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