Itching to sneak in a backpacking trip this summer? Whether it's an easy overnighter or a multi-day adventure, here are some places worth the weight on your shoulders.

Juicy Fruit: Embark on an overnight backpacking trip to Sequoia National Park's Pear Lake—a glacial-green sparkler that, you guessed it, is pear-shaped, with multiple cascading waterfalls and campsites a stone's throw from the oasis. The trip there is half the fun: The Watchtower Trail cuts high above a valley floor with views of 1,000-foot Tokapah Falls, the largest in the park.

Big Sur-prise: Take a three-day backpacking sojourn in Big Sur's remote Ventana Wilderness. Trek through lush river canyons, climb to ridges with panoramic vistas, and top it off with a 50-foot waterfall plunging deep into a turquoise swimming hole.

Puss 'n Boots: Hike to a coastal camping paradise along the bluffs, next to a deserted beach. Wildcat Camp in Point Reyes is more than just a sweet spot for pitching your tent: The Coastal Trail leading to it is a wilderness feast for the eyes that weaves along the cusp of the continent.

Butano Backcountry: Sleeping among the redwoods usually requires advance reservations, but—with a little help from a hike—you might snag a trail campsite in Butano State Park. The 5.5-mile hike-in makes you work for it, but this tree-roofed retreat comes with a few extra rewards.

Hawk Eye's View: For an introduction to backpacking, try the short hike to Hawk Camp in the Marin Headlands. Just 2.5 miles from the Tennessee Valley parking lot, with just enough uphill to earn bragging rights, it only has a few sites—all with distant ocean views.

Cycle the Coast, Party at Hearst Castle

There are a lot of good reasons to gear up for the Audi Best Buddies Challenge: Hearst Castle this September, including a 50% discount off their standard registration fee. Sign up for just $25 using the Promo Code "Weekend Sherpa". Cycle California's most famous stretch of coastline from Carmel to San Simeon, right through the heart of Big Sur. Choose from four distances (15, 35, 62, or 100-miles), and pedal alongside pro athletes, celebrities, and cyclists of all abilities, rolling by Big Sur icons like Bixby Bridge and McWay Falls. No bike? No problem—Best Buddies has top-notch bikes for you to use. Rather run or walk? You're on! Join Olympic gold medalist Carl Lewis for a 3K walk or 5K trail run. Whatever you do, all routes lead to a giant soiree on the Hearst Ranch in San Simeon. You'll pick up your VIP gift bag, enjoy a hot shower and professional massage, and then join the post-ride party—a gourmet barbecue with an open bar and live concert by Natasha Bedingfield.

TIP: Enter for just $25 with Promo Code "Weekend Sherpa". (That's half off!) Register before July 25 and you'll be entered to win a brand new Specialized road bike!

The Audi Best Buddies Challenge: Hearst Castle is open to all ages and abilities. Space is limited. Entering with Promo Code "Weekend Sherpa" will also give you a $150 fundraising credit. Money raised by participants goes directly to support Best Buddies' friendships and jobs programs for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities.