Hiking is an excellent way for families to bond while exploring the beauty of the great outdoors. The U.S. is home to countless trails that are perfect for families, offering everything from easy strolls through lush forests to more adventurous paths with stunning scenic views. Whether you're introducing your children to hiking for the first time or looking for new places to explore with your teens, there are family-friendly hikes across the country that provide fun, education, and fresh air for all ages. Here are some of the best hiking trails for families to enjoy together.
Accessible Trails in National Parks
The U.S. National Parks are home to some of the most iconic and family-friendly hikes in the world. One of the best places to start is Zion National Park in Utah, where families can enjoy the Riverside Walk. This easy, 2.2-mile paved trail follows the Virgin River through a canyon, offering scenic views and the opportunity to spot wildlife. The trail is mostly flat, making it accessible for strollers, and leads to the gateway of the famous Zion Narrows, which older children or teens might want to explore further.
In California, Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks offer stunning hikes suitable for families. The Big Trees Trail is a short, 1.2-mile loop that takes hikers through a grove of giant sequoias, including the famous General Sherman Tree, the largest tree by volume in the world. The trail is wide and well-maintained, making it perfect for families with younger children. Along the way, you'll encounter informative signs that explain the history and ecology of these ancient giants, offering an educational experience as well as a memorable outdoor adventure.
Lakes and Waterfalls: Perfect Hikes for Kids
For families who enjoy being near water, lakes, and waterfalls provide the ideal setting for a memorable hike. One of the best trails for families seeking a waterfall adventure is the Trail of Ten Falls in Silver Falls State Park in Oregon. This 7.2-mile loop passes by ten stunning waterfalls, with a variety of easy and moderate routes to accommodate different fitness levels. Some sections of the trail allow hikers to walk behind the falls, providing a fun, adventurous experience for kids.
Another beautiful, kid-friendly hiking destination is Glacier National Park in Montana. The Hidden Lake Trail is a relatively short, 1.5-mile hike that leads to a picturesque alpine lake, with the possibility of seeing wildlife like mountain goats along the way. The trail offers panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and valleys, making it a perfect choice for families looking to experience the rugged beauty of the Rockies while keeping the hike manageable for younger hikers.
Desert Landscapes: Unique Family Adventures
For families interested in exploring desert landscapes, several national parks in the U.S. offer relatively easy hikes with unique views and geological formations. One such park is Arches National Park in Utah, home to a variety of easy and accessible hikes. The Park Avenue Trail is a relatively flat, 2-mile hike that takes families through a stunning canyon with towering sandstone formations. While the temperatures can get hot, early morning or late afternoon hikes provide cooler conditions and stunning light for photos.
Joshua Tree National Park in California is another great destination for families looking to experience the beauty of the desert. The Hidden Valley Trail is a 1-mile loop that takes hikers through a rock-enclosed valley, where they can explore unique rock formations and learn about the desert ecosystem. The trail is easy enough for young children yet offers plenty of opportunities for exploration, making it a fun and educational experience for the whole family.
Mountain and Forest Adventures: For Families Ready for a Challenge
For families with older children or teens who are looking for a more challenging adventure, hiking through mountainous terrain or dense forests can provide a rewarding experience. The Mount Rainier National Park in Washington State offers several family-friendly trails, including the Grove of the Patriarchs Trail. This 1.5-mile loop takes you through a lush old-growth forest, where towering trees and the rushing Ohanapecosh River create an awe-inspiring backdrop. The trail is mostly flat and offers a unique opportunity to immerse your family in one of the last untouched wilderness areas in the Pacific Northwest.
In the Adirondacks of New York, the Cascade Mountain Trail provides a moderate challenge for families with older kids. While the trail is just under 3 miles, it gains significant elevation, making it a more strenuous hike. However, the summit offers breathtaking views of the surrounding peaks and lakes, making the effort worthwhile. This is a great option for families with teens looking for a more adventurous hike that rewards them with a sense of accomplishment and amazing scenery.
Hiking for All Ages and Abilities
No matter where you are in the U.S., there's a perfect hiking trail for your family. From easy walks through vibrant forests to challenging mountain climbs with sweeping vistas, the country's diverse landscapes offer endless opportunities for family adventures. By choosing the right trail for your group’s abilities and interests, you can introduce your children to the joys of hiking and create lasting memories in the great outdoors. Whether you’re hiking in national parks, along serene lakes, or through majestic desert landscapes, the beauty of nature is waiting to be discovered together.