Hiking is one of the most rewarding ways to connect with nature, get some fresh air, and enjoy the outdoors. If you’re new to hiking, it’s essential to start with easy trails that provide both a sense of accomplishment and beautiful views. In this post, we’ve rounded up the top 10 hiking trails for beginners, ensuring a variety of landscapes, climates, and difficulty levels that will make your first outdoor adventure truly memorable.
1. Mount Tammany, New Jersey
- Trail Length: 3 miles round trip
- Elevation Gain: 1,200 feet
- Difficulty: Moderate
- A popular short but steep climb in the Delaware Water Gap. The view of the Delaware River from the summit is well worth the effort.
2. Lake Louise Shoreline Trail, Alberta, Canada
- Trail Length: 2 miles
- Elevation Gain: 100 feet
- Difficulty: Easy
- A picturesque lakeside walk in the Canadian Rockies, ideal for beginners who want a relaxed trail with stunning turquoise waters.
3. The Ecola State Park Trail, Oregon
- Trail Length: 3.5 miles round trip
- Elevation Gain: 600 feet
- Difficulty: Easy to moderate
- Explore coastal forests and ocean views in this beautiful park located along the Pacific Coast.
4. Angel’s Landing, Zion National Park, Utah
- Trail Length: 5.4 miles round trip
- Elevation Gain: 1,500 feet
- Difficulty: Moderate to strenuous (for experienced beginners)
- Though challenging, the views from Angel’s Landing in Zion National Park are unforgettable. A fantastic hike for those looking to push their limits.
5. Sierra Vista Trail, Arizona
- Trail Length: 5 miles round trip
- Elevation Gain: 500 feet
- Difficulty: Moderate
- A beautiful desert hike in Tucson, with diverse wildlife and sweeping views of the Sonoran Desert.
6. Cucamonga Peak Trail, California
- Trail Length: 9 miles round trip
- Elevation Gain: 3,000 feet
- Difficulty: Moderate to difficult (for experienced beginners)
- The reward is breathtaking panoramic views of Southern California from the summit, making the challenging hike worthwhile.
7. Ben Nevis, Scotland
- Trail Length: 4.2 miles
- Elevation Gain: 4,400 feet
- Difficulty: Moderate
- A stunning climb in the Scottish Highlands, Ben Nevis offers a relatively simple trail with magnificent views of Lochaber.
8. Cascade Falls, Virginia
- Trail Length: 1.5 miles
- Elevation Gain: 400 feet
- Difficulty: Easy
- An ideal short hike for beginners, offering a beautiful waterfall at the end of the trail.
9. Pine Mountain, Georgia
- Trail Length: 5 miles
- Elevation Gain: 1,000 feet
- Difficulty: Moderate
- A beginner-friendly trail in Georgia with the added bonus of historical landmarks along the way.
10. The Narrows, Zion National Park, Utah
- Trail Length: Varies
- Elevation Gain: Varies
- Difficulty: Easy to moderate
- One of the most unique hikes in the world, wading through the Virgin River surrounded by towering sandstone cliffs. Perfect for beginners who want something different.
Starting your hiking journey on beginner-friendly trails will allow you to build confidence while enjoying the natural beauty of our world. Remember to bring plenty of water, wear appropriate shoes, and start with a trail that matches your fitness level. Happy hiking!
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