Some of my favorite hikes are located in the US National Parks. If you are an outdoors lover and like to hike this blog is for you! Check out the epic views, stunning photo ops, and the best hikes in the USA right now for spring!
Roanoke, Virginia
The Appalachian Trail holds the title of the longest hiking-only footpath in the world. It stretches from Georgia to Maine, totaling around 2,200 miles. So, what better way to experience a section of this magnificent trail than by hiking to the most photographed spot, McAfee Knob.
The trail begins at McAfee’s Knob Parking Lot, which is about a 20-minute drive from Roanoke, Virginia. At the parking lot, there’s an information board detailing the trail. For most of the hike, there is only one trail to follow. But, if you get confused, follow the white blazes, i.e., white rectangles painted on tree trunks. The trailhead is opposite the parking lot, across the road.
It starts with a small wooden staircase, before entering a lush green forest. For the next 4.4 miles, you’ll wander along a trail enclosed by gigantic trees, passing campsites and outlooks. It’s a moderately difficult hike, but the 270-degree panorama is worth it!
You’ll exit the forest just when your legs need a break and be greeted with stunning views of the Catawba valley. In total, the hike takes roughly 4 hours round trip. And while the trail itself is not dangerous, the rocky mountain terrain is slippery when wet. So, make sure to wear good hiking shoes. Black bears are also prevalent in the area. If you are not familiar with bear safety, information is posted at the start of the hike.
Recommended by: Jen at Dabbling in Jet Lag
Canyonlands, Utah
Mesa Arch in Canyonlands National Park by Moab, Utah is one of the most iconic natural attractions in the world. When springtime rolls around, the short hike to this natural wonder becomes one of the best hikes in America.
This is mostly because of the weather and temperature. Canyonlands is known for being extremely sweltering during the summer months because a lot of the trails are fully exposed without shade. The spring has cooler temperatures that make the trails even more enjoyable!
The 0.7-mile roundtrip hike has a relatively easy climb that leads hikers to a breathtaking sight, an arch carved from sandstone by centuries of wind and water erosion. On clear days, hikers will see views of the Manti Lalena and Black Ridge Mountains right through the arch, almost like a picture frame.
The trail starts by going right uphill as it starts to gain about 88 feet in elevation. Then, it levels out and the walk is enjoyable over to the arch. It’s the perfect hike to do whether you’re spending a week or just one day in Canyonlands.
To get to this trail, head to the Mesa Arch Trailhead in Canyonland’s Island in the Sky district. It’s only a short drive from the visitor center and has a very clearly marked sign at the parking lot that is difficult to miss.
Recommended by: Krystianna at Volumes & Voyages
Zion, Utah
When hikers think of Zion National Park in Utah’s canyon country, they often think of Angels Landing or The Narrows. However, it would be a mistake to miss one of the easiest, and most accessible, hikes in the park.
The Canyon Overlook Trail is only about a mile round trip and the trailhead is right off Highway 9, just east of the Mount Carmel Tunnel. There are a couple of parking areas on either side of the trailhead, but they fill up quickly so try to get there early.
While the trail starts with some sharp switchbacks, the rest is easy-going. The elevation gain is a scant 150 feet and the whole hike will only take you about an hour. That is if you don’t get lost in the insanely gorgeous view once you get to the eponymous overlook.
There are some stretches of the trail that are quite narrow, but overall, it’s an easy walk to one of the most beautiful views you’ll see. It’s particularly nice in the spring because it’s not too hot, nor is it too cold. If you’re looking for a quick trek to a stunning overlook, this trail fills the bill.
Recommended by: Theresa at The Local Tourist
Phoenix, Arizona
One of the best spring hikes in the USA is in beautiful Phoenix, Arizona. There you will find Camelback Mountain, named so because it looks like a camel. It is an iconic Phoenix landmark! Camelback Mountain is also home to one of the best Phoenix hikes.
Camelback Mountain actually has two hiking trail options; the Echo Canyon trail and the Cholla Trail. While the Cholla trail is longer, the Echo Canyon trail is steeper. The Cholla trail reaches the summit from the east, and the Echo Canyon trail reaches it from the west.
To really push yourself, hike the Echo Canyon trail. It is approximately 1.2 miles out and back, so about 2.4 miles total. It is rated as extremely difficult and at times you will be scrambling up steep steps and rocks. On one of the hardest parts, there is a rail to hold on to. The highest point of the trail is 2,704 feet. And from the summit, you will get some pretty incredible views of Phoenix.
The Echo Canyon Trailhead is at 4925 E McDonald Dr, Phoenix, AZ 85018 and there is a free parking lot. Dogs are not allowed on the trail. Be sure to bring water, sunblock, and gloves.
Recommended by: Vicky at Buddy The Traveling Monkey
Denver, Colorado
If you are looking for an easy but scenic hike that doesn’t require special gear or advanced hiking skills, head to Chautauqua Park in Boulder – one of the most popular places for hitting the trails near Denver.
Although there’s a variety of hiking trails in Chautauqua Park, it’s a good idea to begin exploring the area by exploring Flatirons Loop, an easy but very pretty hike with panoramic views of the namesake sandstone formations that dominate Boulder’s landscape.
This is a perfect place to snap some photos, as you will pretty much walk parallel to Flat Irons most of the time. In summer, you will see wildflowers dotting the green grass against the backdrop of the mountains – which makes for a spectacular view. The trail comes to a junction at the end of the Bluebird-Baird Trail, where you can continue to another trail or turn around.
This is especially true if you are not used to the high altitude and are still trying to get your bearings on Colorado’s elevation because some other hikes in Chautauqua Park require more stamina as they take you to a higher altitude.
Regardless of what hike you decide to do, keep in mind that this is a very popular place, and weekends tend to be pretty crowded. If possible, try to come on a weekday, when there’s less foot traffic.
Recommended by: Daria at The Discovery Nut
Mosier, Oregon
Tom McCall Point is a beautiful hike in the Columbia River Gorge and one of the best hikes in Oregon to see Spring flowers! Parking for Tom McCall Point is in the same area as Rowena Crest Viewpoint. Check out this iconic view of the gorge and then park to the side in the large shoulder.
This hike is 4.8 miles and mostly uphill making it moderate in difficulty. On this hike, you will see stunning views of the Columbia River Gorge, and near the top a great view of Mount Hood and Mount Adams!
Of course, the main attraction to this trail in the Spring is the wildflowers themselves. Yellow balsamroot also called the Oregon sunflower, and purple lupine absolutely covers the hillside in a magnificent display of color.
It is important to know that this area is also home to rattlesnakes and ticks, so cover up and make sure to know what to do in the event of a rattlesnake encounter.
Recommended by: Val at Voyages with Val
Olympic, Washington
One of the best hikes in Washington State is a stunningly beautiful trail called Mount Storm King. This trail is one of the best Spring hikes in the Pacific Northwest. The trail doesn’t usually have snow in the Spring, which can be a problem for many hikes in this state. Plus, the views are phenomenal.
It is always best to hike this trail during sunset. But it is still one of those hikes that look striking at any given time. To get to the trailhead park next to the Storm King Ranger Station that is located near Lake Crescent. Make sure to stop by the lake as it is one of Washington’s most beautiful lakes.
You can add Marymere Falls to the hike. It is relatively easy and short with a gorgeous waterfall, and it is only a slight detour. Or you can head straight to Mount Storm King. Mount Storm King is a short hike compared to many others in Washington. It is only 4 miles round trip, but it is known to be one of the steepest trails in the state.
Do not let the mileage full you as this is a challenging trail. The elevation gain is 2065 feet, and in one section of the trail, there are even ropes to help you get up. Many people turn around when they see this, and it is not advised for small children or pets. But the end view is so worth it!
Recommended by: Michelle at The Wandering Queen
Pacific Crest Trail
The Pacific Crest Trail (PCT) is one of the most legendary hikes in the US. It runs from Mexico to Canada, through the states of California, Oregon, and Washington. A whopping total of 2654 miles. If you plan to hike the whole trail, it’ll take about five to six months.
However, you can opt to do just a section of the trail, to learn what it feels like. The section of the PCT in Southern California is also known as the desert section, and this is the perfect section to do in Spring.
If you’re hiking here in March or April, you don’t have to worry too much about not having enough water and it’s also not too warm to hike in the desert. Also, snow in the higher elevations is mostly melted.
You can start your hike wherever you like, but the most epic place to start is obviously the Mexican border at the town of Campo, where you’ll also find the famous monument. You can reach Campo by bus from San Diego. Before you start your hike, make sure to check if you need a permit for your section.
Hiking the desert section of the PCT in Spring is absolutely amazing. It’s the time where you’ll meet most of the other hikers (90% start their hike in Spring) and the desert is filled with flowers. An adventure you’ll never forget.
Recommended by: Jacoba at Opreis Met Co
Yosemite, California
Yosemite National Park is an amazing place to visit year-round, but there is something special about the spring. Why? Because it’s when the snow is melting, so the view of the Vernal fall will be even more impressive. The waterfall is at the most powerful.
The Panorama Trail is one of the best hikes you’ll do. You know those hikes where there are amazing views the entire length of the hike.
The Panorama Trail is a point-to-point trail from Glacier Point to Curry Village for a total of almost 10 miles. It’s pretty much all descent with an elevation difference of 3,200 feet (975 meters) from Glacier Point to Curry Village… All downhill. While the hike is considered a moderate hike, it’s a hike that can be hard on the knees. But oh so worth it.
During the hike, you’ll have beautiful views of the Half Dome and the Vernal waterfall. You will also pass Emerald Pool and the Nevada Fall, before ending your hike to the famous Vermal waterfall.
Because it’s a point-to-point hike, you’ll need to arrange transport back to Glacier Point. If you are traveling by multiple cars, you can start super early in the morning to drop one car at Curry Village and head over to Glacier Point to start your hike. Otherwise, you can use one of the shuttle buses back to Glacier Point. Make sure to start your hike super early in the morning as the sunrise at Glacier Point is breathtaking.
Recommended by: Emilie at Love Life Abroad
Kenai Fjords, Alaska
If you are looking for incredible hikes to go in the USA during springtime, you should add Exit Glacier Hike in Alaska to your bucket list. Considered one of the best and also, a popular destination during any Alaska Itinerary, because of its natural beauty with incredible views, rich wildlife views opportunities, a unique fauna, and easy hiking trails. What makes the Exit Glacier a great destination for nature lovers and hikers of any age and adventure level.
While you are hiking in the area, you have the choice to hike the 1-mile hike to the Glacier View Loop, also the 1.8 miles to the Glacier Overlook Trail or if you are more adventurous, take the exciting 8.2 miles to the Harding Icefield Trail.
The Exit Glacier is located in the Kenai Fjords National Park, only 3.7 miles from the city of Seward, and it is a very accessible glacier and you can get to it by car. If you are driving your own car, you can park at the Parking lot in front of the Nature Center, and the trailhead starts here too.
The best time to go to the Exit Glacier is during springtime when the temperatures are pleasant, there are opportunities to see the wildlife, and during your hiking, you will have the opportunity of magnificent views of the Exit Glacier.
Recommended by: Paula at Paula Pins the Planet
Kauai, Hawaii
One of the best spring hikes in the USA is on the island of Kauai, Hawaii. There’s a section of the south shore that’s not developed, and the views are absolutely breathtaking!
The Mahaulepu Heritage Trail is perfect for a springtime hike, too. Although Kauai doesn’t see much seasonal weather, the trail is great in the spring because it’s not peak travel season. Fewer crowds on the island mean fewer people on the trail, and you’ll be able to enjoy it more.
The trail is 4 miles and is an up-and-back trail. Views are similar during the trail, so many visitors don’t do the full trail, but rather stop at the beach at the halfway point. The trail is rated as easy and only has a few inclines. It does have a very uneven surface, so shoes with traction are recommended.
The Mahaulepu Heritage Trail actually starts at Shipwreck Beach, near the Grand Hyatt Kauai. The parking lot for the beach fills up really quickly, so overflow parking is up the nearby hill. Once parked, walk to the end of Shipwreck Beach and the trail starts by hiking up to the top of the large rocky coast.
There are restroom services at Shipwreck Beach, but no facilities on the trail so are sure to pack water and sunscreen for the hike.
Kauai is a land of adventure, and this is one of the best (and easiest) hikes with ocean-front views almost the entire way. What a beautiful way to spend a day in Hawaii!
Recommended by: Nikki at She Saves She Travels
Thank you for reading!
If you have any specific questions, do not hesitate to comment down below! Or you can email us!
No Comments