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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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.
