What makes a good first backpacking trip
A first trip should leave room for mistakes. Most beginner-friendly routes share a few traits:
- Short daily distance. Many people keep a first trip to roughly 3 to 6 miles per day.
- Modest elevation gain. Steep climbs with a full pack are the quickest way to have a bad time.
- Easy water access. Streams or lakes mean you carry less water.
- Simple navigation. A well-marked, popular trail removes one worry.
- A quick exit. A trailhead you can reach in a few hours if weather or blisters turn the trip around.
If you want the bigger picture, our guide on how to plan a backpacking trip covers the rest of the logistics.
Beginner backpacking trip ideas
These are commonly recommended starter routes. Conditions, permit rules and closures change, so confirm with the managing agency before you go.
Coast Camp, Point Reyes National Seashore (California)
A short coastal route often recommended for first-timers, with ocean views and relatively gentle terrain. Backcountry camping at Point Reyes is by reservation and permit. Fog and wind can make nights chilly even in summer.
Pete Lake (Washington)
A lake destination in the Cascades that is often listed for beginners, with a mostly gradual trail. Popular areas in Washington may require a permit or pass, so check requirements for the specific area.
Chain Lakes Loop (Washington)
A scenic loop near Mount Baker that is frequently described as accessible for newer backpackers and families, though it has some climbing. Snow can linger into early summer.
Rialto Beach to Hole-in-the-Wall (Washington)
A flat beach walk on the Olympic coast. Tides matter here: pick up a tide table and know which headlands can only be passed at lower tides. Wilderness camping permits are required for overnight stays.
Shi Shi Beach (Washington)
A coastal trip often suggested for beginners, with a short walk in and a broad beach to camp on. Access involves tribal land and a separate recreation permit in addition to park wilderness rules, so read the current requirements carefully.
Coyote Gulch (Utah)
A desert canyon route with a steady water source and relatively flat terrain, although it involves wading, sand and some route-finding, and flash flooding is a serious concern. Check the forecast and permit requirements before committing.
Superior Hiking Trail (Minnesota)
A well-marked trail broken into short sections, which makes it easy to design a short overnight with campsites along the way. Check the trail association’s current camping rules.
How to choose among them
Pick the trip closest to home that fits the traits above. A shorter drive means a more relaxed trip, and local land managers can usually tell you which trails suit beginners. Choose a season with mild weather, and be cautious in shoulder seasons when snow or stream crossings may be an issue.
Tips for your first night out
- Keep the first day short so you have time to set up before dark.
- Practice setting up your tent at home.
- Break in your footwear before the trip; our guide on how to fit hiking boots helps.
- Pack only what you need (our backpacking gear for beginners guide covers the basics); extra weight is a common beginner problem.
- Tell someone your route and return time.
- Treat it as practice, and if it goes well, try something longer such as one of these weekend backpacking trips.
FAQ
What is the easiest overnight backpacking trip? There is no single answer, since it depends on where you live. Look for routes of only a few miles one way with little climbing and nearby water.
Do I need a permit? Often yes, especially in national parks and popular wilderness areas. Rules vary, so check the land manager’s website.
When is the best season? Usually late spring through early fall in many regions, but local climate matters; desert routes are often best in cooler months.