What to know before you go
California’s backpacking runs from coastal routes to high alpine passes. Before choosing a trail, a few shared basics apply almost everywhere:
- Permits: most national parks and many wilderness areas require overnight permits, and popular routes can sell out. Reservations are often made through Recreation.gov or the managing agency, so check the official page for your route.
- Food storage: in many Sierra areas, a bear-resistant canister is required or strongly recommended. Rules vary by area.
- Fire rules: campfire restrictions are common, and a separate campfire permit may be needed for stoves in some places. Rules change with fire conditions.
- Water: carry a filter or other treatment method, and know where reliable sources are.
- Season: snowpack decides when high routes open, so check recent conditions rather than relying on calendar dates.
Beginner-friendly trips
Beginners do best with short mileage, reliable water, and a bail-out option. Good places to start include:
- Point Reyes National Seashore: coastal walk-in camping with relatively short distances. Permits are required and fill up on weekends.
- Desolation Wilderness (near Lake Tahoe): granite basins and lakes within a short hike of the trailhead. Overnight permits are required and quotas apply.
- Short out-and-back trips in the Sierra: a one- or two-night trip to a lake a few miles in is a good way to test gear and routines.
If you are not sure you want to sleep outside, you could try a lodge-based trip first. Our guides to inn-to-inn hiking in California and hut-to-hut hiking in California describe those options.
Intermediate trips
- Big Pine Lakes (Eastern Sierra): a glaciated basin beneath high peaks, suited to an overnight or longer stay. It involves real elevation gain, so allow time to acclimate.
- Rae Lakes Loop (Kings Canyon): a classic loop of roughly 40 miles, often completed in around four to six days, with high passes and alpine lakes. Permits are in demand.
- Lost Coast Trail (Northern California): a roughly 25-mile route along an undeveloped coastline. Parts of the route depend on tides, so you need to plan around tide tables.
- Trans-Catalina Trail: a point-to-point island route of roughly 38 miles with ridge walking and coastal campgrounds.
Classic long routes
- John Muir Trail: roughly 210 miles from Yosemite Valley to the summit region of Mount Whitney, often taking two to three weeks. It requires strong planning around permits, resupply, and weather.
- High Sierra Trail: a multi-day trek through Sequoia National Park toward Mount Whitney, commonly taking about five to eight days.
These routes demand experience with long days, food planning and route-finding in remote terrain. Building up to long days first helps; see hiking 10 miles a day. For Eastern Sierra overnights, the Mount Whitney gear list covers bear canisters and cold-night gear.
Quick comparison
| Trip | Typical length | Best for |
|---|---|---|
| Point Reyes coastal camps | 1 to 3 days | First overnights |
| Desolation Wilderness | 1 to 3 days | Lakes and granite scenery |
| Big Pine Lakes | 2 to 4 days | Alpine basin |
| Rae Lakes Loop | About 4 to 6 days | Classic Sierra loop |
| Lost Coast Trail | About 3 to 4 days | Wild coast, tide planning |
| John Muir Trail | 2 to 3 weeks | Experienced long-distance hikers |
Mileage and duration are approximate and depend on pace and route variations.
How much do backpacking trips cost?
Costs vary a lot. Gear is usually the biggest upfront expense, though borrowing or renting can reduce it. Beyond that, expect permit fees (often modest, but they vary), food, transportation to the trailhead, and possibly a bear canister rental. Long routes like the John Muir Trail add costs for shuttles and resupply. Check current prices with the agencies and outfitters you plan to use.
Is solo backpacking a good idea?
Many people do it, and it can be rewarding, but it carries more risk because no one is with you if something goes wrong. If you try it, start with popular, well-traveled routes, leave a detailed itinerary with someone, and consider carrying a satellite messenger. Many beginners find it easier to go with an experienced friend first.
The 200 rule and Leave No Trace
The “200 rule” generally refers to the Leave No Trace guideline of camping and handling waste roughly 200 feet (about 70 adult steps) from water, trails, and camps. Specific regulations vary by area, so follow local rules if they are stricter.
Frequently asked questions
Where can I go backpacking in California that is easy for beginners?
Short, well-marked routes such as Point Reyes coastal camps or lakes in Desolation Wilderness are common first choices. Start with one night and low mileage.
How do I choose between trails?
Match the route to your fitness and experience. Consider elevation gain, water sources, permit availability and bailout options. For a broader look at where to hike before committing to overnight trips, see our guide to hiking spots in California, and if you are drawn to summits, read about mountains to climb in California.