The Most Stunning Hikes In Hawaii

Hawaii, the land of tropical views and warm scented breezes, is known worldwide as a haven for beach lovers. You could easily while away your days there just basking in the sun.

But while you’re in this genuine paradise on earth, why not delve a little deeper? Luckily, Hawaii has a range of hiking options that allow you to do just that. And many of the trails come with a healthy dose of the sandy beaches, sea breezes, and tropical vistas that you came to Hawaii to experience.

During my visits to Oahu and Maui, I took in a number of spectacular hikes, and I have a few favorites. For others, I consulted the state’s Go Hawaii tourism recommendations to compile a list of the best.

So, here — from easy to strenuous, and from popular routes teeming with people to little-known byways — are 11 of the most stunning trails of the Hawaiian Islands.

Views from the top of the Diamond Head Summit Trail. — Cindy Barks

1. Diamond Head Summit Trail, Diamond Head State Monument

Oahu

This is my pick for the best hike in Hawaii. Check out TravelAwaits’ picks for the best hikes in all 50 states here. Anyone who has visited Honolulu’s lively Waikiki Beach has surely seen it — the long mountainous cone that stretches along the southern tip of Oahu. Diamond Head State Monument is Hawaii’s most recognizable landmark, and its Diamond Head Summit Trail is among the most popular hikes on the islands.

Don’t expect solitude on the Diamond Head Summit Trail. Regardless of the time or season, you’re likely to be joined by throngs of hikers who all have a common goal in mind: getting to the summit to take in the startlingly beautiful view.

Although it’s fun to scramble up the trail’s steep switchbacks and through its 225-foot-long lighted tunnel, the real payoff is at the top. There, you get the postcard view of Honolulu’s gleaming skyline juxtaposed against the turquoise-blue waters and white sand of Waikiki Beach’s perfect crescent.

Be sure to get a photo of yourself at the top, with the view as a backdrop. It will be frame-worthy!

The Diamond Head Summit Trail involves a steep climb with more than 500 feet of elevation gain, including two long sets of stairs. The hike is rated as moderate, and it takes about 2 hours to complete.

Pro Tip: Be sure to time your hike so that you’re finished by 6 p.m. The last entrance is allowed at 4:30 p.m., and the gates are locked at 6 p.m. All visitors must be out of the park by then. For more tips, see this piece.

The Makapuu Point Lighthouse Trail in Hawaii. — E.J.Johnson Photography / Shutterstock

2. Makapuu Point Lighthouse Trail, Kaiwi State Scenic Shoreline

Oahu

Not only does the Makapuu Point Lighthouse Trail offer unparalleled ocean vistas from Oahu’s easternmost tip, but it also features stellar views of the point’s historic lighthouse (although the lighthouse itself is off limits).

Built in 1909, the pretty red-roofed lighthouse sits atop a 600-foot sea cliff that overlooks Makapuu Beach, one of Oahu’s best bodysurfing beaches.

The trail is 2 miles round trip and features a 500-foot elevation gain. It is rated as moderate and takes about an hour to complete.

Pro Tip: Bring binoculars if you’re hiking in the winter and spring, because the trail is known as an excellent place to spot migrating humpback whales from November through May.

The Kaena Point Trail in Hawaii. — E.J.Johnson Photography / Shutterstock

3. Kaena Point Trail

Oahu

Coastal sand dunes, a serene beach, and possible sightings of whales and monk seals — they’re all right there on the Kaena Point Trail along Oahu’s westernmost point.

The trail leads to the Kaena Point Natural Area Reserve, a remote and scenic area that harbors some of the last vestiges of Oahu’s coastal sand dune habitat. It is home to native plants and seabirds and is also a great spot to see whales during the winter months.

The 3.5-mile trail, which follows an old railroad bed and former dirt road, has virtually no overall elevation gain and is rated as moderate. It takes 1 to 3 hours to complete.

Pro Tip: Although fairly flat, the hike can be hot and exposed to the sun, so remember to take plenty of water.

The Koko Crater Trail in Hawaii. — ChristianZanePhotography / Shutterstock

4. Koko Crater Trail

Oahu

For a unique but intense hike, head to Honolulu’s Koko Crater Trail, where you will face more than 1,000 steep stairs, part of an abandoned railroad that ran along Koko Crater’s west side to the summit.

There’s plenty of payoff for your effort. The hike is known for its wildflowers and its stunning views. At the summit, you’ll be treated to a panorama of Diamond Head and the surrounding beaches.

Be prepared to work for it, though. The 1.8-mile out-and-back trail climbs nearly 1,000 feet in elevation gain and is rated as difficult. Depending on your pace, it will take you 1 to 2 hours to complete it.

Pro Tip: This trail is popular with fit runners, so expect to share it with plenty of others, regardless of when you go. To avoid the heat of the day, plan to get on the trail as early as you can.

The Sliding Sands Trail in Haleakala National Park. — Cindy Barks

5. Sliding Sands Trail, Haleakala National Park

Maui

Rather than Hawaii’s signature vivid greens and blues, expect rich earth tones on Haleakala National Park’s Sliding Sands Trail.

The 11-mile hike highlights the best of Maui’s massive Haleakala volcano, including the stark crater floor, the multicolored Pele’s Paint Pot, and the “bottomless pit” of Kawilinau.

The out-and-back hike descends 2,800 feet to the crater floor. It is rated as difficult and can take a full day to complete.

Pro Tip: The entire Sliding Sands Trail is recommended only for very fit adventurers, but hikers can get a good taste of the trail by doing the moderately difficult first 2.5 miles and turning back at the Ka Luu o ka Oo cinder cone.

The Pipiwai Trail in Haleakala National Park. — MNStudio / Shutterstock

6. Pipiwai Trail, Haleakala National Park

Maui

For another side of Haleakala, head to the lush Kipahulu section of the national park in southeastern Maui and try the Pipiwai Trail. The iconic trail winds through a freshwater stream to the stunning payoff of the 400-foot-high Waimoku Falls.

The 4-mile round trip traverses a mostly well-maintained trail but also includes some challenging, steep terrain, so wear your hiking boots! The hike features an 800-foot elevation gain and is rated as moderate. Expect to spend 2 to 3 hours on the hike.

Pro Tip: Access to the Pipiwai Trail is via the Road to Hana, a winding 64-mile route that can take hours to navigate. Plan for a very early start if you intend to drive the route and hike the Pipiwai Trail on a day trip. Or stay the night before in the town of Hana, located 12 miles from the trailhead.

The Wailea Oceanfront Boardwalk Trail in Hawaii. — Cindy Barks

7. Wailea Oceanfront Boardwalk Trail

Maui

More a walk than a hike, the Wailea Oceanfront Boardwalk Trail rates low on the difficulty scale but high on the payoffs.

Along the 1.8-mile oceanfront route, you will be treated to endless ocean views, scenes of sea turtles frolicking in the lovely coves, and some of the most luxurious resorts around. The paved path has a few gentle ups and downs, but for the most part, it’s an easy, leisurely walk.

Pro Tip: Wailea Beach is a premier spot for taking in the sunset, and an evening stroll along the Boardwalk Trail will yield many spots for watching the sky turn to rich pinks and oranges as the sun dips below the horizon.

The Maunakea Trail in Hawaii. — MNStudio / Shutterstock

8. Maunakea Trail

Big Island

Known as the big hike on Hawaii’s Big Island, the Maunakea Trail climbs the highest mountain in Hawaii.

The trail to the summit is 6 miles (12 miles round trip), and it traverses a whopping 4,600 feet in elevation gain — climbing from 9,200 feet to 13,800 feet.

The Maunakea Visitor Station website cautions, “The average round-trip hiking time for experienced hikers is approximately 8 hours. Please know that your trip may take longer!” Hikers must be back at the visitor station by sunset or risk being stranded on the trail in the dark.

Pro Tip: Obviously, only the fittest of the fit should attempt the Maunakea Trail. But completing the arduous hike is an accomplishment to remember.

Akaka Falls State Park in Hawaii. — Maridav / Shutterstock

9. Akaka Falls Loop, Akaka Falls State Park

Big Island

Located about 3.5 miles from the former sugar plantation town of Honomu is the Akaka Falls State Park, where hikers can take in a relatively short, easy hike featuring two picturesque waterfalls.

The 0.4-mile trail traverses lush rainforest terrain and passes by the 100-foot Kahuna Falls and the 442-foot Akaka Falls.

Pro Tip: For those who cannot walk long distances, the Akaka Falls Loop offers relatively easy access to scenic waterfalls, although it does include some stairs and is not handicap accessible.

The Kalalau Trail in Hawaii. — IndustryAndTravel / Shutterstock

10. Kalalau Trail

Kauai

Crossing above towering sea cliffs and lush valleys, Kauai’s Kalalau Trail offers the only land access to the tropical paradise of Kalalau Beach.

It’s not an easy trek, however. The 11-mile trail (22 miles round trip) passes through five valleys, and is “mostly never level,” according to the website for Kalalau. Still, it is an iconic hike that is known worldwide for its access to the beautiful Napali Coast.

Pro Tip: For an easier but still challenging taste of the Kalalau Trail, plan to do the first 2 miles (4 miles round trip), starting from the north shore and ending at the remote Hanakapiai Beach. Reservations are necessary.

The Ke Ala Hele Makalae trail in Hawaii. — Go Hawaii

11. Ke Ala Hele Makalae, Royal Coconut Coast

Kauai

For a less intense but still spectacular trail on Kauai, head to the paved Ke Ala Hele Makalae on Kauai’s Royal Coconut Coast.

The trail covers 8 miles over two sections and is perfect for walking, jogging, and bike riding.

Both the stretch between Lydgate Beach Park and Wailua Beach and the section between Kapaa and Ahihi Point offer plenty of opportunities to stop to take in the views or catch a sunrise.

Depending on which route you choose and your mode of transportation, the hike could take anywhere from 1 to 3 hours.

Pro Tip: Because the paved trail is separate from the road, it is a great place for kids, as well as for strollers and wheelchairs.

Plenty of other beautiful hikes are out there waiting to be discovered, including those on the less-visited islands of Molokai and Lanai.

This article is presented by KEEN Footwear. With their abundance of sandy beaches and tide pools, Hawaii’s trails are the perfect places for the lightweight KEEN SOLR Sandal. In hot-weather hiking, I love the airy feeling of a supportive sandal like the SOLR. The grippy sandals also support your feet on rocky hikes. Shop KEEN’s SOLR and other hiking shoes here.

9 Beautiful Scenic Byways To Explore In Nebraska

The best way to explore Nebraska is to get off the interstate and travel the byways that really tell the state’s story and are home to attractions off the beaten path. On the state’s nine scenic byways, you can see the Nebraska you won’t while driving along Interstate 80 — rolling hills, buttes, forests, ancient rock formations, and unique attractions.

1. Outlaw Trail Scenic Byway

Running from South Sioux City to Valentine, the Outlaw Trail Scenic Byway covers 231 miles.

Pay your respects to veterans at a half-scale replica of the Washington, D.C., Vietnam Veterans Memorial at Siouxland Freedom Park. The Outlaw Trail, named after infamous historical figures like Jesse and Frank James, who hid out in the Devil’s Nest area of Knox County, is home to three state parks: Ponca State Park, Niobrara State Park, and Smith Falls State Park (which boasts the state’s tallest waterfall). Enjoy artwork along the trail with historical murals at Crofton, Ohiya Casino & Resort on the Santee Sioux reservation, Niobrara, and Lynch. The smallest town in America — Monowi — also calls the Outlaw Trail Scenic Byway home. Stop in at the Monowi Tavern, have lunch, and say hi to Elsie, the lone resident.

Niobrara is home to outstanding restaurants. The Country Cafe is a farm-to-table diner. Sportsmen’s Bar and Two Rivers Hotel is known for its steaks and prime rib, as well as its great burgers. You might even want to spend the night at Sportsmen’s bed and breakfast. If you’re looking for a quick food stop, check out the Niobrara Trading Post. Owned by a former Nebraska Cornhusker football star, the convenience store is known for its homestyle cooking, including cheeseburgers and chicken-fried steak sandwiches. It isn’t your typical gas station cuisine. In Valentine, grab a seat at the Peppermill for one of the best steaks you’ll ever enjoy.

Pro Tip: The Country Cafe does not accept credit or debit cards, but it will accept out-of-town checks and cash.

You might want to book a weekend stay at the Historic Argo Hotel in Crofton, and don’t forget to ask about the ghosts. The Ohiya Casino & Resort also features a nice hotel.

Carhenge in Alliance, Nebraska. — marekuliasz / Shutterstock

2. Gold Rush Scenic Byway

During the Gold Rush, about $200,000 worth of gold made its way along this Nebraska route on a daily basis. Today, a drive along the Gold Rush Scenic Byway in the Nebraska Panhandle offers a different type of treasure. While you’ll certainly enjoy the views of buttes and tall pine trees stretching skyward, the byway offers some eccentric history as well.

The Museum of the Fur Trade in Chadron shares stories of the fur trade through artifacts and memorabilia. Stop in at the Mari Sandoz High Plains Heritage Center to learn about one of Nebraska’s best-known authors. In Alliance, you’ll want to visit Carhenge, a local artist’s nod to England’s Stonehenge. Using old cars, each painted gray, the artist created the site as a tribute to his father. Explore Sidney’s Boot Hill Cemetery, where soldiers stationed at nearby Fort Sidney as well as cowboys were buried during the town’s Wild West days.

While in Chadron, enjoy a cup of coffee, breakfast, or lunch at Bean Broker Coffee House and Pub. Get your hands messy with delicious barbecue at EJ’s BBQ and Take-Out, which offers barbecue standards along with unique entrees such as barbecue mac and cheese. From steaks to broasted chicken, enjoy home cooking at Ken and Dale’s Restaurant in Alliance.

During your travels along the Gold Rush Scenic Byway, consider spending a night at the Victorian Inn Bed & Breakfast in Chadron.

3. Bridges To Buttes Scenic Byway

Covering nearly 200 miles from Valentine west to the Wyoming border, the Bridges to Buttes Scenic Byway showcases some of the most beautiful landscapes in Nebraska.

The top attraction is probably Toadstool Geologic Park — nicknamed Nebraska’s Badlands — which features rock formations resembling toadstools. Learn about the bison that once roamed the plains at the Hudson-Meng Education & Research Center, the site of a paleoarchaeological dig. Outdoor enthusiasts will enjoy a kayak trip along the Niobrara National Scenic River near Valentine. Then explore Valentine and get a special postage stamp at the local post office. Stop by Auntie D’s Gift & Coffee Shop for home decor and some fun browsing.

Enjoy lunch or dinner at the old-fashioned Staab’s Drive Inn in Crawford, featuring broasted chicken and burgers. Bunkhouse Restaurant and Saloon in Valentine has a menu featuring burgers, steaks, and chicken.

Reserve a room at the Down Home Ranch House near Crawford, where your morning coffee comes with the sounds of songbirds and Mother Nature. Valentine is home to The Niobrara Lodge, which is just a short walk from the city’s main street.

4. Heritage Highway Scenic Byway

Home to author Willa Cather’s hometown of Red Cloud, the Heritage Highway Scenic Byway runs through southeastern Nebraska from Brownville near the Missouri border to more than 230 miles west.

Red Cloud celebrates Cather with a tour of homes and buildings featured in her novels. The entire town of Brownville, with a population of about 150, is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. The river town is home to the Governor Furnas Arboretum and Nature Trail, the Whiskey Run Creek Winery and Distillery, and quaint shops prime for browsing and shopping. Explore the nation’s first homestead in Beatrice at the Homestead National Monument.

For authentic Mexican dining, check out Playa Azul Mexican Restaurant in Beatrice. Red Cloud is home to The Palace, where you can enjoy steak, prime rib, or a burger.

For a special experience, reserve a room aboard Brownville’s River Inn Resort, a former riverboat that’s been converted into a bed and breakfast. In Red Cloud, stay at the historic Kaley House or the Cather Second Home, which was owned by Cather’s parents.

5. Loup Rivers Scenic Byway

Covering 150 miles in central Nebraska, the Loup Rivers Scenic Byway runs from Wood River to Dunning.

Along the route, you’ll want to explore the Happy Jack Chalk Mine near Scotia. Afterward, climb to the top of the mine’s hill for a breathtaking view of the Loup River Valley. Saint Paul is home to the Museum of Nebraska Major League Baseball, which honors seven Nebraskans named to the National Baseball Hall of Fame as well as each Nebraskan who has played in the major leagues. Visit Brick Street Mall, where you’ll find antiques and home decor. And last but not least, hop into a converted cow tank and float down the Calamus River for a classic Nebraska outing.

For casual American fare, grab dinner at The County Cage in Saint Paul for burgers, wings, and more. Whiskey River Bar & Grill in Wood River features a pub menu with burgers and sandwiches.

The Victorian House 211 bed and breakfast in Loup City is a good choice for a weekend getaway. The By-Way Guest House bed and breakfast in Ord offers a cozy stay in a century-old home.

6. Lincoln Highway Historic Byway

The longest byway in Nebraska, the Lincoln Highway Historic Byway runs about 400 miles along U.S. Route 30 from Omaha to Kimball.

Take a walk along the Omaha riverfront to the Bob Kerrey Pedestrian Bridge, the longest pedestrian bridge connecting two states. You can also drive along a 1-mile stretch of the original brick-laid Route 30 in suburban Elkhorn. Columbus’s Pawnee Park is home to the Andrew Jackson Higgins Memorial, which recognizes the local who invented the Higgins boat, which played a major role in the D-Day invasion during World War II. Kearney’s Classic Car Collection features more than 100 vintage autos. While in Kearney, you’ll want to visit The Archway, which covers the American pioneer experience and provides a look at life on the Lincoln Highway. Grand Island is home to the Stuhr Museum of the Prairie Pioneer, which includes a living history pioneer town. In North Platte, you can visit the Buffalo Bill Ranch State Historical Park, which features the cowboy entertainer’s home.

For a delicious breakfast or lunch, visit Harold’s Koffee House in the Florence neighborhood of Omaha. The Chocolate Bar in Grand Island is the perfect spot for a coffee break and a slice of delicious cake. Enjoy a steak or burger at Ole’s Big Game Steakhouse in Paxton; you’ll see the stuffed animals that Ole hunted over the years, including a polar bear, giraffe, and elephant.

Bed and breakfast fans will want to stay at Bakers Bed and Breakfast in Blair. If you prefer a hotel, North Platte has a wide selection of national chains.

7. Sandhills Journey Scenic Byway

Covering more than 270 miles, the Sandhills Journey Scenic Byway runs from Grand Island to Alliance.

A drive through the Sandhills offers amazing views, with rolling hills seemingly creating a sea of prairie grass. Check out the Nebraska National Forests and Grasslands near Halsey. With more than 90,000 acres of trees and plants, it’s the largest hand-planted forest in the United States. Comstock is home to the Dowse Sod House, and Grand Island’s downtown offers some unique boutiques and antique stores.

Grab lunch or dinner at Wave Pizza Company, where you can enjoy a delicious hand-tossed pizza and an ambience that will transport you to the Florida Keys. Grand Island’s Sin City Grill may resemble an old Las Vegas dive bar, but its burgers are amazing.

Grand Island is also home to several national chain hotels.

Scotts Bluff National Monument in Nebraska. — John Brueske / Shutterstock

8. Western Trails Scenic & Historic Byway

Following Highway 92, the Western Trails Scenic & Historic Byway runs about 140 miles from Ogallala to the Wyoming border.

Plan to visit Lake McConaughy, a man-made paradise. With a shoreline that’s about 20 miles long, the lake has a depth of about 140 feet when at full capacity. Summer visitors can enjoy boating, swimming, fishing, and almost any other water activity. Ogallala is also home to the Petrified Wood Gallery, a unique gallery featuring petrified wood art. You’ll want to visit two of Nebraska’s most popular natural attractions, too: Scotts Bluff National Monument and Chimney Rock National Historic Site.

Combine dinner with a trip back in time to the 1800s at Front Street Steakhouse in Ogallala. Open Wednesday through Saturday, The Tangled Tumbleweed in Scottsbluff features a tapas-style menu.

The Admiral’s Cove Resort offers a picturesque stay near Lake McConaughy. Nancy B’s Bunkhouse in Lewellen features a three-bedroom lodge.

9. Lewis & Clark Scenic Byway

Running along the Missouri River for 82 miles from Omaha to South Sioux City, the Lewis & Clark Scenic Byway traces the path the famous explorers took during their expedition in the early 1800s.

Fort Atkinson near Fort Calhoun is a replica of the first military installation built west of the Missouri River. It also marks the spot where Lewis and Clark first met with leaders of area Native American tribes. Blair is home to the Black Elk-Neihardt Park, which includes a monument to Native Americans along a nature walk. You’ll want to stop at Master’s Hand in Tekamah to browse its home decor section as well as sample handmade chocolate treats. You’ll likely leave with a bag or two of their fudge or chocolates. The Omaha and Ho Chunk (Winnebago) tribes have reservations along the byway. You can learn about the Ho Chunk tribe’s history at the Honoring-the-Clans Sculpture Garden.

South Sioux City is home to Mi Familia Mexican Restaurant, which features an authentic Mexican menu. Master’s Hand offers homestyle lunches but requires a reservation.

For a one-of-a-kind experience, reserve the Kottage Knechtion Treehouse Bed and Breakfast, where you’ll stay 18 feet above the ground, overlooking about 5 acres of attractive landscape.

How To Visit 6 Lovely Volcanoes In The Cascades

About 700 miles long, the Cascade Volcanic Arc stretches from the southern tip of Canada’s British Columbia through Washington, Oregon, and the northern part of California. Taking its name from the Cascade Range, the arc has 18 volcanoes in all, many of them still active and the rest considered potentially active.

When we lived in Seattle, we were blessed with the beauty of one of them, Mount Rainier, whenever she appeared from behind the clouds. When we were RVing North America, we frequently went back to Seattle to visit my daughter and her family. From Interstate 5, either down from Canada where another of my daughters was living, or up from Phoenix, where we were snowbirds in the winter, we invariably saw Mount Baker, Mount Saint Helens, Mount Hood (and the Three Sisters), Mount Lassen, and Mount Shasta from different angles and during various seasons. Here are our tips for visiting.

Mount Baker in the Cascades. — karamysh / Shutterstock

1. Mount Baker

If you’re road tripping from Canada, you will encounter Mount Baker first. It rises 10,781 feet high and is the youngest (no more than 140,000 years old) in its volcanic field. In the arc, it is the second-most heavily glaciated after Mount Rainier and the second-most thermally active after Mount Saint Helens. And the volume of snow and ice on Mount Baker is greater than that of all the other Cascades volcanoes (except Rainier) combined. It is also one of the snowiest places in the world, setting the world record for snowfall in a single season at the Mount Baker Ski Area in 1999.

My husband loved to ski there, especially because of its very good long runs. He has even taken his son’s Boy Scout troop and stayed at the Mountaineers’ Baker Lodge up on the mountain. Mount Baker has a commanding presence. As the third-highest mountain in Washington and the fifth-highest in the Cascade Range, it’s visible as you travel down across the U.S. border from Vancouver in British Columbia and even from Seattle (and, on clear days, Tacoma) in Washington. We saw this every day when we camped in Blaine, Washington, 23 miles away, and played in nearby Bellingham.

Mount Rainier in the Cascades. — Real Window Creative / Shutterstock

2. Mount Rainier

Mount Rainier is the Cascade Volcanic Arc’s leader in beauty and risk. An active volcano (the last eruption was in 1894), it is the most glaciated peak and most prominent mountain in the contiguous U.S. It is also the tallest in the Cascades at 14,411 feet. The area around it is so beautiful that it has been preserved as the Mount Rainier National Park. But it is also considered one of the most dangerous volcanoes in the world, listed on the Decade Volcano list because of its large amount of glacial ice that could produce massive lahars that would threaten a lot of life and property, especially considering the city of Seattle is just 59 miles southeast of its peak.

There is still fun to be had here, though, and we cannot forget the wonderful experience had when we brought my oldest grandchildren to Paradise, Washington, located at an elevation of 5,400 feet, where the main visitor center for the national park is located. We went in winter and had so much fun playing in the heavy snow — one of my granddaughters even got her boot stuck in the deep. Those who want to stay overnight can check into the historic Paradise Inn, open from May to October. There are a host of trails, including the picturesque Nisqually Vista Trail, a 45-minute loop trail that affords views of Mount Rainier and the Nisqually Glacier.

In summer, you can also reach several areas by car via the one-way Paradise Valley Road, which begins at the Paradise Inn and weaves through a beautiful meadow-filled valley, providing a view of Mount Rainier’s reflection in the subalpine lakes. Paradise is located 19 miles east of the Nisqually Entrance and 12 miles east of Longmire.

Sunrise is the other Mount Ranier vantage point. It’s higher at 6,400 feet in elevation and 60 miles northeast of the Nisqually Entrance. Sunrise Road is open only in July, August, and September. There is a visitor center and a day lodge. Longmire, which is located in the southwest corner of the park, a little more than six miles east of the Nisqually Entrance, is open year-round. There, you can visit the Longmire House museum.

Mount Saint Helens in the Cascades. — Carol Colborn

3. Mount Saint Helens

Mount Saint Helens is just 50 miles northeast of Portland, Oregon, and 96 miles south of Seattle. It is the most active volcano in the Cascades Volcanic Arc, most known for its major eruption — the deadliest and most economically destructive volcanic event in U.S. history — on May 18, 1980. In fact, it reduced the elevation of the mountain’s summit by more than 1,000 feet, leaving a mile-wide horseshoe-shaped crater.

In 1983, the Mount Saint Helens National Volcanic Monument was opened to preserve the volcano and allow for the scientific study of the aftermath of the eruption. Since then, trails, viewpoints, info stations, campgrounds, and picnic areas have been built to accommodate the growing number of visitors each year. In fact, people are able to drive to Windy Ridge, which is just four miles northeast of the crater. We did. You can also reach the summit by mountain climbing, which has been allowed since 1986.

Mount Hood in the Cascades. — Michal Balada / Shutterstock

4. Mount Hood And The Three Sisters

Mount Hood is located about 50 miles east-southeast of Portland. It is one of the loftiest mountains in the nation, offering the only year-round lift-served skiing in North America. Standing 11,240 feet high, it is the highest point in Oregon and the fourth-highest in the Cascade Range. The volcano is considered the most likely to erupt in Oregon. The odds of an eruption in the next 30 years are estimated at between 3 and 7 percent, making it what scientists call “potentially active.”

Mount Hood’s prominence hovered around us every day during our week with my husband’s high school friends at a nine-bedroom villa in the upscale vacation community of Sunriver, Oregon. The artsy and touristy town of Bend is only 20 minutes away. During our stay, it was the South Sister — the lowest among the Three Sisters, which are three closely spaced volcanic peaks, each one about 10,000 feet high — that we climbed. We just loved Mount Hood’s daily presence in all of our activities.

Mount Shasta in the Cascades. — Louise Lopez / Shutterstock

5. Mount Shasta

We have not really seen Mount Shasta up close. Once we stayed overnight in the town of Redding, California, which is quite near it. Sadly, we did not have the time to stop and explore. But it is always such a beautiful presence whenever we pass by, with and without the glaciations, going up to or down from Seattle. It is a potentially active volcano at the southern end of the Cascade Range in northern California with an elevation of 14,179 feet, second only to Mount Rainier in height. But it is the biggest in the Cascade Volcanic Arc, with an estimated volume of 85 cubic miles.

Mount Lassen in the Cascades. — Anton Foltin / Shutterstock

6. Mount Lassen

Lassen Peak, commonly referred to as Mount Lassen, is the southernmost active volcano in the Cascade Range. It reaches an elevation of 10,457 feet. It is also different in that it isn’t a stratovolcano like the others but a lava dome. In fact, it is the largest lava dome in the world. On May 22, 1915, a powerful explosive eruption devastated nearby areas and a series of eruptions (that actually lasted from 1914 to 1917) spread volcanic debris 280 miles to the east. Lassen Peak and Mount Saint Helens were the only two volcanoes in the contiguous United States to erupt during the 20th century. Mount Lassen is still considered alive, just dormant, and it has a magma chamber that’s still capable of erupting.

After the eruption, the whole area was named Lassen Volcanic National Park, as with Mount Saint Helens, to preserve its 100,000 acres for observation and study, to protect the nearby volcanic features, and to prevent anyone from settling too close. The park has become popular for recreational activities and has already developed more diverse flora and fauna than Mount Saint Helens. We drove through the entire park from the north, where a visitor center stands at the entrance. We had the most fun at the southern exit, where the grounds were like a mini Yellowstone Park. Interstate 5 is nearby as you exit, and we easily found our campground for the night.

These six lovely volcanoes of the Cascades have always made our drives through the Pacific Northwest such a pleasurable experience. Having stayed around some of them, our trips on Interstate 5 have more than come to life.

The 9 Most Stunning Hikes In Colorado

Colorado is popular, with 85 million tourists descending on the state every year. Fortunately, there’s plenty of public room to spread out. There are 24.5 million acres of public lands as approximately 37 percent of the entire state is preserved as national parks or national forests. These lands include the biggest collection of the highest peaks in the country, many of which you can witness on these stunning Colorado hikes.

Exclamation Point in Gunnison National Park. — WorldPictures / Shutterstock

1. North Vista Trail, Black Canyon Of The Gunnison National Park

Montrose County

Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park is only 47 square miles, and much of those are sheer canyon walls. The Black Canyon got that name because some parts of the canyon only get about 33 minutes of sunshine every day since the canyon walls are so steep and narrow.

My suggestion for hiking the Black Canyon is the North Vista Trail, a walk that won’t scare you but will get you to a place called Exclamation Point after about a mile and a half of easy walking. You can keep on going, and after another three and a half rather strenuous miles, you’ll get to Green Mountain. There are a number of switchbacks on the way up Green. The views are spectacular — of the San Juan Mountains and the canyon itself.

To get to the hike, arrive at the north rim from nearby Crawford, Colorado, and start the hike at the North Rim Ranger Station.

If you are looking for the scary hike, there are trails that take you from the canyon rim to the river. One is called the Gunnison Route, and it’s a short, steep route to the river’s edge. Part of the hike includes a long chain to assist in making a really steep section passable.

Pro Tip: Avoid the scary walk to the river!

2. Animas Mountain Trail, San Juan National Forest

Durango

The Animas Mountain Trail starts in the City of Durango in southwest Colorado and is a six-mile loop. You get started on 32nd Street in north Durango, which is one of Colorado’s coolest cities. You can go either direction at the start, but I suggest you go counterclockwise for a less-strenuous walk. Clockwise is a bit easier on the knees on the way down. The views are incredible once you make it through a series of switchbacks.

Pro Tip: This trail is shared by dog walkers and trail runners.

3. Ouray Perimeter Trail, San Juan National Forest

Ouray

A five-mile walk, the Ouray Perimeter Trail is what it suggests. It takes you around the quaint town of Ouray. Ouray, named for a powerful Ute chief, is in southwest Colorado, in the San Juan National Forest. What you get for a relatively quick walk are some great views of Ouray. The entire downtown is on the National Register of Historic Places.

The perimeter hike goes through the cliffs that surround the town and includes bridges, waterfalls, and even a pipeline that you get to climb over. There are numerous spur trails; one takes you through a tunnel and another takes you to a waterfall that in winter is part of the ice climbing park.

Pro Tip: Ouray is noted for its hot springs. Take advantage.

Hikers in Great Sand Dunes National Park. — Yingna Cai / Shutterstock

4. Great Sand Dunes National Park

Alamosa And Saguache Counties

This park is located south and west of Pueblo and its surprise factor gets it included here. Sand dunes, in the mountains? It’s an amazing sight: dunes 700 to 750 feet high. There are no trails on the dunes, but you can walk all over them. A word of caution: Hike early morning or in the evening since the sand can reach 150 degrees on a sunny day.

Pro Tip: Be prepared for windy conditions.

5. Colorado Midland Railroad To Hagerman Tunnel

Leadville

Leadville has the distinction of being the highest-elevation city in the United States at 10,152 feet. That’s why I’m not proposing any lung-busting hikes much higher. Here’s a relatively easy, interesting walk along sections of the Colorado Midland railroad bed to the Hagerman Tunnel. It was the highest railroad tunnel in the world at the time it was built in the late 1880s.

If you’re a railroad buff, the trail has lots of interesting railroad remains: trestles, snow sheds, deep rock cuts, and the ruins of a boom town, Douglass City, which was home to the men who built the line. There’s also lots of mountain scenery: meadows and lakes and wide vistas. Do not enter the tunnel, as it is unsafe.

The trail starts on the west side of Hagerman Pass Road, across from the trailhead parking area. It’s clearly marked on area hiking maps.

Pro Tip: Drive the Top of the Rockies Byway, which goes 75 miles from Aspen, through Leadville, to I-70.

6. Sky Pond

Rocky Mountain National Park

This walk is my absolute favorite in RMNP — not too long and a beautiful lake as the payoff. Expect crowds at the beginning, as most visitors are on the trail to get to Alberta Falls, which is about a half-mile from the trailhead. This is a strenuous hike, about nine miles in all, but worth it, especially when you get to climb up a waterfall!

This hike starts at Glacier Gorge Junction. Just follow the signs (and the crowds). As you get deeper into the woods, the crowds thin out quickly. There are a couple of forks in the trail, but they are clearly marked to get you to your destination. Eventually, Timberline Falls is in view, so take a break on some boulders and watch the other hikers climb up. Above the falls, Lake of Glass is in view, and you can see around the lake to Sky Pond. It’s an easy walk even though the lake and pond are surrounded by cliffs that look rather menacing.

7. Chasm Lake

Rocky Mountain National Park

This is my pick for the best hike in Colorado. Check out TravelAwaits’ picks for the best hikes in all 50 states here. RMNP, as aficionados call these nearly 400 square miles just about a 90-minute drive from Denver, has 350 miles of trails. Hikers from expert to novice have plenty of walks to pick, from strolling through meadows to climbing one of Colorado’s “fourteeners,” Long’s Peak. Fourteeners refers to the many Colorado peaks over 14,000 feet. Long’s is not one hike I’ll suggest here, due to its tremendous difficulty for most of us.

Instead, I’ll concentrate on some walks that will give you a taste of what this park is all about, starting with Chasm Lake, an eight-mile out-and-back hike, which is pretty difficult. In fact, part of the trail takes hikers to Longs Peak. The trail to the lake is worth the effort, and you’ll be rewarded with some solitude after leaving the Longs turnoff. This hike is off Highway 7, outside the main part of the park, but you walk into the park proper.

Get started early in the day to avoid afternoon thunderstorms, as you’ll be above tree line for a while. You’ll pass Goblins Camp, which looks otherworldly with its twisted limber pines. Then you’ll climb switchbacks up Mills Moraine to a trail split: Go left for Chasm Lake. The trail to the right heads to Longs Peak.

As the trail descends, watch your step as you look over the edge to Roaring Fork River, fed by the lake. Columbine Falls tumbles out of Chasm Lake, creating a great environment for the Colorado state flower, the blue columbine. The lake is accessed by climbing a ledge, and the route is marked by stone cairns. A perfect spot for lunch.

8. Flattop Mountain

Rocky Mountain National Park

This is a strenuous eight-mile hike, but the trail is smooth and easy on the feet. You start at the Bear Lake trailhead area, but don’t even think about parking there. Take the shuttle bus. You go above tree line, so don’t get stuck at your destination when afternoon storms roll in. The crowds at Bear Lake thin out as you climb switchbacks. Your payoff for the hard work: vistas in every direction, with plenty of room to spread out for lunch.

9. Tundra Hike

Rocky Mountain National Park

Tundra Hike is what my kids call this walk, which goes from the Alpine Visitor Center to Milner Pass, a one-way trip of about eight and a half miles. The good news: It’s all downhill! You need two cars to accomplish this — or be willing to thumb a ride back to your car at the visitor center. The visitor center is on Trail Ridge Road, the park’s main drag. Park at the visitor center, carefully cross the road, and you’ll see the trail. It crosses above tree line. Along the way, you can peer into Forest Canyon, which was created by a glacier ten thousand years ago. Appreciate the viewpoint from an elevation of 11,340 feet. Later, look for some small ponds on the left. Keep an eye out for sheep and elk. As you enter an area near the tree line, there are krummholz, gnarled trees stunted by the challenging growing conditions.

This little hike has it all: above tree line, below tree line, wild animals, a marshy area, and views of the Continental Divide.

Pro Tip: RMNP is almost overwhelmed with visitors. Opt for shoulder season visits if possible.

This article is presented by KEEN Footwear. I’m rocking Targhee III casual brogues and they are incredibly comfy, even at the end of a six-mile, rocky road. The shoes fit well, even with my extra heavy-duty inserts, required because of my plantar fasciitis. My feet didn’t experience a twinge of pain. The shoes aren’t unduly hot and made a rough road less so. Shop KEEN’s Targhees and other hiking shoes here.

9 Things You Must Know Before Hiking The Narrows In Zion

As the Virgin River meanders through the spectacular Zion Canyon, it tapers to its narrowest point at a section that is aptly called The Narrows.

There, the luminous blue-green water of the river — a Wild and Scenic waterway — is bracketed by 1,000-foot-high rock walls. Hiking The Narrows is an enchanting experience. Around one bend, you might encounter a waterfall cascading down the cliff walls. At another point, you’ll find entrances to dimly lit slot canyons. Visitors from around the world flock to this hike.

“This is the most famous backcountry area of Zion, and for good reason,” says the state’s tourism website. “Stunning thousand-foot walls of Navajo sandstone rise on both sides, and centuries of erosion have sculpted the rocks into surreal fluted and whorled forms.”

The descriptions and the otherworldly photos of The Narrows had me yearning to try the Zion National Park hike for years before I finally got there on a recent trip. The Narrows hike was at the top of my must-do list on that trip, and it did not disappoint.

If Zion’s other bucket-list-worthy hike, Angels Landing, is among the most thrilling hikes out there, The Narrows is surely the coolest.

When To Go

The best time of year to attempt The Narrows hike is in late spring or summer, when the water is at its warmest and the water level is at its lowest. However, this is also the time when rainstorms can cause flash floods, so hikers need to be careful. Remember that the rainy monsoon season throughout the Southwest typically starts in early July and can continue through mid-September.

The weather is more stable in the fall, but the days are shorter, and the water cools down. I completed the hike in early October and found the water to be a bit chilly but still comfortable.

As for the best time of day, most people recommend getting out on the hike as early as possible. That means getting on the park’s first shuttle in the morning — usually at about 6 or 7 a.m.

Hikers in the Narrows at Zion National Park. — Checubus / Shutterstock

How To Get There

My group chose to hike The Narrows from the bottom up — a day hike that does not require a permit. The hike begins at Zion’s Temple of Sinawava shuttle stop. From the trailhead, the easy Riverside Trail follows the bank of the river for about a mile. After that, continuing on will require walking in the water.

You can choose to complete the entire 4.7-mile trip (9.4 miles round trip) up the river to Big Spring, or you can turn back at any point for a shorter hike. The estimated hiking time is anywhere from 1 to 8 hours.

Regardless how far you go, it will be a hike to remember. Here are nine things you need to know before you go.

1. Keep A Close Eye On The Weather

The most important advice during any time of the year at The Narrows is to keep an eye out for rainstorms, which can lead to flash flooding. The Narrows is especially susceptible to flash flooding because much of the surrounding terrain is bare rock that does not absorb runoff water.

Water levels can rise almost instantly during a rainstorm, and hikers have been stranded and even killed by venturing into the narrow canyon during rainy weather. The hike is not recommended if there is a chance of rain in the forecast, so be sure to check the National Weather Service’s website for flash flood information before you head out.

2. Waterproof Your Phone/Camera

While you probably won’t be completely submerged in water on The Narrows hike, you definitely will run the risk of getting your electronic gear wet. I chose not to take my good camera on the hike, but I did take my cell phone. To protect it, I bought a waterproof phone holder that I could wear around my neck. It allowed me to take photos without removing the phone, and it kept the phone out of the water. Even better would have been a waterproof action camera like a GoPro.

3. The Water Depth Will Vary

Although some of The Narrows hike will be through calf-high water that will be easy to navigate, other sections may have thigh-high or waist-high water. The national park’s website notes that the water depth can vary from season to season and from day to day, depending on rainfall and snowfall.

Expect to navigate a variety of water depths — anywhere from 1 to 3 feet deep — and remember that the deeper the water, the more effort it will take to deal with the current. The deeper water will also make it harder to see the rocks that line the bottom of the riverbed.

4. Bring Closed-Toed Water Shoes With Grips

The proper footgear can make a big difference on The Narrows hike, and most experts recommend wearing closed-toed shoes that have a good grip. With open-toed hiking sandals, you run the risk of stubbing your toes on the rough rocks in the riverbed.

Although many people opt for lightweight athletic shoes for the hike, I chose a sturdy pair of closed-toed water shoes, and I think they provided more flexibility and traction than sneakers.

5. Rent Neoprene Socks And A Walking Stick

For added protection from the chilly water, I decided to rent a pair of neoprene socks from one of the many outfitters in the nearby town of Springdale that provide equipment for The Narrows hike. The thick, tight socks added another layer of protection from the river’s rough rocks.

I also recommend renting a wooden walking stick if you don’t already have one. A stick is a great aid in determining the depth of the water before you step in and for finding rocky areas. For 50+ hikers, a walking stick can also offer a bit of stability while navigating the swift current.

There are many outfitters to choose from in Springdale, including Zion Outfitter. During cold-weather hiking, dry suits and boots are also recommended.

6. Wear Quick-Dry Clothes, Preferably Shorts

You will get wet on The Narrows hike, and it’s best if your clothing can dry quickly. During hot weather, I recommend wearing shorts made of a quick-drying fabric. In chilly weather, dry pants are recommended.

7. It’s Flat But Tiring

Most of The Narrows hike takes place in the riverbed, so the route is relatively flat. But that doesn’t mean that it’s easy. The national park website notes that about 60 percent of the hike is spent wading, walking, and sometimes swimming in the river.

Along the way, you will be treading over a rough and slippery river bottom and lifting your feet through fast-flowing water. Although I didn’t find The Narrows as strenuous as hikes over steep terrain, walking in the water did get tiring after a few miles.

Remember to pack water and snacks and stop for a break before beginning your hike back.

8. Save Energy For The Return Trip

As with any out-and-back hike, it’s important to remember that you will have to return the way you came on The Narrows hike. It is best to decide beforehand how far you’re comfortable going on the hike.

A popular choice is to hike about 3 miles in — to the stunning Wall Street section, the narrowest part of The Narrows, where the walls soar to about 1,500 feet and the river width is at just 22 feet or so.

Not far from the Wall Street area, you’ll find Orderville Canyon, a slot-canyon tributary to the Virgin River. Even narrower than The Narrows, the walls of the slot canyon give off a softly glowing light.

Upstream hiking is not allowed in Orderville Canyon after a quarter mile. My group didn’t venture far into the slot canyon, but what we saw was amazing. Hikers wishing to experience more of the slot canyon can get a canyoneering permit and try the top-down hike.

My advice is to pace yourself and remember to turn around at your agreed-upon halfway point. But if you’re comfortable with a 6-mile round-trip hike, Wall Street and Orderville Canyon are definitely worth the effort.

9. There Is More Than One Way To Do It

Although the bottom-up option is the most popular — and the easiest — option for hiking The Narrows, there is also the top-down version, which involves a 16-mile downstream hike from Chamberlain’s Ranch to the Temple of Sinawava shuttle stop.

Obviously, this option requires more planning than the bottom-up route, and it also requires a permit. The national park website says that the top-down hike takes 10 to 14 hours and can be done over two days, with an overnight stay at a designated campsite along the way. For a day hike, a canyoneering permit is needed, and for an overnight hike, a backpacker permit is required. There are only 12 campsites available, so only 12 permits are issued each day.

Pro Tip: Because you will be in a narrow riverbed for the entire hike after you leave the Riverside Trail, there are virtually no spots for a privacy break along The Narrows route. So plan ahead and be sure to use the restroom at the Temple of Sinawava trailhead before you start out.

The 10 Most Stunning Hikes In Alaska

As a fourth-generation Alaskan, I often hear how spoiled I am to have grown up in the wild beauty of the 49th state. Spoiled, perhaps, but not rotten. I’m ever-captivated by the secrets she reveals, even over paths I’ve walked a thousand times before. Alaska is truly The Last Frontier, the ultimate bucket-list adventure of a lifetime. In the largest state in the nation, plan to go big before you go home.

The trail on Deer Mountain in Alaksa. — Ramunas Bruzas / Shutterstock

1. Deer Mountain

Ketchikan

Towering over Ketchikan, Deer Mountain is perhaps the most recognizable landmark in Alaska’s First City. A must-do favorite of locals and visitors alike, aptly named Deer Mountain reaches an elevation of 3,000+ feet and is categorized as difficult not only for the incline but for the occasionally treacherous terrain. Starting in the quintessential Southeast Alaskan muskeg, it gradually steepens to alpine, where loose rocks and slick tracks following the abundant “liquid sunshine” — that is, rain — that Ketchikan is famous for, can be hazardous.

While not for the faint of heart, those channeling their inner deer will experience a most spectacular seven miles filled with myriad wildlife, wildflowers, woodlands, and, at the peak, iconic sweeping views of Alaska’s famed Inside Passage.

Hikers should stay on the path at all times, and waterproof shoes like the sturdy KEEN Targhee II are key to a safe and dry journey. Dogs are welcome!

2. Ward Lake Trail

Ketchikan

This is my pick for the best hike in Alaska. Check out TravelAwaits’ picks for the best hikes in all 50 states here. This peaceful, two-mile easy loop walking trail takes visitors inside the Tongass National Forest, the largest national forest in the U.S., which covers most of Southeast Alaska. Hikers experience the up-close-and-personal majesty of this famous rainforest in the most user-friendly way. Abundant flora and fauna greet hikers as they circle picturesque Ward Lake, and little podiums detailing some of the points of interest dot the way. A genuinely soulful path, one is enveloped in tranquility amongst the giant trees that seem to invite guests to linger. Every step provides a completely new view of the lake, confirming why it is one of the most photographed spots in The Last Frontier. The bridge crossing over Ward Creek is perhaps the most awe-inspiring stop, providing endless Instagram stunners for envious admirers back home.

Ward Lake Trail is stroller and wheelchair accessible and dog friendly (on leash only). Kids will enjoy looking for swarms of little tadpoles at the lake’s shoreline, and grills are available for outdoor barbecue fun.

3. Indian River Trail

Sitka

Sitka is the former capital of czarist Russia and home to the beautiful Indian River Trail located a short mile from town. This moderate eight-mile hike begins on the flat and gradually inclines past ubiquitous Sitka spruce and the purest waters on earth, teeming with fish, which both hikers and hungry bears will find intriguing. The final leg of the journey narrows considerably and can often be muddy and wet as though it intends to make visitors work just a bit harder for views of the magnificent 70-foot waterfall that’s just around the corner. Once again, those waterproof KEENs will come in handy as the peak is reached and the reward is sweet.

This is a lightly trafficked out-and-back trail where dogs are allowed on leash only.

Views of the Mendenhall Glacier in Alaska. — fon thachakul / Shutterstock

4. West Glacier Trail

Juneau

State capital Juneau is famous for Alaskan politics, gold, and the exquisite Mendenhall Glacier. The four-mile West Glacier Trail skips the first, hopes for the second, and guarantees splendid vistas of the third. An easy to moderate hike, take West Glacier to the West Glacier Spur Trail, watching for the pink ribbons to keep on track, and marvel at the gorgeous rainforest, waterfall, and lake views up to the lookout point over Mendenhall. Just 10 minutes on the Mount McGinnis Trail presents the glacier in an even more spectacular display, but double back because it swiftly turns into a rock climb requiring Cirque du Soleil-like ability. From the main viewpoint facing Mendenhall, keep curving to the left around the water to find where the glacier meets the rock face, and you’ll encounter a startling secret — ice caves.

For the full West Glacier adventure, plan on about four hours roundtrip and exercise caution in the ice caves. They are slick. Dogs are welcome but know porcupines are abundant in this area, which can result in painful encounters for overly curious four-legged companions.

5. Mount Ripinski And Haines Cliffs Overlook Skyline Trailhead

Haines

Haines is famous as Alaska’s bald eagle mecca, and photographers from all over the world flock to witness The Gathering in October, when the eagles gorge on salmon in the Chilkat River. This moderate, five-mile well-marked and well-maintained loop begins in the rainforest and inclines steeply in short order. Wooden steps assist with the ascent and make this hike a good fit for almost all ages and skill levels. Locals swear the sweeping view of sparkling fjords, glaciers, and the lovely town of Haines is one of the best trek payoffs ever.

6. Lost Lake Trail

Chugach National Forest

Just a stone’s throw from the charming fishing town of Seward on the Kenai Peninsula, Lost Lake Trail is a 14-mile moderate endeavor featuring mild elevation gains and spectacular scenery. A heavily forested start gradually gives way to wider views of the tundra, Resurrection Bay, and the surrounding mountain range as lovely Lost Lake beckons. This epic trek is often described as Acadia, Cascades, and Yellowstone all rolled into one on steroids. Most enjoy Lost Lake as a six-hour day hike, but overnight camping on the soft tundra under the stars is a check off the bucket list.

Access Lost Lake Trail from Primrose Campground on Kenai Lake (Mile 17 of the Seward Highway) or from Mile 5 of the Seward Highway. Dogs are allowed on leash only.

7. Homer Spit Walk

Homer

An Alaskan beach is a fascinating new experience for many visitors, and this easy nine-mile in-and-out walk is ideal for all ages and skill levels. Homer has long held the title Halibut Capital of the World, and Homer Spit, jutting far out into Kachemak Bay, is aptly called the End of the Road. The rugged snowcapped mountains of Kachemak Bay provide a breathtaking backdrop, while the path pops with colorful wildflowers and curious sea otters entertain passersby along this famous stretch of land. Kids and adults enjoy exploring the rocky beach, particularly when the tide is out and sea treasures are left behind. On the return, a walk on the Spit would not be complete without a stop at the famed Salty Dawg Saloon, which is an Alaskan treasure in itself, but no actual dogs (or kiddos) are allowed.

Wet rocks and seaweed can be slick, so tying on a pair of sturdy KEEN waterproof shoes ensures a safe and comfortable adventure. Tides come in quickly at Kachemak Bay, so always be aware of surroundings and note dogs are allowed on leash only.

8. Kesugi Ridge Trail

Denali State Park

Considered by many to be the most beautiful trail in America, this will be the story you tell at dinner parties for years to come. Alaska doesn’t always yield her beauty easily and can be quite punishing in the pursuit. This 30-mile point-to-point trek begins on the gentle side, but switchbacks are rare and the upper portions can be quite rugged, particularly in heavy rain. Most plan on a few days to complete this Last Frontier odyssey, but if you’re short on time, a day hike on the open tundra still provides sweeping views of the unparalleled Talkeetna and Alaska (Denali) ranges, and there’s one more check off your bucket list.

There are a few different approaches for day hiking Kesugi. One option is to start the journey at the Little Coal Creek trailhead on the George Parks Highway (at Mile 164) and end at the Byers Lake trailhead (Mile 147). A second option is via the Curry Ridge Trail accessed from the Kesugi Ken Campground a quarter mile north of the South Denali Overlook. Dogs are welcome.

Views from the Twin Peaks Trail. — Hopeless Traveller / Shutterstock

9. Twin Peaks Trail

Chugiak

Stunning vistas and bountiful wildlife are the order of the day on the moderate eight-mile Twin Peaks Trail in lush Chugach State Park. Plentiful mountain goats and Dall sheep are harbingers that this is going to be a steep climb, but a variety of trail options make it doable for all ages. Shimmering Eklutna Lake is visible throughout the hike as the trail winds up the East Twin Peak Mountain and the vast Chugach Mountain range and glaciers come into view just past the tree line. Late in summer, berries are plentiful and provide delectable deliciousness as you rest on the overlook bench with bald eagles soaring overhead taking in the surrounding glory of The Last Frontier. Bears also enjoy the berries and are not particularly fond of sharing.

Twin Peaks is 97 percent uphill but worth continuing on past the benches as wildlife encounters and landscape viewing are even more remarkable with elevation. This is an out-and-back hike that is kid and dog friendly.

The Angel Rocks Trail in Alaska. — Amber Howell / Shutterstock

10. Angel Rocks Trail

Fairbanks

Gather the whole crew and head out on this relaxing four-mile loop trail appropriate for all ages and skill levels. Angel Rocks features unique geologic pillars formed over millions of years, and the path incorporates varied terrain that can be particularly steep and rocky on the second half. The trail reaches 1,750 feet at its highest point and offers unobstructed views of the sprawling landscape. If visiting in late fall, you’ll have a chance to witness the miraculous aurora borealis. As a reward for a trek well done, a soak in the nearby world-famous Chena Hot Springs beautifully concludes this angelic experience.

Fairbanks is only 198 miles from the Arctic Circle on the Dalton Highway. For the bucket-list folks, it’s well worth the drive to cross over to the Morris Thompson Cultural and Visitors Center to collect an official Arctic Circle Certificate.

Pro Tips For Hiking In Alaska

Alaska earned its nickname The Last Frontier for a reason. This is incredibly vast, varied, and often dangerous terrain with weather and tides that can change on a dime, so it is important to review all safety guidelines when planning an adventure. Be aware of possible wildlife encounters, which, while awe-inspiring, can go terribly wrong if you’re unprepared.

Bear spray is recommended in many areas. Trails are usually clearly marked with information about any potential hazards ahead, and fellow hikers are also great resources for both exciting sights to look for and dangers to avoid as conditions can change daily. Even in summer, it can be chilly on the upper elevations and rain is frequent pretty much everywhere, so keep a raincoat and waterproof shoes handy.

Everything is bigger in Alaska, and that includes the mosquitoes, which will find you delicious. Bug spray is a must. If you are not a strong hiker, look for offshoots of more challenging trails which often provide fabulous views as well. If purchasing souvenirs, please support this beautiful state and buy Made in Alaska products distinctly marked by the mother bear and cub symbol.

This article is presented by KEEN Footwear. For my hikes, I wore KEEN’s Waterproof Targhee II Mid and my 6-year-old son won’t go anywhere without his KEEN Big Kids’ Waterproof Targhee Low. Hiking in Alaska requires multi-tasking superhero shoes that can traverse myriad terrain, endure brutal conditions, stay dry, and also, very importantly, be lightweight. I was highly impressed by the Targhee’s performance on all counts. The added support arch felt like a cloud, and the boots have an esthetic that garnered many compliments on the trail. Shop KEEN’s Targhees and other hiking shoes here.