Are you a beginner at hiking? Looking for trails to go on? As a beginner, the first hike should not be overly complicated as it might overwhelm you and deter you from future hiking attempts. With that, you would want to look into trails that are both fun and easy. We’d also like to recommend that you start looking at suitable backpacks for your hiking journey. You’ll need the best EDC (everyday carry) backpack with the best weight distribution to bring all your hiking gear with you up into the mountains! Finding the perfect EDC backpack depends on you.
This article will provide you with 15 great hikes for your first time, perfect for a beginner like you! Without further ado, are you ready to choose your desired hiking trail?
1. Lassen Peak Trail Hike
Located in California, at the Lassen Volcanic National Park, the Lassen Peak Trail Hike is a round journey with a total distance of 5 miles. It is especially apt for beginners at hiking and it satisfies those who are looking to climb to the top of a still-active volcano. Not only is it accessible, but it is also feasible in summer when the temperature is warmer.
2. North Vista Trail Hike
With a total distance of 3 miles, round way, the North Vista Trail Hike is located at the Black Canyon in Colorado. It is best for hikers who are inexperienced but wish to catch vertical views of canyons below. After a short hike of 1.5 miles, you would be able to witness the picturesque view of Gunnison River.
3. Glacier Point Hike
The Glacier Point Hike is located in Yosemite Valley of California and it is merely a 1-mile round trip, making it a perfect alternative to the Half Dome hike as it is much easier. Therefore, if you are a beginner at hiking, there is no need to fret at all, there are other hikes to enjoy in Yosemite! Not only is the Glacier Point hike short, but it is also mostly flat. Besides, once you reach the point of view, you are set for a scenic feast as you can experience a panorama view of Cloud Rest and the Mist Trail.
4. Coastal Trail Hike
Next on the list is the Coastal Trail Hike, although it is a relatively difficult trail on the Cutler Coast, this is the most accessible and beginner-friendly hike. A round trip of this hike is a total of 2.8 miles which lasts roughly about two hours, given a comfortable pace. Along the way, be ready for some breathtaking ocean views, forests, and cedar swamps.
5. Frozen Niagara Cave Hike
As a mere 0.25 miles round trip, the Frozen Niagara Cave Hike is located at the Mammoth Cave National Park of Kentucky. This cave tour is best for families as a bonding activity because it is small children friendly. Lasting for about an hour or less, visitors are in for a treat as multiple entertainments reside in the cave due to the rock formations.
6. Templeton Trail Hike
One of the most popular and photographed landmarks in the US, the Templeton Trail Hike is suitable for beginners as it is not too steep. It is located in Arizona, the Coconino National Forest. The total round trip is 7 miles and hikers can enjoy the view of Sedona’s red rock.
7. Ewoldsen Trail Hike
Anyone who has not been to the Big Sur would enjoy the Ewoldesen Trail hike as hikers can get to access the spectacular view of the Pacific Ocean. It is located at Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park in California. Although this 5 miles round trip contains some climbing, it is not too challenging overall as long as you are ready to put in some effort.
8. Wildcat Den Trail Hike
One of the best trails to hike during the fall, the Wildcat Den Trail hike in Iowa is 4 miles back and fro, best suited for families with children who are above seven of age. It is an easy hike that lasts about one to two hours.
9. Rubicon Trail Hike
On the other hand, during summer, Rubicon Trail hike is recommended as you can immerse yourself in the cool lake of South Lake Tahoe and relieve the summer heat. It is suitable for beginners as this eight-mile round trip can be easily navigated with its clear markings.
10. Hoh River Trail Hike
For beginners who are looking at trails without steep inclines, the Hoh River Trail hike is the one. It’s also possible to extend your hike for an extra 11 miles to the Glacier Meadows if you feel up to the challenge. There, you can enjoy the picturesque scenery from the top of the mountain. Located at the Olympic National Park in Washington, a round trip of the hike is 6 miles long.
11. Canyon Overlook Trail Hike
If you are a beginner at hiking and is apprehensive towards hikes with tons of climbing, the Canyon Overlook Trail hike is a safe choice as it is short with a total distance of only 1 mile round way. Therefore, it is suitable for all ages and fitness levels.
12. Fairy Falls Trail Hike
As compared to other more challenging trails in Yellowstone, the Fairy Falls Trail hike is a good substitute as it is much easier with limited climbing, multiple resting points, and safe picture-snapping points to capture down the scenic views.
13. The Highline Trail Hike
Being mostly flat, this makes the Highline Trail hike suitable for beginners at hiking and it is not so much of a hot spot, thus making it suitable for people who would like to avoid large crowds.
14. Base Loop Trail Hike
With a rich history, the Base Loop Trail hike is established in 1906, making the spot the oldest and the first national monument in the US. Located at the Devils Tower National Monument, it is an easy 1.3-mile round trip.
15. Billy Goat Trail Hike
The Billy Goat Trail hike can be considered if beginner hikers are adventurous and would not mind some rock hopping. Located at Potomac in Maryland, the hike is 7.8 miles long, round way.
Bottom Line
With that, we have reached the end of this article and if you are a beginner at hiking and are looking at easy trails to attempt, we hope that the above-mentioned trails have given you some sort of idea and last but not least, we wish you all the best, have fun and stay safe!