If you are craving some adventure, then getting out into the fresh air is one of the best things that you can do at the moment. Fresh air, space to distance and roam around, means that a hiking trip is always going to be a good idea. But where are the best trails to go to? Whether you are looking for canyon descents, oceanside walks, or walks full of colorful fall leaves, the US has a number of options for you, even as the temperatures start to drop.
Of course, when it comes to hiking, having some essentials with you is a must. Walking shoes need to fit well, and a proper pair is needed so that they can provide you with plenty of grip and be waterproof too. Good socks, reusable water bottles, a backpack, and even premium canes could be a good idea to help you get on your way in comfort. Without further ado, though, there are some of the best trails to try out; have you hiked any of them before?
Penobscot and Sargent Mountains, Maine
If you are looking for a trail that is pretty simple and that can be done in a day, then this trail in Maine needs to be on your list. With two summits, some rocky scrambles, as well as crystal-clear ponds along the way, it is a breathtaking route, starting at Acadia National Park. Only just over five miles in length, the loop is a good choice for those wanting to take in the beauty of the area, but not have to deal with anything too strenuous.
Mount Rogers, Virginia
This is a great choice to do at this time of year, as it can be full of fall leaves and all of that fall color. This is also a hike that can be done in one day and is pretty moderate at only four and a half miles in total. It partly follows the Appalachian Trail, and a lot of the route goes through some pretty rugged pastures, with views going on and on. The summit is quite dense with trees and woodland, and you could even see some wild ponies along the way.
Kalalau Trail, Hawaii
The Kalalau Trail is certainly not for the faint-hearted, as it could take you around three days to complete if you wanted to do the whole thing. It is a stunning place for a hike, with views, as you’d imagine in Hawaii, being breathtaking. As seen in Jurassic Park, it is out of this world, and really a spot that you can only ever see through hiking (or with a helicopter). In total, the hike is eleven miles long and includes beaches, clifftops, and volcanic ridges. If you just want to do it in a day, then the first two miles and back are the best option to get a feel for the whole hike.
Have you got a favorite hiking spot to add to the list? It would be great to hear what you think.
**Post contributed by peer hiking nut and travel writer, Antonia Higgs**
