As guides, we often hear from our out-of-state clients how they feel like they need to travel out of state in order to experience a memorable hike. In reality, you don’t need to spend big bucks on a hiking trip to places like Alaska or Montana when there are interesting hikes right in your own backyard. With many states enforcing Stay at Home orders as a response to the COVID-19 pandemic, the need to stay local has become more important now than ever. That’s why we’ve compiled this list of hikes in all 50 states. We’ve also included a family friendly/beginner option for each state.

Two things to note about this list:

Some of these trails may be experiencing closures due to COVID-19, be sure to check trail conditions and status before heading out.

Mileage and elevation numbers were compiled using as many sources as possible but may not be 100% accurate due to variations in data across websites. Take these as an approximation rather than hard numbers.

Alabama: Walls of Jericho Trail 

Walls of Jericho by Fredlyfish4

Mileage: 6.7 Miles Out-and-Back

Rating: Difficult

Elevation Gain: 1,371’

Features: Multiple waterfalls, caves, wildflowers, dog friendly

Tips: Start early to avoid crowds and be aware that the trail is often muddy.

Beginner Alternative: Sougahoagdee Falls, 3.5 Miles Out-and-Back

 

Alaska: Harding Ice Field Trail

Harding Ice Field by NPS

Mileage: 8.3 Miles Out-and-Back

Rating: Difficult

Elevation Gain: 3,073’

Features: Wildflowers, wildlife, sweeping views of the icefield and the surrounding peaks

Tips: Be sure to dress in layers and monitor trail and weather conditions as they can change quickly.

Beginner Alternative: Thunderbird Falls Trail, 1.8 Miles Out-and-Back

 

Arizona: Peralta Trail to Fremont Saddle

Weaver’s Needle by David Taylor

Mileage: 5 Miles Out-and-Back

Rating: Moderate

Elevation Gain: 1,338’

Features: Sweeping views of Weavers Needle and the Superstition Wilderness Area, geologic interest sights from the area’s volcanic past, dog friendly

Tips: Be sure to bring ample water and sunscreen to account for the desert climate. If you’re feeling up to it, Peralta Trail continues past Fremont Saddle through the scenic Superstition Wilderness for a total of 12.4 miles out-and-back. 

Beginner Alternative: West Fork Trail #108 Oak Creek, 7.2 Miles Out-and-Back

 

Arkansas: Indian Creek Trail

Indian Creek by Thomas Shahan

Mileage: 5.4 Miles Out-and-Back

Rating: Difficult

Elevation Gain: 700’

Features: Multiple waterfalls, caves, swimming holes

Tips: There is a portion of this trail that involves a minor climb up an incline. Climbing ropes have been installed as an aid but it can be dangerous when wet or icy. This trail also has a tendency to become very muddy so be sure to check conditions before heading out. 

Beginner Alternative: Tanyard Loop, 2 Mile Loop

 

California: Dipsea, Steep Ravine, and Matt Davis Loop

Matt Davis Loop overlooking Pacific by sk

Mileage: 7.1 Miles Out-and-Back

Rating: Moderate

Elevation Gain: 1,556’

Features: Redwoods, waterfalls, wildflowers, wildlife, Pacific Coast overlook

Tips: Poison oak grows in this area so be cognizant of where you’re stepping or reaching. You will need to climb a ladder to reach the top of Steep Ravine, which can sometimes be a bit slippery but makes for an amazing photo op.

Beginner Alternative: Hidden Falls Trail, 3.2 Mile Loop

 

Colorado: Blue Lakes Trail

Lower Blue Lake by Steve Bratman

Mileage: 7.6 Miles Out-and-Back

Rating: Moderate/Difficult

Elevation Gain: 3,624’

Features: Alpine lakes, dramatic views of Mount Sneffels and the Yankee Boy Basin, wildlife, waterfall, wildflowers, dog friendly

Tips: This hike is best attempted in Summer or Early Fall when the trail is more likely to be clear of snow. Experienced hikers that are feeling ambitious can branch off at the lower lake and summit Class 3 14er Mount Sneffels.

Beginner Alternative: Lake Isabelle Trail, 4.2 Miles Out-and-Back

 

Connecticut: Bear Mountain

Pano from Bear Mountain by Wikipedi

Mileage: 5.4 Miles Out-and-Back

Rating: Moderate/Difficult

Elevation Gain: 1,549’

Features: Spectacular views, Connecticut’s highest peak, wildflowers, bird watching, dog friendly

Tips: While this hike is known for its wildflowers in the Spring, try hiking this trail in the fall for sweeping views of spectacular Northeastern fall colors.

Beginner Alternative: Bluff Point State Park and Coastal Reserve Trail, 3.6 Miles Loop

 

Delaware: Lenape Loop South, Middle Run Natural Area 

Middle Run Natural Area by mllefifi

Mileage: 5 Miles Out-and-Back

Rating: Moderate

Elevation Gain: 354’

Features: Forests, wildflowers, bird watching, dog friendly

Tips: This trail is also popular with bikers, be sure to be aware and share the trail.

Beginner Alternative: Gordon’s Pond, 5.2 Miles Out-and-Back

 

Florida: Florida Trail: Clearwater Lake to Alexander Springs

Aerial View of Alexander Springs by H. Means

Mileage: 10.6 Miles Point-to-Point

Rating: Moderate

Elevation Gain: 249’

Features: Pine forests, swamps, natural springs, wildlife viewing

Tips: While you can shorten this hike on the oldest section of the Florida Trail into a day trek, it’s also an excellent backpacking destination. Be sure to bring bug spray and watch out for ticks.

Beginner Alternative: Bulls Bay Preserve Trail, 1.6 Mile Loop

 

Georgia: Backcountry Trail: Providence Canyon State Park

Providence Canyon by Soil Science

Mileage: 7 Mile Loop

Rating: Moderate

Elevation Gain: 583’

Features: Canyons and unique geology to the area, wildlife, wildflowers, dog friendly

Tips: This trail is a great way to get a taste of the West without leaving Georgia. Many people recommend hiking this trail clockwise to avoid starting the trek off with wet feet at the often washed out beginning section. Also great for backpacking. 

Beginner Alternative: Amicalola Falls, 0.3 Miles Out-and-Back

 

Hawaii: Hanakapi’ai Falls Trail

Hanakapi’ai Falls by Roy Luck

Mileage: 8 Miles Out-and-Back

Rating: Difficult

Elevation Gain: 2,293’

Features: Expansive views of the Na Poli coastline, waterfall, beach

Tips: This rugged trail is known to have muddy areas and slick rocks, watch your step and avoid hiking after a heavy rainfall. Also be aware that advanced reservations are required for non-Hawai’i residents. 

Beginner Alternative: Onomea Bay Donkey Trail Loop, 0.9 Mile Loop

 

Idaho: Scotchman Peak Trail

Mountain Goat atop Scotchman Peak by David Taylor

Mileage: 7.9 Miles Out-and-Back

Rating: Difficult

Elevation Gain: 3,664’

Features: Panoramic views of surrounding mountains, wildlife, wildflowers, remains of an old fire lookout, dog friendly

Tips: Monitor snow conditions and bring adequate gear in the spring, bring bug spray in the late summer/fall. This area is known for its resident mountain goats so keep your eyes peeled!

Beginner Alternative: Lion’s Head Creek Trail, 3.1 Miles Out-and-Back

 

Illinois: Little Grand Canyon Trail

Little Grand Canyon by randwill

Mileage: 3 Miles Loop

Rating: Moderate/Difficult

Elevation Gain: 529’

Features: Waterfall, canyon with noteworthy geology, river, highpoint views, dog friendly

Tips: This trail requires a bit of a scramble/climb and has some slippery sections so be sure to wear good shoes. 

Beginner Alternative: Garden of the Gods Observation Trail, 0.5 Miles Out-and-Back

 

Indiana: 5 Mile Challenge at Turkey Run State Park

Turkey Run State Park, Indiana by David Wilson

Mileage: 6 Mile Loop

Rating: Difficult

Elevation Gain: 629’

Features: Waterfall, cave, suspension bridge, views, canyon, river/creek

Tips: Be advised that this trail requires a few water crossings so dress appropriately. There are also sections that require descending ladders and minor scrambles. Upon completing this challenge in a day and presenting photographic evidence, hikers can receive a sticker as a reward. 

Beginner Alternative: Patton Cave via Grubb Ridge Loop, 4.6 Miles Out-and-Back

 

Iowa: Wildcat Den Trail

Pine Creek Gristmill by Kepper66

Mileage: 3.5 Mile Loop

Rating: Moderate

Elevation Gain: 400’

Features: Historical sites, varying terrain, cave, bluffs, interesting geology, wildflowers, dog friendly

Tips: This area is incredibly unique and can be enjoyed year-round. Wildcat Den State Park also offers sites for camping and picnics.

Beginner Alternative: Maquoketa Caves State Park, 1.7 Mile Loop

 

Kansas: Table Mound Trail

Elk City Bridge

Mileage: 5.6 Miles Out-and-Back

Rating: Moderate

Elevation Gain: 459’

Features: Scenic overlook, unique geology, river, bird watching, dog friendly

Tips: This trail is best hiked when dry as it has a tendency to get quite muddy after a rain. 

Beginner Alternative: Horse Thief Trail, 1.9 Mile Loop

 

Kentucky: Van Hook Falls and Cane Creek Valley

Daniel Boone National Forest

Mileage: 5.7 Miles Out-and-Back

Rating: Moderate

Elevation Gain: 626’

Features: Waterfalls, unique geology, river, wildlife, dog friendly

Tips: Trail gets extremely muddy after a rain. This trail tends to be busy so head out early or on a weekday for optimal seclusion. 

Beginner Alternative: Cedar Sink Trail, 1.8 Miles Out-and-Back

 

Louisiana: Comite Park Trail

Comite River by jillian.e

Mileage: 4.9 Mile Loop

Rating: Moderate

Elevation Gain: 85’

Features: Forests, wildlife, river, beach, dog friendly

Tips: Also great for mountain biking. Be prepared for lots of bugs.

Beginner Alternative: Northlake Nature Center South Loop, 2.1 Miles Out-and-Back

 

Maine: Precipice, Orange and Black and Champlain North Ridge Trail Loop

Precipice Trail by Fredlyfish4

Mileage: 2.3 Mile Loop

Rating: Difficult

Elevation Gain: 1,072’

Features: Amazing views of Frenchman Bay and Acadia State Park, wildlife, adventurous and once-in-a-lifetime trek

Tips: NOT FOR BEGINNERS OR THE FAINT OF HEART. This trail involves nontechnical climbing using ladders, metal rungs, bridges and navigating along sheer cliffs. Thus it is not for those with a fear of heights. However, for experienced hikers seeking a unique adventure it is an immensely rewarding hike. Be advised that the trail is closed March 15- August 15 for falcon nesting.

Beginner Alternative: Ocean Path Trail, 4.5 Miles Out-and-Back

 

Maryland: Annapolis Rock and Black Rock via the Appalachian Trail

Annapolis Rocks Overlook by Patorjk

Mileage: 8 Miles Out-and-Back

Rating: Moderate

Elevation Gain: 932’

Features: Great views of surrounding area, wildlife, interesting geology, dog friendly

Tips: Arrive early to secure a parking spot, do not park illegally as cops often patrol this area and ticket heavily. 

Beginner Alternative: Swallow Falls Canyon Trail, 1.1 Mile Loop

 

Massachusetts: Tully Lake Loop

Tully Lake Camping by Steve Johnson

Mileage: 4.7 Mile Loop

Rating: Moderate

Elevation Gain: 335’

Features: Waterfall, river, lake, wildlife, dog friendly

Tips: This hike involves a short, nontechnical climb along Doane’s Falls and some minor creek crossings, dress appropriately.

Beginner Alternative: Walden Pond Path, 1.7 Miles Loop

 

Michigan: Chapel Loop

A view from the hiking trail above the Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore by Richard Hurd

Mileage: 10.1 Miles Loop

Rating: Moderate

Elevation Gain: 770’

Features: Amazing views of Lake Superior, river, unique geology, wildlife

Tips: Bring bug spray and watch for mud.

Beginner Alternative: Bond Falls Loop, 0.9 Mile Loop

 

Minnesota: Superior Hiking Trail

Middle Gooseberry Falls by Edward Morrissey

Mileage: 310 Miles Point to Point

Rating: Moderate/Difficult

Elevation Gain: 37,800’ (Highest Point: 1,829’, Lowest: 602’)

Features: Seven state parks, waterfalls, sweeping views, wildlife, fishing, dog friendly

Tips: Whether you do a small section in a day or complete the entire thru hike, the SHT gives you many options to fit your hiking needs. Try hiking in the fall to experience the area’s amazing fall colors.

Beginner Alternative: Carlton and Thomson Trail Loop, 5.5 Miles Loop

 

Mississippi: Bear Creek Outcropping Trail

Tishomingo State Park by Visit Mississippi

Mileage: 3.5 Miles Loop

Rating: Moderate

Elevation Gain: 259’

Features: Unique geology and rock formations, small seasonal waterfalls, wildlife, swinging bridge, views of Appalachian foothills, dog friendly

Tips: This is a great hike for you and your four-legged friends, however be aware that dogs must be kept on leash on this trail. The area is also a great spot for rock climbing. 

Beginner Alternative: Dunns Falls Trail, 0.4 Miles Loop

 

Missouri: Whispering Pines Trail

Path into the Pine Trees at Hawn State Park

Mileage: 10.2 Mile Loop

Rating: Moderate/Difficult

Elevation Gain: 1,011’

Features: Unique geology and rock formations, panoramic views, wildlife, creek/spring, seasonal small waterfalls, dog friendly

Tips: There are also several backcountry campsites along this trail for backpacking trips. Be aware that the trail can sometimes become overgrown and buggy in the summer.  

Beginner Alternative: White Tail Trail, 2.6 Miles Loop

 

Montana: Bear Creek Overlook Trail

Bitterroot Mountains by G. Thomas

Mileage: 3 Miles Out-and-Back

Rating: Moderate/Difficult

Elevation Gain: 1,099’

Features: Stunning views of surrounding mountains and the valley below, wildlife, dog-friendly

Tips: Check snow conditions before heading out as the trail and the road accessing it become harder to access in deep snow. Also watch out for ticks in the summer. 

Beginner Alternative: Ousel Falls Trail, 1.6 Miles Out-and-Back

 

Nebraska: Rock Bluff Run

Scenic Overlook of Missouri River by Caleb Zahnd

Mileage: 6.1 Mile Loop

Rating: Moderate/Difficult

Elevation Gain: 564’

Features: Unique geology and rock formations, sweeping views, dog-friendly, river

Tips: Watch out for bugs and mud. People have also reported that the trail signage is hard to follow so bring a map or navigation device to avoid getting turned around. 

Beginner Alternative: Saddle Rock Trail, 3.1 Miles Out-and-Back

 

Nevada: Wheeler Peak Summit Hike

View of Wheeler Peak and Engelmann Spruce forest from the Wheeler Peak Summit Trail by Famartin

Mileage: 8 Miles Out-and-Back

Rating: Difficult

Elevation Gain: 3,041’

Features: Panoramic views from the summit, wildlife, wildflowers, a chance to summit the highest peak in the Snake Range

Tips: The summit is notoriously windy, so bring appropriate gear. This is a hard hike in a high altitude area, do your research and plan accordingly. 

Beginner Alternative: White Domes Road, 5.5 Miles Point-to-Point

 

New Hampshire: Welch and Dickey Loop Trail

Views from the Welch-Dickey Loop Trail by rickpilot_2000

Mileage: 4.2 Mile Loop

Rating: Moderate/Difficult

Elevation Gain: 1,709’

Features: Two mountain summits, panoramic views, wildlife, river, wildflowers

Tips: Avoid hiking this trail in wet weather, as the exposed rock can become extremely slick. Many people recommend doing this loop counter-clockwise for an easier time and to maximize views.

Beginner Alternative: The Flume Gorge Trail, 1.9 Mile Loop

 

New Jersey: Buttermilk Falls, Crater Lake, and Hemlock Pond Loop

Buttermilk Falls Delaware Water Gap Recreation Area by jason jenkins

Mileage: 7.2 Mile Loop

Rating: Moderate/Difficult

Elevation Gain: 1,301’

Features: Tallest waterfall in New Jersey, lake, wildlife, views of Kittatinny Mountains

Tips: The main road is closed in the winter and people report needing high clearance vehicles to access the trailhead. Cars with especially low clearance should use the eastern route instead. Additionally, many people report that the parking lot can be closed sometimes, be sure to check before heading out or be ready to add an extra few miles to your trek. 

Beginner Alternative: Maurice River Bluffs Trail, 4.4 Mile Loop

 

New Mexico: Valley of Dreams Loop

Ah-Shi-Sle-Pah by John Fowler

Mileage: 3.7 Mile Loop

Rating: Moderate

Elevation Gain: 255’

Features: Unique geology and hoodoos, no crowds, interesting views

Tips: There is no shade on this hike so start early or late to avoid the desert midday sun. Many people recommend exploring the back side of the loop for some alien rock formations. 

Beginner Alternative: Osha Trail, 2.1 Mile Loop

 

New York: Hurricane Mountain Trail: Northern Approach

Hurricane Mountain by Jeff Robinson

Mileage: 5.6 Miles Out-and-Back

Rating: Moderate

Elevation Gain: 1,528’

Features: Panoramic views of the Adirondack Mountains, wildflowers, dog friendly

Tips: Arrive early to secure parking on this semi-popular trail. Also be advised that the road to the trailhead closes in the winter. You can still access the trailhead but it adds an additional 0.5 miles to your trek. 

Beginner Alternative: Baker Woods Preserve, 2.7 Mile Loop

 

North Carolina: Grassy Ridge Bald via the Appalachian Trail

Roan Mountain

Mileage: 4.7 Miles Out-and-Back

Rating: Moderate

Elevation Gain: 1,033’

Features: Sweeping views of the surrounding mountains, wildflowers, dog friendly

Tips: Many thru-hikers hail this as the ‘prettiest section of the AT’. Be aware that the weather changes quickly so bring appropriate layers. 

Beginner Alternative: Max Patch Loop, via the AT 1.5 Mile Loop

 

North Dakota: Caprock Coulee Trail

Caprock Coulee by NPS

Mileage: 4.2 Mile Loop

Rating: Moderate

Elevation Gain: 631’

Features: Unique geology, amazing views, wildlife, wildflowers

Tips: Bison roam this area and can impede your trail progress, keep your distance and give the animals the right of way. It has been reported that there are a few sections that it can become easy to branch off onto the wrong trail, bring a map or use a wayfinding app. 

Beginner Alternative: Wind Canyon Trail, 0.5 Mile Loop

 

Ohio: Old Man’s Cave and Ash Cave via the Buckeye Trail

Old Man’s Cave by Jaknouse

Mileage: 9.3 Miles Out-and-Back

Rating: Moderate

Elevation Gain: 843’

Features: Caves and interesting geology, waterfalls, rivers/springs, dog friendly 

Tips: Previous hikers recommend taking your time with this trail as there is much to see. 

Beginner Alternative: Rock House, 0.9 Mile Loop

 

Oklahoma: Bison Trail

Sunrise by Larry Smith

Mileage: 5.3 Mile Loop

Rating: Moderate

Elevation Gain: 257’

Features: River, lake, dog friendly, interesting views, wildflowers

Tips: This trail can become overgrown and there have been sightings of rattlesnakes so it is recommended to wear long pants and hiking boots.

Beginner Alternative: Tree Trail, 1.6 Miles Out-and-Back

 

Oregon: Trail of Ten Falls

Silver Falls State Park Oregon by Steven Robinson

Mileage: 7.8 Mile Loop

Rating: Moderate

Elevation Gain: 1,062’

Features: Multiple waterfalls, old-growth forests, unique geology

Tips: Start early to avoid crowds. Lots of other trails to explore in the area as well.  

Beginner Alternative: Koosahand Sahalie Falls Trail, 2.2 Mile Loop

 

Pennsylvania: Ricketts Glen Falls Loop

Ganoga Falls in Ricketts Glen State Park by Juliancolton

Mileage: 6.7 Mile Loop

Rating: Moderate/Difficult

Elevation Gain: 1,025’

Features: Multiple waterfalls, wildflowers, river/creek, dog friendly

Tips: This trail is only accessible by properly equipped hikers and ice climbers in the winter. Be prepared to hike lots of stairs.

Beginner Alternative: Dingman’s Falls via Dingman’s Creek Trail, 1.4 Miles Out-and-Back

 

Rhode Island: Long Ponds Woods Trail

Fall in New England

Mileage: 4.2 Miles Out-and-Back

Rating: Moderate

Elevation Gain: 429’

Features: Beautiful vistas, lake, wildflowers, wildlife

Tips: Be prepared to do a bit of scrambling on this trek. Also a great spot for fishing. 

Beginner Alternative: Fisherville Brook Wildlife Refuge Trail, 3.3 Mile Loop

 

South Carolina: Rainbow Falls Trail

Jones Gap State Park by Scott Oves

Mileage: 3 Miles Out-and-Back

Rating: Moderate/Difficult

Elevation Gain: 1,105’

Features: Waterfall, wildlife, river/creek, spring, great views, dog friendly

Tips: Be prepared for a rocky and steep ascent with a worthwhile reward.

Beginner Alternative: King Creek Falls Trail, 1.7 Miles Out-and-Back

 

South Dakota: Black Elk Peak Loop

Black Elk Peak by Skye Marthaler

Mileage: 7.9 Mile Loop

Rating: Moderate/Difficult

Elevation Gain: 1,357’

Features: Sweeping vistas, lake, wildlife, dog friendly, interesting geology

Tips: This area is closed in the winter.

Beginner Alternative: Sylvan Lake Shore Trail, 1.1 Mile Loop

 

Tennessee: Alum Cave

David on Alum Cave Trail by daveynin

Mileage: 10.5 Miles Out-and-Back

Rating: Difficult

Elevation Gain: 2,942’

Features: Unique geology and caves, waterfall, sweeping views of the surrounding Smoky Mountains, wildlife, river/creek

Tips: Get an early start to avoid crowds. Be prepared for swift changes in weather. 

Beginner Alternative: Burgess Falls Trail, 1.1 Miles Out-and-Back

 

Texas: Emory Peak Hiking Trail

Trail Junction and Emory Peak by Fredlyfish4

Mileage: 9.3 Miles Out-and-Back

Rating: Difficult

Elevation Gain: 2,415’

Features: Summit the 3rd highest peak in Texas, panoramic views, wildflowers

Tips: Be prepared for a somewhat sketchy rock scramble towards the summit. 

Beginner Alternative: Brushy Creek Trail East to Kenny Fort, 5.9 Miles Out-and-Back

 

Utah: Lake Blanche Trail

Sundial by OwenXu

Mileage: 7 Mile Out-and-Back

Rating: Moderate/Difficult

Elevation Gain: 2,592’

Features: Lake, stunning mountain views, river/creek, wildlife, wildflowers, waterfalls

Tips: Steep climb but much to see, give yourself ample time for this hike. 

Beginner Alternative: Colonnade Arch, 2.9 Miles Out-and-Back

 

Vermont: Sunset Ridge

View East Along Sunset Trail by Famartin

Mileage: 5.1 Miles Out-and-Back

Rating: Difficult

Elevation Gain: 2,496’

Features: Panoramic views, river/creek, waterfall, wildlife, dog friendly

Tips: Trail has a tendency to become slippery in wet or winter conditions, wear appropriate footwear and watch your step. 

Beginner Alternative: Moss Glen Falls Trail, 4.2 Miles Out-and-Back

 

Virginia: Virginia’s Triple Crown Loop

McAfee’s Knob by ksteryous

Mileage: 34.8 Mile Loop

Rating: Moderate/Difficult

Elevation Gain: 6,774’

Features: Three of Virginia’s best hiking destinations, multiple beautiful overlooks, river/creek, wildlife, dog friendly

Tips: Break this trail down into sections for day hikes or backpack the whole thing for an extended adventure. Due to this thru hike’s difficulty, rapid weather changes, rock scrambles and lack of water sources, it is not recommended for beginners. 

Beginner Alternative: Roaring Run Hoop Hole Trail, 1.7 Miles Out-and-Back

 

Washington: Mount Fremont Lookout Trail

Mt. Fremont Fire lookout near Sunrise on Mt. Rainier by Andrew E. Larsen

Mileage: 5.4 Miles Out-and-Back

Rating: Moderate

Elevation Gain: 1,145’

Features: Stunning vistas of Mt. Rainer, historic fire lookout, wildflowers, wildlife, lake

Tips: Be advised that the road leading to the trailhead closes in the winter and reopens in early summer snow-permitting. Be sure to check road status and snow conditions before heading out.

Beginner Alternative: Marymere Falls Trail, 1.7 Miles Out-and-Back

 

West Virginia: North Fork Mountain Trail to Chimney Top

High Point North Fork Mountain by ForestWander

Mileage: 5.3 Miles Out-and-Back

Rating: Difficult

Elevation Gain: 1,975’

Features: Panoramic views, interesting geology, wildflowers, wildlife, dog friendly

Tips: Try hitting the summit around sunrise or sunset for a different experience!

Beginner Alternative: Brush Creek Falls Trail, 3.9 Miles Out-and-Back

 

Wisconsin: Meyer’s Beach Sea Cave Trail

Apostle Islands by Royalbroil

Mileage: 4.6 Mile Loop

Rating: Moderate

Elevation Gain: 269’

Features: Unique geology and caves, stunning views of Lake Superior, seasonal waterfall, wildlife, dog friendly

Tips: Be advised that there is a $5 fee to park in the Apostle Islands National Lakeshore area.  

Beginner Alternative: Mallard Lake Trail, 1.4 Mile Loop

 

Wyoming: Cascade Canyon Trail

Cascade Canyon by NPS

Mileage: 9 Miles Out-and-Back

Rating: Moderate

Elevation Gain: 1,000’

Features: Wildlife, waterfall, lake, stunning mountain vistas, wildflowers, interesting geology

Tips: Be aware that this is a high elevation area and snow can linger well into June, check snow conditions before hitting the trail. 

Beginner Alternative: Grand Prismatic Hot Spring Trail, 1.6 Miles Out-and-Back

 

  • Written by Hayley Moser. Adventurer and Fly Fishing, Backpacking, and Hiking Guide for Colorado Wilderness Rides and Guides.

Comments are closed.