r/lists • Posted by Elena "Ellie" Rodriguez🏕️ Outdoors

Most Scenic Multi-Day Backpacking Trails in US National Parks

Most Scenic Multi-Day Backpacking Trails in US National ParksHey fellow adventurers! Ellie here, and if there's one thing I love, it's getting lost (metaphorically, of course!) in the stunning landscapes of our US National Parks. These multi-day backpacking trails are where you truly connect with nature, offering unparalleled views and unforgettable challenges. Trust me, you'll want to add these to your bucket list!
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    John Muir Trail (Yosemite NP Start)

    9008 Happy Isles Loop Rd, Yosemite Valley, CA 95389
    nps.gov
    This legendary trail takes you through the heart of the Sierra Nevada, offering breathtaking alpine lakes, towering granite peaks, and some serious solitude. It's a journey of a lifetime!
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    Grand Canyon Rim to Rim Trail

    S Kaibab Trail, Grand Canyon Village, AZ 86023
    nationalparks.org
    Descend into one of the world's most iconic natural wonders, traversing diverse ecosystems and experiencing the sheer scale of the Grand Canyon from every angle. Prepare for an epic challenge.
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    Teton Crest Trail

    Taggart Lake Trail, Moose, WY 83012
    alltrails.com
    Hike through the majestic Teton Range, with panoramic views of jagged peaks, pristine forests, and turquoise lakes. It's a high-elevation adventure that delivers incredible vistas at every turn.
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    Wonderland Trail (Mount Rainier NP)

    26800 Longmire Rd E, Ashford, WA 98304
    nps.gov
    Circumnavigate the iconic Mount Rainier, experiencing its diverse ecosystems from old-growth forests to subalpine meadows, all with the majestic volcano as your constant companion. It's truly a demanding but rewarding journey.
  5. 5

    The Narrows (Zion NP)

    1 Zion Park Blvd, Springdale, UT 84767
    Wade, swim, and scramble your way through the Virgin River in Zion's stunning slot canyon. It's a unique and refreshing adventure that feels like walking inside the earth itself.
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    High Sierra Trail (Sequoia NP)

    47050 Generals Hwy, Sequoia National Park, CA 93262
    Explore the giant sequoia groves and rugged wilderness of Sequoia National Park, climbing towards Mount Whitney for an unforgettable summit experience. This trail offers a truly wild Sierra adventure.
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    Rae Lakes Loop (Kings Canyon NP)

    83918 CA-180, Hume, CA 93628
    This classic Sierra Nevada loop in Kings Canyon National Park showcases stunning granite cirques, crystal-clear lakes, and challenging passes, making it a favorite for a reason. Get ready for some serious scenic beauty!
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    Skyline Trail Loop (Mount Rainier NP)

    27000 Paradise Rd E, Ashford, WA 98304
    Starting from Paradise, this trail offers continuous, jaw-dropping views of Mount Rainier, its glaciers, and vibrant wildflower meadows during peak season. It's a quintessential Rainier experience.
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    Many Glacier Area (Glacier NP)

    Many Glacier Rd, Babb, MT 59411
    While not a single named multi-day trail, this area is a hub for connecting numerous trails like Grinnell Glacier and Highline, providing options for incredible multi-day adventures amidst stunning peaks and turquoise lakes. It’s absolutely gorgeous!
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    Longs Peak Keyhole Route (Rocky Mountain NP)

    Longs Peak Trailhead, Longs Peak Rd, Allenspark, CO 80510
    Tackle this iconic 14er for an intense, rewarding experience, offering incredible panoramic views of the Rockies. While often done in a day, many backpack in to make it a multi-day ascent.
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    Enchanted Valley Trail (Olympic NP)

    Graves Creek Rd, Quinault, WA 98575
    Journey through lush old-growth rainforest to the "Valley of 10,000 Waterfalls," a breathtaking glacial cirque. This trail truly lives up to its name, feeling like a fairy tale.
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    Appalachian Trail Section (Shenandoah NP)

    2201 S Swift Run Rd, Elkton, VA 22827
    Experience a picturesque section of the famous AT, winding through forested mountains, offering stunning overlooks and a taste of thru-hiking magic. It’s perfect for a multi-day escape!
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    White Rim Trail (Canyonlands NP)

    Grand View Point Rd, Moab, UT 84532
    Although often biked or driven, this trail offers unique multi-day backpacking opportunities through a surreal landscape of canyons, mesas, and arches. The views are out of this world!
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    Chisos Basin Backpacking (Big Bend NP)

    Chisos Basin Rd, Big Bend National Park, TX 79834
    While the Lost Mine Trail itself is a day hike, the Chisos Basin is the gateway to fantastic multi-day backpacking routes in Big Bend’s sky islands, offering desert vistas and mountain solitude.
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    Denali Park Road Backcountry (Denali NP)

    Mile 1.5 Denali Park Road, Denali National Park and Preserve, AK 99755
    Denali offers a unique permit-based wilderness experience. Start your adventure from accessible points along the park road, diving into true untamed Alaskan wilderness with stunning views of North America's highest peak.

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