What is the Meaning of an Out and Back Trail?
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What is an Out and Back Trail?
It should come as no surprise that activities such as backpacking and hiking are wonderful forms of exercise. It doesn’t get much better than being able to connect with Mother Nature while staying in shape. The question is – did you know that there are different types of hikes? While most people just say “a hike is a hike”, there are many different kinds, mainly consisting of point-to-point, out and back, and loop hikes. Within those three main types there exist subcategories such as multi-use, nature trails, and what most think of when referring to hiking – foot trails. Today however, we’re going to be answering the age old question “What is the meaning of an out and back trail?”
What is the Meaning of an Out and Back Trail?
So, what is an out and back trail? An out and back trail is a trail that begins and ends at the same point. These paths can consist of a single or multiple different trails that once reaching the end, you return using the same exact route. This allows for expansive creativity when it comes to the creation of Out and Back trails, as there really is no limit to the number of combinations possible. As long as one path connects to another, just decide your start and end positions and boom, you’ve created your own personal out and back hike! So get out there and plot your own course in the wild!
Out and Back Trail vs Loop Trail Differences
We get a lot of questions asking what the difference is between an Out and Back trail and a Loop trail. Don’t worry; we totally understand how one could confuse the two. Both types of trails start and end at the same location, but the primary difference is that a loop hike, well, forms a physical loop if you were to plot it on a map. Meaning the start and end points actually touch one another. This differs from an Out and Back trail, which tend to just be a “straight” line from one side to the other, with the end points being very far apart.
Out and Back Trail vs Point to Point Trail Differences
As with loop trails, there are a lot of questions as to how Point to Point trails compare to their Out and Back brethren. The major difference here between the three types, is that a Point to Point trail starts and ends in a DIFFERENT location. These trails are usually the type that fall under multiple day hiking trips, or those with incredibly long distances. Some prime (and popular) examples of Point to Point trails include the Pacific Crest and Appalachian Trails. For reference, the Pacific Crest Trail is 2,650 miles long, while the Appalachian Trail comes in at 2,190 miles. Definitely not for the faint of heart!
Best Easy Out and Back Trails
1. Zion Narrows Riverside Walk (1.9 mi)
Located near Springdale, Utah, the Zion Narrows Riverside Walk is a good starter introduction to the land of Out and Back trails. At only 1.9 miles in length, with an elevation gain of 193 feet, this is a perfect hike for all levels of skill. There is plenty of beauty to behold, as this path features wildflowers, a waterfall, beach, and lush forest. That isn’t to mention the wide variety of local wildlife, as bird watchers will have a field day here. Keep in mind there are no dogs allowed on this trail though. Prime months of visitation fall between March and October.
2. Laurel Falls Trail (2.4 mi)
Next up on our Best Easy Out and Back Trails section we have the Laurel Falls Trail. Found in Gatlinburg, Tennessee, this quick 2.4 mile trek is another nice and relaxed hike with a waterfall. Laurel Falls has a bit more of an elevation gain versus Zion Narrows – at 396 feet, but with a bit more length the difficulty is relatively even. This is an extremely popular hike, as it’s located within the Great Smoky Mountains National Park.
An interesting fact is that the original purpose of this trail was a pathway for firefighters to reach Cove Mountain. As a result, the entire length of this hike is paved, and it is accessible all year long. With picturesque views such as a river and forest, this is definitely a nice trail for just taking it easy.
3. Eaten Canyon Trail (3.5 mi)
With the final easy Out and Back trail in this list, we’re moving to the opposite side of the United States. In Pasadena, California you’ll find Eaten Canyon Trail – our first dog friendly path, albeit leash only. At 3.5 miles, it’s a tad longer than our other two easier options. As with Laurel Falls, this trail is also accessible year-round. Featuring caves, forests, waterfalls, and wildflowers, this is a true “nature” hike in every sense of the word.
There are also a myriad of Waypoints along the way, among them you’ll find a picnic area, bridge underpass, Eaton Canyon, and a waterfall to name a few.
Best Moderate Out and Back Trails
1. Devils Bridge Trail (3.9 mi)
Kicking off the moderate Out and Back trails section takes us to Sedona, Arizona. The Devils Bridge Trail is home to a fair amount of traffic, and a 3.9 miles it’s still a manageable adventure. With an elevation gain of 521 feet, one might be confused as to why this hike is considered moderate. Devils Bridge is comprised of a fairly rocky, rough, and rugged terrain and sees primary usage for off road drives and hiking. As a result, the level of skill required to properly traverse the terrain without injury is increased. Not to mention there’s a fairly steep climb towards the end of the trail.
Interesting factual tidbit – Devils Bridge holds the title of the biggest natural sandstone arch within Coconino National Forest.
2. Emerald Lake Trail (3.2 mi)
Next we’re headed over to Colorado. Near Estes Park, Emerald Lake Trail comes in at a distance of 3.2 miles and an elevation gain of almost 700 feet. While there are no dogs allowed, this trail is commonly used for something different for our list – snowshoeing. When it comes to hiking, though, the best months for use are from late May through October. Emerald Lake trail is partially paved, and has one primary waypoint where you can continue your trek over to Lake Haiyaha. Please be aware, however, that Rock Mountain National Park does charge a fee to enter.
3. Cathedral Rock Trail (1.2 mi)
From Colorado we move over to Arizona, Sedona to be exact. The shortest hike on our best moderate Out and Back trails list, this 1.2 mile journey isn’t to be taken lightly. With an elevation gain of 741 feet, Cathedral Rock Trail is just as much of a climb as it is a hike. On the bright side, it IS accessible all year, and welcomes leashed dogs. Keep in mind that while they’re allowed, the route is quite rough, so use discretion. On another note, a beautiful river can be found breaking up the harsh landscape, making it a prime destination for nature trips!
Best Hard Out and Back Trails
1. Angels Landing Trail (4.4 mi)
Starting off our best hard Out and Back trails section out with a bang, we have the ever popular Angels Landing Trail. Found in Springdale, Utah, comes in at a length of 4.4 miles with a staggering elevation gain of 1,604 feet. While the path is partially paved, the rocky landscape paired with the climb make for an extremely challenging hike. Not only that, but Angels Landing Trail is well known for its lack of shade, making for a potentially dangerous situation if not properly prepared.
Please note that there are no dogs allowed on this trail, and for good reason. Extremely hot, rocky terrain and our four-legged furry friends simply don’t mix! This hike is most definitely only recommended to advanced level hikers.
2. Alum Cave Trail to Mount LeConte (10.9 mi)
At number 2, Gatlinburg, Tennessee is our destination. Alum Cave Trail to Mount LeConte is 10.9 miles of difficult, but beautiful landscape. Popular for backpacking and hiking, an elevation gain of 2,896 feet puts this trail firmly out of reach for all but the most seasoned veteran. Along its entirety, visitors can expect to find everything from waterfalls and wildflowers to caves, rivers, and forests. Littered throughout are a number of waypoints, some of which include Arch Rock, Alum Cave Bluff, Inspiration Point, the Fraser Fir Zone, and a welcoming lodge.
3. Lake Blanche Trail (6.4 mi)
Last up on our list is the Lake Blanche Trail located near Mounthaven, Utah. A common favorite for things like backpacking, camping, and snowshoeing, this adventure comes in at around 6.4 miles. As with the rest of our “hard” trails, Lake Blanche also sports a huge elevation gain – 2,716 feet to be exact. This hike is definitely the crown jewel for the Twin Peaks Wilderness area. The optimal timeframe for tackling the Lake Blanche Trail falls between June and October. Finally, this path exists along terrain known for avalanche potential, so plan accordingly and be certain to do your research if planning a trip during the winter months.
What is the Meaning of an Out and Back Trail – Conclusion
If you’ve been wondering what the meaning of an Out and Back trail is, hopefully we’ve provided you with a clearer picture. They are by far the most flexible of trail types given their “walk one way, turn around, and come back” nature, and being able to create your own is just icing on the cake! If you’re looking for more hiking-related articles, consider checking out “5 of the Best Wind River Range Hikes”. Safe trails and happy travels!
