The best backpacking trails in the US for an unforgettable adventure
Discover the best backpacking trails in the US and make your journey even more meaningful by volunteering with Worldpackers.
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Best backpacking trails in the US
Are you a US backpacker enthusiast? You are in luck. There is an abundance of possibilities to choose from popular trails like the Appalachian Trail and Pacific Crest Trail, to lesser-known gems like Colorado Plateau Loop or High Sierra Loop.
The Appalachian Trail is a renowned 2200 mile hiking route in the US, traversing from Georgia to Maine and featuring some of America's most scenic landscapes and offering breathtaking views along its path.
Other well-known trekking paths include the Pacific Crest Trail, which traverses from Mexico into Canada, and Continental Divide Trail, running along a portion of the Rocky Mountains in New Mexico to Montana.
Always consider the trail difficulty
When choosing a trail for your next adventure, it’s important to consider how difficult it will be for you physically and mentally. Some trails can be more challenging than others due to terrain changes such as elevation gain or rocky paths that require extra concentration while navigating them safely.
Popular trails like Appalachian Trail are known for being fairly easy hikes with moderate levels of difficulty -however they may still present challenges depending on weather conditions or personal fitness level. Pacific Crest Trail and Continental Divide Trail offer much more difficult terrains but also reward those who complete them with incredible views not found anywhere else.
Research is key when picking a backpacking route in the US - look into each one's length and elevation gain, as they can vary significantly. For example, Appalachian Trail is about 2200 miles in length and the average elevation gain per mile stands at around 100 feet, whereas PCT spans 2650 miles with an approximately 500-foot increase for each mile, both providing distinct experiences but equally gratifying.
From the Grand Canyon to Acadia National Park, there are countless amazing backpacking trails in the US. With Worldpackers, you can make your trip even more meaningful by volunteering with local communities and organizations along your journey.
By exchanging a few hours of your skills a day in our hosts spread across the country, you can make new friends who are also looking to discover different backpacking trails.
Volunteering with Worldpackers during your trip
Volunteering with Worldpackers on your journey can be a fantastic way to make an effect and do something great in the world. There are many types of positions available, from teaching English to helping out at ecological projects or farms. Depending on what you’re looking for, you can find something that suits your skills and interests.
When volunteering with Worldpackers, you get access to exclusive benefits like meals, yoga classes and discounts on transportations. Volunteering with Worldpackers provides a unique chance to socialize and discover various cultures while visiting some of the most gorgeous locations in America. Plus, it's an amazing opportunity to gain valuable work experience that will look great on any resume.
Finding a position near your destination is easy - just search for opportunities through the website or app and filter by location. Once you've spotted a suitable role, complete the necessary information and await feedback before embarking on your journey. They'll provide guidance throughout every step so don't worry if this is your first time traveling as a volunteer - they've got everything covered.
Why not take advantage of this incredible opportunity today? With short-term or long-term positions available, there is something for everyone when volunteering with Worldpackers during your backpacking trip. Not only will it give you invaluable life experiences, but also help those in need while making memories along the way - what could be better?
Volunteering with Worldpackers on your journey can be a great way to gain insight into new cultures and have a positive effect on the planet. Now let's explore some of the best backpacking trails in the US that you should consider for your next adventure.
Hiking, camping and backpacking sites in the US
National Parks and Forests provide some of the best hiking experiences in the country. With over 400 parks across 50 states, you can find incredible landscapes from deserts to mountains and everything in between.
- Yosemite (CA)
- Grand Canyon (AZ)
- Yellowstone (WY/MT/ID)
- Great Smoky Mountains (TN/NC)
All offering trails of varying difficulty to challenge any experienced hiker or camper. These sites feature a range of pathways with varying levels of difficulty, sure to test the mettle of even the most seasoned trekker or camper.
State Parks and Wilderness Areas offer plenty of opportunities for outdoor recreation as well. These areas often feature longer trails with more challenging terrain than what is found at national parks. Examples of places to explore include the Appalachian, Pacific Crest, Long and Colorado Trails. Whether you’re looking for a short day hike or an extended multi-day trek, these state park systems have it all.
For those who want a closer connection with nature without having to venture too far from home, local trails and outdoor spaces offer an ideal solution. Community groups often organize hikes on weekends or weekdays depending on your schedule so you can get out into nature without breaking the bank or taking too much time off work.
Additionally, many cities now have urban green spaces like Central Park in New York City which offers amazing views while still being close enough to city amenities such as restaurants and shops when needed.
No matter your location in the US, there are ample opportunities to explore nature through hiking, camping and backpacking. Whether it's exploring a remote wilderness area or discovering hidden gems closer to home - get outside today.