3-Day Back Packing Trip Guide

By Cap Puckhaber, Reno, Nevada

Backpacking doesn’t always need to be a week-long expedition that eats up all your vacation time and requires months of planning. Some of my most rewarding wilderness experiences have been on short three-day, two-night trips. You can cover serious ground, disconnect from the noise of everyday life, and still make it back in time for work on Monday. Over the years, I’ve tested countless routes, compared notes with other hikers, and scoured forums like Reddit’s WildernessBackpacking community to see what people are really looking for. This guide pulls everything together into a list of the best 3-day backpacking trips in the U.S., complete with first-person insights, practical planning advice, and external resources to help you make it happen.

Why a 3-Day Backpacking Trip Hits the Sweet Spot

Three days is long enough to get far beyond the dayhiker crowds but short enough that logistics don’t overwhelm you. I’ve found that most people can comfortably hike between 20 and 30 miles over three days, depending on fitness, elevation gain, and pack weight. That matches what many experienced backpackers share on forums: aim for 7 to 10 miles per day, and you’ll have time to enjoy camp, take photos, and soak in the views without feeling rushed. Shorter trips are also less intimidating, which makes them a perfect entry point for newcomers while still offering veterans a meaningful wilderness experience.

Reddit users often ask: What size pack do I need? For a three-day trip, a 50–65L backpack usually strikes the right balance. You’ll need a tent, sleeping bag, pad, food, stove, and layers, but you can leave behind the “just-in-case” extras that bulk up longer expeditions. Keep in mind the 20% rule: your pack shouldn’t weigh more than 20% of your body weight. I learned this lesson the hard way in Yosemite when I stubbornly carried 45 pounds on a hot July climb—my knees still remind me of it. Proper packing and gear selection can make the difference between a tough slog and an enjoyable adventure.

Top 3-Day Backpacking Trips in the West

High Uintas Wilderness, Utah

The High Uintas remain one of the most underrated destinations in the country. When I first hiked here, I expected crowded trails like Colorado’s 14er routes. Instead, I found solitude, pristine alpine lakes, and an otherworldly night sky that reminded me of why I started backpacking in the first place. The sense of remoteness is unlike most western trails, making it ideal for anyone seeking a peaceful three-day escape.

On a 30-mile section of the Uinta Highline Trail, you’ll cross multiple passes above 11,000 feet and camp near turquoise lakes tucked under craggy peaks. Permits aren’t a headache here, which makes it a strong alternative to overcrowded spots like Yosemite. If you want more details, check the U.S. Forest Service’s guide to the High Uintas. Planning for altitude and carrying the proper layers is essential to avoid altitude sickness and enjoy your hike safely.

Pro Tip: Weather changes fast. On my October trip, we had sunshine one afternoon and snow flurries the next morning. Always pack a reliable rain shell and extra insulation, because unexpected weather is a guarantee rather than a possibility in the High Uintas.

Wind River Range, Wyoming

The Winds are a backpacker’s dream, full of jagged granite towers and enough alpine lakes to make you wish for an extra week. I’ve done multiple loops here, but for a three-day adventure, the Big Sandy to Cirque of the Towers loop is unbeatable. At about 27 miles, it pushes the limit of what’s comfortable in three days, but the payoff is standing in one of the most dramatic mountain amphitheaters in North America. Every step along this loop offers postcard-worthy scenery that makes the effort entirely worthwhile.

Unlike the High Sierra, you don’t need advance permits. Just be prepared for rocky trails and serious mosquitoes in July. I use a Sawyer Squeeze filter religiously in the Winds because while the lakes look crystal-clear, you don’t want to gamble with waterborne illness. Access to clean water and careful trail planning are essential for safety and comfort in this remote region.

Pro Tip: Start early each day. Afternoon thunderstorms are almost guaranteed in summer, and being on a pass at the wrong time is risky. Tracking weather forecasts and adjusting your itinerary can make a three-day trip safe and enjoyable.

Ruby Crest Trail, Nevada

Most people don’t think of Nevada when they think backpacking. I used to be one of them—until I hiked the Ruby Crest Trail. This 36-mile high route surprised me with wildflower meadows, aspen groves, and big mountain views that rival the Rockies. The trail stays high, so you’ll get sweeping views for most of the hike. Its unique combination of solitude and scenery makes it one of the best-kept secrets for west coast backpackers.

Because it’s lesser-known, the Rubies offer a sense of solitude that’s hard to find in more famous ranges. When my family did this in July, we only crossed paths with a handful of other hikers over three days. Proper preparation for elevation gain, sun exposure, and trail navigation ensures that this remote trail is as rewarding as it is challenging.

Pro Tip: The elevation and exposure mean strong sun. I swear by Sun Bum SPF 50 for high-altitude trips where reapplying is the difference between comfort and misery. Sunscreen, hats, and hydration are essential here.

Yosemite National Park, California

I’ve hiked Yosemite countless times, and the beauty never wears off. For a shorter trip, I recommend the Grand Canyon of the Tuolumne. It’s about 30 miles and can be done comfortably in three days. You’ll follow the Tuolumne River past waterfalls, granite domes, and lush meadows, which provides a mix of scenery, challenge, and wildlife encounters.

Permits can be competitive, but Yosemite releases 40% of permits on recreation.gov just seven days in advance, which means last-minute planners still have a shot. The National Park Service Yosemite wilderness page is the best resource for details. Understanding the permitting system and timing your trip correctly can make or break your experience.

Pro Tip: Bear canisters are required. I use a BearVault BV500 because it doubles as a camp seat when you’re tired. Having reliable bear storage keeps both food and wildlife safe.

Grand Canyon, Arizona

Backpacking into the Grand Canyon is like stepping onto another planet. For a solid three-day trip, the Hermit Trail to Monument Creek loop is tough but rewarding. You’ll descend through layers of red rock, camp by the Colorado River, and climb back out through sheer desert walls. The scale and remoteness of the canyon make even short trips feel epic and transformative.

Permits are competitive during peak months (April, May, October), but November offers great weather with fewer crowds. Check the Grand Canyon backcountry permit system for details. Careful planning is essential due to extreme heat and limited water sources.

Pro Tip: Water sources are scarce and unpredictable. Always check with rangers at the Backcountry Office before you descend, and carry extra capacity like a CNOC Vecto bladder. Staying hydrated can be the difference between a safe hike and a dangerous situation.

Top 3-Day Backpacking Trips in the East

Smoky Mountains, Tennessee/North Carolina

The Smokies are often overlooked in favor of western national parks, but they’re fantastic for shorter trips. One of my favorites is the Mt. LeConte loop via Alum Cave Trail. At around 20 miles, it’s manageable in three days and takes you through old-growth forests, rocky ridges, and panoramic viewpoints that are hard to beat for their accessibility and natural beauty.

Permits are required, and the Great Smoky Mountains backcountry site makes it easy to book. The biggest challenge here isn’t mileage—it’s humidity and rain. My pack once gained five pounds in soaked gear after a night storm, which reminded me to always pack a dry bag liner. Trail conditions can change rapidly, so being prepared for wet weather is essential.

Adirondacks, New York

The Adirondacks in upstate New York are rugged, raw, and incredibly rewarding. The Great Range Traverse is a three-day sufferfest that rewards you with summits of multiple High Peaks and views across endless wilderness. This one is challenging—expect scrambling and steep elevation. For those seeking slightly gentler terrain, the Five Ponds Wilderness offers quieter trails with remote campsites beside glassy lakes, which are ideal for reflection and relaxation.

The New York Department of Environmental Conservation site provides trail and permit updates. Planning for both challenging and moderate hikes in the Adirondacks requires careful attention to weather, terrain, and trail conditions.

Pro Tip: Bugs here can be brutal in June. A head net isn’t optional—it’s survival. Carrying proper insect repellent and long clothing protects both skin and sanity on these trails.

How to Plan and Pack for a 3-Day Trip

Mileage and Pacing

The most common Reddit question is: How many miles should I plan for? I recommend 20–30 miles total unless you’re training for something longer. Break it into 7–12 miles per day, and remember that steep climbs or high elevation will slow you down. Planning your daily mileage thoughtfully allows time for photography, meal breaks, and soaking in the scenery without feeling rushed.

Gear Essentials

For a three-day trip, here’s what always makes my list. My backpack is 50–65L, like the Osprey Atmos AG 65, which balances storage and comfort. Shelter options include a lightweight tent or tarp, such as the Big Agnes Copper Spur HV UL2, which is compact yet durable. A sleep system includes a 20°F down bag and inflatable pad. Water treatment is crucial, and I rely on a Sawyer Squeeze or Katadyn BeFree filter. Food requires 2,500–3,000 calories per day, which I get through a mix of dehydrated meals like Backpacker’s Pantry, tortillas, and nut butter. Safety gear such as a Garmin inReach Mini or similar satellite communicator is essential for remote trips where cell coverage is unreliable.

Training and Prep

Don’t underestimate shorter trips. On my first Grand Canyon trek, I thought three days would be “easy.” I was wrong. The vertical gain and heat humbled me fast. Training with a loaded pack, breaking in your boots, and simulating trail conditions before the trip can prevent injuries and improve overall enjoyment. Even experienced hikers benefit from pre-trip conditioning.

Final Thoughts

Three-day backpacking trips are the perfect entry point for beginners and a refreshing reset for seasoned hikers. Whether you want alpine lakes in Wyoming, sandstone canyons in Utah, or misty forests in the Smokies, there’s an option that fits your style. These routes have given me some of my most memorable backcountry nights, and I’m still chasing new ones every year. The sense of accomplishment and connection with nature is immediate and incredibly rewarding, even on a short itinerary.

If you’re serious about planning one, bookmark the resources I linked above and start dialing in your gear now. The best trail is always the one you actually hike, not the one you keep on your “someday” list. Short trips like these build confidence, refine your packing and pacing skills, and open doors to more ambitious adventures.

Written by Cap Puckhaber of The Hiking Adventures, where I share trail-tested advice, trip reports, and tips to help you plan your next great adventure.

About the author

Cap Puckhaber is a marketing strategist, finance writer, and outdoor enthusiast. He writes across CapPuckhaber.com, TheHikingAdventures.com, SimpleFinanceBlog.com, and BlackDiamondMarketingSolutions.com. Follow him for honest, real-world advice backed by 20+ years of experience.