Southern California is renowned for its sun-drenched beaches and bustling city life, particularly in Los Angeles. However, just a short drive from the urban sprawl lies a vast network of mountains, forests, and coastlines offering incredible opportunities for outdoor adventure. For those new to the trail or seasoned hikers seeking a quick escape, backpacking in LA and the surrounding Southern California region presents a diverse array of overnight experiences that feel worlds away from the city.
Many people are drawn to the idea of spending a night under the stars but might not know where to start. Whether you’re looking to test new gear, train for a longer expedition, or simply disconnect and enjoy nature, there are fantastic options available. I’ve compiled a list of ten exceptional overnight backpacking trips that showcase the beauty and variety of Southern California’s backcountry, many of which are easily accessible for a weekend escape from the Los Angeles area.
Getting Started with Backpacking Near Los Angeles
Before you hit the trail for backpacking in LA, it’s essential to be prepared. This isn’t just about packing the right gear – although that’s crucial! It also involves understanding the local regulations, trail conditions, and being realistic about your fitness level. Many popular trails, especially those leading to peaks or unique natural features, require wilderness permits, which often need to be secured in advance. Checking weather forecasts and understanding potential hazards like heat, cold, or wildlife is also paramount.
These ten trips offer varying levels of difficulty and scenery, providing a solid foundation for anyone looking to explore the overnight hiking possibilities close to the city. From coastal bluffs overlooking the Pacific to high mountain peaks, there’s an adventure waiting for every type of backpacker. Let’s delve into some of the best places to go backpacking in LA‘s wider region.
1. Coastal Escape: Crystal Cove State Park
Most visitors flock to the beaches of Crystal Cove State Park, unaware of the hidden gems tucked away in its backcountry. Located in Orange County, a relatively short drive south of Los Angeles, this park offers several primitive hike-in camps. The trails climb into the coastal hills, providing stunning panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean, especially at sunset. Hiking up after work is feasible, leaving you ample time to set up camp and enjoy the twilight.
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This trip is perfect for beginners or those wanting a low-risk “shakedown” hike to test new equipment or practice skills. The elevation gain isn’t extreme, and the proximity to civilization offers a sense of security while still providing a genuine overnight outdoor experience. While day-use trails can be busy, the backcountry camps offer a peaceful retreat.
2. Santa Cruz Trail: Training for the Long Haul
Spring wildflowers blooming in the mountains, a beautiful sight while backpacking in LA
Venturing further north into the Santa Barbara backcountry, the Santa Cruz Trail presents a more challenging option for backpacking in LA‘s extended vicinity. This out-and-back trail is best tackled in the spring when temperatures are milder and the landscape bursts with color. The 10-mile hike with significant elevation gain is an excellent benchmark for aspiring long-distance hikers, mirroring the demands of a typical day on iconic trails like the John Muir Trail.
Setting up camp near a stream, often under the shade of ancient oak trees, provides a serene reward after a strenuous day. Timing your trip with the spring bloom promises spectacular wildflower displays that make the climb well worth the effort. This trail tests your endurance and resilience, offering valuable insight into your capabilities for future, more ambitious backpacking adventures.
3. Palomar Mountains Charm: Barker Valley
Located in the northeast corner of San Diego County, the Barker Valley trip offers a unique “upside-down” backpacking experience. The hike begins with a descent of about 1000 feet to a picturesque valley featuring a river and a waterfall. You camp overnight by the water, then tackle the uphill climb back to the trailhead the following day.
At roughly 6.5 miles round trip, this is a gentler introduction to overnight hiking, making it a great option for families or those seeking a less demanding trek. The reward is a beautiful, secluded valley with meadows and the soothing sound of the river. Adding to its appeal, this trail is also dog-friendly, allowing your furry companions to join in the adventure.
4. Historic Canyons: Santa Anita Canyon
Hikers ascend a trail, a common sight backpacking in LA canyons
Closer to the heart of the city, Santa Anita Canyon offers a glimpse into the rich hiking history of the Los Angeles area. This area features historic campgrounds like Hogee’s on Winter Creek and Spruce Grove on the Gabrieleño Trail. These sites date back a century, providing a tangible connection to the early days of outdoor recreation in Southern California.
An ambitious option from here is to loop up the Gabrieleño Trail to bag Mount Wilson, one of the peaks included in the popular Six-Pack of Peaks Challenge. This hike provides a healthy dose of elevation gain and stunning views. What truly sets this area apart is how these lush, quiet canyons feel incredibly remote, despite being just a short drive from the freeways and urban bustle that characterize backpacking in LA county. It’s a peaceful escape steeped in history.
5. Sunset Views: Cucamonga Peak
Backpacking to Cucamonga Peak offers an unforgettable experience, particularly for its incredible twilight and nighttime vistas. This trip, often undertaken as part of peak bagging challenges, requires packing in all your water, adding to the physical demand. However, the rewards are immense.
Camping near the summit allows you to witness spectacular sunsets and sunrises painting the sky over the sprawling urban landscape below. On a clear night, the city lights twinkle like a million stars, and you might even catch a glimpse of the Disneyland fireworks in the distance. This hike is also dog-friendly, meaning your canine friend can share in the magical views from the top.
6. Exposed Heights: Mt Baldy
Experiencing a full moon hike, part of the unique adventures while backpacking in LA mountains like Mt Baldy
Camping on the summit of Mt. San Antonio, commonly known as Mt. Baldy, is an adventure reserved for those prepared for challenging conditions. As with Cucamonga Peak, you must carry all your water. The summit is exposed, often cold, and windy. It’s a stark, rugged environment compared to the more sheltered canyon trips.
Despite the harshness, spending the night on Baldy is a deeply rewarding experience. The sunrise and sunset views are simply phenomenal, offering unobstructed perspectives in every direction. Like several other Southern California peaks, Mt. Baldy is also a dog-friendly destination, provided your dog is fit for the strenuous climb and exposed conditions.
7. Eastern Vistas: San Bernardino Peak
The trail to San Bernardino Peak is a lengthy one, continuing beyond the peak towards Mount San Gorgonio. However, a popular overnight option is to stop and camp at Limber Pine Flat. This offers a significant elevation gain and distance, making it another excellent training hike.
The primary draw for camping at Limber Pine Flat or higher on the San Bernardino Trail is the breathtaking views. From various points along the trail, you are treated to expansive panoramas of the surrounding mountains, valleys, and on a clear day, the distant urban areas. The scenery alone justifies the effort required for this challenging backpack trip.
8. Island Paradise: Catalina Island
You don’t need to tackle the entire Trans-Catalina Trail to experience the unique joy of backpacking on Catalina Island, located just off the coast near Los Angeles. Ferries depart from San Pedro, taking you to Two Harbors or Avalon. From Two Harbors, you can hike to beautiful coastal camps like Little Harbor or Parsons Landing. Each campground offers a distinct coastal vibe and stunning ocean views.
This is a must-do trip for anyone living in or visiting Southern California. It combines a scenic boat ride with coastal hiking and camping in a truly unique environment. Waking up to the sound of waves and the smell of the ocean is an experience unlike any other on the mainland, making it an iconic destination for backpacking in LA‘s proximity.
9. Southern California’s Highest: San Gorgonio
Sunset over the mountains from a High Creek campsite, a reward for backpacking in LA’s highest peaks
Mount San Gorgonio stands as the highest peak in Southern California, and while many conquer it as a strenuous day hike, an overnight trip offers a far richer experience. Camping at High Creek or Halfway Camp allows you to break up the formidable ascent and witness incredible alpine scenery and breathtaking sunsets that day hikers miss.
Spending the night on San Gorgonio provides a deeper connection to this majestic mountain. While you can choose to camp and descend the next day, the proximity to the summit after an overnight stay often encourages hikers to push on and reach the top. It’s an opportunity to truly immerse yourself in the demanding yet rewarding environment of SoCal’s tallest mountain.
10. Personal Favorite: San Jacinto
Alpine meadows on the way to San Jacinto peak, a stunning backdrop while backpacking near LA
Mount San Jacinto holds a special place in the hearts of many Southern California hikers, including my own. Its diverse trails and stunning alpine environment make it a perennial favorite for backpacking in LA‘s eastern ranges. You can hike in from trailheads near Idyllwild or take the famous Palm Springs Aerial Tramway up to the mountain station, significantly reducing the initial climb.
San Jacinto offers numerous camping options and trail variations suitable for different fitness levels. You can aim for the summit, visit scenic spots like Wellman’s Divide, or explore beautiful alpine meadows that surprisingly resemble parts of the Sierra Nevada range. The ability to access it via the tram also makes it uniquely accessible for a quick overnight trip, offering dramatic high-mountain scenery without an extensive approach hike.
Essential Tips for Backpacking in LA Area Trails
Embarking on an overnight trip requires more planning than a day hike. For backpacking in LA and Southern California, remember these key points:
- Permits: Most overnight trips in wilderness areas require a wilderness permit. Obtain these well in advance, especially for popular destinations or during peak season. Check the specific regulations for each park or national forest.
- Water: Water sources can be scarce or unreliable, especially in Southern California’s drier months. Be prepared to carry sufficient water or know the locations of reliable water sources and bring a filter or purification tablets.
- Weather: Mountain weather can change rapidly. Check forecasts before you go and pack layers, including rain gear and insulation, even if the valley is warm.
- Leave No Trace: Practice Leave No Trace principles to minimize your impact on the environment. Pack out everything you pack in, stay on designated trails, and properly dispose of waste.
- Share Your Plans: Always inform someone reliable about your itinerary, including your planned route and return time.
Frequently Asked Questions About Backpacking in LA
Do I need permits for backpacking in LA area wilderness areas?
Yes, most designated wilderness areas surrounding Los Angeles, such as those in the San Gabriel, San Bernardino, and San Jacinto Mountains, require wilderness permits for overnight camping. Some popular trails may also require day-use permits. These are often free but must be obtained in advance from the relevant Forest Service or State Park office.
What is the best time of year for backpacking in Southern California?
Spring (March-May) and Fall (September-November) are generally the most pleasant seasons for backpacking in LA‘s surrounding mountains, offering mild temperatures and beautiful scenery (wildflowers in spring, fall colors at higher elevations). Summer can be very hot at lower elevations but is ideal for higher peaks. Winter can bring snow and ice to the mountains, requiring different gear and skills.
How difficult are these backpacking trips?
The trips listed vary in difficulty from relatively easy introductory hikes (like Crystal Cove or Barker Valley) to strenuous climbs (like San Gorgonio or Mt. Baldy). Difficulty is influenced by distance, elevation gain, trail condition, and weather. It’s crucial to research the specific trail and choose one that matches your fitness level and experience.
What essential gear do I need for overnight backpacking?
Basic backpacking gear includes a backpack, tent, sleeping bag, sleeping pad, appropriate clothing layers, sturdy hiking boots, water filter or purification method, food and cooking supplies (stove, fuel, pot, utensils), headlamp, first-aid kit, navigation tools (map, compass, GPS), sun protection, and a knife or multi-tool. The specific gear needed may vary based on the trip’s duration, location, and season.
Wrapping Up Your Los Angeles Backpacking Adventure
From the salty air of coastal camps to the thin air of alpine summits, backpacking in LA and its surrounding areas offers a wealth of experiences for anyone looking to spend a night outdoors. These ten trips represent just a fraction of the possibilities but provide a solid starting point for building your backpacking skills and exploring the incredible natural landscapes Southern California has to offer. Each trail has its unique character, history, and challenges, promising a memorable adventure.
Getting outside and challenging yourself on an overnight hike is a fantastic way to reconnect with nature and gain a new perspective on the region. So, pack your bag, plan your route, and get ready to discover the stunning wilderness just beyond the city limits. What are your favorite spots for backpacking in LA or Southern California? Share your recommendations in the comments below!