Hiking offers a wonderful opportunity to connect with nature, stay active, and create lasting memories with loved ones. Across the United States, diverse landscapes range from majestic mountains and winding rivers to serene valleys, wetlands, and sandy beaches. If you’re eager to embark on an adventure but unsure where to begin, we’ve put together a guide to family-friendly hiking trails across the USA. The National Park Shops team encourages you to step outside and make the most of this summer with hikes the whole family can enjoy!
Contents
- 1 Lower Yosemite Falls Trail
- 2 Dream Lake Trail
- 3 River Scene Trail Loop
- 4 Hanging Lake, Glenwood Springs, Colorado
- 5 The Narrows, Zion National Park, Utah
- 6 Stanbery Park, Cincinnati, Ohio
- 7 Lily Marsh Trail, Ponderosa State Park, Idaho
- 8 Cowles Bog Trail
- 9 Taughannock North Rim Trail and South Rim Trail Loop
- 10 South Bubble Mountain Trail and Jordan Pond Loop
- 11 Conclusion
Lower Yosemite Falls Trail
- Park: Yosemite National Park (California)
- Trail length: 1 mile
The Lower Yosemite Falls Trail offers a short, scenic walk leading to Yosemite Falls, the tallest waterfall in North America. This breathtaking spot is perfect for families, as kids will be mesmerized by the sight and sound of the rushing water crashing against the rocks below. If you’re exploring family-friendly hiking trails, this one is a must-see – especially in spring when melting snow fuels the falls to their most spectacular flow. Plan your visit during this season to experience Yosemite Falls at its most magnificent!
Dream Lake Trail
- Park: Rocky Mountain National Park (Colorado)
- Trail length: 2.2 miles
Rocky Mountain National Park’s Dream Lake Trail is a fantastic choice for those seeking family-friendly hiking trails, offering a scenic route to a pristine alpine lake with breathtaking mountain views. Along the way, hikers can enjoy fun bridge crossings and take in the crystal-clear waters of Dream Lake, where schools of cutthroat trout are often visible beneath the surface. This picturesque spot is ideal for a family picnic, with the majestic Rocky Mountains beautifully mirrored in the lake’s shimmering waters, creating an unforgettable outdoor experience.
River Scene Trail Loop
- Park: Castlewood State Park (Missouri)
- Trail length: 3.1 miles
The River Scene Trail Loop is widely regarded as one of the most stunning family-friendly hiking trails in the park. This scenic route begins with a breathtaking view from a series of cliffs overlooking the picturesque Meramec River before leading hikers down into the valley via a wooden staircase. Once on the valley floor, kids will love exploring the riverbanks and wandering through the lush surrounding forests. Be sure to take a break and enjoy a refreshing splash in the water. It’s the perfect way to cool off and make the hike even more fun!
Hanging Lake, Glenwood Springs, Colorado
This family-friendly hiking trail features a short yet steep and rocky climb that begins along the Glenwood Canyon Bike and Pedestrian Path and leads to a breathtaking lake, where waterfalls cascade into waters shimmering in vibrant shades of green and blue. Last year, the cherished trail narrowly escaped destruction from the Grizzly Creek fire, emerging miraculously unscathed. Due to ongoing COVID-19 regulations, a paid permit is now required, transforming what was once a bustling summer hike into a serene and nearly private adventure.
>> Read More: Top 11 List of Yellowstone National Park Waterfalls
The Narrows, Zion National Park, Utah
Ideal for older kids, The Narrows at Zion National Park is one of the most thrilling yet challenging family-friendly hiking trails. This unique hike takes adventurers through the waters of the Virgin River, which can be susceptible to flash floods. Most hikers begin at the Temple of Sinawava, following the Riverside Walk before wading upstream and then retracing their steps back.
Stanbery Park, Cincinnati, Ohio
Not having easy access to wild or mountainous areas shouldn’t be a barrier to outdoor exploration. Some of the best family-friendly hiking trails are those close to home, allowing families to return time and time again as their children grow. In Cincinnati, Ohio, Stanbery Park’s 125 acres provide the perfect setting for young adventurers.
Many families enjoy the park’s scenic trails, which are ideal for hiking, trail running, and even splashing in the creek. Throughout the pandemic, Stanbery Park became a cherished escape, offering not only outdoor recreation but also opportunities for families to contribute to its upkeep through community clean-up efforts.
>> Read More: 10 Best Hikes and Trails in Yellowstone National Park
Lily Marsh Trail, Ponderosa State Park, Idaho
Lily Marsh is a scenic, approximately two-and-a-half-mile out-and-back trail that winds through lush forests and boggy marshes before revealing stunning views of Payette Lake. As one of the family-friendly hiking trails, it offers a manageable yet rewarding challenge for young hikers.
One of the biggest highlights for kids along this mostly shaded trail is the abundance of huckleberry bushes, which provide a delicious trailside snack during the summer months, typically around July. Families often combine this hike with a visit to Ponderosa State Park, where they can enjoy camping, swimming in Payette Lake, and spending a fun-filled day exploring the great outdoors.
Cowles Bog Trail
- Park: Indiana Dunes Park (Indiana)
- Trail length: 4.7 miles
The Cowles Bog Trail is renowned for its incredible plant diversity, earning it the designation of a National Natural Landmark in 1965. As one of the most fascinating family-friendly hiking trails, it offers a chance to explore a variety of distinct ecosystems, including wetlands, ponds, savannas, and sandy beaches.
Families can enjoy the ever-changing scenery while making their way along the trail, but be ready for a short but steep climb over the dunes before reaching the stunning lakeshore. Any effort put into the ascent quickly fades as kids delight in splashing and swimming in the refreshing, tranquil waters of the lake.
Taughannock North Rim Trail and South Rim Trail Loop
- Park: Taughannock Falls State Park (New York)
- Trail length: 2.9 miles
For those who love hiking with stairs, the Taughannock North Rim Trail and South Rim Trail Loop is an ideal choice! Prepare to tackle a significant number of steps as you ascend, and once you reach the top, you can enjoy a peaceful woodland trail that leads to the breathtaking Falls Overlook.
For families seeking a bit more adventure, there’s a connecting path at the intersection of the two trails that leads directly to a vantage point beneath the stunning falls, making it one of the perfect family-friendly hiking trails to explore together.
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South Bubble Mountain Trail and Jordan Pond Loop
- Park: Acadia National Park (Maine)
- Trail length: 1.4 miles
The South Bubble Mountain Trail is a favorite among kids! This exciting hike leads to the South Bubble, a rock formation dramatically situated on the brink of a steep cliff, appearing as if it could tumble off at any moment! (The trail is quite safe as long as you follow the posted signs). After exploring the Bubble, the Jordan Pond Loop offers a lovely path that takes you to a stunning lake, complete with picturesque views, making it one of the best family-friendly hiking trails to enjoy together.
Conclusion
Exploring the best family-friendly hiking trails is a fantastic way to create lasting memories while enjoying the great outdoors together. These trails offer a perfect blend of adventure and accessibility, allowing family members of all ages to connect with nature, stay active, and bond over shared experiences. So, gather your loved ones, pack some snacks, and hit the trails!
