Exploring Utah’s Backcountry: A Backpacker’s Guide to the Best Trails
Utah is renowned for its stunning natural landscape, and with over five national parks, countless state parks, and protected wilderness areas, the state is a hiker’s paradise. Backpacking through Utah’s backcountry is a great way to explore the state’s natural beauty, and with many trails to choose from, there’s something for everyone. In this article, we’ll guide you through the best backpacking trails in Utah’s backcountry.
The West Rim Trail – Zion National Park
Zion National Park is an excellent destination for backpackers, and the West Rim Trail is one of the park’s most popular backpacking trails. The trail is a challenging 16-mile hike with an elevation gain of over 4,000 feet, but the stunning views of Zion Canyon make it worth the effort. The trail takes you past Angel’s Landing, one of Zion’s most iconic landmarks, and through the beautiful meadows of Potato Hollow. It’s a two-day hike, with camping allowed at designated campsites along the trail.
The Escalante Route – Grand Canyon National Park
The Escalante Route is a challenging backpacking trail that takes you through the Grand Canyon’s remote backcountry. The trail is 25 miles long, starting at Tanner Trailhead and ending at Escalante Creek, and it takes an average of four days to complete. The trail is for experienced hikers as it involves steep descents and ascents, but the views are breathtaking. You’ll trek through the many layers of the Grand Canyon, past waterfalls, and rugged terrain. Camping is allowed at designated backcountry campsites.
The Highline Trail – Uinta Mountains
The Highline Trail is one of Utah’s longest trails, stretching 78 miles through the beautiful Uinta Mountains. The trail takes hikers through alpine forests, crystal-clear lakes, and stunning peaks and valleys. The Highline Trail is a challenging hike that takes an average of six days to complete, with camping allowed at designated sites along the trail.
The Paria Canyon-Vermilion Cliffs Wilderness – Arizona/Utah Border
Located on the Arizona/Utah border, the Paria Canyon-Vermilion Cliffs Wilderness is a vast area of protected backcountry that spans over 100,000 acres. The area contains many backpacking trails through rugged terrain, stunning slot canyons, and towering red rock formations. The area’s most popular backpacking trail is the Paria Canyon Trail, which is a 38-mile hike that takes an average of four days to complete. Camping in the wilderness area is allowed with a permit.
The Needles District – Canyonlands National Park
The Needles District in Canyonlands National Park is a backpacker’s paradise, with numerous trails ranging from easy to challenging. The area is known for its stunning rock formations, including spires, arches, and towers. One of the most popular backpacking trails in the Needles District is the Chesler Park Loop, a 11.6-mile hike that takes an average of two days to complete. Camping is allowed in designated backcountry campsites.
Conclusion
Utah’s backcountry is home to some of the most incredible backpacking trails in the country. From the stunning views of Zion National Park’s West Rim Trail to the rugged terrain of the Paria Canyon-Vermilion Cliffs Wilderness, there’s something for every level of backpacker. Remember to prepare adequately for your trip, bring plenty of water and food, and leave no trace behind. Pack out what you pack in, and respect the wilderness areas so that others can enjoy them just as much as you have. Happy hiking!
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