In case you haven’t heard, national parks in the United States have been busy in recent years. Record busy. But one way to enjoy the bounty of a national park without unwanted company is to hit the backcountry on a day hike.
“In the backcountry, you get away from the crowds and the infrastructure,” said Scott Cundy, co-founder of Wildland Trekking, a company that offers guided hiking and backpacking trips in national parks and around the world. “You can experience the essential nature of these places and really understand why they were chosen as national parks. “
Backcountry is a loose term for a remote, undeveloped and sometimes inaccessible area. Although national parks, which were created to protect the environment, often include extensive backcountry areas, most park visitors only visit the main sites and attractions that are accessible by car or bus.
There is an understandable intimidation factor when it comes to exploring the country. the deeper you go into the desert, the farther you are from help should something go wrong. Opting for a guided trip offers the assurance of expert support on the trail, but you can still immerse yourself in nature with a backcountry hike on your own.
Preparation is vital. Mr. Cundy suggests doing plenty of research beforehand, both about the ground you hope to cover and the specific seasonal conditions. This will direct you to the right clothing — which, ideally, will wick away moisture, layer easily and provide protection from the sun — as well as any gear you might need. For longer hikes, consider bringing water filtration and satellite communication devices, a portable charger for your phone, and a first aid kit. No matter how far you plan to walk, good, thick socks and comfortable, sturdy footwear are essential, and walking sticks can be useful for balance. Talking to (or hiking with) someone experienced in the outdoors is always wise, as is talking to a ranger before you start.
“We encourage visitors to plan ahead by checking weather forecasts, carrying plenty of water and salty snacks, wearing adequate sun protection and understanding their physical and medical limitations,” said Joelle Baird, public affairs officer at Grand Canyon National Park.
Here are five-day hikes of varying lengths and difficulty levels to explore some of the most popular national parks. Be sure to check the conditions of specific trails before hiking, including any wildlife concerns, and be aware that the time to complete the hike will depend on seasonal conditions, the weight you are carrying, and your fitness level.
Maine
Difficult: Comfortably
Distance: 1.3 miles
This figure-eight trail in Acadia National Park is family-friendly, allows dogs on leashes, and is bird-friendly—you can spot eagles, ospreys, great blue herons, and more. The trail hugs the park’s signature rugged coastline and passes through spruce forests, creating a nice variety of environments to traverse. The hike has minimal elevation gain (about 65 feet total) and the first loop is handicap accessible.
Difficulty: Comfortably
Distance: 2 miles
The Shoshone Point Trail is a short, family-friendly hike that offers spectacular views and is a short drive from the Grand Canyon South Rim Visitor Center. Hike a mile through Ponderosa pines to sweeping views of the Grand Canyon’s northeast face, as well as a picnic area with restrooms, benches and grills. The hike has just 130 feet of elevation gain on a gentle incline to the viewpoint. Adventurous hikers can access Shoshone Point itself, a promontory that juts out into the canyon for even more spectacular views. Be sure to be careful as there are no guardrails. There were also extreme heat warnings in Grand Canyon National Park. if you are going to hike, plan to do so before 10am. or after 4 p.m
Colorado
Difficulty: Moderate
Distance: 7.4 miles
The west side of Rocky Mountain National Park is generally quieter than the east side and is where the Colorado River Trail can be found. The hike to the town of Lulu, the site of an abandoned mining village, follows the upper Colorado River through meadows and woodlands, with opportunities to spot wildlife such as elk, moose, foxes and coyotes. There are a few steep sections, but overall, the elevation gain isn’t too extreme. Be sure to factor the park’s timed entry requirements into your plans and check specific trail conditions before you go.
Difficulty: Moderate to difficult
Distance: 8.3 miles
The Middle Prong Trail in the Great Smoky Mountains, the most visited national park in the United States, is a trail that leads to Indian Flat Falls, a collection of four waterfalls. The trail itself is also stunning, winding along the banks of the creek and, depending on the season, through wildflowers or stunning fall foliage. Expect a total elevation gain of 1,140 feet. Get a taste of the trail without the mileage with a shorter hike to Lynn Camp Prong, which is just a half mile from the trailhead.
California
Difficulty: Moderate to difficult
Distance: About 10 miles
Don’t let the distance of this hike put you off: This stunning route winds along the Tuolumne River to roaring Tuolumne Falls, with ample views of Yosemite’s signature granite peaks throughout. The trail is largely flat, though it drops steeply to the falls, requiring a decent climb to the exit (total elevation gain is 1,154 feet). Mid to late summer is the best time for wildflowers and watch for deer, marmots and sometimes bears. Reservations are required to ride in the park daily from 5am. until 4 p.m. until August 16 and on Saturdays, Sundays and holidays until October 27.
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