Beyond Must See Beyond Must See

Into the backcountry

Multi-day routes, permit strategies, and on-the-ground intel for those who prefer their views without a crowd.

All Routes Pacific Northwest Southwest International
All Routes
The Enchantments Washington
Pacific Northwest · Washington

The Enchantments — Washington

18 mi Permit required

One of the most coveted permits in the country — alpine lakes, granite peaks, and mountain goats everywhere.

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The Narrows Zion
Southwest · Utah

The Narrows — Zion National Park

16 mi Top-down route

Wading through the Virgin River in a slot canyon — a completely unique backpacking experience unlike anything else.

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Lakes Trail Sequoia
California · Sequoia NP

The Lakes Trail — Sequoia National Park

13 mi Moderate

Alpine lakes surrounded by towering sequoias and granite domes — a classic California Sierra overnight.

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Shi Shi Beach Olympic NP
Pacific Northwest · Washington

Shi Shi Beach — Olympic National Park

9 mi Permit required

Remote sea stacks, tide pools, and a coastal forest approach — one of the best beach camps in the US.

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W Trek Torres del Paine
South America · Chile

W-Trek — Torres del Paine National Park

5 days Iconic

The legendary W-Trek in Patagonia — glacier viewpoints, granite towers, and the best hiking in South America.

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New to backpacking?
Start with our beginner gear checklist before hitting the trail.
Essential Reading

Backcountry Gear Guide

Everything you need — and nothing you don't — for your first overnight in the backcountry.

View gear guide