Are you ready to explore the great outdoors but don’t know where to start? Hiking is a fantastic way to boost your health and connect with nature, and the good news is, you don’t need to be an expert mountaineer to enjoy it. There are countless trails perfect for getting your boots dirty for the first time. To help you begin, we’ve compiled a list of seven breathtaking hiking trails for beginners that offer stunning rewards without overwhelming challenges.
Find Your Perfect Beginner Hike
These trails are known for being well-maintained, having gentle elevation gains, and providing incredible scenic payoffs. Grab your water bottle and let’s find your next adventure!
1. Mirror Lake Trail, Yosemite National Park, California
This is one of the most iconic and easy hikes in Yosemite. A mostly flat, paved path leads you to a serene lake that, in the spring, perfectly reflects the towering Half Dome. It’s a short 2-mile round trip, making it an ideal first taste of High Sierra beauty.
2. Laurel Falls Trail, Great Smoky Mountains, Tennessee
If you love waterfalls, this trail is for you. As one of the most popular beginner-friendly trails in the Smokies, this 2.6-mile round-trip paved path leads you directly to the stunning 80-foot Laurel Falls. It’s a perfect family-friendly option.
3. Pa’rus Trail, Zion National Park, Utah
Escape the crowds and enjoy a peaceful walk along the Virgin River. The Pa’rus Trail is a paved, relatively flat 3.5-mile path that’s also wheelchair and pet-friendly. It offers magnificent views of Zion’s massive sandstone cliffs without a strenuous climb.
4. Sprague Lake Loop, Rocky Mountain National Park, Colorado
For jaw-dropping mountain views with minimal effort, head to Sprague Lake. This flat, 0.5-mile loop offers incredible panoramic vistas of the Continental Divide. It’s a fantastic spot for a morning walk and a classic photo opportunity.
5. Ocean Path, Acadia National Park, Maine
Experience the rugged coast of Maine on this spectacular trail. The Ocean Path stretches for about 2.2 miles one-way from Sand Beach to Otter Point, offering constant views of the Atlantic. You can walk as little or as much as you like, making it one of the best scenic hiking trails for all skill levels.
6. Johnston Canyon to Lower Falls, Banff National Park, Alberta
This trail feels like a journey into another world. A well-maintained catwalk clings to the limestone canyon walls, leading you through tunnels and over bridges to the beautiful Lower Falls. It’s an easy 1.4-mile round trip packed with impressive scenery.
7. Kuliouou Ridge Trail (Lower Section), Oahu, Hawaii
Want a taste of a tropical jungle hike? The beginning of the Kuliouou Ridge Trail offers a gentle introduction. You’ll wander through a lush, shaded forest of ironwood and guava trees. Stick to the first mile for a rewarding and manageable hike before the trail begins its steep switchbacks.
Get Ready to Hit the Trail
Lacing up your boots is the first step to an amazing journey. These easy hiking trails for beginners prove you don’t need years of experience to witness incredible landscapes. So pick a trail, pack some snacks, and start exploring!
