Hiking Trail Guides
Browse our comprehensive collection of hiking trails. Use the filters below to find trails that match your experience level and preferences.
Best Beginner Hiking Trails
Sunrise Valley Trail
Difficulty: Easy | Distance: 2.5 miles | Elevation Gain: 200 ft | Location: Mountain View State Park
Perfect first trail for new hikers. Well-marked, wide path with scenic valley views. Ideal for families and those looking for a gentle introduction to hiking. Features interpretive signs and benches along the route.
Lakeside Loop
Difficulty: Easy | Distance: 3 miles | Elevation Gain: 150 ft | Location: Blue Lake Recreation Area
A beautiful loop around a mountain lake. Mostly flat terrain with several picnic spots along the way. Great for photography, bird watching, and fishing. Accessible year-round with minimal snow in winter.
Meadow Walk
Difficulty: Easy | Distance: 2 miles | Elevation Gain: 100 ft | Location: Wildflower Preserve
Short and sweet trail through wildflower meadows. Perfect for spring and early summer when flowers are in bloom. Wheelchair accessible path with multiple scenic overlooks.
Riverside Path
Difficulty: Easy | Distance: 2.8 miles | Elevation Gain: 180 ft | Location: River Bend Park
Picturesque trail following a gentle river. Well-shaded in summer, with opportunities to spot wildlife. Multiple bridges and viewing platforms along the route.
Moderate Difficulty Trails
Summit Ridge Trail
Difficulty: Moderate | Distance: 5 miles | Elevation Gain: 1,200 ft | Location: High Peaks Wilderness
Challenging but rewarding hike with panoramic summit views. Steady uphill climb on well-maintained switchbacks. Best attempted in dry weather. Bring plenty of water and snacks.
Cascade Falls Trail
Difficulty: Moderate | Distance: 4.5 miles | Elevation Gain: 900 ft | Location: Cascade State Park
Popular trail leading to a stunning 80-foot waterfall. Some rocky sections require careful footing. Peak flow is in spring, but beautiful year-round. Can be crowded on weekends.
Forest Ridge Loop
Difficulty: Moderate | Distance: 6 miles | Elevation Gain: 1,500 ft | Location: National Forest
Scenic loop through old-growth forest with diverse terrain. Includes meadows, forest sections, and ridge views. Moderate elevation gain distributed throughout the trail.
Mountain Pass Trail
Difficulty: Moderate | Distance: 7 miles | Elevation Gain: 1,800 ft | Location: Mountain Range Preserve
Point-to-point trail crossing a scenic mountain pass. Excellent views on both sides of the pass. Requires a car shuttle or 14-mile round trip if done as out-and-back.
Advanced Trails
Wilderness Backcountry Route
Difficulty: Hard | Distance: 12 miles | Elevation Gain: 3,500 ft | Location: Backcountry Wilderness
For experienced hikers only. Remote wilderness trail requiring navigation skills and multi-day preparation. Minimal trail markings, requires map and compass skills. Permit required.
Peak Challenge Trail
Difficulty: Hard | Distance: 10 miles | Elevation Gain: 4,200 ft | Location: High Mountain Range
Strenuous ascent to a major peak with technical sections. Exposed ridgeline and potential for weather changes. Early start recommended. Not recommended for those with fear of heights.
Alpine Circuit
Difficulty: Hard | Distance: 15 miles | Elevation Gain: 4,800 ft | Location: Alpine Wilderness
Multi-peak traverse through alpine terrain. Requires excellent fitness, navigation skills, and alpine experience. Weather-dependent - check conditions before attempting. Overnight camping recommended.
Canyon Rim Trail
Difficulty: Hard | Distance: 14 miles | Elevation Gain: 3,800 ft | Location: Deep Canyon National Area
Challenging route along canyon rim with significant exposure. Spectacular views but requires careful attention to footing. Best done in cooler months. Carry extra water - water sources limited.
Trail Safety Reminder
Before heading out, check current trail conditions, weather forecasts, and ensure you have proper gear. Always let someone know your plans and expected return time. For detailed safety information, visit our Safety Tips page.