How to Find Hiking Trails
Do you enjoy hiking? I think that hiking is one of the best ways to enjoy the outdoors and to get mild exercise (or more strenuous, depending on your skills). I love getting out there with my dog (when dogs are permitted) and discovering new places.
Are you just starting, or are you already an experienced hiker? Experienced or not, I’m sure we all ask ourselves the same fundamental question: How do we find hiking trails that match our ability and interests?
With the right research and tips, you can easily locate trails near your home or at your next travel destination. Let’s take a look at trail options for every experience level. I’ll also provide links to useful hiking apps and key safety tips that you should keep in mind.
Should You Explore Hiking Trails?
Hiking trails offer more than just exercise. I find hiking to be a great way to connect with nature…and with myself. A short hike can reduce my stress levels and boost my energy, no matter what I’m going through. The good news is that no matter your age or fitness level, there’s a trail out there that is perfect for you. You just need to know where to look.
Where Can Beginners Find Easy Hiking Trails?
If you are just starting out, you will want trails that are not too long. You are best to look for flat terrain and clearly marked trails. Many local parks, nature preserves, and even recreation areas offer trails that are perfect for beginners. Choose trails that range from 1 to 3 miles (1.5 to 4.5 km) and include benches or rest stops. Go to city park websites or local tourism pages to find short and easy trails.
Some of the best beginner hikes are loops or paths around lakes. These allow you to enjoy great views without long climbs. Starting on easy trails helps you build stamina and confidence, preparing you for more challenging hikes later if you wish.
What Trails Are Best for Intermediate Hikers?
Do you already have some moderate hiking experience? You may be ready for trails that include climbs and distances of 5 to 8 miles (8 to 12 km). You’ll find that intermediate trails often pass through forests or along rivers.
Keep in mind that intermediate trails may include some elevation gain but should remain manageable if you have a good fitness level.
Look for intermediate trails in state parks. Many provide maps online, where you can find the length of trail and also the elevation. Most state park trails will provide information on the level of difficulty. When searching online, look for phrases like “moderate hikes near me” or “state park hiking trails.” These searches often bring up trails reviewed by other hikers with helpful details that you can use to plan your hike.
Read more: 10 Hiking Trails in the USA for Women Over 50.
How Do Experienced Hikers Find Challenging Trails?
Are you seeking more adventurous hiking trails? Hiking trails of more than 10 miles (16 km) and that take more than 8 hours to complete are for the experienced and die-hard hikers. These trails often lead you up mountains and to remote wilderness areas. Many national parks offer great places to look if you want a real challenge.
Websites such as AllTrails and Hiking Project allow you to find difficult trails. You can filter your search by length and difficulty. On these sites, you can also read reviews from hikers who have hiked the trail. This feedback can help you understand what to expect. They can provide invaluable real-time information, such as trail conditions or seasonal hazards.
What About Hiking Apps?
I use the Alltrails app on my phone and always research the trails before I head out. Hiking apps not only help you discover new trails but also provide maps and GPS guidance. Most of these apps are community-built, meaning that input is coming from real hikers.
- AllTrails – This is the one I use the most. It is one of the most widely used hiking apps. It offers detailed maps, reviews, and even photos. You can use the filters to find lengths and difficulty levels.
- Gaia GPS – This one is great for advanced hikers and backpackers who need offline maps and lots of detailed topographic info.
- Komoot – This is another great hiking app. It is also widely used by cyclists. Komoot offers easy route planning and real-time navigation.
- Hiking Project – Created by REI, this app is free and offers trails across the United States with community-driven details.
Some of these apps are free (or have a free, limited version). Of course, you get access to more features when you pay. Look for the apps that allow you to download maps for offline use. This is essential when hiking in areas with little or no cell service.
Here’s an article I wrote all about hiking apps: Exploring the Great Outdoors: 12 Best Hiking Apps.
How Can I Stay Safe While Hiking?
No matter your skill level, your safety should always come first. Here are some key tips to make sure you stay safe on the trails.
- Plan Ahead – Research the trail length, elevation, and estimated time to complete it. Also, remember to check weather forecasts before heading out and bring the appropriate gear.
- Tell Someone – If you are hiking alone, it’s important to let a friend or family member know where you are going and when you plan to return. You can also share your live location with someone for added protection.
- Bring Essentials – Always carry enough water and some healthy snacks. Don’t forget sunscreen and maybe a small first aid kit with essentials like band aids and insect repellent. Make sure your phone is fully charged before leaving, and bring a battery bank for longer hikes. You’ll be amazed at how fast your battery goes down with all the photos you’ll be taking. Also, for longer hikes, bring extra layers of clothing, a headlamp, and a pocket knife.
- Stay on Marked Trails – Even if you are an experienced hiker, it’s important to remain on the trails. Straying off the path can increase your chances of getting lost or even injured.
- Respect Wildlife – One of the best parts of hiking trails is getting the chance to see some wildlife. Remember to observe them from a distance and never feed wild animals or birds.
- Know Your Limits – Choose trails that fit your current fitness level and don’t feel bad for turning back. You can always start over another day. Listen to your body. After a while, you will find that the trails get easier to hike. That’s because you are getting stronger.
What Equipment Do I Need to Get Started?
For short and easy hikes, you will need comfortable walking shoes and weather-appropriate clothing. Carry water and other essentials in a small day pack.
You may want to invest in quality hiking boots with ankle support as you progress to longer or more difficult trails. Never underestimate the importance of wearing proper hiking shoes or boots.
Read more: 10 Best Hiking Boots for Women Over 50.
Other hiking gear, like trekking poles and a medium-sized backpack designed for outdoor activities may become handy.
Read more: 10 Best Hiking Poles for Women Over 50.
How Do Seasons Affect Hiking Trails?
The time of year can completely change what a trail feels like. In early spring, melting snow often leaves paths soft and muddy, so waterproof footwear can be your best friend.
Summer is the most popular season for getting outside and hitting the trails. Longer days plus warmer weather is the best combination for hiking. But it also means you’ll need to pack some extra water and sun protection.
Autumn can be breathtaking, especially in the northern parts of the USA and Canada, where the leaves turn stunning shades of red and yellow. But remember that the days get shorter and evenings cooler.
Winter adds its own challenges with ice and snow, so gear like microspikes or snowshoes may be necessary.
Read more: Winter Hiking: Essential Tips for Active Adults Over 50.
No matter the season, it’s always worth checking trail conditions before heading out so you know what to expect.
Don’t Forget to Connect with Hiking Communities
Look for local hiking clubs or online communities that can help you find new trails and hiking partners. Many groups organize hikes for different skill levels. This makes it easier to match your ability with the right trail. Online forums and social media groups are also useful for finding real-time updates on trail conditions and safety tips.
What Are the Benefits of Exploring New Hiking Trails?
Trying new trails keeps hiking exciting and never boring. It prevents your routine from becoming repetitive and allows you to discover new landscapes. Exploring unfamiliar paths can also remove you from your comfort zone which will help you grow as a hiker. I always enjoy combining hiking with travel, planning my trips specifically to explore famous trails wherever I’m going.
Finding hiking trails is easier today thanks to online resources and especially user-friendly apps. Remember that your safety is always the top priority, and preparation makes all the difference.
Read more: 4 Hiking Outfits for Women Over 50.
Let’s Have a Conversation:
Do you prefer short beginner hikes or challenging mountain treks? What safety tips do you always follow when hiking? Do you like to hike alone or with friends? Which season is your favorite for hiking and why? Tell us about it in the comments below.
Tags Hiking
Nice Article. I’ve been hiking for years especially after my beloved husband passed away. I used to hike at a local reservoir after he died, but then I slipped on a wet rock, caught myself and wasn’t injured. That experience made me realize that I should no longer hike. I was out of cell phone coverage and no one else was on the trail at the time. I now hike with someone, all the time. I joined hiking meet up groups and have found new and exciting trails that I might never have found on my own. I’ve met new people and enjoy the social interaction that the group provides. I hike all year round here on the east coast. I avoid ice conditions for safety reasons. The hiking group leaders will cancel the hike if there are any unsafe conditions present at the time of the hike. Dressed properly, every day is a good day for a hike.