The Death Valley Four Springs Loop is an entirely off-trail loop that connects four different springs in the southern portion of the National Park. A GPS Track, good navigation skills, and desert hiking experience are highly recommended on this route.
The Big SEKI Loop is a 155-mile loop in the High Sierra in California that can be modified in multiple ways. The route was created originally as an alternative to John Muir Trail and can be hiked in 7-17 days.
The Lost Coast Trail is a 26.4-mile point-to-point backpacking route along California’s North Coast. It is a rugged trail that traverses sandy beaches, boulder fields, and coastal bluffs, and it can be hiked in 2-3 days
The Wenaha-Tucannon Wilderness Loop is a 56-mile trail in southeast Washington best hiked over 4-5 days. It features wildflowers, forested canyons, ridge walks, and solitude. This loop is hikeable earlier in the season than much of Washington’s high country.
The High Sierra Trail is a 72-mile point-to-point backpacking route that traverses the Sierra Nevada west to east. There is over 15,000 feet of elevation gain and it can be hiked in 5-9 days.
The Sierra High Route is a 195-mile route through the Sierra Nevada Mountain Range, known for challenging off-trail travel, sweeping granite peaks, and stunning alpine lakes. It can be hiked in 14-21 days.
The Old Mt. Baldy to Three T’s Loop is a challenging 22-mile trail in Southern California that can be hiked in 2-3 days. The route offers expansive views and multiple peaks, but carrying enough water is a limiting factor.
The John Muir Trail is a permitted 211-mile trail through California’s Sierra Nevada Mountains. It can be hiked in the summer in 12-20 days.
Death Valley Indian Pass Canyon is a 16-mile out-and-back cross-country hike in Death Valley National Park. This is a two-day hike with mild elevation gain into the canyon, and route-finding necessary. This is a perfect winter overnight backpacking trip for people exploring the Southern California desert.
The Death Valley Cottonwood-Marble Canyon Loop is a 31-mile winter backpacking route connecting two canyons in Death Valley National Park. if you plan water carefully and stay vigilant with your GPS track, this is a very reasonable route for most people, and can be hiked in 2-3 days.