FIND THE BEST HIKING TRAILS FOR YOUR NEXT ADVENTURE
Ready to hit the trails?
Whether you’re a weekend adventurer or just new to hiking, this guide will help you find trails that match your style and goals, so you can plan your next adventure with confidence!
Please respect nature by practicing Leave No Trace. Learn more about how to apply the principles of Leave No Trace on your next outdoor adventure here.
YOUR HIKING TRAIL GUIDE
RESEARCHING HIKING TRAILS
Your trail begins with research. The key is to know what you are looking for:
DEFINE YOUR GOALS
- Are you interested in a scenic, challenging, or family-friendly trail?
SET PRIORITES
- Match trail distance, elevation, and terrain with your fitness and experience level.
KEYWORD SEARCHES
- Use search terms like “hiking trails near me,” “dog-friendly hikes,” or “easy hikes for beginners.”
FINDING HIKING TRAILS
Finding the right trail is easy with the right tools:
HIKING APP & WEBSITES
These platform provide trail maps, difficulty rating, user reviews, and even-real time weather conditions
- AllTrails: Filter by distance, difficulty, and dog-friendliness
- Gaia GPS: Detailed topographic maps and offline navigation
- Hiking Project: Community reviews and GPS routes
- Trailforks: Great for mountain biking and multi-use trails
- State and National Park Websites: Official maps and seasonal trail updates
Pro Tip: Always check recent trail review to make sure conditions are safe and accessible.
LOCAL & STATE PARKS
- Park websites and ranger stations provide maps, seasonal updates, and insider tips.
Pro Tip: Visit the official website or call visitor centers for up-to-date on trail conditions and closures.
ONLINE COMMUNITIES
Connecting with other hikers is a fantastic way to discover new trails. Many online forums, Facebook groups, and Reddits communities share detailed trip reports, personal trail recommendations, and safety tips.
WHERE TO CONNECT:
- Facebook Groups: Search for “Hiking in [Your Area]” groups
- Reddit: Subreddits like r/hiking or r/[yourstate]
- Meetup: Find local hiking groups and community hikes
OUTDOOR GEAR STORES & VISITOR CENTERS
REI stores, local outdoor shops, and visitor centers are great resources for trail recommendations. Staff often have firsthand knowledge of nearby trails, hidden gems, and current trail conditions.
When visiting a new area, stop by a visitor center to pick up paper maps and get advice from rangers or locals who know the trail best.
Social Media Inspiration
Instagram, TikTok, and YouTube can be useful for finding trails. Many outdoor adventurers and hikers share trail guides, packing tips, and firsthand experiences.
HOW TO USE SOCIAL MEDIA EFFECTIVELY:
- Search hashtags like #HikingNewYork, #PNWTrails
- Follow hiking influencers or local outdoor pages
- Watch YouTube vlog for visual preview of popular trails
Caution: Social Media often glamorize trails- always double-check difficulty levels and recent conditions before heading out!
GUIDEBOOKS & PAPER MAPS
While digital tools are convenient, guidebooks and physical maps remain valuable, especially in remote areas with limited cell service.
SOME OF THE BEST GUIDEBOOKS INCLUDE:
- 50 Hikes in [Your State] series
- National Geographic Trail Maps
- Local hiking club publication
PLANNING YOUR HIKING ADVENTURE
Preparation is key to a successful hike:
- Safety First: Check weather forecast and trail conditions before heading out. Always share your hiking plans with someone you trust if you’re hiking solo.
- Gear Up: Wear proper footwear and pack essentials like water, snacks, and a first-aid kit. Prepare for changes int he weather by bringing appropriate clothing layers.
- Stay Flexible: Be ready to adapt if condition changes. A flexible mindset ensures you can enjoy your adventure no matter what.
LEAVE NO TRACE PRINCIPLES
Respect nature while you explore. Practice these seven principles to minimize your impact:
1. PLAN AHEAD & PREPARE
Research the area, weather, and local rules before you hike. Preparation keeps you safe and reduces environmental impact.
2. TRAVEL ON DURABLE SURFACE
Stick to established trails and camp only in designated spots. This protects fragile ecosystems and prevents erosion.
3. DISPOSE OF WASTE PROPERLY
Pack out all trash and use restroom facilities where available. Leave nature as pristine as you found it.
4. LEAVE WHAT YOU FIND
Do not remove rocks, plants, artifacts from the environment. Preserve nature’s beauty for future adventurers.
5. MINIMIZE CAMPFIRE IMPACT
Use a portable stove instead of building fires. If fires are allowed, keep them small and fully extinguish them.
6. RESPECT WILDLIFE
Observe animals from a distance and never feed them. Secure your food to avoid attracting wildlife to your campsite.
7. BE CONSIDERATE OF OTHER VISITORS
Keep noise level down and yield to other hikers on the trail. Respect others’ space to ensure everyone enjoys the outdoors.
FINAL THOUGHTS ON FINDING HIKING TRAILS
Every adventure begins with a bit of planning. Use these tips to research, plan, and enjoy your hike with confidence. With the right preparation, you’re all set for a memorable outdoor experience.
The trail is waiting- so lace up your boots, grab your backpack, and start exploring!
