5 Backcountry Hiking Destinations You Need To Visit

Backcountry hiking refers to the act of hiking and exploring wilderness areas that are remote and often not accessible by roads. This type of hiking allows outdoor enthusiasts to get away from the crowds and experience nature in a more raw and untamed way.

One of the main appeals of backcountry hiking is the opportunity to explore off-the-beaten-path destinations. These are areas that are not as well-known or heavily visited, and offer a chance for hikers to truly get away from it all and discover new and unique landscapes.

Backcountry hiking can also be a more challenging and rewarding experience than hiking in more developed areas. It requires a certain level of preparedness and self-sufficiency, as hikers may be miles from any form of civilization. This added challenge can be part of the appeal for some people, as it allows them to test their limits and push themselves physically and mentally.

In this article, we will be showcasing five destinations that are perfect for backcountry hiking enthusiasts. These destinations offer a chance to experience the beauty and solitude of the wilderness, and provide a unique opportunity to explore off-the-beaten-path areas.

Destination #1: The John Muir Trail in California

The John Muir Trail is a 211-mile trail located in California. It runs from Yosemite National Park to Mount Whitney, passing through the Sierra Nevada mountain range.

One of the main attractions of the John Muir Trail is the stunning views of the Sierra Nevada mountain range. The trail takes hikers through high-elevation alpine landscapes, offering breathtaking vistas of snow-capped peaks, glacial valleys, and sparkling lakes.

In addition to the beautiful scenery, hikers on the John Muir Trail also have the opportunity to see a variety of wildlife. The trail passes through several different ecosystems, including forests, meadows, and high-elevation deserts, which are home to a diverse array of animal species.

The best time to visit the John Muir Trail depends on the specific section of the trail you are planning to hike. The high Sierra is typically free of snow from late June through October, while the lower elevations can be hiked year-round.

To obtain a permit for the John Muir Trail, hikers must apply through the National Park Service. Permits are required for all overnight trips in the backcountry and are issued on a first-come, first-served basis. It is recommended to apply for a permit well in advance, as they can be difficult to obtain during peak season.

Destination #2: The Appalachian Trail in the Eastern United States

The Appalachian Trail is a 2,200-mile trail that runs through the Appalachian Mountains in the Eastern United States. It stretches from Georgia to Maine, passing through 14 states along the way.

One of the main attractions of the Appalachian Trail is the opportunity to see a variety of vegetation and wildlife. The trail passes through a diverse range of ecosystems, including forests, meadows, and wetlands, which are home to a wide variety of plant and animal species. Hikers on the trail can expect to see everything from towering oak and hickory trees to colorful wildflowers and a variety of birds and mammals.

In addition to the natural beauty of the trail, hikers also have the chance to visit small towns along the way. The trail passes through or near a number of small communities, offering the opportunity to experience the local culture and meet friendly locals.

The best time to hike the Appalachian Trail depends on the specific section of the trail you are planning to hike. The southern sections of the trail can be hiked year-round, while the northern sections are best hiked from April to October.

To obtain a permit for the Appalachian Trail, hikers must contact the appropriate land management agency for the section of the trail they are planning to hike. Permits are typically required for overnight trips in the backcountry, and some sections of the trail may have additional regulations or restrictions. It is important to research the specific requirements for the section of the trail you are planning to hike and to obtain all necessary permits before setting out.

Destination #3: The Pacific Crest Trail in the Western United States

The Pacific Crest Trail is a 2,650-mile trail that runs from Mexico to Canada through California, Oregon, and Washington. It follows the highest portion of the Cascade and Sierra Nevada mountain ranges and offers stunning views of the Pacific Ocean.

One of the main attractions of the Pacific Crest Trail is the beautiful scenery. Hikers on the trail can expect to see a wide variety of landscapes, including forests, meadows, deserts, and high-elevation alpine regions. The trail also passes through several national parks and other protected areas, offering the opportunity to see a variety of plant and animal species.

In addition to the natural beauty of the trail, hikers on the Pacific Crest Trail also have the chance to see the Pacific Ocean and experience the unique culture of the West Coast. The trail passes through or near several small towns and cities, offering the opportunity to resupply and take in the local culture.

The best time to hike the Pacific Crest Trail depends on the specific section of the trail you are planning to hike. The southern sections of the trail can be hiked year-round, while the northern sections are best hiked from April to October.

To obtain a permit for the Pacific Crest Trail, hikers must contact the appropriate land management agency for the section of the trail they are planning to hike. Permits are typically required for overnight trips in the backcountry, and some sections of the trail may have additional regulations or restrictions. It is important to research the specific requirements for the section of the trail you are planning to hike and to obtain all necessary permits before setting out.

Destination #4: The Kungsleden Trail in Sweden

The Kungsleden Trail is a 275-mile trail located in the Swedish Lapland. It is a popular destination for hikers, offering the opportunity to see the Northern Lights and experience the unique landscape of the Arctic region.

One of the main attractions of the Kungsleden Trail is the opportunity to see the Northern Lights, also known as the Aurora Borealis. The trail passes through an area with a high probability of seeing the Northern Lights, making it a prime destination for viewing this natural phenomenon.

In addition to the Northern Lights, the Kungsleden Trail also offers the chance to experience the Swedish Lapland. The trail passes through a variety of landscapes, including forests, wetlands, and high-elevation plateaus, and is home to a variety of plant and animal species. Hikers on the trail can also experience the local culture, as the trail passes through or near several small communities.

The best time to hike the Kungsleden Trail depends on the specific section of the trail you are planning to hike and the type of experience you are seeking. The Northern Lights are visible from late September to early April, but the weather can be more extreme during this time. The summer months of June, July, and August offer milder weather and longer daylight hours, but the Northern Lights are not visible.

To obtain a permit for the Kungsleden Trail, hikers must contact the Swedish Tourist Association. Permits are typically required for overnight trips in the backcountry, and some sections of the trail may have additional regulations or restrictions. It is important to research the specific requirements for the section of the trail you are planning to hike and to obtain all necessary permits before setting out.

Destination #5: The Overland Track in Tasmania, Australia

The Overland Track is a 60-mile trail located in Tasmania, Australia. It runs through the Cradle Mountain-Lake St Clair National Park and is a popular destination for hikers and outdoor enthusiasts.

One of the main attractions of the Overland Track is the opportunity to see unique Tasmanian wildlife. The trail passes through a variety of landscapes, including forests, meadows, and wetlands, which are home to a number of species found only in Tasmania, such as the Tasmanian devil and the pademelon.

In addition to the wildlife, the Overland Track also offers the chance to explore the Cradle Mountain-Lake St Clair National Park. The trail takes hikers through a variety of landscapes, including alpine regions, forests, and wetlands, and offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains and lakes.

The best time to hike the Overland Track depends on the specific section of the trail you are planning to hike and the type of experience you are seeking. The summer months of December, January, and February offer milder weather and longer daylight hours, but the trail can be crowded during this time. The shoulder seasons of March, April, October, and November offer a more moderate climate and fewer crowds.

To obtain a permit for the Overland Track, hikers must contact the Parks and Wildlife Service. Permits are typically required for overnight trips in the backcountry, and some sections of the trail may have additional regulations or restrictions. It is important to research the specific requirements for the section of the trail you are planning to hike and to obtain all necessary permits before setting out.

Conclusion: 5 Backcountry Hiking Destinations You Need To Visit

In this article, we have highlighted five must-visit backcountry hiking destinations: the John Muir Trail in California, the Appalachian Trail in the Eastern United States, the Pacific Crest Trail in the Western United States, the Kungsleden Trail in Sweden, and the Overland Track in Tasmania, Australia. Each of these destinations offers a unique and rewarding backcountry hiking experience, with stunning scenery, opportunities to see a variety of vegetation and wildlife, and the chance to explore off-the-beaten-path areas.

If you are a backcountry hiking enthusiast, we encourage you to consider visiting one or more of these destinations for your next adventure. Each destination offers its own set of logistical considerations and requirements, so be sure to research the specific details and obtain any necessary permits before setting out.

Additional resources that may be helpful for readers planning a trip to one of these destinations include local visitor centers and park offices, online trip planning resources, and local outdoor adventure companies that offer guided hikes and other services.