With spring finally on our doortsteps, we can’t wait to get back on the hillsides and climb some mountains. In this beautiful country we are not stuck for choice either with stunning scenery in national parks spread across the east, west and midlands.  Whether we are a seasoned hiker or just beginning to amble around the forests and landscapes,
there is a trail for all of us. 

Emerald Pools Trail
Difficulty: Easy
Miles: 2 

A popular hike in the warmer months, the Emerald Pools Trail in Utah’s stunning Zion National Park is sure to get our hiking legs moving again after a long, stiff winter. More experienced hikers may want to check out some of the more challenging, less busy trails (of which Zion has no shortage) but for a easy, relaxing day hike, this trail is just what we are looking for.

The Narrows
Difficulty: Moderate
Miles: 16 

Well known among adventurers in North America, The Narrows features something not many trails do – a hike along a creek with tall red sandstone walls on either sides. Planning a trip to The Narrows does require some considerations as summer and early fall are the best times to visit and the condition of the route must be checked prior to setting off.

Trillium Falls Trails
Difficulty: Moderate
Miles: 2.5 

Wander amongst some of the tallest redwoods in the world in one of the more popular trails in California’s Redwood National Park. This moderate day hike features a waterfall to add to the wonderment of the rich, lush surroundings that we won’t be forgetting in a hurry. Nature lovers will adore the variety of flora and fauna in these enchanted forest surroundings.

Redwood Creek Trail
Difficulty: Moderate-Difficult
Miles: 8

Hike the 8 miles as far as Tall Trees Grove to walk amongst the giant trees. These include the Libbey Tree which once held the title of world’s tallest tree. Note that some footbridges may not be in operation until summer.

Olympic National Park, Washington

Ruby Beach
Difficulty: Easy
Miles: 5 miles

See the Pacific North West in all of its beautiful glory with an easy-paced hike along the coastline to Ruby Beach. Not immune to wild winds and large waves, look up to catch a glimpse of  bald eagles and continue on to Kalaoch Lodge for some coffee with a serious view. Definitely one to bring the camera along for.

Aurora Creek Trail
Difficulty: Moderate-Strenuous
Miles: 6.8 

A heavily forested hike that is definitely not for the faint-hearted, the Aurora Creek Trail rises 3400 feet in only 3.4 miles. If a challenge is what we are looking for then this trail is certain to hand it to us.

Running through an incredible 14 states from Georgia to Maine, the Appalachian Trail has many amazing places perfect for a day hike. Here, we’ve chosen two of these states at random but you can check them all out here.

West Virginia
Difficulty: Easy-Moderate
Miles: 4

Those who make the relatively short journey on the West Virginia section of the Appalachian Trail will get to experience one of the most historic towns in the US. Harpers Ferry is now a protected national park and one of the only towns the AT passes through and is also home to the headquarters of the Appalachian Trail Conservancy.

Maine
Difficulty: Easy-Strenuous
Miles: 282

According to the Appalachian Trail Conservancy, Maine boasts the most challenging section of the entire AT –  the Mahoosuc Notch. Those fit and adventurous enough to take on Maine’s trail will be rewarding with magnificent views and spectacular wildlife such as moose.

Mirror Lake Trail
Difficulty: Easy-Moderate
Miles: 2 roundtrip + 5 miles loop around lake

Views of the valley and Half Dome are simple breathtaking to take in from the Mirror Lake Trail. The best time of the year to visit the lake is generally spring and early summer as it tends to have more water than in the later summer months.

Snow Creek Trail
Difficulty: Strenuous
Miles: 9.4

After the relaxed hike as far as Mirror Lake, more advanced hikers may be feeling up to the challenge of the Snow Creek Trail. Choose your path carefully – Yosemite Valley will offer some very strenuous climbing with Tioga Road being a little easier.

SHOP WOMEN’S HIKING FOOTWEAR
SHOP MEN’S HIKING FOOTWEAR

*Please note that you should always check ahead of time for the respective park’s conditions on the trails you plan to hike. Many trails may be unsuitable due to ice and snow until later in spring and summer.