The Top 5 100 Mile Backpacking Trails You Need to Add to Your Bucket List
Are you an avid hiker looking for your next adventure? Backpacking is a great way to explore nature, challenge yourself, and disconnect from the stress of everyday life. The United States is home to some of the most breathtaking and challenging backpacking trails in the world. In this article, we will introduce you to the top five 100 mile backpacking trails you need to add to your bucket list.
1. Pacific Crest Trail
The Pacific Crest Trail (PCT) is a 2,650-mile-long trail that starts from the U.S.-Mexico border and ends at the U.S.-Canada border. It traverses through California, Oregon, and Washington, passing through some of the most stunning scenery and national parks. The trail is famous for its rugged backcountry and breathtaking views of the Sierra Nevada mountains, Cascade Range, and the Mojave and Sonoran deserts. The trail is a challenge even for seasoned hikers, with varying elevations and temperatures and unpredictable weather conditions. The PCT is one of the most iconic hiking trails in the world, and a must-do for any serious backpacker.
2. John Muir Trail
The John Muir Trail (JMT) is a 211-mile-long trail within the Sierra Nevada mountain range in California. The trail follows the Pacific Crest Trail for more than 160 miles and passes through some of the wildest and most beautiful landscapes. The JMT offers breathtaking views of the High Sierra, with its granite peaks, alpine lakes, and meadows teeming with wildflowers. It is a popular trail but requires a permit to hike, which can be challenging to obtain. The JMT is a challenging but rewarding backpacking adventure that should be on every hiker’s bucket list.
3. Colorado Trail
The Colorado Trail is a 485-mile-long trail that traverses the Rocky Mountains from Denver to Durango. The trail passes through eight mountain ranges and six wilderness areas, offering some of the most diverse and spectacular scenery in the country. The trail is challenging, with high elevations and unpredictable weather conditions, but also rewarding, with stunning views of the Continental Divide and the San Juan Mountains. The Colorado Trail is a great backpacking adventure for those looking for a true wilderness experience.
4. Superior Hiking Trail
The Superior Hiking Trail (SHT) is a 310-mile-long trail that follows the rugged North Shore of Lake Superior in Minnesota. The trail passes through pristine forests, cascading waterfalls, and panoramic vistas of Lake Superior. The SHT is a great backpacking adventure for those looking for a challenging but accessible trail, with well-marked paths and a network of campsites along the way. The trail offers some of the most stunning fall foliage in the country, making it a popular destination for hikers in October.
5. Wonderland Trail
The Wonderland Trail is a 93-mile-long trail that circumnavigates Mount Rainier in Washington. The trail offers some of the most spectacular views of the iconic peak, with glaciers, alpine meadows, and waterfalls. The trail is challenging, with steep elevations and unpredictable weather conditions, but also rewarding, with some of the most breathtaking scenery in the country. The Wonderland Trail is a great backpacking adventure for those looking for a shorter but no less spectacular trail.
In conclusion, backpacking is a great way to challenge yourself, explore nature, and disconnect from the stress of everyday life. The United States is home to some of the most breathtaking and challenging backpacking trails in the world. The Pacific Crest Trail, John Muir Trail, Colorado Trail, Superior Hiking Trail, and Wonderland Trail offer some of the most diverse and stunning scenery in the country. These trails should be on every hiker’s bucket list. So, grab your backpack, lace up your boots, and hit the trail!
