Top US Hiking Paths for a Refreshing Summer Adventure
Discovering the Best Summer Hiking Trails in the United States
Summer is the perfect time to explore the great outdoors, and the United States offers a myriad of trails suitable for hikers of all skill levels. From easy day hikes to challenging multi-day backpacking trips, there's something for everyone.
Beginner to Moderate Trails:
The Indian Rockhouse Trail at Buffalo Point, Arkansas, is a moderate 3.5-mile trail featuring a sinkhole, waterfall, rock formations, and historic bluff shelters. This trail is ideal for a summer hike, with added options like the shorter Overlook Trail offering river views. The area also offers picnic spots and swimming opportunities, making it a great destination for a family day out.
The Flattop Mountain Trail, located in Rocky Mountain National Park, Colorado, is a scenic summer day hike around 4.4 miles round trip. It's suitable for those building endurance and acclimating to higher elevations.
The Lakeview Trail in Stockton State Park, Missouri, is a casual trail following Stockton Lake with woodland, beach, and bluff views. This trail is ideal for summer exploration in the Midwest.
Intermediate to Advanced Trails:
The Chasm Lake Trail, located at Longs Peak, Colorado, is an 8.5-mile out-and-back trail with a 2,522 feet elevation gain, situated at 11,760 feet. The high elevation and rugged terrain make it challenging but rewarding, offering spectacular views below the east face of Longs Peak.
The Timberline Trail around Mount Hood, Oregon, is a 41-mile loop providing a classic backpacking experience with snow-capped peaks, wildflower meadows, creek crossings, and spectacular volcanic scenery. This trail is best for experienced hikers or backpackers with a good window of summer weather.
The Wonderland Trail, although not detailed in the search results, is a well-known challenging trail comparable to Mount Hood's Timberline Trail, located in Mount Rainier National Park, Washington.
Additional Notes:
Some areas, like Rocky Mountain National Park (including Chasm Lake), require timed entry permits during peak season (end of May to mid-October). Colorado hosts many popular summer trails that vary widely in difficulty, such as Yankee Boy Basin and Twin Falls area hikes which offer scenic and family-friendly options.
Summer trail recommendations in Vermont reflect the state's diversity of hiking opportunities, with a wide variety of options ranging from kid-friendly hikes to waterfall and sunrise view hikes.
Preparing for Your Summer Hike:
Staying hydrated is crucial during summer hiking. A good rule of thumb is to drink about half a liter per hour of moderate activity in moderate temperatures. Electrolyte tablets can help prevent dehydration and cramping during summer hiking. Hydration is important, and taking breaks in shaded areas can give the skin a break from direct sunlight.
Wear lightweight, moisture-wicking fabrics and avoid cotton clothing during summer hiking as it gets heavy and uncomfortable when wet. A wide-brimmed hat can protect the face, neck, and ears from the sun, and sunglasses with UV protection are essential. Use a broad-spectrum sunscreen with at least SPF 30 on all exposed skin.
Start your summer hikes early or late to avoid the harsh midday sun, and consider wearing a headlamp for added safety. Fewer people are on the trails during early morning or late afternoon hikes.
Exploring Specific Trails:
The Sliding Sands Trail, located in Haleakala National Park, Maui Island, Hawaii, is a moderate 11-mile (17.7 kilometers) round trip trail with an elevation gain of 2,800 feet (853 meters). The tower on the Yellow Mountain Trail, located in Nantahala National Forest, North Carolina, offers a rugged lookout tower at its summit. The tower is open to the public and was built by Franklin D. Roosevelt's Civilian Conservation Corps during the Great Depression. The length of the Yellow Mountain Trail is 12.4 miles (20km) round trip with an elevation gain of 4,100 feet (1,250 meters).
The Highline Trail, located in Glacier National Park, Montana, is a moderate 11.6-mile (18.7 kilometers) trail with an elevation gain of 800 feet (244 meters). No permit is required for day hikes on the Highline Trail, but a backcountry permit is required for overnight stays.
The Narrows trail, located in Zion National Park, Utah, is a challenging 15-mile (25.14 kilometers) round trip trail with an elevation gain of up to 2,400 feet (731 meters). This trail involves walking through water in a deep slot canyon, and a permit is required for a top-down hike. A permit is not required for a bottom-up day hike on the Narrows trail. Wildlife tends to be more active during cooler hours, increasing the chances of spotting animals during summer hikes.
The difficulty level of the Sliding Sands Trail, the Yellow Mountain Trail, and the Highline Trail is moderate. The difficulty level of the Narrows trail is strenuous.
- For those who prefer a laid-back summer adventure, the Lakeview Trail in Stockton State Park, Missouri, offers a casual hike with beautiful views of woodlands, beaches, and bluffs. This trail is ideal for individuals seeking a leisurely exploration in the Midwest.
- For fashion-conscious hikers, don't forget to pack lightweight, moisture-wicking clothing, a wide-brimmed hat, and sunglasses with UV protection. Proper attire and sun protection are essential for a comfortable summer hiking experience.
- After a day of hiking, unwind in the home-and-garden setting of a picnic spot, or enjoy some food-and-drink options at a nearby restaurant. Summer hiking trails are not just about the hike, but also the memories and experiences they create.
