Los Angeles is more than just bustling cityscapes and sandy beaches—it’s a gateway to some of the best multi-day backpacking routes in Southern California. For those looking to escape the urban grind, weekend backpacking trips offer the perfect balance of adventure and rejuvenation. Whether you’re trekking through alpine forests or camping by a serene lake, these getaways provide an unforgettable outdoor experience without straying far from the city.
This guide covers the top weekend backpacking getaways from LA, complete with trail details, tips for preparation, and why these trips are perfect for a weekend escape. Pack your gear and get ready for a refreshing adventure.
Best Times for Weekend Backpacking Trips
The ideal time for a weekend backpacking trip depends on the destination:
Spring and Fall: Best for most trails, with mild temperatures and fewer crowds.
Summer: Perfect for higher elevation trails like San Jacinto or Big Pine Lakes.
Winter: Coastal trails like Santa Cruz Island or Sespe Hot Springs are excellent escapes from cooler inland weather.
Essential Gear for Weekend Backpacking Getaways
When preparing for a 2- to 3-day backpacking trip near Los Angeles, choosing the right gear is crucial for a safe and enjoyable experience. LA’s diverse trails, ranging from alpine forests to coastal cliffs, require careful consideration of shelter, food, clothing, and safety essentials. Here’s a detailed guide to help you pack for your weekend adventure.
Shelter & Sleep System
A comfortable and lightweight shelter and sleep system can make or break your backpacking experience. LA’s trails often feature mild weather, but nighttime temperatures can drop significantly, especially at higher elevations.
Tent, Hammock, Bivy: Choose a shelter that suits your style and the environment. Lightweight, freestanding tents are ideal for most conditions and provide full protection from insects and rain. Hammocks are great for forested trails with ample trees, while bivy sacks offer an ultralight option for minimalists.
Sleeping Bag: A 30°F-rated sleeping bag is versatile enough for LA’s typical weather, providing warmth on cooler nights while remaining lightweight. Down sleeping bags are compact and ideal for backpackers aiming to minimize pack weight.
Sleeping Pad: Even if the weather is mild, a sleeping pad is essential for insulation and comfort. Look for inflatable or foam pads that are lightweight and packable. Sleeping directly on the ground without insulation can lead to an uncomfortable night and loss of body heat.
Pro Tip: Rent lightweight tents, sleeping bags, and pads from GeerGarage to ensure you’re fully equipped without investing in expensive gear upfront.
Food & Cooking Supplies
Food and water are critical components of any backpacking trip, and LA’s trails often require careful planning due to limited water sources and remote camping spots.
Backpacking Stove: Compact stoves like the Jetboil or MSR PocketRocket are fuel-efficient and boil water quickly, making them perfect for preparing freeze-dried meals and hot drinks. These stoves are easy to use and lightweight, fitting neatly into your pack.
Food: Pack high-calorie, lightweight foods that are easy to prepare, such as freeze-dried meals, protein bars, instant oatmeal, and trail mix. Plan for around 2,500–3,000 calories per day, depending on trail difficulty.
Water System: A reliable water filter or purification tablets are a must for most LA trails, where natural water sources can be sparse. Carry 2–3 liters of water in your hydration system and plan your route around known water refill points.
Pro Tip: Always check water availability for your chosen trail before your trip. A water filter or purification tablets ensure you can safely drink from streams or springs.
Clothing & Personal Items
The key to staying comfortable on LA’s trails is layering and sun protection. Temperatures can swing dramatically from day to night, especially in higher elevations or desert regions.
Layered Clothing: Pack base layers that wick moisture, mid-layers like fleece for warmth, and a lightweight rain jacket to protect against unexpected showers or wind. Synthetic or wool materials are preferable to cotton, as they dry quickly and retain warmth even when wet.
Hiking Boots or Trail Runners: Lightweight hiking boots or trail runners with good grip and ankle support are essential for navigating rocky trails and uneven terrain. Break in your footwear before your trip to avoid blisters.
Sunscreen, Sunglasses, and Hat: LA’s trails are often exposed, making sun protection a top priority. A wide-brimmed hat, polarized sunglasses, and high-SPF sunscreen will shield you from harmful UV rays during long hikes.
Pro Tip: Consider bringing lightweight gloves and a beanie for cooler nights, even if daytime temperatures are warm.
Navigation & Safety Gear
Even if you’re familiar with the trail, reliable navigation and safety tools are non-negotiable for backpacking. Cell service can be unreliable in remote areas, so always carry backups.
Map, Compass, and GPS: Never rely solely on your phone for navigation. Bring a paper map of the trail and a compass, and learn how to use them. Download offline GPS maps on apps like Gaia GPS or AllTrails for added convenience.
Personal Locator Beacon (PLB): For solo backpackers or remote trails, a PLB or satellite communication device like a Garmin inReach is invaluable in case of emergencies. These devices can send SOS signals and location information when cell service is unavailable.
First Aid Kit: A comprehensive first aid kit should include items like blister care (moleskin or bandages), antiseptic wipes, adhesive bandages, tweezers, and pain relievers. For longer trips, add additional supplies like a splint and an emergency blanket.
Pro Tip: Before your trip, familiarize yourself with the route and potential landmarks by studying maps and recent trail reports. Knowing key waypoints, like trail junctions or water sources, will help you navigate confidently even if your GPS fails.
Packing Tips for LA’s Trails
Distribute Weight Evenly: Pack heavier items like food and water near the center of your back to maintain balance.
Use Dry Bags: Organize your gear in waterproof bags to protect against unexpected rain or water crossings.
Keep Essentials Accessible: Store frequently used items like snacks, maps, and sunscreen in outer pockets or your pack’s top compartment for easy access.
Best Weekend Backpacking Getaways from Los Angeles
Whether you’re new to backpacking or a seasoned adventurer, Los Angeles offers weekend getaways for every skill level. Here’s a complete list of trails ranked from easy to difficult, so you can find the perfect route for your next adventure.
Santa Cruz Island: Scorpion Canyon Loop
Location: Channel Islands National Park
Distance from LA: 70 miles to Ventura Harbor, plus a ferry ride
Trail Length: 8 miles round trip
Difficulty: Easy to moderate
Pass/Permit Needed: Campground reservations and a ferry ticket required.
Why It’s a Great Weekend Getaway: The remote and serene beauty of Santa Cruz Island makes it feel like a far-off escape, even though it’s close to LA. The scenic coastal views, unique wildlife, and accessible trails are perfect for beginner backpackers.
Features: Coastal cliffs, endemic island foxes, and the quiet Scorpion Canyon Campground.
Cooper Canyon to Buckhorn Campground
Location: Angeles National Forest
Distance from LA: 50 miles
Trail Length: 4 miles round trip
Difficulty: Easy to moderate
Pass/Permit Needed: Adventure Pass required for parking.
Why It’s a Great Weekend Getaway: This short, peaceful trail is ideal for beginners seeking a quick escape into nature. The manageable distance and serene setting make it a favorite for first-time backpackers.
Features: Shaded forest paths, Cooper Canyon Falls, and a quiet, well-maintained campground.
The Backbone Trail (Multi-Day Section Hike)
Location: Santa Monica Mountains
Distance from LA: 30 miles
Trail Length: 20 miles (suggested section from Will Rogers State Park to Malibu Creek State Park)
Difficulty: Moderate
Pass/Permit Needed: No pass required; parking reservations may be needed.
Why It’s a Great Weekend Getaway: The Backbone Trail is a quintessential Southern California experience, offering diverse terrains, coastal views, and oak woodlands. Its proximity to LA makes it an accessible yet adventurous weekend trip.
Features: Stunning ocean vistas, serene canyons, and well-marked trails. Campgrounds like Danielson Ranch provide convenient overnight stops.
Big Pine Lakes Trail
Location: Eastern Sierra Nevada, near Bishop
Distance from LA: 230 miles
Trail Length: 15 miles round trip
Difficulty: Moderate
Pass/Permit Needed: Wilderness permits required for overnight stays.
Why It’s a Great Weekend Getaway: Famous for its turquoise alpine lakes surrounded by towering peaks, this trail offers a slice of the Sierra Nevada’s beauty without the need for a weeklong commitment.
Features: Crystal-clear lakes, dramatic mountain views, and tranquil camping spots near the lakes.
San Bernardino Peak Trail
Location: San Bernardino National Forest
Distance from LA: 90 miles
Trail Length: 16 miles round trip
Difficulty: Strenuous (steady uphill climb)
Pass/Permit Needed: San Gorgonio Wilderness permit required.
Why It’s a Great Weekend Getaway: This trail is a lesser-known gem, offering solitude and incredible views of Big Bear Lake and the surrounding peaks. It’s a quieter alternative to nearby Mount San Gorgonio.
Features: Scenic ridgelines, dispersed camping at Limber Pine Camp, and expansive views of the wilderness.
Cucamonga Peak via Icehouse Canyon
Location: San Gabriel Mountains
Distance from LA: 50 miles
Trail Length: 11.6 miles round trip
Difficulty: Strenuous (steep elevation gain)
Pass/Permit Needed: Adventure Pass required for parking.
Why It’s a Great Weekend Getaway: Cucamonga Peak offers one of the most spectacular summit views near LA. It’s a challenging but rewarding climb, perfect for those who want a memorable weekend adventure.
Features: Icehouse Saddle camping, panoramic views of the Inland Empire, and steep but rewarding trails.
Sespe Hot Springs Trail
Location: Los Padres National Forest
Distance from LA: 90 miles
Trail Length: 16 miles round trip
Difficulty: Moderate to strenuous
Pass/Permit Needed: No permit required; parking may need an Adventure Pass.
Why It’s a Great Weekend Getaway: Combining rugged trails with natural hot springs, this trip is perfect for adventurers seeking a mix of challenge and relaxation.
Features: Canyon landscapes, multiple stream crossings, and rejuvenating natural hot springs for soaking after a long hike.
San Jacinto Peak via Marion Mountain Trail
Location: San Jacinto Wilderness, near Idyllwild
Distance from LA: 110 miles
Trail Length: 11 miles round trip
Difficulty: Strenuous
Pass/Permit Needed: Wilderness Permit required; Adventure Pass for parking.
Why It’s a Great Weekend Getaway: A challenging ascent to one of Southern California’s tallest peaks, this trail rewards hikers with breathtaking summit views and a true sense of accomplishment.
Features: Dense pine forests, steep switchbacks, and the scenic Round Valley for camping.
Mt. Baldy Loop via Bear Canyon and Devil’s Backbone
Location: Angeles National Forest
Distance from LA: 50 miles
Trail Length: 12 miles round trip
Difficulty: Strenuous
Pass/Permit Needed: Adventure Pass required for parking.
Why It’s a Great Weekend Getaway: Combining two iconic trails, this loop offers dramatic ridgelines, challenging climbs, and incredible summit views. It’s a thrilling option for experienced backpackers.
Features: Bear Canyon ascent, Devil’s Backbone descent, and summit views of the LA basin and surrounding ranges.
Weekend backpacking trips from Los Angeles offer the perfect opportunity to recharge in nature while exploring some of Southern California’s most stunning landscapes. Whether you’re soaking in hot springs, summiting a peak, or marveling at alpine lakes, these getaways promise adventure and serenity just a short drive from the city.
Call-to-Action: Ready to plan your weekend escape? Rent premium backpacking gear from GeerGarage and hit the trails fully prepared. From lightweight tents to navigation tools, we have everything you need for a stress-free adventure. Start planning your next multi-day trip today!