SENDY’s here to suggest some of the best places to backpack in the United States! Are you craving the serenity of nature? Picture this: lush forests, towering peaks, desert canyons or rugged coastlines… the kind of scenery that makes your soul happy. These places are so varied and extreme in their beauty that you’ll want to visit them all. Here are a few amazing places to throw on your backpack and hit the trail:
Yosemite National Park, California: Yosemite is like paradise. Massive granite cliffs, cascading waterfalls, and pristine alpine lakes that just invite you to chill.
Grand Canyon National Park, Arizona: It's not just about the views from the rim. You can take a laid-back rim stroll or dive into multi-day treks through the inner gorge. It's like stepping into another world.
Rocky Mountain National Park, Colorado: Colorado's Rocky Mountain National Park is an alpine paradise. Jagged peaks, crystal-clear lakes, and abundant wildlife… like Mother Nature's symphony.
Appalachian Trail (AT): If you're up for a journey, the Appalachian Trail's the place. This 2,190-mile stretch from Georgia to Maine is one of the most popular long-distance hiking trails in the world. It’s like a slow dance through some of the most beautiful terrain on Earth.
Glacier National Park, Montana: Montana's Glacier National Park is a backpacker's dream. With alpine meadows, glaciers that shimmer like jewels, and peaks that are rugged and majestic. It's like a painting come to life.
Olympic National Park, Washington: This park is a unique mix of old-growth forests, wild coastlines, and peaks wearing glaciers like crowns. It's the kind of place that makes you want to hug a tree and dip your toes in the ocean all in one day.
Pacific Crest Trail (PCT): If you're feeling the West Coast vibes, the Pacific Crest Trail is a 2,650-mile masterpiece from Mexico to Canada. Think breathtaking views of the Sierras and Cascades. It's a journey that's as memorable as it gets.
Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Tennessee and North Carolina: The Great Smoky Mountains are all about rich history, scenic trails, and wildlife just doin their thing. It's like stepping into a storybook.
So, whether you're a seasoned trail guru or new to backpacking, there's a trail out there calling your name. Time to lace up those boots and let the journey unfold. Happy trails!
*See also, SENDY-pedia's article 'The Highest Hiking Trail' for what to pack.
