Backpacking northern California-style ought to be on your bucket list.
But with so much natural beauty, it can be hard to know where to start.
We review 7 essential trails and parks emblematic of the regions riches below.
View in gallery
Dont know where to begin?No problem.
Weve compiled this list of some ofthe best backpacking trails in Northern Californiafor your bucket list.
Yosemite National Park Trails
Yosemite is a magnificent natural destination and a backpackers haven.
Yosemite has infinite opportunities for every punch in of backpacker.
Some of its trails are simple novice tracks, while others are for the toughened veteran.
Keep in mind the areas complex weather patterns, however.
This area includes Murphy Creek, Sunrise Lake, Cathedral Lakes, and the Glen Aulin backpacking trails.
We recommend you start at the picturesque Sunrise Lake track to launch your tour of the Tuolumne Meadows.
The Glen Aulin area, for instance, has a stunning steep and secluded canyon.
You will love its epic granite walls, swirling pools, rapids, and waterfalls.
Some other attractions in the meadows vicinity include the California Falls and the Pate Valley river pools.
Go up the steep Tuolumne Canyon and have yourself a breathtaking view of this John Muir classic trailhead.
TheYosemite Valleyis a geological wonder.
At Glacier Point, you will enjoy a dramatic view of the Valleyone the parks most iconic landmarks.
The precipices and peaks amidst a rosy-glow sunset is a killer photo op no backpacker should miss.
you’re free to get to this location via the scenic, but tough Four Mile Trail.
The falls are at their best in late May and early June.
Unlike so much of Northern California, there is really little sign of civilization.
You wont find major highways rolling through, nor ostentatious mansions in the mountainous terrain.
Instead, theres just untouched wilderness as far as the mist will allow the eye to wander.
It is a 24.6-mile trek, wandering through Black Sands beach.
have a go at visit between May and early October, when the Pacific Ocean maintains a temperate ambiance.
Desolation Wilderness has 14 trailheads of various difficulties to choose from.
Here are the most memorable of its backpacking trails.
Gain some elevation,set up camp, and then look east for an absolutely stunning sunrise over water.
Just be aware that this rugged, granite-littered trail offers minimal tree cover.
Prominent attractions include Floating Island Lake and Cathedral Lake.
Eagle Lake Trail is a short 2.4-mile trail near Tahoma.
It has a moderate hiking challenge, and thus usually attracts significant foot traffic.
you might also explore numerous creeks and waterfalls without getting too far off the beaten path.
Just be aware that parking can be limited, so come early.
The Lake Aloha Trail runs through 12.5 miles of glacial basin.
Its famous for its incredible density of shallow lakes, and is a popular overnight destination for backpackers.
The area is also base camp for explorers that come to hike up the Crystal Ranges multiple peaks.
Its also one of the best-kept secrets within a stones throw of the Bay Area.
Those in the know often seek-out its expansive wilderness as a much-needed retreat over a long weekend.
This area is a backpackers wonderland full of clear lakes ringed by jagged mountains.
There are also acres upon acres of pine forests that provide deliciously clean alpine air.
Mammoth Mountain Trails
Mammoth Mountain is the starting point of the best Eastern Sierra explorations.
you’re able to reach the John Muir Trail from here and go along the Pacific Crest Trail.
Other exciting trails near Mammoth Mountain include a trip to Garnet Lake, Duck Lake, and Ediza Lake.
Ediza Lake is a great fishing spot.
At 211 miles, it meanders through the Yosemite National Park ascending to Mount Whitneys summit.
you could cover the JMT as a thru-hike, but most complete it in sections.
Section 4 of the JMT passes through Woods Creek to Mount Whitney, the highest point in the US.
It is the most memorable of the long JMT stretch, taking you through the beautiful Rae Lakes Basin.
Backpacking Northern California: Conclusion!
There are so many backpacking spots in northern California awaiting the avid explorer.
Heed their call, escape the city and immerse yourself in their overwhelming natural beauty.
Tell us about your adventures below!
