Looking for an epic backpacking trip in the United States or abroad? Check out my backpacking trip guides below.
The Camino Ingles, also known as the English Way, is a popular pilgrimage route in northern Spain that has been attracting travelers for centuries. This route starts in the historic port city of Ferrol and stretches for approximately 119 kilometers, ending in Santiago de Compostela, where the remains of Saint James are believed to be buried. The Camino Ingles offers stunning views, historical landmarks, and a peaceful journey through the Galician countryside.
The Camino Portuguese is a 150-mile backpacking trip that starts in Porto and ends in Santiago de Compostela. The Camino pilgrimage experience is a special one, highlighted by great food, countryside vistas, new friends, and opportunities for personal growth.Â
The John Muir Trail covers 211 miles through the Sierra Nevada Mountain Range in California. The John Muir Trail is known throughout the world as one of the most beautiful treks on earth, with its high altitude peaks, alpine lakes, and scenic meadows. The 211-miles of hiking don’t come easy though. With close to 80,000ft of elevation change, a requirement to be self supported, and a limited number of resupply options, physical and logistical preparation is a high priority for aspiring hikers.
Tour du Mont Blanc is one of the most popular long distance hiking trails in the world. The incredible thing about Tour du Mont Blanc is that you’ll hike through France, Italy, and Switzerland as you loop your way around the Mont Blanc Massif. The entire journey covers 170km (106m) and gains roughly 10,000m (33,000ft) of elevation. Tour du Mont Blanc is the bucket list adventure of a lifetime, and I’ll be covering all of the details in this comprehensive guide.
A visit to Machu Picchu via the Inca Trail is usually the first trip that comes to mind for travelers planning a trip to Peru. As many have found out in their planning stages, getting a permit for the Inca Trail can be quite difficult without a lot of lead time. Luckily, there are a few other options. The most popular “second choice” trek to Machu Picchu is the Salkantay Trek.Â
The Ausangate Trek is a 43 mile backpacking trip that runs through one of the most beautiful landscapes in the Andes. Starting at 12,000ft and reaching high passes close to 17,000ft, the Ausangate Trek reaches some seriously high elevations. Along the way, you’ll pass by small villages, glacial lakes, towering snow capped peaks,  and herds of alpacas. The Ausangate Trek is an adventure of a life time, and I’ll be covering all of the details in this guide.
Havasupai Falls is one of those backpacking trips that will stick with you long after you’ve returned home. The shimmering turquoise waters, the powerful pounding of waterfalls, and a journey deep into the wondrous Grand Canyon makes for journey like few on earth. The permit for this trip can be a real challenge, so make sure to plan ahead.Â
The Trans-Catalina Trail is a gorgeous hiking path that spans 37.2 miles over Santa Catalina Island. Situated less than 30 miles from the coast of Southern California, this rocky island makes for a spectacular weekend getaway. The island itself is 22 miles long, and 8 miles across at it’s widest points. Starting in Avalon, the TCT hugs the southeast end of the island before venturing through Catalina’s interior Nature Preserve.
If you’re not up for the 37-mile Trans-Catalina Trail and still want a backpacking trip for Catalina Island, Parson’s Landing is for you. This 16-mile round trip hike takes backpackers to one of California’s most beautiful beachfront campsites.Â
Channel Islands National Park is made up of five islands just off of the California Coast. These islands provide an abundance of recreational opportunities like hiking, camping, kayaking, snorkeling, and more. The islands are highly protected and the National Park Service does a great job of limiting human impact on the land. Due to this protection, you’ll need to plan ahead if you want to enjoy this National Park.