December Backpacking Trip Suggestions

[OatsMcGoats]

This December, I want to go on a 3-4 day backpacking trip but could use some help with suggestions. I am from Michigan, but am willing to travel anywhere in the continental U.S. as long as I end up somewhere warmer and more scenic than my home ground. I have snow gear, and am willing to sleep down to the 30s if need be so long as I can enjoy some warmth during the day.

REQUIREMENTS:

• Continental U.S.
• No snow!
• No deserts
• Scenic
• 30-50mi hike
• Nights – 30F Low
• Days – 50F Low

Initially I was considering the Sequoia National Park thinking that the central California climate would be warm enough to avoid snow; but after discovering that it was in the Sierra Nevadas, I’m realizing my folly.

As of now, outside of Michigan, I’ve only backpacked in Kentucky, Glacier National Park, and the Adirondack Mountains and would love an adventure to a new ecosystem. The only thing I am hesitant about exploring are deserts or similar arid regions as I feel I am too inexperienced with such climates.


Any suggestions you may have would be greatly appreciated.

[KerMegan]

there is the 'Lone Star Trail' in the Crockett National forest, just a bit north of Houston, lotsa trees, some lakes, not too many people out at that time of year. 140 miles, but you can pick your section...plenty of B&Bs and cafes available at the start/end of your trip.
I intend to walk it all one of these days. (likely UncleMJM will have more info as he lives nearby...)

[Avenger]

Big Bend National Park. A hidden jewel.

[Gumbo]

Might be a bit warmer than you are looking for but maybe the Natchez Trail or the Florida Trail. Definitely no snow.

[FLRider]

+1 on the Florida Trail. Check out Ocala National Forest for a new ecosystem; it's longleaf pine scrub, which is different than most places I've been on the east coast.

Just be cautious of the fire ants...

[jlb2012]

Sipsey, Bankhead NF AL

[bgraybackpacker]

If you don't mind a bit of rain you could hike the coastline along the Olympic National Park area. This is challenging and you would have to plan on meeting time schedules to hit points at the correct tide marks.