PLEASE NOTE: If you’re interested in Grand Canyon backpacking trips, and you don’t see them in the calendar, it’s likely because permits aren’t available yet. Permits are issued approximately 4 months prior, and it’s extremely beneficial to register before the permit process begins. Learn more or register on the individual trip pages.
Trip Dates
MORE INFORMATION ABOUT HIKING IN NOVEMBER
BENEFITS OF HIKING IN NOVEMBER
The biggest benefit with November is the lack of crowds at many destinations. Because many people are focused on preparing for the holidays and winter, travel begins to ebb in November, which is a benefit to those who do desire to get out.
In early November, USA desert and canyon destinations are fantastic, but by mid to late November many are getting significantly more chilly. Grand Canyon, Death Valley, Joshua Tree and the Sedona area are all wonderful throughout November, as well as Zion, Bryce and the Grand Staircase-Escalante but more for inn-based tours.
Internationally, you can enjoy the Inca Trail in November with far fewer people on the trail but a higher chance of rain. Vietnam is very nice. Nepal is in its prime, so we heartily recommend joining Nepal treks in November. Also, southern hemisphere trekking destinations like New Zealand and Patagonia are active in November, which is a great perk.
DRAWBACKS OF HIKING IN NOVEMBER
The main drawbacks of November are that the northern hemisphere mountain destinations are fully entering winter and are no longer open for trekking. Some will be open soon however for snowshoe trips!
WHERE TO HIKE
There are two main categories of destinations to hike in November:
– USA desert and canyon destinations – these options include Grand Canyon, Sedona’s Red Rock Country, Zion, Bryce, Grand Staircase-Escalante, Capitol Reef, Arches, Canyonlands, Joshua Tree and more.
– Trekking and backpacking internationally – recommended options for November are Peru, Vietnam, Nepal, New Zealand and Patagonia.