This post is authored by Ella Kim.

As spring rolls through, wiping away the winter chill and the weather warms up, so does the time to set out and experience some of the grandest views nature has to offer, and perhaps even better than the views is the price tag; free (well the hiking part at least, the travelling part may cost some money). The trails I outlined can be all completed in a day and makes for a great time to spend outdoors and reconnect with friends, family and nature.

These seven trails in some of the most beautiful areas in North America will make you want to bust out the hiking shoes, sunscreen and your water bottle. Spending a day hiking in one of these seven locations can make a wonderful summer memory and a great experience with friends and family.

1. Rim Trail in Grand Canyon National Park, Arizona

This trail will always be a popular choice. The trail extends approximately 13 miles with a mostly paved trail. The incline is minimal, making it an optimal setting for an easy hike for those who want all the beauty of the Canyon's breathtaking views at a leisurely pace. It is even great for smaller children considering the paved trail, there are even shuttle stops at different points along the way that will pick you up if you (or your kids) get tired, but the incredible overlooks (especially at sunset or dawn) cannot be beaten.

2. Halemau'u Trail in Haleakala National Park, Hawaii

Hawaii is a state that is synonymous with natural beauty and the Halemau’u Trail is no exception. This intermediate trail is a 11.2-mile hike that brings the beauty of Hawaii's wildlife to the forefront. Placed in Upper Maui, the land shrubby terrain leads the hiker to the Haleakala Crater and dumps off into the parking lot where the weary, but satisfied hikers car should be waiting for their return.

3. Harding Icefield Trail in Kenai Fjords National Park, Alaska

Harding Icefield is one of the largest icefields in the world. For almost 9 miles this trail winds up from Exit Glacier and finishes overlooking the icefield in all its glory. Perfect for a great Instagram or Facebook post if you are that kind of hiker. The weather itself can change drastically along the way, so it’s important to pack well and appropriately, so dressing in layers is a necessity. Beginners may want to have a few hikes under their belt to better get a feeling for what they should and need to pack before going on this hike (at least in my opinion). Though the raise in elevation make the Harding Icefield trail more strenuous for the unexperienced or novice hiker so if it is your first day hike, you may want to take it a little slower. That being said, the reward far outweighs the cost.

4. Devil's Garden Trail to Landscape Arch in Arches National Park, Utah

Though it is the shortest trail on this list, this trail does not lack in incredible scenery. The trail follows 1.6 miles of some of mostly sandstone. Water erosion has creating intriguing shapes in the mineral to make a great place to explore. An out-and-back trail like this one, though short, can only leave a lasting impression of its vibrant red scenery in its desert ecosystem.

5. Hoh River Trail in Olympic National Park, Oregon

The Hoh River Trail is 17.4 miles of temperate rainforest. The trail is highly trafficked itself, but the fairy tale atmosphere makes one feel like they have stepped into a different world. Only in the later four miles does the trail turn steep, but it a relatively flat and easy hike. The lush greens and dense greenery form a canopy over the trail and make the trail one of the most enjoyable on the list.

6. Highline Loop Trail in Glacier National Park, Montana

At 11.8 miles, the Highline Loop has dynamic terrain that keep hikers excited to continue around the next bend. The hike is strenuous with its diverse terrain, but it only leads to wildlife just as varied and beautiful. Again, beginner hikers may want to have a few other day hikes under their belts before attempting this trail (but again that is just my humble opinion). Though the trail can get treacherous, with like ledges that are only between 6-8 feet wide along the Continental Divide. If you are afraid of heights, just don’t look down! The trail will make facing your fears easy with including large mountains with snow capped peaks and meadows will with wildflowers.

7. Hawksbill Loop in Shenandoah National Park, Virginia

This hike is a tad special due to it being my first day day hike I did and completed. Believe me, the view is to die for (figuratively, not literally of course). Especially during the sunrise or sunset, it becomes a hotspot for hikers to get a quick picture for Instagram or a perfect opportunity for an awesome selfie.

This hiking trail is only 2.9 miles so you spend a lazy afternoon taking a leisurely stroll, but leaves a big impact with its panoramic view from the highest peak within the park. It is shorter, but it is also more strenuous with a steep incline. The 360 degree view makes it easy to observe birds in the area and is a popular trail for aviary research for ecologist. That’s not to say that volunteers and the average birdwatcher can’t be found either. Only 75 miles from Washington DC, it is a great escape from the city to the clear summit and rolling greens of the Blue Ridge Mountains.

Though the summer brings beautiful outdoor weather, always check the trail status and the weather before heading out on a day enjoying what the United States wilderness has to offer. Be sure to follow trail guidelines, keep furry friends on their leash, bring lots of water, and always keep the trails clean and beautiful.

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About this Guest Author: Ella, Content Manager for trekbible, is a writer and content specialist with a predilection for learning and exploring new places and cultures around the world. With family scattered throughout the U.S. and South Korea, she loves to see cross-cultural influences around the world. Her favorite thing to do on her travels is to taste the local cuisine of each destination.

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