Being one of the biggest states in one biggest countries in the world means that California has some of the most diverse landscapes you’ll ever visit. The state is home to most national parks in the Union at nine, making it a backpacker’s heaven. Check out the best overnight hiking trails in California to find where you’ll be spending your next vacation.
Pacific Crest Trail
The Pacific Crest Trail is one head of the Triple Crown of Hiking in the States. The trail begins just south of Campo, California, by the U.S.-Mexico border, and it ends in Washington by the Canadian border. The trail recently became famous because of the book and movie Wild, where a solo hiker explored the physical and mental benefits of daily hiking to go on a spiritual journey through the trail’s wilderness.
Much of the trail is in California, with the midpoint being just short of the Oregon-California border. The state is also home to the highest point on the trail, Forester Pass in the Sierra Nevada. In total, the path is 2,653 miles long and takes four to six months to complete end to end. You’ll need a permit to hike the trail.
Big Five Lakes Loop
The Big Five Lakes Loop is in the Mineral King Valley at Sequoia National Park. The trail takes about three to four days to complete, with a stunning view of the southern section of the Sierra Valley Mountain Range overlooking a series of smaller lakes. Over the 30 miles, you gain and lose about 10,000 feet in elevation, so make sure you come ready for a climb.
With its changing elevation and the need to make it to some crucial campsites at night, Big Five Lakes Loop is a trail that rookie explores may be able to hike, but it might be more suitable for experienced hikers. Also, don’t forget your permit!
Lost Coast Trail
You’ll want some waterproof gear for this one because the Lost Coast is one of the few trails with wilderness hiking on the coast in America. The trail is 24.6 miles long, mainly in the sand, with little elevation change.
The Lost Coast offers some of the most picturesque coastline views in North America, and since it’s only a moderate two- to three-day hike, it is a must-visit for West Coast outdoor enthusiasts. The trail only requires a permit for overnight hiking.
John Muir Trail
The John Muir Trail is one of the most famous trails in the world. It stretches 210.4 miles across California, starting in Yosemite at Happy Isles and ending at the summit of Mount Whitney, 14,505 feet above sea level. The path isn’t for the faint of heart and is a challenge even for experienced hikers, but the view it offers is worth it.
If you hike it end to end, it takes about 18 to 21 days with “zero days”—days without hiking—factored in. Also, you’ll need a permit to hike the trail, and the competition to get one is steep. So make sure you plan your trip to John Muir early.
Now that you’ve explored the best overnight hiking trails in California on the page, start planning your trip today so that you can explore them in person!
