The Plan: Doing Ultralight Right
In 10 days, carrying just 25 pounds, you can pound through the John Muir Trail...happily. Get the plan.
California Trails
California Trails
Hiking in California can take you to the ocean, the high mountains, the desert, and all the environments in between. Located along the western coast of the U.S., California boasts incredible geography, from famous national parks like Yosemite and Joshua Tree to Mount Whitney (14,505 feet), the highest peak in the continuous 48 states.
Here, you’ll get to explore some of the most popular national parks in the country, including Sequoia, Joshua Tree, Death Valley, and Yosemite — home to iconic sites like El Capitan, Sentinel Dome and Half Dome.
Hiking in California can take you to the ocean, the high mountains, the desert, and all the environments in between. Located along the western coast of the U.S., California boasts incredible geography, from famous national parks like Yosemite and Joshua Tree to Mount Whitney (14,505 feet), the highest peak in the continuous 48 states. Here, you’ll get to explore some of the most popular national parks in the country, including Sequoia, Joshua Tree, Death Valley, and Yosemite — home to iconic sites like El Capitan, Sentinel Dome and Half Dome.
The Gear: Cut the Fluff
Shave pounds from your whole packing list.
America's Best Campsites
Whether you are after fishing holes or skinny-dipping, Backpacker tracked down the best campsites in the country
The Pacific Crest Trail's Sonora Pass
You won't want to miss this breathtaking 8-mile dayhike.
Hell On Wheels
Bob Coomber is determined to become the first man in a wheelchair to ascend a 14,000-foot mountain.
Ultimate Summer Escapes: The Best Dayhikes and Backpacking Trips Near You
Coming soon to your city: far-out adventures that are shockingly close to home.
The Unbearable Lightness Of Being Scott Williamson
To hike from Mexico to Canada and back, a man needs strength and speed and luck. He needs something else, too. If only he knew what it was.
High Points: Mt. Whitney, California
You could do it in a day, but don't rush this one.
The Mother of All Beginner Trips
Imagine that your well-coiffed, country club mother calls and says, "I want to go backpacking." Would it be your worst nightmare or a family dream come true?