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Foothills Trail Backpacking and Thru-Hiking Guide
Distance: 77 miles (122.6 km)
Days: 5-10 days
Elevation gain/loss: 18,308 ft gain (Gaia GPS); 24,040.7 ft gain/23,444.6 ft loss (FarOut)
Best seasons: Spring and Fall
Permits: None required
Difficulty: Intermediate
Trail Stewardship: Foothills Trail Conservancy (FTC)
The Foothills Trail was my first solo backpacking trip of more than 20 miles and 3+ nights. Trail selection was a big deal. This 77-mile non-motorized footpath quickly became my top choice as a first thru-hike for a few reasons:
I could complete it within a week of vacation from work.
It’s known to be well-maintained and well-supported. AKA, it felt safe.
Multiple digital and paper navigation options (free and paid).
It can be hiked in one push with no re-supply needed.
Convenient trailhead shuttles.
It’s impressive that every consideration on that list proved true. If you are looking for a shorter point-to-point route that will hold a special place in your heart… consider the Foothills Trail.
Kate Riley
I'm Kate - a thru-hiker, runner, and gear enthusiast with 10 years of writing experience.
Foothills Trail Backpacking and Thru-Hiking Guide
Distance: 77 miles (122.6 km)
Days: 5-10 days
Elevation gain/loss: 18,308 ft gain (Gaia GPS); 24,040.7 ft gain/23,444.6 ft loss (FarOut)
Best seasons: Spring and Fall
Permits: None required
Difficulty: Intermediate
Trail Stewardship: Foothills Trail Conservancy (FTC)
The Foothills Trail was my first solo backpacking trip of more than 20 miles and 3+ nights. Trail selection was a big deal. This 77-mile non-motorized footpath quickly became my top choice as a first thru-hike for a few reasons:
I could complete it within a week of vacation from work.
It’s known to be well-maintained and well-supported. AKA, it felt safe.
Multiple digital and paper navigation options (free and paid).
It can be hiked in one push with no re-supply needed.
Convenient trailhead shuttles.
It’s impressive that every consideration on that list proved true. If you are looking for a shorter point-to-point route that will hold a special place in your heart… consider the Foothills Trail.
Kate Riley
I'm Kate - a thru-hiker, runner, and gear enthusiast with 10 years of writing experience.
Foothills Trail Backpacking and Thru-Hiking Guide
Distance: 77 miles (122.6 km)
Days: 5-10 days
Elevation gain/loss: 18,308 ft gain (Gaia GPS); 24,040.7 ft gain/23,444.6 ft loss (FarOut)
Best seasons: Spring and Fall
Permits: None required
Difficulty: Intermediate
Trail Stewardship: Foothills Trail Conservancy (FTC)
The Foothills Trail was my first solo backpacking trip of more than 20 miles and 3+ nights. Trail selection was a big deal. This 77-mile non-motorized footpath quickly became my top choice as a first thru-hike for a few reasons:
I could complete it within a week of vacation from work.
It’s known to be well-maintained and well-supported. AKA, it felt safe.
Multiple digital and paper navigation options (free and paid).
It can be hiked in one push with no re-supply needed.
Convenient trailhead shuttles.
It’s impressive that every consideration on that list proved true. If you are looking for a shorter point-to-point route that will hold a special place in your heart… consider the Foothills Trail.
Kate Riley
I'm Kate - a thru-hiker, runner, and gear enthusiast with 10 years of writing experience.
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