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.

Continue reading to learn more, written by Kate Riley.

Treeline Review: Foothills Trail Backpacking and Thru-Hiking Guide

Smiling hiker with backpack and poles stands next to Foothills Trail sign in wooded area.
Smiling hiker with backpack and poles stands next to Foothills Trail sign in wooded area.

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.

Continue reading to learn more, written by Kate Riley.

Photo thumbnail Blog Author
Writer
Kate Riley
I'm Kate - a thru-hiker, runner, and gear enthusiast with 10 years of writing experience.
Media Mentions

Treeline Review: Foothills Trail Backpacking and Thru-Hiking Guide

Smiling hiker with backpack and poles stands next to Foothills Trail sign in wooded area.
Smiling hiker with backpack and poles stands next to Foothills Trail sign in wooded area.

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.

Continue reading to learn more, written by Kate Riley.

Photo thumbnail Blog Author
Writer
Kate Riley
I'm Kate - a thru-hiker, runner, and gear enthusiast with 10 years of writing experience.
Media Mentions
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