6 Best Backpacking Trips of 2026

This guide packs 490 pages of specific trip descriptions across California’s diverse terrains — from the Sierra to the coast and desert — giving backpackers a single source for route ideas they won’t easily find online.

Each entry includes terrain notes, difficulty levels, elevation profiles, and a clear sense of what to expect on trail. The depth of detail makes it easy to compare trips before heading out, but the 2008 edition means recent trail changes, closures, or reroutes may not be reflected.

Best suited for California-based backpackers who want a comprehensive overview of the state’s trail options and don’t need GPS waypoints or the absolute latest trail reports. Those focused on a single region like the Sierra might prefer a more current, GPS-equipped guide.

AMC’s Best Backpacking in New England organizes 37 multiday trips with a glance-able planner that compares difficulty, distance, and dog-friendly access at a glance. Unlike global inspiration books that skim over hundreds of destinations, this guide goes deep into a single region, providing logistics like parking and shelter conditions that make trip preparation more direct.

This guide suits New England residents planning weekend getaways or multi-day adventures. Dog owners will find flagged pet-friendly routes useful. The 2014 edition may miss recent trail reroutes or shelter updates, so cross-check with local ranger stations for critical details. At 1.24 pounds, it’s heavier than a typical pocket guide, so plan to use it at home rather than carry it on the trail.

The descriptions include specific details such as parking availability and shelter conditions, which streamline trip preparation. The curated selection means you don’t need to wade through hundreds of options – just pick a trip and start planning. Travelers who want pre-vetted itineraries with reliable logistics will find this guide saves considerable research time.

The 10th edition of Sierra North provides detailed descriptions of trees, wildflowers, creek crossings, and off-trail points of interest, paired with GPS coordinates and downloadable waypoints for modern route planning.

Backpackers find the trail descriptions precise enough to identify specific campsites and water sources. The inclusion of GPS data sets it apart from traditional guidebooks, enabling efficient navigation without constant map checks.

This guide is for tech-savvy Sierra hikers who value GPS-enabled route planning and detailed natural history. Note that at over 2 pounds it is best used at home for trip preparation rather than carried on the trail, and it covers only the northern Sierra Nevada – not central or southern regions.

The second edition of Backpacking: Washington updates trail descriptions, permit info, and route notes for the state’s backpacking destinations. At 15.2 ounces, it’s a book you won’t hesitate to toss in your pack, and the 2021 date means current information on conditions and regulations.

Inside, 352 pages cover overnight and multiday routes organized by region, with mileage, difficulty ratings, and season notes. Author Craig Romano is known for thorough ground-level research, and the level of detail — from water sources to campsite quality — reflects that approach.

This guide suits Washington backpackers who want a portable, up-to-date reference for trip planning. Buyers who prefer to read a large volume of user experiences before purchasing will find less community commentary here; the guide’s credibility rests on its specs and the publisher’s reputation rather than widespread anecdotal feedback.

This book features breathtaking photography and broad global coverage, backed by a high aggregate rating and a very large number of reviews. However, no customer review text or product specifications are available to verify the depth of trail information, making it unsuitable as a planning tool. It works best as a coffee-table inspiration piece or a gift for hikers who enjoy browsing scenic trails rather than seeking specific itineraries.