Go on, take a hike!
We’ve put together a list of the best places to hike in and around popular vacation destinations. These trails are perfect for beginners or the whole family. And for the avid hiker, these scenic hikes have plenty to see and do to make it all worthwhile.
La Jolla, California
Torrey Pines Beach Trail Loop
Route: Loop
Distance: 2.3 miles
Difficulty: Easy
Best time: Year-round
Roughly 8 miles from La Jolla is the idyllic Torrey Pines State Park. The Beach Trail Loop provides a perfect way to start your morning. Enjoy a long walk on the shore and picturesque views from above. If you’re lucky, you can spot dolphins or gray whales playing in the Pacific.
Post hike:
- Do what everyone here does—eat a taco. Head toward Galaxy Taco in La Jolla for a well-earned bite of San Diego’s finest.
- Explore the Gaslamp Quarter in downtown San Diego, which has 16 blocks of shopping, restaurants, and bars.
- You’ll have more chances to see some sea life when you book a whale watching cruise.
Looking for more post-hike activities? Check out some more of the best things to do in La Jolla.
Portland, Oregon
Powell Butte Loop
Route: Loop
Distance: 4.5 miles
Difficulty: Moderate
Best time: March through September
Go 9 miles east of the city to experience one of best hikes near Portland. You’ll see more of Oregon’s natural beauty, as well as views of Mount Hood.
Post hike:
- Take a walk on the wild side with a visit to the Oregon Zoo.
- Nobody does brunch like Portland. You can’t go wrong with a trip to Tasty n Daughters.
- The Pearl District is our pick for not only shopping, but also strolling around. Did we mention Portland is sales-tax free?
Don’t miss other things to do in Portland while you’re in town.
New Orleans, Louisiana
Old Barataria Trail
Route: Loop
Distance: 4.3 miles
Difficulty: Easy
Best time: Year-round
Take a break from the Big Easy. Head 15 miles south to Jean Lafitte National Historical Park and Preserve. See the swamp’s more famous residents like bald eagles and alligators. Part of the trail can get muddy, so dress appropriately.
Post hike:
- You’ll see a historic home or several with every turn in this city. We suggest the Laura Plantation tour that includes four generations of first-hand accounts.
- Settle the Cajun verses Creole debate. Try them both with visits to Mulate’s and Commander’s Palace.
- A great way to tour New Orleans is by streetcar. The Saint Charles line will take you through scenic streets in the Garden District.
There is no shortage of exciting things to do in New Orleans. Be sure to check out all the activities.
Aspen, Colorado
Maroon Bells Scenic Loop
Route: Loop
Distance: 1.9 miles
Difficulty: Easy
Best time: May through October
When you hike in Aspen, the altitude won’t be the only thing that takes your breath away. This trail is nothing but breathtaking scenery. Think lakes that are like polished mirrors and snowcapped peaks touching the sky.
Post hike:
- Grab a pint at the Aspen Brewing Company.
- The Aspen Art Museum always makes for an interesting afternoon. Admission is free.
- Giddy-up! There is a slew of horseback riding outfits that’ll let you take in more of that famed Aspen scenery.
Ito, Japan
Jogasaki Coast Trail
Route: Out and back
Distance: 5 miles
Difficulty: Easy
Best time: March through October
This trail offers more than just an ocean view. You’ll traverse suspension bridges, wander by waterfalls, and admire ancient temples. Pack plenty of snacks and water, as there are no facilities after the Renchakujii Temple.
Post hike:
- What better way to relax than in one of Ito’s famous hot springs?
- Take a chair lift up to Mount Omuro where you can walk around the crater.
- You don’t need to spend a fortune to get great sushi. Hamazushi creates delicious sushi dishes at a reasonable price.
Isle of Skye, Scotland
Fairy Pools Hike
Route: Out and back
Distance: 2.2 miles
Difficulty: Easy
Best time: June through September
You may never cross more beautiful piece of land then on this 2-mile Isle of Sky hike. Waterfall lovers will be enchanted by the countless charming falls that empty into clear pools.
Post hike:
- The world is your oyster, and you won’t find better ones than at The Oyster Shed.
- Take a shot at the oldest working distillery in the Isle of Sky, Talisker. Book in advance as tours fill up quickly.
- Ever wondered what life was like for ancient Highlanders? If you want to see a bit more of the region and learn about its history, take a short road trip to Skye Museum of Island Life.
Näsum, Sweden
Näsumaleden Hiking and Cycling Trail
Route: Loop
Distance: 18.4 miles
Difficulty: Moderate
Best time: May through September
A long walk through one of the most beautiful countrysides in the world? Yes, please! Travel through deep forest, pass by medieval villages, and stroll through forgotten meadows.
Post hike:
- Relax at Humletorkan with a cup of coffee or beer brewed with hops that are grown on the property.
- Näsum has Iron Age history in its backyard. Visit the Gudahagen to see some Viking-made monuments up close.
- A short drive from Nasum, is the town of Bromolla. The Ifo Center is a great place to explore intriguing works of art.
St. Lucia, Caribbean
Tet Paul Nature Trail
Route: Loop
Distance: 1 mile
Difficulty: Easy
Best time: December through April
If you want to see something more spectacular than the beach, just look up. This trail offers panoramic views of the island and views of the Pitons.
Post hike:
- Enjoy brunch by the bay and treat yourself at the Bayside.
- Pamper yourself with a day pass at one of the many St. Lucia spas.
- You’ve seen the tops of the Pitons, why not enjoy them from the ground level? Spend a day soaking it all in at Jalousie Beach.
For being relatively small island it may surprise you that there are so many things to do in St. Lucia.
Gold Coast, Queensland, Australia
Oceanview Walk, Burleigh Head National Park, Australia
Route: Several locations along the waterfront
Distance: Just under a mile
Difficulty: Easy
Best time: Year-round
Known as a trek in Australia, this scenic hike runs along the waterfront in Burleigh Head National Park. The path meanders along the coast through tussock grasslands and pandanus groves. In the spring and winter, you can search the horizon for whales, and in the summer look for white-bellied sea-eagles in the sky.
Post-hike:
- Unwind with some local brews. Make your way to Burleigh Brewing Co. or Black Hops Brewing for a cold one.
- Pack your swimsuit and cool off with a dip at Burleigh Heads Beach.
- If you’re hiking on the last Sunday of the month, check out the Burleigh Heads Art & Craft Market. Often called one of the Gold Coast’s most famous art and craft markets, this market has been hosting local artisans and their wares for more than 30 years.
While you’re here, check out the hotels near Burleigh Head National Park.
Sedona, Arizona
Fay Canyon Trail, Arizona
Route: In and out
Distance: 2.2 mile
Difficulty: Easy
Best time: Year-round
Short and scenic? You don’t have to ask us twice! Take a romp through the red rocks and arrive at the striking Fay Canyon Arch. As you’re trekking this beautiful hiking trail, stop and soak in the stunning views of Dry Creek Valley.
Post-hike:
- Sedona is famous for its vortex sites, thought to be centers of energy. Many believe these areas are conducive for meditation, healing, and self-exploration. Visit the vortexes and experience the energy for yourself.
- Buckle up and cruise along the Red Rock Scenic Byway. Considered the gateway to the world-famous Red Rock Country of Sedona, this road serves up some of the most scenic views in the area.
- After a nice stroll, you deserve some retail therapy. Pick up some artwork at the treasured Tlaquepaque Arts & Crafts Village.
Check out our Sedona vacations and bundle all your travel needs.
Roanoke, Virginia
Fallingwater Cascades Trail, Virginia
Route: Loop
Distance: 1.7 miles
Difficulty: Moderate
Best time: spring, summer, and fall
Tucked in the Blue Ridge Mountains, this moderately difficult hike is well worth the added effort. The trail brings you to Fallingwater Creek and the Fallingwater Cascades—a 100-foot waterfall—and shows off supreme views of the nearby Flat Top and Sharp Top Mountains.
Post-hike:
- Cruise along Skyline Drive in Shenandoah National Park. This route is especially beautiful during the autumn when the fall foliage is at its finest.
- Visit nearby Luray Caverns, which is one of the largest caverns in eastern America. Head underground to witness stalagmites, stalactites, and the famous Stalacpipe Organ.
- After completing that tricky hike, you’ve earned a glass of wine. Stop in River Hill Wine & Spirits for some vino and toast to your adventures. ‘
Take advantage of vacation packages near Roanoke.
Canmore, Alberta, Canada
Grassi Lakes Trails, Canada
Route: Loop
Distance: 2.5 miles
Difficulty: Easy
Best time: spring, summer, and fall
There are two Grassi Lake trails that lead you the serene clear lakes. The easier of the two ventures along the Upper Grassi Lakes Trail Loop. Save this scenic hiking trail for the warmer months though, as it can get icy during the winter.
Post-hike:
- Saddle up at Cross Zee Ranch and horseback ride around the scenic Canadian Rockies.
- Ready for some wildlife? Hop in the driver’s seat and go for a day trip drive along Kananaskis Wildlife Drive. Keep your eyes peeled for moose, elk, deer, and even bears!
- After all that hiking, take a break and sip something strong at Wild Life Distillery. This distillery serves carefully crafted spirits like Alberta Botanical Gin and Wildcat Amara.
Plan your Grassi Lakes vacation today.
Palmer, Alaska
Reflections Lake, Alaska
Route: Loop
Distance: 1.25 miles
Difficulty: Easy
Best time: year-round
Alaska has endless scenic terrain to choose from, but you won’t want to miss the opportunity for an easy stroll through a forest to Reflections Lake. In the springtime, mosey around the blooming wildflowers, but in the winter, bring your snowshoes, skis, or ice skates and embrace the snowy wonderland.
Post-hike:
- The Reindeer Farm is one of the most popular attractions in Palmer. Once you’ve put in a workout, it’s time to hand-feed some reindeer. This farm is home to reindeer, horses. a moose, elk, yak, and bison. Visit during Christmastime for a chance to see Santa.
- The Colony House Museum is another must-do. The Palmer Historical Society restored this traditional 1935 colony home, which gives you a glimpse into the town’s past.
- Venture to Independence Mine State Historical Park and discover the role gold played in Alaskan history. Take a tour and find out what life was like living and working in a gold mine camp in the late 1930s and early 1940s.
After your adventures, stay at one of the Palmer, Alaska hotel rooms.
Come prepared no matter if you’re hiking in St. Lucia or if you choose another scenic hike. Wear the right shoes, bring plenty of water, and wear sunscreen or a hat. If you want to see more scenery and less people, always go early or later in the day. Your reward may be a solo hike and one of the best sunrises or sunsets you’ve ever laid eyes upon. You’re sure to see something amazing on these best scenic hikes around the world.
Header image via Marina Poushkina/Shutterstock.com