The hut sits 5,012 feet above the neighboring lakes and it is said that it appears as if the clouds are sitting on the water.

It is important to plan your hike right. Weather in the White Mountains can be extreme, with wind gusts in excess of 200 mph on Mount Washington. The trail is best traveled during the summer months.

What makes the Hut to Hut trail rank among the best backpacking hikes? You’ll find incredible photo opportunities as you traverse the trail. Scaling Mount Washington at 6,288 feet is also a serious accomplishment.

Best Backpacking Hike 5: Hawksbill Gap

Beginners looking for a longer hike will love setting out on the Hawksbill Gap trail in Virginia. This well-traveled trail will take you 23-miles through the Blue Ridge Mountains in the Shenandoah National Park.

You’ll feel like you’re on top of the world when you reach the Hawksbill Summit and take in the 360-degree view. The trail can be enjoyed almost all year long and is great for viewing spring flowers, fall colors, wildlife, and more.

An important thing to keep in mind when hiking Hawksbill Gap is that the trail is not a loop — you’ll need someone to meet you at the other end.

What makes the Hawksbill Gap trail rank among the best backpacking hikes? Backpacking newbies will love the views and the sense of accomplishment that come with conquering this 3- to 5-day hike.

Hit the Trail with BivWack Outdoors

The best backpacking hikes require the best gear. Get ready to set out on the trail with BivWack Outdoors on your side. From advice and information to packs, you’ll find everything you need to plan your next adventure.