Where Are Good Hiking Spots? | Hikers University

We all get recommended to hiking spots that turn out to be too basic to extract a good experience. So, where are good hiking spots?

When you take on the hard work of planning and preparing for a hike, it is natural that you want the spot you hike on to offer some scenic and eye-pleasing views.

There are hiking spots that are not that worthwhile, and then there are hiking spots that offer an unforgettable experience. Burroughs Mountain Hike, Halema'uma'u Trail, Charlies Bunion Hike, Canyon to Rim Loop, and Billy Goat Trail are among the most amazing hiking spots in the United States.

I have detailed some useful information about the spots here as well to give you a better idea of what to expect from each of them.

Each spot on this list has received several highly positive reviews from hikers who have visited them.

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Best Hiking Spots

Here is a list of some ideal hiking spots for hikers with all levels of expertise:

Nugget Falls Trail

Nugget Falls Trail is a 3.8-mile out-and-back trail located in Tongass National Forest in Alaska. The trail is rated as difficult and features breathtaking views of Nugget Falls and the surrounding mountains. Visitors can also expect to see plenty of wildlife, including bears, eagles, and mountain goats.

The trailhead for Nugget Falls Trail is located near the end of the parking lot for the Mendenhall Glacier Visitor Center. From there, the trail winds through the forest for about 2 miles before reaching the falls. The last mile of the trail is steep and rugged, so be sure to wear appropriate footwear and bring plenty of water.

Once you reach Nugget Falls, you'll be rewarded with incredible views. Be sure to take plenty of photos and enjoy the peacefulness of this beautiful spot.

If you're looking for an adventurous hike with breathtaking views, be sure to add Nugget Falls Trail to your list!

Appalachian Trail

If you love hiking and being in nature, then you need to check out Appalachian Trail in Shenandoah National Park! This popular trail stretches over 2,000 miles from Georgia to Maine.

In Shenandoah, the trail offers beautiful scenery, wildlife spotting opportunities, and a chance to get away from your everyday life. Here are some things you should know before you go:

  1. The trail is divided into sections, so you can choose how long or short of a hike you want to do.
  2. There are shelters and campsites along the way if you want to stay overnight.
  3. Make sure you're prepared for all weather conditions - the park can experience extreme temperatures, so come prepared for both hot and cold weather.
  4. There are some areas of the trail that are more difficult than others - if you're not an experienced hiker, be sure to pick an easier section to start with.
  5. Don't forget your camera! The views along the trail are absolutely stunning.

If you're looking for a beautiful hiking destination, Appalachian Trail in Shenandoah National Park is definitely worth a visit!

Burroughs Mountain Hike

One of the most popular hikes in Mount Rainier National Park is Burroughs Mountain Hike. The trailhead is located near the Sunrise Visitor Center, and the hike itself is about five miles round trip.

The views from the top of Burroughs Mountain are absolutely stunning, and on a clear day, you can see all the way to Seattle. If you're looking for a challenging hike with incredible views, Burroughs Mountain Hike is definitely worth checking out.

The total length of Burroughs Mountain Hike is about 5 miles, but the elevation gain is only about 1,700 feet. The first part of the trail is relatively flat, but it starts to get more challenging as you climb up towards Panorama Point.

The last mile or so is the most strenuous, but the views from the top are more than worth it. There are a few places along the trail where you can stop and rest, and there are also some great photo opportunities.

If you're looking for a longer hike, you can extend your trip by connecting to the Grand Loop Trail. This will add an additional four miles to your hike, but it's definitely doable if you're feeling up for it. Just be sure to give yourself plenty of time, as this hike will take you around eight hours to complete.

No matter how you choose to do it, Burroughs Mountain Hike is an incredible experience that you won't soon forget. So what are you waiting for? Get out there and enjoy one of the best hikes Mount Rainier National Park has to offer.

Halema'uma'u Trail

The Halema'uma'u Trail is a popular hiking trail in Hawai'i Volcanoes National Park. The trailhead is located near the end of Crater Rim Drive, and the trail winds through native forest and lava flow before culminating at the edge of Halema'uma'u crater. The trail offers exhilarating views of the crater, as well as opportunities to see native plants and wildlife.

The Halema'uma'u Trail is a moderate hike, with an elevation gain of approximately 1000 feet. The trail is approximately 2 miles long and takes most hikers 3-4 hours to complete. Hikers should be prepared for changing weather conditions, as the crater can experience high winds and rain.

The best time to hike the Halema'uma'u Trail is in the early morning before the sun gets too high in the sky. This will help you avoid the heat and crowds that often gather later in the day.

The best thing about Halema'uma'u Trail is the incredible views it offers of the Halema'uma'u crater. The crater is one of the most active volcanoes in the world, and it is truly an amazing sight to behold. If you are lucky, you may even see some lava flowing into the crater while you are hiking.

Whether you are a seasoned hiker or a beginner, the Halema'uma'u Trail is a must-do when visiting Hawai'i Volcanoes National Park. Be sure to bring plenty of water and snacks, and dress for the weather. Most importantly, have fun and enjoy the incredible views!

Charlies Bunion Hike

If you're looking for a great hiking adventure in the Great Smoky Mountains, look no further than Charlies Bunion Hike. This popular trail is located in the heart of the park and offers amazing views of the surrounding mountains.

The hike itself is relatively easy, making it perfect for families or those who aren't looking for a strenuous trek. However, there are some areas of the trail that are more challenging, so be sure to take your time and enjoy the scenery. Charlies Bunion is a great place to stop and take in the views, so don't forget your camera!

The total length of the Charlies Bunion Hike is 8 miles, but there are plenty of places to stop and rest along the way. The hike can be done in a day, but if you're looking to camp overnight, there are several campsites located along the trail.

No matter how you choose to enjoy it, Charlies Bunion Hike is sure to give you an unforgettable experience in the Great Smoky Mountains.

A great thing about Charlies Bunion Hike is that it is located in the heart of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. This means that you can enjoy all the benefits of the park, including its many trails, picnic areas, and scenic views.

The park is also home to a variety of wildlife, so keep your eyes peeled for some of the local animals. Charlies Bunion Hike is the perfect way to experience all that the Great Smoky Mountains have to offer.

Billy Goat Trail 

Billy Goat Trail is one of the most popular hiking trails in Chesapeake and Ohio Canal National Historical Park. The trail is located in the Potomac River Gorge, and it offers jaw-dropping views of the river and the surrounding cliffs.

The trail is divided into two sections: Section A and Section B. Section A is considered the more difficult of the two, with a steep incline and rocky terrain. Section B is less strenuous, but it still has some challenging sections.

The total length of Billy Goat Trail is 4 miles (6.4 km). Section A is 1.7 miles (2.7 km) long, and Section B is 2.3 miles (3.7 km) long.

The trailhead for Billy Goat Trail is located at the Great Falls Visitor Center, which is situated off Route 193 in Montgomery County, Maryland.

To reach the visitor center, take I-495 to Exit 41 and follow signs for River Road/Great Falls Park. Once you arrive at the park, drive to the end of the road and park in the lot near the Visitor Center. From there, it's a short walk to the start of the trail.

Billy Goat Trail is open year-round, but it's best to hike the trail during the spring or fall when the weather is cooler. The trail can be crowded on weekends, so it's recommended to hike during the week if possible.

Before beginning your hike, be sure to stop by the Visitor Center and pick up a map of the trail. There are also restrooms and water fountains located at the Visitor Center, so it's a good idea to use them before starting your hike.

When you're ready to begin, follow the signs for Section A of the trail. The first part of the trail is relatively easy, but it starts to get more difficult as you climb up rocks and over boulders. There are several places along the trail where you can stop and rest and take in the views of the Potomac River.

After reaching the top of Section A, the trail flattens out and becomes much easier. Follow the signs for Section B, and continue hiking until you reach the end of the trail.

Billy Goat Trail is a great hike for all skill levels, and it's a perfect way to experience the beauty of Chesapeake and Ohio Canal National Historical Park.

Kalalau Trail, Hawaii

Kalalau Trail is one of the most popular hiking trails in Hawaii. The trail is located in Ha'ena State Park on the island of Kauai. The trailhead is located at Kee Beach.

The trail is 11 miles long and runs along the Napali Coast. The trail is considered to be moderate to difficult, with several steep sections. There are several waterfalls and swimming holes along the trail.

Hikers should be aware that there is no drinking water available along the trail. Hikers should also be prepared for changes in weather, as the weather can be very different at the beach than it is further up the trail.

There are several campsites along the trail, but permits are required in order to stay overnight. Permits can be obtained from the Hawaii Department of Land and Natural Resources.

One of the best things about the Kalalau Trail is that it takes you to some of the most beautiful and isolated beaches in Hawaii. The Napali Coast is truly a special place, and hiking the Kalalau Trail is one of the best ways to experience it.

Chautauqua Trail

Chautauqua Trail is one of the most popular hiking trails in Chautauqua Park. The trailhead is located near the park's main entrance, and the trail itself is a little over two miles long.

The trail is relatively easy to hike, with only a few moderate sections. However, there are some great views to be had from the top of the trail. From the summit, hikers can see all of Boulder and the surrounding area.

The total length of the Chautauqua Trail is 2.2 miles, and the average hike time is about 1-2 hours. The trail is open year-round, but it is best to avoid hiking it during the winter months when the snow and ice can make the trail dangerous.

One of the best things about Chautauqua Trail is that it is dog-friendly so you can bring your furry friend along for the hike! Just be sure to keep them on a leash at all times.

Whether you're a Boulder local or just visiting the area, Chautauqua Trail is a great place to get some fresh air and take in the beautiful scenery. So what are you waiting for? Lace up your hiking boots and hit the trail!

Canyon to Rim Loop

If you're looking for a challenging and rewarding hike, look no further than the Canyon to Rim Loop at Smith Rock State Park. This difficult trail takes hikers through some of the most beautiful scenery in the park, including amazing views of the canyon below.

The trail is not for the faint of heart, but those who make it to the top are rewarded with incredible views of the surrounding area.

The Canyon to Rim Loop is a 7.2-mile trail that begins at the Smith Rock Trailhead and winds its way through the canyon before ascending to the top of the rim.

The first section of the trail is relatively flat, but it quickly becomes more difficult as it climbs up into the canyon. There are several steep sections along the way, and hikers should be prepared for a strenuous hike. The trail is also very rocky in places, so good hiking shoes are a must.

The views from the top of the rim are simply incredible, and it's easy to see why this hike is so popular. From the rim, hikers can see all the way down into the canyon below. The views of the surrounding area are also stunning, and on a clear day, it's possible to see for miles.

If you're looking for a challenging hike with amazing views, the Canyon to Rim Loop at Smith Rock State Park is definitely worth checking out. Just be sure to bring plenty of water and snacks, and wear proper hiking shoes.

Petroglyph Trail, Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area

Petroglyph Trail is a great hiking trail for those who love to explore and appreciate ancient history. The trail is located in the Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area, just outside of Las Vegas, Nevada.

The area is well known for its rich Native American history and beautiful rock formations. The Petroglyph Trail takes hikers on a 1.5-mile journey through this incredible landscape. Along the way, hikers will see many different petroglyphs (ancient rock carvings) that have been left behind by the Native Americans who once inhabited this land.

The Petroglyph Trail is a moderate hike that is appropriate for all skill levels. However, it is important to note that the trail can be quite rocky in places. Be sure to wear proper footwear and bring plenty of water.

A great thing about Petroglyph Trail is that it is open to the public all year round. So, no matter when you are visiting the Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area, you will be able to enjoy this amazing trail.

The Petroglyph Trail is a great way to experience the beauty and history of the Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area. This trail is perfect for those who love to hike and explore ancient rock art. So, if you are ever in the area, be sure to check it out!

South Rim Trail, Grand Canyon National Park

South Rim Trail is one of the most popular trails in Grand Canyon National Park. The trailhead is located near the Bright Angel Lodge and is well-marked. From there, the trail winds its way along the South Rim of the canyon, offering beautiful views of the canyon below.

The trail is relatively easy to follow and is suitable for hikers of all levels. There are a few sections where the trail is steep and narrow, but these are well-marked and should not pose any problems for experienced hikers. The South Rim Trail is a great way to experience the grandeur of the Grand Canyon up close and personal.

If you're planning on hiking the South Rim Trail, there are a few things you should keep in mind. First, the trail can be quite crowded during peak season, so be prepared to share the trail with other hikers. Second, the trail is located at a high elevation, so make sure you're acclimated to the altitude before attempting the hike.

Finally, although the trail is generally safe, there are some hazards to be aware of. Make sure you're familiar with the area and have a map with you so you can stay on track. With a little planning and preparation, your hike on the South Rim Trail will be an unforgettable experience.

Point Lobos Loop Trail, Point Lobos State Natural Reserve

If you're looking for a great hiking trail in Point Lobos State Natural Reserve, look no further than the Point Lobos Loop Trail. This popular trail offers beautiful views of the coast and plenty of opportunities to see wildlife up close. Here's everything you need to know about hiking the Point Lobos Loop Trail.

The Point Lobos Loop Trail is a 3.5-mile loop trail that starts and ends at Whalers Cove. The trailhead is located just past the parking lot for Whalers Cove. The trail is well-marked and easy to follow.

The first section of the trail takes you through a dense forest of Monterey Cypress trees. This shady section of the trail is a great place to cool off on a hot day. The forest opens up after about a mile, and you'll start to get views of the coast.

As you hike along the cliffs, keep your eyes peeled for wildlife. Point Lobos is home to a variety of animals, including sea lions, seals, whales, dolphins, and otters. If you're lucky, you might even see some of these animals from the trail.

The Point Lobos Loop Trail is a great hike for all levels. The trail is mostly flat, with just a few gentle hills. There are also plenty of places to rest and take in the beautiful views.

So whether you're looking for a challenging hike or an easy stroll with unbelievable views, be sure to add the Point Lobos Loop Trail to your list.

About THE AUTHOR

Peter Brooks

Peter Brooks

I’m a hiker, backpacker, and general outdoor enthusiast. I started hiking out of college while working for the National Forest Service, and have been hiking ever since. I’ve been solo hiking and leading hiking groups for two decades and have completed hundreds of small hikes and some majorones such as the Appalachian Train and the Pacific Crest Trail, and hiked on four continents. I’d love to share some of my insight with you.

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