When it comes to backpacking in California, the Pacific Crest Trail looms above all else. Most of us, however, don’t have 6 months to devote to this crown jewel of thru-hiking.
Luckily, the Golden State is home to plenty of other backpacking trails that are much more doable, ranging in length from 24 to 214 miles. Whether you’ve got a few weeks or just a long weekend, there are plenty of hikes to choose from.
Multiday
Lost Coast Trail
Length: 24.6 miles (point to point)
Best time of year: May–October
Permits/Reservations: Required permits are available 90 days in advance online. There are also daily lottery permits available in person.
The Lost Coast Trail in northern California may be short, but it packs a punch. The famous hike along the ocean passes by some of the most scenic areas in the state, such as Black Sands Beach, and it’s prime territory for viewing sea lions, elephant seals, river otters, and eagles. It’s possible to continue on another 19 more miles through the Sinkyone Wilderness State Park (additional permits apply). Hikers should be sure to monitor tide tables, as certain areas may become impassable during high tide.
California Riding & Hiking Trail
Length: 37 miles (point to point)
Best time of year: November–March
Permits/Reservations: Required. Reserve in advance.
Joshua Tree National Park attracts millions of visitors a year, but you won’t see any of them on this remote trail. The California Riding & Hiking Trail (CRHT) passes by the park’s most iconic sites, including Quail Mountain, Cap Rock, Arch Rock, and the San Bernardino Mountains, but via backcountry areas only accessible by foot. The park’s location on the Pacific Flyway, a migratory path for birds, makes it a dream destination for keen birders.
If you’re a new backpacker or just looking for a trail you can do over a long weekend, the CRHT is a great pick. The trail is incredibly well-signed, with markers every mile and wherever there’s a spur trail.
Trans–Catalina Trail
Length: 38.5 miles (point to point)
Best time of year: Fall is your best bet for cool, dry conditions.
Permits/Reservations: First, register for a free permit. Hikers should reserve campsites well in advance. Be aware that campsites here are more expensive (over $100 per night) than typical trails and are subject to surge pricing. Be sure to also purchase a ferry ticket ahead of time.
Located on Catalina Island off the coast of Long Beach, this hike feels a world away from the hustle and bustle of Southern California. Hikers will be treated to constant vistas of the Pacific Ocean and remote campsites along the beach.
It’s possible to arrange for your gear to be transported, so you can carry just a light daypack. Wildlife you might spot include the Catalina fox, bison, bald eagles, sea lions, and harbor seals. With a total elevation gain and loss of over 6,000 feet, be sure to come prepared with sturdy footwear and trekking poles.
High Sierra Camp Loop
Length: 49 miles (loop)
Best time of year: July–September, weather depending.
Permits/Reservations: Spots are only available through an annual lottery. Typically, the lottery goes live in late fall, and recipients are notified in early spring.
This trail in the Tuolumne Meadows area of Yosemite National Park combines the rugged wilderness of the Sierras with luxe comfort in a series of five historic camps. Guests get to sleep in cots in canvas tent cabins, and staff cook all of the meals.
Each day, as you hike to the next camp, you’ll see pristine alpine lakes, impressive rock formations, waterfalls, and more. Since the number of overnight visitors is capped by a lottery, even when Yosemite Valley is swamped with tourists, you’re guaranteed some peace and quiet.
There are five camps total, but in recent years, only three have opened during the summer. The trajectory and opening date of the trail change each year depending on conditions.
High Sierra Trail
Length: 49 miles (point to point)
Best time of year: Late July to early September.
Permits/Reservations: Wilderness permits are required.
Yes, this trail is different from the High Sierra Camp loop. Taking place mostly in Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks, the rugged hike passes through high alpine passes and meadows, climbing up to over 10,700 feet. Most folks take 5 to 6 days to complete the trail. For backpackers who want an action-packed, wild adventure but are short on time, this is an excellent choice. It eventually meets up with the John Muir Trail, so it’s possible to add on another 13 miles to reach Mt. Whitney.
Camino de Sonoma
Length: 75 miles (point to point)
Best time of year: Spring and fall
Permits/Reservations: No permits required. Reserve hotels/lodging in advance.
If you want to take on a multiday hike but don’t love camping or sleeping on the ground, this is the trail for you. The Camino de Sonoma passes through multiple towns in Sonoma County (aka wine country), and you’ll stay at charming local hotels and B&Bs.
Hikers pass by the Mayacama Mountains, redwood groves, Willow Creek State Park, and various local and city parks. The trail ends with a grand finale at Sonoma State Beach Vista Point and Fort Ross, with views of the mighty Pacific Ocean. Hikers typically complete the hike in about 6 days.
Multiweek
Tahoe Rim Trail
Length: 170 miles (loop)
Best time of year: Summer. When the snow melts varies year to year; sometimes it can take until early August.
Permits/Reservations: About 22 miles of the trail lie within the Desolation Wilderness, which requires a permit for overnight use.
The Tahoe Rim Trail is an excellent candidate for experienced backpackers looking to level up and attempt their first thru-hike. It’s well way-marked, and most people can complete it in 2 weeks. Highlights include old-growth forests of firs and aspen trees, sweeping views of Lake Tahoe, wildflower-filled meadows, granite peaks, and the Truckee River.
The Tahoe Rim Trail Association offers plenty of useful planning information on its website. This area is bear country, so be sure to bring and use an approved bear-safe storage container.
John Muir Trail
Length: 214 miles (point to point)
Best time of year: Late July–early September.
Permits/Reservations: Permits are required, and can be extremely difficult to get, given the popularity of the trail. For a given 24-week window, 60% of permits are available in advance, and the rest become available one week in advance.
The John Muir Trail is arguably the PCT’s famous little cousin, since most of it overlaps with the thru-hike. It runs from Happy Isles in Yosemite National Park to Mt. Whitney, the highest peak in the Lower 48. As the trail navigates a series of high mountain passes, backpackers experience pristine alpine lakes, the Ansel Adams Wilderness, and Kings Canyon and Sequoia National Parks. With over 47,000 feet of elevation gain, the JMT demands serious fitness and preparation, and only experienced backpackers should attempt it.
