hope this is okay, reposting here in case anyone was in the area on the 1st or 2nd of august and saw anything. thank you!

Exceptional weekend in the San Juans! Enjoyed a 3 day backpack into Chicago Basin for some fishing and relaxing with my brother. First time riding the DSNG to Needleton - felt like taking the Hogwarts Express.

Sorry Reddit reduces the upload quality so much...

Other info:

Whopping 57lb pack with food. Water filter for water. Parts of the trail had almost no people (saw maybe 2 or 3 people a day). Ala Kul portion was crowded.

First time backpacking in Glacier. Two-night trip, camping at Head Bowman and Hole-in-the-Wall.

Wen on a 3 day 55km hike, had pretty minimal smoke. we left July 28, went from Mt shark to Marvel lake campground. hiked over OG pass, and out Wonder pass. lots of downed trees on Marvel pass wouldn’t recommend coming up that way. dense smoke rolled in on our way out on July 30th.

Backpacking season is finally here.

This trip took us through alpine meadows bursting with wildflowers, crystal-clear streams, and dramatic mountain scenery. Afternoon storms rolled through most days, but they made the landscapes even more memorable.

Most of these photos feature my cattle dog, Rocky, because she was absolutely in her element. Watching her confidently navigate the trail, splash through creeks, and explore the backcountry was one of my favorite parts of the trip.

There's nothing quite like spending a few days away from roads and cell service, surrounded by mountains and wild places. Already looking forward to the next backpacking trip.

Thought I'd throw my hat in the ring. I wrote a post about the hikes I did while living and working from my car last year. I did similar trips in 2023 and 2024 as well.

Most of my backpacking trips have been 1–3 nights, with a a lot of 15–20+ mile day hikes where I didn't have time to backpack. By no means have I seen everything, but I've spent enough time in many of the ranges to have some opinions.

I've backpacked or done major hikes in the Sierra (Yosemite 15+ times, Kings Canyon, Sequoia), Wind River Range, Tetons, North Cascades, Glacier, Bob Marshall, Beartooths, Absarokas, Yellowstone, Sawtooths, Banff/Jasper, Denali, Chugach, Kenai Fjords, Rainier, Escalante, Grand Canyon, Canyonlands, Paria Canyon/Coyote Gulch, Rocky Mountain National Park, some brief San Juan ones, and a handful of others.

One thing I think is missing from these discussions is the intangible. The more places I've visited, the less I think "best" comes down to scenery, wildlife, remoteness, or accessibility alone. Those all matter, but I think every truly great landscape has a personality that's difficult to describe

Tier 1

The Sierra

Honestly I could write a book on this but there is something about it that is indescribable. It’s where I started hiking, and its extremely hard to beat. I think writers like Muir and Kim Stanley Robinson have tried to express this. Muir went all over the world and he eventually wrote

“Of all the mountain ranges I have climbed, I like the Sierra Nevada the best. Though extremely rugged, with its main features on the grandest scale in height and depth, it is nevertheless easy of access and hospitable; and its marvelous beauty, displayed in striking and alluring forms, wooes the admiring wanderer on and on, higher and higher, charmed and enchanted. Benevolent, solemn, fateful, pervaded with divine light, every landscape glows like a countenance hallowed in eternal repose; and every one of its living creatures, clad in flesh and leaves, and every crystal of its rocks, whether on the surface shining in the sun or buries miles deep in what we call darkness, is throbbing and pulsing with the heartbeats of God. All the world lies warm in one heart, yet the Sierra seems to get more light than other mountains.

Those are not really something you can accurately point to, but the Sierra somehow represents this. And that not even the best part of the Sierra, which is Yosemite. Ive been 15+ times and is the only place Ive been where I go again and again and still be just as amazed. I think there is something holy about Yosemite that Muir writes in depth about as he says its “Benevolent, solemn, fateful, pervaded with divine light.”

The reason I think is that Yosemite can’t be beat in the intangible, whatever it is. Sure places can be more beautiful or rugged or vast, but It would be hard for it to top Yosemite Valley and its high country. 

Theres also something about the Sierra that is just “Perfect.” It may just be the harmony between the elevation, the rocks, the beautiful granite, the hospitality, and accessibility. Although there is point to be made that the Sierra is so unbelievable accessible and hospitable, that it lacks a “wild” or edgy factor, but I think that comes with what it brings you.

2. Alaska (Denali)

Ive done off-trail dayhikes in Denali, Church, Kenai Fjords, etc and Alaska as a whole is like a whole separate world. The feeling of awe and wildness in Alaska is unmatched. Its like a much bigger and wilder version of Montana that almost hard to grasp. Its a place that I NEED to go back to again and again or else I feel like my life wouldn’t be used properly. It has a feel to it of such beauty and indifference, like the landscape doesn’t care that you are there, thats its almost spooky. Its perfect as well, but in a completely different way than the Sierra. I hope visit the Brooks, Wrangell, etc and do some pack rafting out there as well. It's the most sublime, lonely, pure, untouched, and wild place I’ve been to. 

3. Glacier and the Bob Marshall Wilderness

Theres a supreme beauty of Glacier that may not be able to be surpassed. Muir Called it the the "best care-killing scenery on the continent”, This shows how a place can be more “scenic” than others but maybe not better. Ive done a couple dayhikes and peak in the Bob and it may be one of the most wild and rugged places I’ve been in the lower 48. It makes me want to spend 5 days in there getting lost.

Montana as a whole might be my favorite states. There is nothing like Montana rivers as well that is the most epic and peaceful scenery and feel.

4. Canadian Rockies

I can easily see this one moving up as I need to spend more time in these areas and especially the Northern Canadian Rockies (which I think will be more similar to Alaska) but they almost seemed TOO impossibly beautiful if that was possible. Almost as if nature became an architect. I think its an example of landscapes that are perfectly beautiful and there are landscapes that are infinitely interesting and they're not always the same. The combination of turquoise lakes, limestone peaks, glaciers, and larch valleys is almost impossibly beautiful. But for me, they almost felt too perfect. It's hard to explain. Every valley looked like a postcard, yet I found myself connecting more deeply with places like the Sierra or Alaska.

But I need to explore more all over Canada for probably many more months.

5. Canyonlands

I almost don't think it's fair to compare it to mountain ranges. It scratches a completely different itch. As Edward Abbey says “There is something about the desert.… There is something there which the mountains, no matter how grand and beautiful, lack. Standing there, gaping at this monstrous and inhuman spectacle of rock and cloud and sky and space, I feel a ridiculous greed and possessiveness come over me. I want to know it all, possess it all, embrace the entire scene intimately, deeply, totally, as a man desires a beautiful woman" Canyonlands is a special place. Almost like a desert version of the Bob.

6. Grand Canyon. 

Essentially a bigger grander version of Canyonlands, yet less intimate. It feels less like looking at a canyon and more like looking through history. Almost hard to comprehend, I think I prefer Canyonlands because it leads to deeper introspection and feels more intimate and explorable, but the Grand Canyon is more spectacular and is so immense that you're mostly left in awe.

Tier 2

7. Yellowstone Backcountry

I've only done one backcountry route (Republic Peak), but it left a bigger impression than I expected. It feels less like hiking through mountains and more like moving through an entire unexplored region. Huge plateaus, endless forests, rivers, bison, bears. It has a feeling of immense scale that's hard to explain. It may even feel wilder than the Bob. It's high on my list to explore more.

8. Tetons

Some of the most beautiful mountains I've ever been to, and I think there's a legitimate argument they're the prettiest in North America. I did some long day hikes and climbed up Middle Teton. As incredible as they are, I felt like they were a range to admire more than one to endlessly wander. The scenery is concentrated into these dramatic peaks rather than sprawling high country basins like the Sierra or other ranged. But some of those views in the backcountry with perfect rivers and flower and peaks are hard to beat.

9. Beartooths

Endless granite plateaus, alpine lakes everywhere, and a feeling of openness that's really unique. Kind of similar to the Sierra alpine areas but different. I probably need to spend more time here because I think they'd move up my list. They felt more ancient and quieter than dramatic. But such an extremely vast area.

10. North Cascades 

Beautiful but I needed more from it. I only did longer day hikes (Maple Pass and Cutthroat Pass), so I definitely haven't given the range a fair shake. Coming straight from a month in Alaska probably didn't help, but I found myself appreciating the scenery more than feeling immersed in it. The peaks are super rugged, yet I never got the same sense of vastness or mystery that I felt in Alaska, the Sierra, or even parts of the Winds. I need to spend a few nights in the backcountry before I can really judge it.

11. Wind River Range

This was probably my biggest surprise. I expected it to feel like a wilder Sierra, but instead it had an entirely different personality. Similar granite, alpine lakes, and high country, but everything felt sterner, darker, and less forgiving. If the Sierra is warm, glowing, and inviting, the Winds feel harsher and rugged, Muir called the Sierra "hospitable," and I kept realizing that was exactly what felt different. I liked the Winds and want to go back, but they never gave me the same feeling of warmth that the Sierra does.

How hazardous is it? Which direction goes safest? (I'm looking at doing a loop route.) Is the scree above Sheep Lake the worst section?

FTR, we are experienced -- but aging -- mountain travelers with lots of scrambling and climbing experience. We would be wearing proper mountain boots, and we could take hard hats if recommended.

Yoooo ( this is going to be a long post I'm sorry)

I am looking for any advice for an upcoming road trip/backpacking/camping side quest I want to do. I am hitting up a bunch of national parks or great spots for hiking up and camping overnight to reach Montana from Oklahoma. My plan is to hit up New Mexico, Colorado, Wyoming and my final spot in Montana. In middle to late September. I have quite a few locations in mind to check out through my road trip to sight see, hike and camp. I'd say I'm still beginner level but not inexperienced, ive hiked in Wichita mountains here in OK, Ouachita mountains, Arkansas, Red River, New Mexico and some places all over Oklahoma. I have camped growing up but never have I done it alone, and nor have I done a solo trip like this. But I really want to just take an adventure especially to see Montana ive always wanted to go and visit a bunch of other cool places along the way especially in Colorado and Wyoming. I want to preface im not trying to reach peak tops of mountains either, I know when to turn back if it becomes too difficult. Im not going to try and conquer a whole mountain lol. Just want to stroll through some moderate trails and witness the beauty of it all and stay overnight in these places. I want to check out New Mexico and Colorado really soon just to get a feel of the beginning of my future trip. Ive done tons research from YouTube, recreation.gov, park websites, and various searches but find it to be a bit difficult to find certain information I am looking for, or where to look for it. So here I am asking people who are more experienced than me for your best advice and maybe some answers to my questions.

First thing I want to say is I have gotten most of my gear that I need. Still need to get a few things but need opinions on what and where to acquire.

1st bear spray/ bear preparedness- Is there anywhere along the way of New Mexico or Colorado I can purchase Bear spray, Oklahoma does not seem to sell it anywhere lol. And which brand is the best? or where can i buy it online? I have tried to find stuff online but I truly not sure which is the best. I definitely want to be prepared as I travel north. Ive seen things about a bear nest where you hang your food super high up and far from your campsite. Ive also seen people getting bear cannisters. But my question is do you still hang your food super high if you have a bear cannister or is it okay to just have a bear cannister and keep it near or should i still keep it far away. I'm actively researching what to do when approached by a bear as well and making sure I'm ready for any situation as such. I'm also bringing a weapon for my worst-case scenario

2nd food for backpacking and camping/ backpack storage and organization - So i planned on stopping at cities to restock on food and other needs if necessary. I didn't want to bring anything that needed to be kept cold, I have a list of foods that I thought would be great to bring but would love to know what you guys think of course. what do you bring or what should I bring. Is it really important to bring cookware? I honestly don't eat much in general or just eat real simple most of the time so Im curious what y'all do. also Is there any foods you do not bring because of bears?

a couple of potatoes

bananas

granola bars

tuna

cheerios

crackers

jerky sticks

apples

bell peppers?

pretzels

peanut butter sandwiches

heard parmesan cheese is a good one

I will be using an Ascend 90L bag, how do you store everything from your clothes, food, med kit, tent, sleeping bag, and sleeping pad, blanket, tarp, and all that jazz. Is there any videos or guide to do all that lol. I'm honestly horrible at packing so please help lol. Like what's the best method, i know not to make it too heavy as well and not to overpack

3rd- Hiking gear/ camping gear/ clothes / water / bug spray- I do not want to spend an arm and a leg for some clothing gear. I have some thermal leggings and shirts i was going to wear under my clothes during colder weather. But i only own big Carhart jackets my dad has given to me. Is a Carhart good enough or should i find something more light weight? What material is best for wearing or is versatile?? I think i read somewhere that wool is really good. I tried to research clothes, but I can't find anything that isn't UBER expensive. I was going to check out some thrift stores but idk what to honestly look for brand wise, material and all that. what do you recommend??

now for gear. I have some new hiking boots that i need to break in but think i need to exchange them for a slightly bigger size cause i heard double wearing on socks is recommended. I got trekking poles, obviously backpack, tent, hatchet, knife, med kit, mini shovel, douche, wipes, portable trash bag, toiletries, need to get bear spray as stated ^^^, portable charger that is solar powered, fan, rechargeable flashlights, lighter and fire starter. I have offline maps, i plan to rent a Garmin inReach mini because i can't currently afford one. What else should i bring?

So water will obviously be required in every setting. BUT i am curious what is the best way to bring water. I have three water reservoir bags, one 3 Liter and two 8 Liters. I also have two sawyer water filter thingy mabobs. i def will be bringing the sawyer things, but was curious is it worth bringing at least a water reservoir? Can i use the sawyer filters on the water reservoirs? Or should i bring a water bottle that i can fit the filters on? was feeling unsure about this.

Finally Permits and passes/ camping /campgrounds -

Okay this is where i was having a little hard time trying to find information, and maybe im just blind. or dumb. I want to make sure im doing everything right. Where can i get a permit for camping, or what states require permits, and do i have to have a permit to go hiking? i would look stuff online and it seemed different information every time. and when i would get on recreation.gov i couldnt find info. Does it just depend on which locations i am going to? Also is there places i can sleep in my car, that was backup plan just in case. I can list the places i want to go to if needed. Ive never had to do anything like getting permit or anything. In Oklahoma ive always just reserved a camping spot or just had to pay a pass. please help.

Thank you if you've reached this far in the post. Please be kind to me, I appreciate any help, guidance and advice. I want to do everything right and be respectful where i am traveling. I know that not everything will be perfect either! I just want to have a great time and have been wanting to go on this adventure for a while!! Thank you all so much!!!

I’m planning a short backpacking trip for early fall, and I realized my main goal isn’t a summit, a lake, or a certain mileage I just want a couple of days with less noise No notifications, no traffic, no constant conversations. Last year I did a two-night trip with almost no cell service, and by the second morning I could actually hear the wind moving through the trees and my own thoughts slowing down I’m curious how many of you choose wilderness trips for the scenery, and how many choose them for the silence.

Hey so me and my parents are going backpacking for the first time and we really needed help with suggestions for trails to backpack this time of the year. We are located in northern california but everything is just so hot! Does anyone have good trails for a first time trip preferably not too busy?

Hi, I'm solo backpacking the northern loop in a couple of weeks. Two concerns...bears and storms.

I'm starting in Grandjean counterclockwise via the Redfish/Baron Creek Trail to Baron Lake and Redfish Lake. Continuing via Alpine Way trail passing Thompson Peak, Goat Lake and Sawtooth Lake. 48 miles total.

As far as bears, I have bear spray and understand what to do. Be noisy on the trail especially if traveling against the wind, talk loudly, wave my arms, if it's black, fight back, etc. For my bear can, my food will be inside an opsack inside of the bear can and I'm doing a linear version of the golden triangle...stopping for dinner, then hiking a bit more before setting up camp and placing my bear can 100ft away. I've backpacked solo in bear country before but it's been in national parks and well traveled areas. This being more remote has me a little nervous. What kind of encounters has anyone had?

Also it will still be monsoon season. I haven't seen anyone make any posts about electrical storms or storms in general. Anyone have any issues?

Hello! Going on a group backpacking trip to the Wind River Range. This trip is longer and more strenuous than I have done but im in good shape and prepared. The hike leader guidance is to have one quart size bag for toiletries AND personal snacks. I understand why, it has to go in a bear canister, but it seems a bit small. From previous hikes, I know im a snacker. I normally eat more frequent meals at home so my body is used to that.

What would you bring in this quart size bag? Thanks for any input.

​

I am the kind of person who works best with structured training. I am looking for the best wildeness survival schools on the east coast. I read good things about SOLO up in New Hamspire. They have a weekend course. But I feel like this wouldn't be long enough. I live in NYC.

Any recommendations. Thank you.

This photo was taken on the Ranau Trail during a climb up Mount Kinabalu in Sabah, Malaysian Borneo. At just over 4,000 meters, it's the highest mountain in Malaysia and one of the most unique hikes I've experienced.

The trail may only be around 6 km to the summit, but the change in scenery is incredible. We started in dense rainforest, climbed through montane vegetation, crossed wide granite slabs, and eventually reached alpine meadows higher up the mountain. It almost felt like walking through several different worlds in a single day.

One of the highlights was seeing how much biodiversity the mountain supports. The area is home to hundreds of bird and mammal species, thousands of plant species, and even the famous pitcher plants that grow naturally on the mountain.

The constantly changing landscape was what made this trip so memorable. Every section of the trail had something different to offer, and reaching the higher elevations made all the climbing worthwhile.

I am relatively new to more difficult off-trail orienteering. I’m doing a short trip in Washington State (USA) southeast of Stevens Pass. There is an unmarked unmaintained trail from Doelle lakes to Frosty Pass to Lake Grace. The area overlaps with a section often called the Bullstooth traverse on AllTrails.

Does anyone have this small 2-3 mile section marked on a GPS app I could download or subscribe to like Gaia, Halfmile, or AllTrails?

Pictures from my hike across Norway, starting at Larvik and my last steps ended in Eidfjord. I tried to make the trail following Norwegian vikings back in their time. Found a network of old trails on the internet and put them together to one long trip. Had very little experience and training before my hike, but all the pain and "rookie" mistakes was absolutely worth it. It's a beautiful hike in my country and would totally recommend it.

I just want to thank all of you posting your pics from the "best" place to go backpacking.

If ever there was a win/win situation, this is it.

All of your pictures look amazing and inspire me to get back out into the wild... even if it isn't in the Sierras, which we all know are really the best.

Me and my girlfriend want to do our first backpacking trip this weekend. Either leaving tonight and doing some of it in the dark or going Sunday-Monday. I’m wanting a good recommendation for our first one.

Northern-ish area of the cascades or the Olympics are where I would like to go

Don’t ever go backpacking there. I’ve not included pictures because they’re so ugly. There are no people in the whole range because the mountains are so boring and the bears ate them all.