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Best backpacking hikes in Los Angeles County
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Best backpacking hikes in Los Angeles County

Ready for some outdoor fun? These hikes offer everything you could want for an unforgettable adventure!

Here are some great hikes to explore in Los Angeles County.

Most popular hikes

1

Medium

Islip Saddle to Vincent Gap via PCT

Los Angeles County, California · star 4.6 (5) · 18.7 km · Est. 5 hrs 20 min

2

Difficult

Mount Baden-Powell, Mount Burnham and Throop Peak via PCT

Los Angeles County, California · star 4.5 (6) · 15.2 km · Est. 4 hrs 46 min

3

Extra Difficult

Mount Wilson Toll Road to Henninger Flats

Los Angeles County, California · star 4.3 (7) · 8.5 km · Est. 2 hrs 51 min

4

Difficult

Mount Baden-Powell, Mount Burnham, Throop Peak and Mount Hawkins

Los Angeles County, California · star 4.2 (6) · 26.2 km · Est. 2 days

5

Medium

Mount Islip Trail

Los Angeles County, California · star 4.6 (5) · 21.0 km · Est. 5 hrs 49 min

6

Difficult

Sturtevant, Mount Zion and Lower Winter Creek Loop Trail

Los Angeles County, California · star N/A (0) · 13.2 km · Est. 3 hrs 55 min

7

Extra Difficult

Mount Love Camp via Chaney Trail and Bear Canyon Trail

Los Angeles County, California · star 4.5 (2) · 19.2 km · Est. 6 hrs 20 min

8

Extra Difficult

Lower Sam Merrill, Echo Mountain, Markham Saddle and San Gabriel Peak Loop Trail

Los Angeles County, California · star 4.3 (9) · 28.1 km · Est. 2 days

9

Difficult

Newcomb Pass - Silver Moccasin Trail

Los Angeles County, California · star 4.0 (1) · 18.5 km · Est. 5 hrs 55 min

10

Medium

Three Points PCT Out and Back

Los Angeles County, California · star 4.7 (3) · 6.5 km · Est. 1 hrs 53 min

SHOW MORE HIKES

Reviews for backpacking hikes in Los Angeles County

Fairy Kautzer II avatar

Islip Saddle to Vincent Gap via PCT

AshAdventurer46 · reviewed over 1 year ago

star star star star star

Muriel Paucek avatar

Mount Baden-Powell, Mount Burnham and Throop Peak via PCT

NatureRover84 · reviewed about 2 years ago

star star star star star

Edmond Kshlerin avatar

Mount Wilson Toll Road to Henninger Flats

BirchRanger57 · reviewed over 2 years ago

star star star star star

Porfirio Gutmann avatar

Mount Baden-Powell, Mount Burnham, Throop Peak and Mount Hawkins

RangerSummiter35 · reviewed about 2 years ago

star star star star star

Asuncion Howe avatar

Mount Islip Trail

PathWoodlander27 · reviewed over 1 year ago

star star star star star

Frequently asked questions for hikes in Los Angeles County

What is the climate like for hiking in California?

California's vast geography results in diverse climates. Coastal regions, with their mild, Mediterranean climate, offer year-round hiking opportunities, though winter rains may muddy trails. In contrast, the inland valleys and desert regions are best hiked from October to April, as summer temperatures can be prohibitive.
The Sierra Nevada, famous for its mountains and forests, is popular in summer and fall. However, winter brings heavy snowfall, making trails inaccessible. Meanwhile, the pleasant climate of Southern California allows for hiking throughout the year, with cooler, wet winters and hot, dry summers.
To summarize, California's diverse climate offers year-round hiking opportunities, varying by region. Visit www.parks.ca.gov for more detailed information about specific trails and their recommended seasons.

Do I need a permit to hike in California?

Permits for hiking in California, particularly in wilderness areas or for overnight trips, are often required. Managed by the National Park Service, Forest Service, or Bureau of Land Management, permit processes vary. For more information, visit respective agency websites or www.recreation.gov for federal lands.

Is wild camping allowed in California?

Wild camping in California is generally permitted in national forests and Bureau of Land Management lands. However, restrictions apply, such as the requirement of a campfire permit. Always follow "Leave No Trace" principles. Detailed regulations can be found on agency websites like www.fs.usda.gov

Are there mountain rescue services in California?

In case of a hiking emergency in California, dial 911. Also, the California Office of Emergency Services coordinates search and rescue. The Mountain Rescue Association (MRA) has several units in California, with information available at www.mra.org. Always plan ahead and hike safely.

Are there dangerous plants in California?

California's flora varies widely, from coastal scrub and redwood forests to desert plants and alpine flora in the Sierra Nevada. This diversity can affect hiking experiences and trail conditions. For detailed information on California's flora, visit the California Native Plant Society website: www.cnps.org

What wildlife should I be aware of when hiking in California?

California's diverse habitats host a wide range of wildlife, from harmless squirrels to larger mammals like black bears. Ticks and mosquitoes may pose minor nuisances to hikers. Be aware of potential encounters, particularly with venomous snakes in desert areas. For more, visit https://wildlife.ca.gov/

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