The best backpacking trips in California

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Lost Coast Trail

King Range Wilderness

Hike and camp along one of the longest stretch of undeveloped coastline in the United States.

2–3 days•spring, summer, fall

Releases tomorrow, 3 PM
Trips starting Apr 19

Half Dome

Yosemite National Park

Ascend one of the world’s most unique rock formations, finishing with the famous Half Dome cables.

2 days•summer, fall

Lottery closes tomorrow, 7:59 AM
Trips Jun 29 – Jul 5

John Muir Trail

Yosemite National Park

Tour the Sierra Nevada from North to South, ascending increasingly tall passes to the top of Mt. Whitney.

15–21 days•summer, fall

Lottery closes tomorrow, 7:59 AM
Trips Jun 29 – Jul 5

High Sierra Trail

Sequoia & Kings Canyon National Parks

Trek from the giant forest of Sequoia National Park to the top of Mt. Whitney.

5–8 days•summer, fall

Releases tomorrow, 3 PM
Trips starting Jul 19

Rae Lakes Loop

Sequoia & Kings Canyon National Parks

The perfect trip for whoever wants a taste of the Sierra Nevada, featuring alpine lakes and high passes.

4 days•summer, fall

Releases tomorrow, 3 PM
Trips starting Jul 19

Mt. Whitney

Inyo National Forest

Climb 6,000 feet to reach the summit of the tallest mountain in the lower 48 states.

2–3 days•summer, fall

Lottery opens Feb 1, 8 AM
Trips May 1 – Nov 1

Trans-Catalina Trail

Catalina Island Conservancy

Off the coast of Los Angeles, hike the length of Catalina Island among wild roaming bison.

3–5 days•year-round

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