Easy hiking trails are the perfect place to start if you’ve been dreaming of scenic views, fresh air, and the joy of being outdoors, without tackling steep climbs or rugged terrain. Whether you’re a beginner, hiking with kids, or simply looking for a relaxing stroll through nature, these trails offer a low-impact way to enjoy the great outdoors. They combine natural beauty with accessibility, making them a favorite for families, casual walkers, and anyone seeking a peaceful day on the trail.
In this guide, we’ve rounded up some of the best easy hiking trails across the U.S., from forested paths to lakeside walks and gentle national park loops. So the only thing you need to do is get ready to explore with National Park Shops!
Deep Creek Trail – Great Smoky Mountains National Park
The Great Smoky Mountains National Park, straddling the border between Tennessee and North Carolina, is the most visited national park in the United States. Its lush forests, meandering streams, mist-covered mountains, and cascading waterfalls offer year-round hiking opportunities.
For those new to hiking, the Deep Creek Waterfall Loop near Bryson City, North Carolina, is an excellent choice. This easy hiking trail is a 2.4-mile loop that takes you past three beautiful waterfalls: Tom Branch Falls, Indian Creek Falls, and Juney Whank Falls. The trail is relatively flat, making it suitable for beginners and families. Completing the loop typically takes about one to two hours.
Please be aware that pets are not permitted on most trails within the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, including the Deep Creek area. If you’re interested in exploring more easy hiking trails within the park that are pet-friendly, consider the Gatlinburg Trail and the Oconaluftee River Trail, both of which offer scenic walks suitable for beginners.
Rim Trail – Grand Canyon National Park
The National Park Service notes that “There are no easy trails into or out of the Grand Canyon,” but there are several easy hiking trails along the rim offering spectacular canyon views. The Rim Trail, accessible year-round on the South Rim, extends over 12 miles but allows hikers to choose segments that suit their preferences. Predominantly flat and mostly paved, it provides a comfortable walking experience. Early spring or fall visits are ideal due to milder temperatures.
A highlight of this easy hiking trail is the Trail of Time, an interpretive path starting at the Yavapai Geology Museum. This 1.3-mile paved trail offers exhibits detailing two billion years of the canyon’s geological history. The museum itself is perched on the canyon’s edge, featuring panoramic windows for breathtaking views.
Ship Harbor Trail – Acadia National Park
Acadia National Park, nestled in Maine, offers a harmonious blend of beaches, forests, and mountains, catering to those seeking diverse natural landscapes. For newcomers to hiking, the Ship Harbor Trail stands out as an exemplary easy hiking trail. This 1.3-mile figure-eight loop is predominantly flat and well-maintained, ensuring a comfortable trek for beginners.
Along the path, hikers can encounter interpretive signs that enrich the journey with insights into the area’s ecology. The trail meanders through varied habitats, from serene spruce woodlands to picturesque coastal vistas. Bird enthusiasts will find this route particularly rewarding, with opportunities to spot species such as common loons, great blue herons, ospreys, and eagles.
Timing your visit during low tide unveils access to mudflats, tide pools, and a tranquil cove, though navigating these features involves traversing uneven, rocky terrain. The National Park Service recommends exploring the Ship Harbor Trail during spring, summer, or fall when the park’s flora and fauna are most active. While winter presents a quieter atmosphere, the trail remains accessible, offering a unique juxtaposition of snow-draped landscapes against the rugged coastline for those prepared for colder conditions.
>> Discover more about Acadia through the following blog posts: Best Time To Visit Acadia National Park, Things To Do In Acadia National Park, Best Places To Visit In Acadia National Park, Closest Airport To Acadia National Park
Lower Yosemite Fall Trail and Cook’s Meadow Loop
Yosemite National Park is renowned not only for the formidable challenges of El Capitan and Half Dome but also for its accessible trails that showcase the park’s breathtaking scenery. For those seeking an easy hiking trail, the Lower Yosemite Fall Trail offers a nearly flat, one-mile loop leading to the base of North America’s tallest waterfall, providing up-close views of both Upper and Lower Yosemite Falls. This paved path is suitable for hikers of all levels and is open year-round. Peak waterfall flow occurs in May, offering a spectacular display; however, during winter, icy conditions may be present, so caution is advised.
Another excellent easy hiking trail is the Cook’s Meadow Loop, a one-mile loop that meanders through Yosemite Valley’s meadows. This trail provides stunning perspectives of Yosemite Falls, Half Dome, Glacier Point, and Sentinel Rock. Accessible throughout the year, the meadow’s appearance changes with the seasons, offering unique experiences from vibrant spring blooms to serene snow-covered landscapes in winter.
Grand Prismatic Overlook Trail – Yellowstone National Park
Famous for being the first national park in the world, Yellowstone dazzles visitors with bubbling geysers, striking geothermal features, diverse wildlife, and an impressive 900-mile network of hiking paths. If you’re in search of an easy hiking trail with unforgettable views, the Grand Prismatic Overlook Trail is a must. Reached via the Fairy Falls Trailhead, this out-and-back route spans roughly 1.5 miles round trip and includes a gentle uphill walk to a panoramic viewing point.
At the top, you’ll be rewarded with a breathtaking look at the Grand Prismatic Spring – the largest hot spring in Yellowstone and the third biggest on the planet, radiating in vibrant colors. While winter transforms the landscape into a peaceful wonderland, access can be tricky due to snow-related road closures. Your best chances for clear trail conditions are in the summer and fall. However, note that from mid-March to late May, this section closes as part of Yellowstone’s Bear Management strategy to minimize interactions with grizzlies.
Twin Falls Trail, North Bend, Washington
Tucked just 45 minutes from Seattle in the charming town of North Bend, Twin Falls Trail is one of Washington State’s most beloved waterfall hikes. This easy hiking trail spans 2.6 miles round trip and features a manageable 500 feet of elevation gain, making it perfect for beginners or those looking for a laid-back nature escape.
The trail meanders alongside a vibrant green river, framed by moss-covered trees that give the area a fairytale feel. It’s the kind of path where you’ll find yourself pausing often – not out of exhaustion, but to soak in the serene scenery and flowing waters that accompany you nearly every step of the way.
Roughly halfway through, you’ll reach a viewpoint with benches where you can catch your first glimpse of Twin Falls from afar. But don’t stop there – continuing along the path leads you to a set of stairs and a platform offering a front-row view of the cascading, 200-foot waterfall in all its glory.
Baring Falls Trail, Glacier National Park, Montana
If you’re searching for a scenic adventure that’s accessible to all, the easy hiking trail to Baring Falls in Glacier National Park is a perfect choice. Starting near Sun Point, this 2.4-mile round-trip route features mostly flat ground and sweeping views of Saint Mary Lake, making it a standout among beginner-friendly hikes.
This easy hiking trail is ideal for families and hikers of all levels, including young kids. After reaching the charming waterfall, you can continue just a bit further to reach the shoreline of the lake – a refreshing spot to dip your toes during the warmer months.
Summer is undoubtedly the best season to explore Glacier. Due to the park’s northern latitude and elevation, lingering snow often keeps some areas closed until July. For the fullest experience, plan your visit between mid-July and September, when trails like Baring Falls are at their most accessible and the park is fully in bloom.
If you want to learn more about Glacier, you can check out the best time to visit Glacier National Park and distance from Glacier National Park to Yellowstone
River Trail, Great Falls Park, Virginia
One of the best ways to take in the natural beauty of Great Falls Park in Virginia is by exploring the River Trail, a scenic and easy hiking trail that delivers impressive views of cascading waterfalls and the rugged cliffs of Mather Gorge. Just a short drive from Washington, D.C., this park is a favorite for those seeking a quick outdoor escape.
The trail runs parallel to the Potomac River, offering hikers a mostly flat dirt path with occasional rocky sections that add just the right amount of adventure, especially fun for families with kids. It’s a great route for beginners, with connecting trails that allow you to tailor your hike’s length and difficulty.
Start your journey at the Great Falls Visitor Center, where three different overlooks offer unique perspectives of the powerful “great falls of the Potomac.” From there, follow the blue-blazed River Trail along the edge of the gorge.
To complete a manageable loop, return via the Patowmack Canal Trail for a gentle 1.6-mile round trip with under 30 feet of elevation gain. Along the way, you’ll pass remnants of a historic canal project initiated by George Washington. For those craving a longer outing, continue along the River Trail and loop back using either the Mathildaville or Old Carriage Road Trails, which add 2–3 miles and a bit more elevation.
Best Easy Hiking Trails for Beginner
Here, I still have some easier trails for beginners who are just getting into this activity. Check out the following list:
Coyote Valley Trail, Rocky Mountain National Park
If you’re planning a beginner-friendly hiking getaway, Rocky Mountain National Park deserves a spot at the top of your list. Nestled in the heart of the Colorado Rockies, this breathtaking region offers a stunning blend of mountain scenery and outdoor adventure.
On the park’s quieter western side, the Coyote Valley Trail is an easy hiking trail that feels more like a peaceful nature stroll. It offers a gentle introduction to mountain hiking, with expansive views, occasional wildlife encounters, and the calming sound of a nearby stream running alongside the path.
This mostly paved trail is fully accessible, making it ideal for families with young children, seniors, or anyone looking to enjoy the outdoors without a strenuous climb. Benches along the way offer restful spots to pause and take in the alpine surroundings.
For those who want to explore a little further, a dirt extension at the end of the paved section adds an extra half-mile — and even more gorgeous scenery. While the trail is best experienced from spring through fall, winter transforms the landscape into a snow-covered wonderland, offering a completely different but equally magical experience on this easy hiking trail.
Hurricane Hill Trail, Olympic National Park, Washington
Hurricane Hill stands out as one of the most rewarding easy hiking trails in the U.S., offering breathtaking panoramic views with minimal exertion. Located in Olympic National Park, this 3.1-mile round-trip hike features a gradual 650-foot elevation gain and is dotted with interpretive signs that highlight nearby peaks and share fascinating insights about the region’s geology and history.
From the summit, hikers are treated to sweeping vistas of the Bailey Range, Port Angeles, and even Vancouver Island on a clear day. It’s a favorite spot for catching golden-hour moments. Since the trail is quite exposed, weather conditions can shift quickly, so bringing layers and a windbreaker is highly recommended.
The easy hiking trail begins at Hurricane Ridge, accessible via the scenic 18-mile Hurricane Ridge Road. Keep in mind that parking is limited, and during peak times, vehicle access may be temporarily restricted. To avoid crowds, aim for an early morning or late afternoon visit. While the road is typically open daily in summer, it shifts to weekend-only access during winter months, but the trail itself remains open year-round for those prepared for snow.
What makes this hike even more appealing is its proximity to other Olympic gems. After Hurricane Hill, you can visit the pristine waters of Lake Crescent or tackle nearby trails like Marymere Falls and Mount Storm King. It’s a perfect entry point for anyone just getting started with hiking, combining ease, beauty, and adventure in one unforgettable trail.
Grotto Falls Hike, Great Smoky Mountains National Park
Tucked within Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Grotto Falls is one of the most picturesque waterfalls in the region, spanning the scenic border of eastern Tennessee and western North Carolina. For those looking to add a gentle adventure to a day of scenic driving through iconic spots like Cades Cove or Clingmans Dome, this is the ideal easy hiking trail to explore.
The most straightforward route to reach the falls begins at the Trillium Gap Trailhead, just outside of Gatlinburg, TN. This 2.5-mile round-trip trail features a moderate 500-foot elevation gain and winds through a serene, shaded forest, perfect for families, beginners, or anyone craving a peaceful walk in nature. It’s widely praised as one of the top easy hiking trails in the Smokies.
Be aware that the trailhead is only accessible from spring through fall, so it’s a good idea to verify seasonal access before heading out. Because cell reception is limited throughout the park, don’t forget to bring a physical trail map or download a GPS-enabled version in advance.
Congress Trail, Sequoia National Park
Home to the planet’s largest living trees, Sequoia National Park is a magical destination where nature’s giants dominate the forest. For those new to hiking, the park offers several routes that qualify as perfect easy hiking trails, and Congress Trail is one of the best.
Beginning at the world-famous General Sherman Tree, the largest known tree by volume, this 2-mile loop features minimal elevation gain – just 230 feet – and showcases some of the park’s most iconic sequoias. To reach the starting point at General Sherman, visitors must first complete a separate one-mile path, which is also manageable for most fitness levels.
Along the Congress Trail, you’ll pass groves affectionately named The House and The Senate, inspiring the trail’s fitting title. As you meander through this awe-inspiring forest, you’ll also encounter the President Tree, ranked as the fourth largest tree in the world. The terrain is gently rolling, with wide, well-maintained paths of pavement or smooth gravel, making it a true easy hiking trail for families, even those with strollers in tow.
Although June through August marks the peak season, this period also offers the most dependable weather conditions for hiking. For those planning a visit, the nearest town is Three Rivers, conveniently located near the park’s southern entrance.
Canyon Overlook Trail, Zion National Park
While Angels Landing often steals the spotlight in Zion National Park, those looking for jaw-dropping views without the strenuous climb should absolutely consider the Canyon Overlook Trail – a true hidden gem and one of the park’s top easy hiking trails.
Located on the park’s east side, the trailhead sits just beyond the Zion-Mount Carmel Tunnel, with a couple of small parking lots nearby. Though Springdale remains the nearest town for convenient park access, this lesser-known trail offers a peaceful alternative to the more crowded routes.
The hike itself is a short one-mile round trip, featuring only about 100 feet of elevation gain, making it ideal for beginner hikers or anyone wanting a high-reward, low-effort adventure. Despite its brief distance, the trail delivers one of the most breathtaking panoramic views in the park. There is a narrow bridge section that might challenge those with a fear of heights, but the rest of the path is easy to navigate, with incredible scenery throughout.
Bobcat Boardwalk, Everglades National Park
If you’re in search of a beginner-friendly nature walk, the Bobcat Boardwalk in Everglades National Park is a fantastic, easy hiking trail to kick things off. Stretching just 0.4 miles, this short loop is flat, accessible, and ideal for hikers of all ages and abilities.
The trail loops back to its starting point, making it convenient for parking and planning. With no elevation gain and a path made up of wooden boardwalks and small bridges, it offers a smooth and scenic stroll along the water’s edge. Though the trail is free to enjoy, entry to Everglades National Park requires a $30 per vehicle fee. It’s a small price for a chance to witness the park’s rich biodiversity up close.
Wildlife enthusiasts will especially love this easy hiking trail, it’s known for sightings of rare bird species and even the occasional alligator. Don’t forget to bring a camera and plenty of mosquito repellent, particularly during rainy weather.
Boquillas Canyon Trail – Big Bend National Park
Boquillas Canyon was the very first trail we tackled during our full day exploring Big Bend National Park. We began just after sunrise, with the parking lot completely deserted, and even after wandering through the canyon and making our way back, we still hadn’t seen another soul.
There’s something incredibly special about having a trail all to yourself. The quiet serenity of dawn, paired with the soft glow of sunrise spilling over the canyon walls and the steady sound of the Rio Grande winding beside us, made for a truly tranquil experience. Despite minimal effort, the trail rewards hikers with constant views of the winding river and towering canyon cliffs. With a bit of luck, you might even catch sight of a horse or cow grazing peacefully across the water.
Conclusion
No matter your fitness level or hiking experience, finding the right easy hiking trail can open the door to a world of outdoor adventure. With the right pair of shoes, a water bottle, and a sense of curiosity, even a short hike can become a memorable experience. As you plan your next outing, remember that the best easy hiking trail is one that fits your pace and brings you joy.
