Amazing fall hiking trips in the US

No matter if you are a beginner or an experienced hiker, you can find the perfect trail for your level on any number of America’s mountains. Fall is the perfect season to try out your new hiking boots while enjoying the bright red and golden orange colors. The national parks across the country are spectacular places to be, and you don’t want to miss the chance to be there this fall.

You have to see nature’s beauty with your own eyes to appreciate how awesome it truly is. So, don’t be afraid of the fresh air and jump into a new hiking adventure.

The Appalachian Trail, Tennessee  

South Fork of Citico Creek located in Citico Creek Wilderness, within the Cherokee National Forest in Monroe County, Tennessee – Chris M – CC BY-SA 2.0
South Fork of Citico Creek located in Citico Creek Wilderness, within the Cherokee National Forest in Monroe County, Tennessee – Chris M – CC BY-SA 2.0

The Appalachian Trail is one of the most popular in the country and is no less incredible in fall. The 94 mile section of the trail that goes through Tennessee offers mesmerizing views of the Great Smokies, cascading waterfalls, and valley view points. If you don’t want to spend weeks on the trail, hike the shorter part of it that goes from the Iron Mountain Gap to Cross Mountain. On the way, you can set a camp in the Cherokee National Forest and enjoy the colorful foliage.

Old Rag Mountain, Virginia

View from the summit of Old Rag Mountain
View from the summit of Old Rag Mountain

The Old Rag Trail is perhaps the toughest in Shenandoah National Park. The 9 miles long circuit is rugged and steep, so you need to be well prepared before starting the hike. It’s not recommended for newbies, but this doesn’t mean you can’t try. If you do choose this trail, you’ll get spectacular views of the bright orange and red, as well the sparkling brownish colors of Shenandoah National Park and its 200,000 acres of protected area. Try to do a hike during the week, because the weekends can get too crowded.

Central Park, New York City

Having an incredible hiking experience doesn’t necessarily mean you need to drive far from home. North Woods in Central Park, New York, is a cool place for relaxed hikers and kids. The trail starts from 101st Street to Harlem Meer, ending near the beautiful Huddleston Arch.

Walking this trail, you can see raccoons and various migrating bird species. This natural oasis contains 57 other trails where you can enjoy the autumn colors accompanied by a tasty picnic lunch and a hot cup of coffee. Sometimes paradise is in front of our eyes, we just have to look for it.

Wildwood Trail, Oregon

Forest Park Wildwood Trail – Author: EncMstr – CC BY-SA 3.0
Forest Park Wildwood Trail – Author: EncMstr – CC BY-SA 3.0

Wildwood Trail covers 30 miles of the Forest Park in Oregon. The trail is a real gift of nature with the thick canopy created by the Douglas firs that grow here. Hiking the Wildwood Trail will provide you with gorgeous views of the fall colors visible all along the path. Being here at this time of year gives a feeling of being a part of a parallel fairy tale world. The Wildwood Trail is a favorite of both locals and tourists, so if you are anywhere near this fall don’t miss it. Hiking is one of the most beneficial and inspirational of outdoor activities, and there is no excuse not to do it.

Fall is often the best time of the year to go hiking for those of us who can’t stand the summer heat. Even for the folks who love the summer, fall is still a great season to spend time outside and explore a new corner of the country’s stunning natural environment. Now and then everybody needs a break from stressful city life and fall is a perfect time to escape into the wilderness and relax. Good luck!

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We live in a beautiful world, get out there and enjoy it. Outdoor Revival – Reconnecting us all with the Outdoors.

stef-zisovska

stef-zisovska is one of the authors writing for Outdoor Revival