Tips for Finding the Best Hiking Trails

Save these tips for finding the BEST hiking trails and destinations! I know a lot of people come to IG to search for lists of the best hiking trails, itineraries for particular areas etc. The problem with that is - we don’t all want the same things in a hiking trail! There are so many different features like length, elevation, dog friendliness and different aspects like waterfalls, peak views, an alpine lakes etc. And if we all flock to the same 5 trails in a particular area, that will burden the ecosystem and likely whatever institution takes care of that particular trail. So here are some ways that I look for trails in a particular area: 1. AllTrails or REI Hiking Project - These apps let you narrow down your search by destination, length, level of difficulty, etc. You can also read reviews to see current trail conditions and what other people like/dislike about the trail 2. Grab a trail map/book! This may seem crazy but… you’ll find dotted trail lines in places you may not have found on one of those apps. If you’re feeling spontaneous and adventurous, you can find the general area you want to go - and just go check it out! 3. This one is my favorite: Visit your local Ranger Station! Park rangers have an insanely in-depth knowledge of the areas they work in. They have literally the best tips that you can’t find in books or on AllTrails because many of them have been patrolling those areas for a long long time. The last park ranger I talked to had been patrolling his area for over 30 years! Which of the above are you going to try?! . .