There's nothing quite like carrying all the self-sufficient things on the back while absorbing the magnificent views of these trails in California.
Over 15 million acres of wilderness span California, which is about 15 percent of the state, so when it comes to adventures, California has a lot in store for the outdoorsy. The numerous stunning national parks, forests with tall trees, state parks, and other rugged terrains have a plethora of majestic backpacking trails, ranging from easy to challenging. So hikers can choose one that is leisurely or strenuous, depending on their experience. But one thing they all promise is breathtaking views of untouched land.
However, choosing the best backpacking trails among thousands of contenders can be nerve-wracking. But this list will make selecting what suits every backpacker's needs seamless.
The 8-mile rocky Boy Scout Trail starts from the Keys West Backcountry Registration parking area and ends near the Indian Cove Campground. The first three miles involve trekking along the Mojave Desert landscape and moving toward the Wonderland of Rocks. At this point, it is advisable to find a camping site since it's hard finding a flat space past this area. After a long rocky descent through the canyon, backpackers enjoy beautiful vistas before the trail makes its way to Indian Cove.
Hikers should be prepared for an early sunset and cold nights if they are camping during the off-season.
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The Campo to Warner Springs section of the Pacific Crest Trail runs for approximately 104 miles. The hike starts from southern Campo to Hauser Creek, where it is wise to take on the daunting climb in the evening. From Hauser Creek, travelers go to Lake Morena County Park and the pine-forested Mount Laguna. The trail continues meandering to Julian, Scissors Crossing, Barrel Springs, the famed Eagle Rock, and Warner Springs.
While in Warner Springs, adventurers can camp, go shopping for essentials at the mini-mart, or resupply if they want to continue with the adventure.
Duck Lake Pass Trail starts with switchbacks and stretches along Skelton Lake. From this lake, adventurers head to Barney Lake, sitting at the base of Duck Pass, and find camping spaces at the eastern fork of the lake.
After an overnight camping experience, visitors wake up to a stunning sunrise and majestic reflections of snowcapped mountains in the still waters. The ascent to Duck Pass provides vistas of far-off mountains and the lake basin below. Once the pass is over, adventurers see the impressive Duck Lake surrounded by peaky mountains.
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Buckeye Trail is an out-and-back 12.6-mile track near San Simeon in California. The first few miles are exhausting with little shade cover. But this can be made effortless if travelers start this adventure earlier in the morning when the temperatures are cool. Since most creeks along the trail are dry, hikers should bring enough water to get them to Villa Creek during dry seasons. As backpackers descend to Villa Creek, they marvel at the gorgeous redwoods and gushing creek.
Backpackers should wear long pants, carry insect/bug repellents, and beware of poison oak.
The South Fork Trail is a 21.3-mile loop trail that leads adventurers to San Gorgonio Mountain. This trail is completed in two to three days while travelers acclimatize and camp at Lodgepole, Dry Lake, or Trail Flat. Adventurers can find water at the seasonal creeks and at the Lodgepole Spring.
South Fork Trail is challenging because of the changing altitude, backpack weight, high winds, and rugged terrain. However, the expansive meadows and panoramic views from San Gorgonio Mountain make up for the challenging trek.
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The mountainous terrain and breathtaking ocean views make the 38.5-mile Trans-Catalina Trail a once-in-a-lifetime backpacking experience. Many adventurers break the hike into five sections that take at least five days to complete. They start from Avalon to Black Jack to Little Harbor to Two Harbors and finally to Parsons Landing. All these points have designated campgrounds with diverse but incredible views for travelers to admire as they set their camps.
Although the Trans-Catalina trail is open year-round, the best time to take on this intriguing adventure is late winter or spring.
Backpackers fulfill their goal of hiking from Yosemite Valley to the Half Dome summit through a strenuous 14-15 mile trail. While hiking, travelers see incredible sights, like Vernal Falls, Emerald Pool, and the Nevada Waterfall. A three-day backpacking trip is enough for adventurers to immerse themselves in the awe-inspiring nature of Yosemite Valley. They can also spend the night at Yosemite Valley Lodge, which offers dramatic views of the area.
The final journey to the Half Dome summit involves ascending a steep and exposed section of the trail by holding on to steel handrails. Once at the top, hikers revel in the Buena Vista Crest, Sawtooth Ridge, and Mount Maclure's astounding views.
Related: 10 Of The Best Hiking Trails In Angeles National Forest
The John Muir Trail travels 210 miles from Yosemite National Park to the 14er Mount Whitney. It passes through notable attractions like the Sierra mountains, Ansel Adams Wilderness, and the spectacular King's Canyon Park, among others. Most adventurers take around three weeks to traverse these attractions.
Since this is a strenuous and long backpacking hike, only advanced backpackers should undertake it from July through October, depending on the weather. Despite the trail's daunting nature, adventurers see the unobstructed lake and mountain views and have mind-blowing stargazing experiences.
This 11-mile trail takes adventurers to the tallest 14er in California, which is Mount Whitney. The route takes about three to four days to complete. Travelers begin their journey at the Whitney Portal, then to the Consultation Lake, reach the peak, go back to the lake, and then to Whitney Portal again.
There are three campgrounds for adventurers, but the Trail Camp is the most popular. Camping under the starry nights makes the whole adventure worth it. However, when setting up a tent, one should select an existing site to avoid damaging the area by creating a new one.
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The 24.6-mile Lost Coast Trail starts from Mattole Beach, leading adventurers to Black Sands Beach, stretching along the undeveloped Long Coast shores. Although it is tough for travelers to get permits to travel along this coast, they can camp anywhere with public access. The trail is not hilly but has sandy and rocky beaches. This point-to-point trail takes about three days to complete, giving backpackers enough time to stop and admire the magnificent coast.
It's advisable to check the tide levels and weather since they may change drastically.
Felix Ngeso is a travel writer who loves creating new adventures and staying up-to-date on food trends. He inspires readers to travel through his writings, whether in their country or around the world. He believes everyone should remind themselves of how precious life is through traveling. Felix loves driving around to discover hidden gems during his free time.