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Hiking & Backpacking Tours

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• United States
• Hiking & Backpacking Tours

When it comes to immersing yourself in the great outdoors, nothing beats camping in the wilderness beneath a sky full of sparkling stars.

Have all the fun of an adventurous outdoor experience without any of the organizational hassle by embarking on a  hiking & backpacking tour  through some of the  USA’s most captivating landscapes  – the Intrepid way. Take in the sights of national treasures like  Zion National Park , Joshua Tree National Park, and Olympic National Park during the day, and at night, help your guide set up camp, swap stories with your fellow travelers, and let the sounds of Mother Nature slowly sing you to sleep. Simply put, unforgettable doesn’t even begin to describe it. 

Backpacking vs base camp vs hut-to-hut

Backpacking

Our backpacking trips are all about switching off and getting back to basics. Say goodbye to running water, and hello to cathole toilets! Carrying a backpack loaded with camping gear, personal items and group supplies, you’ll hike through untamed backcountry and set up a new camp each day with your group. Two words: pack light.

Our base camp trips are perfect if you don’t want to lug a backpack around, or if you'd prefer to camp with a few extra creature comforts. After enjoying daily hikes on front country trails, you’ll return to the same campsite each day equipped with proper toilets, showers, bigger tents and a camp kitchen.

If you’re an adventurous type who also likes sleeping on a real mattress (we don't blame you), our hut-to-hut trips could be for you. You’ll still need to carry your backpack as you hike through the backcountry, but you’ll stay in huts each night that range from basic bunkhouses to comfortable motels depending on the trip.

Our backpacking tours

Hiking and backpacking in yellowstone, 4 days from 1605.

See the best of Yellowstone on an Intrepid small group hiking and camping adventure...

Hiking and Backpacking Yellowstone's Bechler River Traverse

5 days from 2045.

Avoid the crowds and see the best of Southern Yellowstone National Park’s backcountry...

Hiking and Backpacking North Carolina's Appalachian Mountains

3 days from 1070.

Discover great trails, incredible views, spectacular summits and more on a small group...

Our base camp tours

Hiking and camping in zion, 3 days from 1560.

Experience Utah’s most famous national park as a standalone canyon country experience...

Hiking and Camping in Joshua Tree

4 days from 1775.

Experience Joshua Tree’s surreal landscapes, cool oases, and famous Joshua Trees on a 4...

Hiking and Camping in Yellowstone

5 days from 2230.

See the best of this iconic national park on five spectacularly diverse, hand-picked...

Hiking and Camping in Utah

6 days from 2360.

Experience Utah’s most famous national park destinations and see the best of Zion,...

Our hut-to-hut tours 

Hike new hampshire's appalachian trail and presidential peaks, 4 days from 1895.

Spend an incredible 4 days hiking the highest mountains in New Hampshire, the...

Highlights of our hiking & backpacking tours

Take in the sights of Yellowstone National Park

Leave the busy roads and noisy sounds of everyday life behind as you embark on an adventure through one of the USA’s most beloved parks. Brimming with epic natural features, Yellowstone National Park boasts landscapes that need to be seen to be believed and luckily for you, you’ll get to see them all on hikes during the day before resting your body and camping out under the stars every night. 

Marvel at the natural wonders in Yosemite

If you’re searching for remarkable sights that’ll give your camera its hardest workout yet, then search no longer – Yosemite National Park’s North Rim offers all that and so much more. Perfect for both outdoor enthusiasts and hardcore hikers, this trail boasts giant waterfalls, majestic peaks, and flower-filled meadows you’re bound to ooh and ahh over. And at night, set up camp, enjoy a hearty meal, and fall asleep under the night sky’s twinkling stars. 

Explore Utah's wild west

Picture this: you wake up to the peaceful sounds of Mother Nature and have your morning coffee surrounded by spring-fed creeks, huge canyons and colourful cliffs. Spend six days hiking in Utah ’s most iconic national parks and watch these otherworldly landscapes come alive. Trek through Bryce Canyon’s awe-inspiring “hoodoos” and natural amphitheatres, wade through the rushing waters of Zion’s slot canyons, and explore the labyrinth of potholes, arches, and grottos in the dreamy Escalante. 

Hike the Appalachian Trail

Explore one of the most beautiful sections of the Appalachian Trail on a three-day backcountry adventure through the Blue Ridge Mountains. You’ll journey deep into the wilderness of the Cradle of Forestry, wind through postcard-perfect grassy meadows and witness the majestic cascades of Looking Glass Falls – maybe jumping in for a swim to cool down. The best part? You’ll camp on the summit of the spectacular Shining Rock and enjoy lunch on huge ledges overlooking the rolling plains of Ivestor Gap.

Popular US National Parks

Our  US National Park Tours  offer something for all kinds of adventurers, explore our range below.

Yosemite National Park

Yellowstone National Park

Denali National Park

Grand Canyon National Park

Zion National Park

Glacier National Park

Joshua Tree National Park

Badlands National Park

Death Valley National Park

Arches National Park

Olympic National Park

Mount Rainier National Park

Kenai Fjords National Park

Rocky Mountain National Park

Winter hiking and snowshoeing tours

Walking and trekking tours

Our hiking & backpacking tour reviews, essential info & faqs, what's the range of backpacking and hiking trips available.

We offer a wide range of all-inclusive backpacking and hiking tours in some of the USA's best national parks and scenic trails. Apart from getting yourself to the meeting point and bringing your personal items, everything is organised and provided for you including an expert hiking guide, permits and fees, meals, and most camping and hiking gear. Our trips range from base camp tours that include easy to moderate day hikes on front country trails to multi-day backpacking or hut-to-hut adventures in high mountains and backcountry routes. 

What do I have to carry when we hike?

On our backpacking and hut-to-hut tours you'll need to carry a backpack that weighs between 25-45 lbs (11-20 kg) depending on the itinerary and season. It'll be loaded will be with your personal items (clothing, camera, toiletries, water bladder, etc), camping gear (tent, sleeping bag, sleeping pad, etc), and a portion of the group's food supplies or camping gear. Base camp tours are a bit different – we'll return to the same campsite each day so you can leave your main bag at camp. You'll still need a small daypack to carry your water bottle, snacks, camera and any other essential items while we're out hiking. 

Should I bring/pack anything special?

We'll provide you with camping gear including a daypack, trekking poles, tent, sleeping bag, sleeping pad and pillow. Essentials you'll need to bring from home include a three-litre water bladder or bottle, hiking clothes and boots, headlamp, toiletries and medication, camera and any other personal items you might need. Just remember, it's no fun lugging a really heavy bag around so try to pack as light as possible. 

How fit do I need to be to join?

While our range of backpacking and hiking trips differ in difficulty, it is recommended that you have a reasonable level of fitness so that the tour's enjoyable and you can get the most out of your holiday. To do this, try participating in some form of physical activity (such as long walks, running, cycling, etc) at least six weeks out from your trip. It's also a good idea to do some shorter test hikes with a backpack or something similar so you can become comfortable carrying your gear when the trip comes. 

To help you choose the trip with the right level of difficulty, our team will forward an assessment form to you at the time of booking, and we will be open to discussing your choice and making suggestions if need be. You won't be confirmed for the trip until your form has been received and reviewed. 

What sort of safety precautions are taken?

We value the safety of our customers, staff and fellow travellers very highly so you can rest assured that you'll be safe throughout the duration of your trip. Our leaders are well-trained and experienced (as well as insured) and don't cut corners when it comes to the wellbeing and safety of others. This means we only take well-researched trails and listen to all safety warnings when it comes to changing weather conditions. 

Do I need special insurance for backpacking trips?

The short answer is no and yes - you won't need any extra insurance to cover any additional or technical activities that come with a backpacking and hiking trip but you will need to have an insurance policy that covers activities such as hiking and trekking. To make sure you're appropriately covered, we recommend presenting your insurer with the trip's itinerary.

Are backpacking and hiking trips accessible?

Intrepid is committed to making travel widely  accessible , regardless of ability or disability. That’s why we do our best to help as many people see the world as possible, regardless of any physical or mental limitations they might have. We’re always happy to talk to travellers with disabilities and see if we can help guide them towards the most suitable itinerary for their needs and where possible, make reasonable adjustments to our itineraries.

Do I need a COVID-19 vaccine to join a backpacking and hiking trip?

Travellers on this particular trip are not required to produce proof of full vaccination against COVID-19. However, any guest who has been in close contact with someone known to have COVID-19, or who develops flu-like symptoms (cough, fever, shortness of breath/difficulty breathing, muscle pain, headache, sore throat, body aches/chills, recent loss of taste or smell), or who tests positive for COVID-19 within 14 days of their scheduled trip will not be allowed to join the trip without a negative COVID-19 test result.

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Hiking & Trekking Tours & Trips in USA

From the granite cliffs of Yosemite to the twists and turns of the Grand Canyon, the United States is home to some of the most coveted trails in the world. Explore the icy slopes of Alaska or the volcanic peaks of Hawaii , the world is your oyster on a hiking adventure in the Land of the Free.

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250+ hiking & trekking tour packages in usa with 3,566 reviews.

• Hiking & Trekking

Hiking Utah's Mighty 5

Tour itinerary was well planned in order to see and hike Utah’s Big 5 National parks in 9 days. Our guide Rachel was excellent and did her best to manage 12 clients, drive, buy food, supervise food preparations and clean up, and break camp. However, given the amount of organization needed for camping, meals and driving required; and overseeing the often difficult and strenuous hikes, it would have been a better trip if there were 2 guides instead of only one. This trip went very well because we were an older group with many professionals with administration experience who pitched in to help the trip go smoothly. If a group on this tour does not blend as well as we did, don’t pitch in to do their share of work, and/or do not have experience working as a-team with administration experience, it may not go so well or more likely be a disaster. To avoid this, better to have 2 guides.

Hiking Sequoia, Kings Canyon, and Yosemite

Hard working and efficient CEO. Camping sites were ok - facilities not working well. Stated iteniary changes - hiking options (unavoidable) and drop off at end of tour (would have been helpful to know sooner). Beautiful area to experience - some hikes too difficult for me unfortunately. I will look more closely at the rating in the future.

Hiking in Yosemite and the Sierra Nevada

The tour plan with its walks, chosen sights ie places to hike & visit, and lodging is excellent. It was a tight schedule without pressure offering A LOT of impressions and beauty. A great o really plan. I would have enjoyed a bit more history & information about the different sights. While many travelers enjoy a more laid back experience of look-see-go, I am the type who enjoys more when I am given something to focus on when I land somewhere new. I prefer a guide who is ready to offer good and intriguing information which was missing for me in my group.

• Walking Adventure

4 day Yellowstone and Tetons in depth tour from Salt Lake City Small Groups Tour

I just got back from the Yellowstone/Tetons trip leaving from Salt Lake City. I had such a great time. I was apprehensive about camping, since I’m not a big camper, but the camping and time around the campfire at night helped to create a bond with all the other people on the trip. We saw some really great views and Mike, our guide, did a wonderful job at getting us to all the best places. The trip was well organized, and the communication before the trip was exceptional, whether it was answering an email, questions over the phone, or email communication just before the trip. I would definitely travel with Bindlestiff tours again.

• 5% deposit on some dates Some departure dates offer you the chance to book this tour with a lower deposit.

Hiking Utah's National Parks

Prior to the start of my tour radar trip, it was difficult to communicate or ask questions. Once I met to tour guide Ally it was an excellent experience. Ally was information on the next step and reviewed what was needed on a daily basis. The schedule was busy, the hikes were mostly moderate as expected… She was able to direct all hikers on the trails. She assured that I was always able to complete each trail. We instructed to have and were prepared with plenty of water,

• Mountain Hikes

7 Day Southwest National Parks Grand Canyon Camping Tour

I had a great time on the 7 day Southwest Highlights Tour. Our group of 12 was a mix of couples, friends and solo travellers (half camping, half in hotel lodging) who bonded over the course of the week to become a really tight group who had a lot of fun together. We had Dylan as our guide and he was excellent: easygoing and friendly, a great DJ for the long van rides, with an endless supply of hilarious stories and suggestions to make the most of the trip. He went above and beyond, with group dinners in beautiful locations, after dark campfires and a sunrise walk at the Grand Canyon for those who wanted to be up early on the last day! The camping experience was great: good equipment, nice campsites for most stops and plenty of food options. The national parks visited are just beautiful - you think you've seen the best, and then you visit the next one and it's equally beautiful, but in completely different way. Bryce Canyon and Antelope Canyon were real highlights for me, probably because I didn't know anything about them in advance and was just blown away. Thanks again to Dylan and to Bindlestiff!

Yellowstone Base Camp Tour

The Yellowstone Base Camp tour was excellent. We covered a wide variety of Yellowstone sites from the popular attractions to beautiful but less frequented locations. Our guides, Chris Rapich and Ed Cochran, were great. They provided a lot of information about the park and wildlife, made great meals and did everything they could to make this a memorable experience. I'd travel with them anytime.

Rocky Mountain Immersion: Explore Yellowstone, Grand Teton, and Rocky Mountain National Parks

Best of Lassen Volcanic Basecamp

Great experience. This may have been our guide's (Sassy) first official trip, but she did a great job. We all got along very well and Sassy handled some adversity with aplomb. Parts of the park at Lassen were inaccessible, but we managed to do and see a lot. One of our guests tested positive for Covid but we found creative and safe ways to make it all work. Meals were very good. I have booked another trip with Wildland.

• Christmas & New Year

USA – 5 Days Chasing Slot Canyons in Utah

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National Parks Walk

5 Utah National Parks in 5 Days Lodging Tour

Classic Walks in Vermont

5 Utah National Parks in 5 Days Camping Tour

An amazing 5 days with Justin & Eric of MountainBased. Their knowledge and local skills really made the trip. And their people skills towards the group brought us 13 strangers altogether perfectly. The long drives went by so quickly. The camps were setup in some great areas. Breakfasts, lunches & dinners were awesome and filling each time, with plenty of snacks available too. Getting to see all 5 National Parks and a few State parks too, was truly frickin EPIC!

What people love about Hiking & Trekking Tours in USA

the best way to explore the vastness and glory of the Utah desert is by camping and hiking in small groups. I enjoyed this trip immensely, it was challenging enough but not too much. Our guide was a brave and resourceful powerful woman. I am planning my next trip with you already!

Great way to travel and meet new people! Changes were made to the itinerary due to road/trail closures but it worked out in the best way. CEO adapted meals for vegetarian travelers in the group. I would book with them again!

The trip was well coordinated. Our trip had to be re-routed due to the very snowy winter, but our tour guide, Phil, still managed to keep our days full, and our hikes about the same mileage that we would have walked otherwise. The hikes were moderate to steep, nothing that our entire group could not keep up with. I felt that everyone was accommodated to. And we went to our rooms at night exhausted from our days journey. Yosemite is a must-do, if you have never been there. The pictures do it no justice. Having the tour guide from intrepid was great, because he told us all about the history of the National Park- things that I would have walked right by if I were hiking alone. This trip was great! can’t wait until the next one.

Hiking & Trekking Tours

• Attraction-Based Hikes (57)
• Mountain Hikes (32)
• Centre Based Walking Holidays (9)
• Rocky Mountains (158)
• Sierra Nevada Mountains (30)
• Appalachian Mountains (28)
• Mount Denali National Park (10)
• Mount Rainier (6)

Regions in USA

• Western USA (319)
• Southwest USA (205)
• Rocky Mountains (160)
• Sun Belt (136)
• Four Corners (125)
• Pacific Coast USA (68)
• West Coast USA (64)
• California (59)
• Northern California (46)
• Yellowstone National Park (40)
• Grand Canyon (39)
• Yosemite National Park (35)
• Sierra Nevada Mountains (31)
• Central California (30)
• Lake Tahoe (30)

Travel Styles

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• Best Time to Visit the West Coast, USA in 2024/2025 (with California)
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• Trip Styles
• Destinations
• USA Hiking Vacations

USA HIKING VACATIONS & TOURS

Whether you like to hike or love to hike, we have plenty of options for all ability levels and levels of adventure!

Our hiking vacations and hiking tours include backpacking trips, inn-based tours, camping-based tours (“basecamp”), porter and horse supported hikes, and more!

Top USA Hiking Vacations

• Top Southwest Trek – Hermit Loop
• Top California Hike – Classic Summits
• Top Pacific Northwest – Cascade-Sahale Glacier
• Top Rockies Trip – Boulder Lake to Green River Lakes
• Top Colorado Trek – Alpine Peaks, Lakes and Waterfalls Thru-Hike
• Top Appalachian Tour – Shining Rock Wilderness
• Best Spring Hike – Best of Utah Basecamp Tour
• Best Summer Hike – Bechler River Traverse
• Best Fall Hike – Mount Sterling Appalachian Loop
• Best Winter Hike – Winter Rim to Rim to Rim
• Most Family Friendly – Llama Treks
• Top Camping – Yellowstone Basecamp Tour
• Top Day Hike – Longs Peak

World-Class Hiking Destinations

Alaska Hiking and Walking Tours

Arizona Hikes & Tours

California Hikes & Tours

Colorado Hikes & Tours

Maine Hikes & Tours

Montana and Wyoming Hikes & Tours

New Hampshire Hikes & Tours

North Carolina Hikes

Oregon Hikes and Tours

Utah Hiking Tours

Vermont Hiking Tours

Washington Hiking Tours

All usa hiking vacations trips ( 248 results), filter trips.

Trip Length

Acadia: Summits to Ocean Inn-based

Ultimate Utah National Parks Hiking Adventure

Heart of Alaska Inn-based Tour

Alpine Peaks, Lakes and Waterfalls Thru Hike

Alaska Basin Llama Trek

Summer Rim to Rim in the Grand Canyon

Autumn Rim to Rim in the Grand Canyon

Best of Grand Canyon Tour

Hermit Loop

Coyote Gulch

Grand Canyon Classic

Boulder Lake to Green River Lakes

more information about usa hiking vacations

What is a hiking vacation.

A hiking vacation or multi-day hiking tour can naturally take many different forms, but for most travelers it’s a trip to a new or return destination to hike, explore, learn and discover. Some of the most popular destinations in the U.S.A. for a hiking vacation are:

• Desert Southwest: Grand Canyon, Southern Utah, Sedona, Death Valley, Joshua Tree, Capitol Reef, Paria Canyon, and more
• Sierra Nevadas Mountains: Yosemite, Eastern Sierras, Sequoia-Kings Canyon and more
• Pacific Northwest: Mountain Rainier, Olympic National Park, North Cascades National Park and more
• Rocky Mountains: Yellowstone, Rocky Mountain National Park, Glacier National Park and more
• Appalachia: Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Blue Ridge Mountains and more

camp or accommodations?

Many travelers choose to camp on hiking vacations in the U.S., but staying in accommodations can also be a great option, without necessarily detracting from the level of adventure of a multi-day hiking tour. Accommodations in the U.S. normally are hotels and lodges, with an outside of chance of finding yurt accommodations (semi-permanent, framed, soft-sided structures).

BACKPACKING OR TREKKING?

why a guided hiking vacation with wildland trekking?

Joining a guided hiking trip will offer many benefits to the U.S.A. traveler:

• You can travel light and free, without having to burden yourself with gear and supplies.
• All the logistics are handled for you, which include permits, reservations, planning, packing, food purchasing, shuttles…etc.
• Learn from local experts – Wildland Trekking guides are very knowledgeable about the areas where we work. They can make an area come to life through stories, info tidbits, pointing out intimate details, orienting guests to the big picture of where we are hiking…etc. in ways that hiking on your own is very difficult to do.
• Hand-picked, world-class hiking itineraries – simply put, going with a company like Wildland Trekking will ensure you are investing your time and money on a trip worth doing. We only offer world-class itineraries.
• Emergency and evacuation systems are in place in case they are needed.

NATIONAL PARKS, STATE PARKS, UNITED STATES FOREST SERVICE AND BUREAU OF LAND MANAGEMENT

Generally speaking, your vaction will most likely be to one or more national parks , state parks , United States Forest Service (USFS) lands, or Bureau of Land Management (BLM) lands. Most visitors will head to national parks, but the other areas should not be overlooked. Some of the most amazing hiking vacations in the USA are on USFS and BLM lands. A basic breakdown of each, and their differences, is provided here:

• National Parks: these are the big name destinations like Grand Canyon National Park, Yosemite, Yellowstone, the Great Smoky Mountains…etc. They are highly regulated, amazingly well maintained wild refuges throughout the United States. Any overnight camping and backpacking will require permits; dogs are not allowed; and advanced planning is highly recommended.
• State Parks: these lands are often much smaller than the national parks (like less than 1% the size on average), but there are some wonderful state parks that offer fantastic trekking experiences. For example, the Northern California coast is mostly comprised of state parks that offer stunning views and excellent coastal hiking.
• USFS Lands: the Western USA is made up of millions of square miles of USFS lands, and they are some of the most breathtaking and expansive wilderness left in the USA and the world. These areas often do not require permits and are more lightly regulated than the national parks. Dogs are allowed on most USFS lands.
• BLM: these lands are sometimes amazing, sometimes not, sometimes pristine, sometimes riddled with roads, mines and/or other extractive industry activity like drilling. These lands are the least regulated and least visited, which means they can be home to some surprisingly amazing secret gem areas. Dogs are allowed.

walking in the desert

Many trekking vacations in the USA will be in the Southwestern part of the country, where desert ecosystems prevail. This region is home to the Mojave, Sonoran, Chihuahuan and Great Basin deserts. Characterized by low levels of precipitation, hot summer temperatures and mild winter temperatures, deserts can make for wonderful winter hiking vacations. They can also be great in the spring and fall. It’s recommended to avoid deserts in the summer months unless you’re well prepared for the high temperatures and dry conditions. Also, any time you’re walking in the desert (but especially if it’s in the summer), it’s imperative to be aware of common medical conditions such as heat stroke and hyponatremia , and how to avoid them.

walking in the mountains

The USA is home to a staggering number of different mountain ranges, from the Rocky Mountains to the Sierras, Appalachians, Cascades, Allegheny’s, Smokies, Asheville Area , White Mountains…etc. And within one major range, like the Rocky Muntains, there are subranges like the San Juans, Sangre de Christos, Missions, Crazies, Flat Tops , Wind Rivers…etc. And many of America’s most famous national parks are in the mountains, like Yellowstone, Yosemite, Mount Rainier, Rocky Mountain, Great Smoky Mountains and many others.

Generally speaking, walking in the mountains is best in the late spring, summer and fall months. Often the early spring is still quite snowy in the mountains, and snow begins to fall again usually in mid to late fall. The summer months are prime time for most mountain visits. Be aware of afternoon thunderstorms and not getting caught out in the open (such as above treeline) if thunderstorms roll in. And be prepared for sudden and extreme weather shifts – a day in the mountains can begin warm and clear and within a couple hours be dark, cold, windy and rainy.

walking on the coasts

Of course the coasts, both west and east, offer incredible trekking opportunities. With national parks like Olympic National Park and Acadia National Park in the east, hugging the coasts, there are fantastic on-foot adventures to be had. When hiking on the coasts, be aware of tides and slippery, treacherous sections of walking. Being caught in a tidal zone when the tide roles back in can be a mistake you’ll never have a chance of repeating, so plan ahead, talk to experts, or join guided hikes with expert trip leaders.

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Walking & Hiking Tours in the United States

United states.

Reconnect with nature and gain a new perspective on one of our US hiking tours. Some of our favorite hiking destinations are here in our own backyard, with so much variety. H ike part of the world-famous  Appalachian Trail , walk the Continental Divide marveling at 12,000-foot peaks in the Rocky Mountains , or breathe in the fresh coastal air on  Monterey Bay Peninsula . 

Since 2003, Macs Adventure has been helping thousands of walkers and bikers experience the world around them. With the freedom to customize your own itinerary, and the knowledge that our team have the expertise to custom-make these tours to perfectly suit you, you can book your active vacation in the US with confidence.

United States Walking & Hiking Tours

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14 Beautiful Hikes near Columbus, Ohio for All Levels

By Kay Rodriguez

FYI: Some of our posts include affiliate links. When you make a purchase from one of these links, Urban Outdoors may receive a commission at no additional cost to you.

Updated November 29, 2021

Home to The Ohio State University and all things Buckeye, Columbus is Ohio’s vibrant capital city and is full of things to do. While it’s not surrounded by stark mountains or vast bodies of water, Columbus does have a surprising number of scenic and picturesque places to take a hike or walk nearby. Hiking near Columbus is just one of the many wonderful ways to get some fresh air and explore the outdoors during the warmer months of the year. (For the colder months, try skiing or snowboarding near Columbus !) With the help of a few savvy locals, we created this guide to some of the best hikes near Columbus so you can plan your next outdoor adventure!

Easy Hiking Near Columbus

Scioto greenway.

• Distance from Columbus: Located in the city
• Trail Length: 12 miles total
• Elevation Gain: Minimal

Home to the popular “Scioto Mile,” the Scioto Greenway actually extends 12 miles through many parts of Columbus. While mostly an urban trail, the Scioto Greenway is a fantastic place to hike, walk, run, or bike. This mostly paved trail is accessible to everyone, and offers stunning views of Columbus’ skyline, the Scioto River, and many of the surrounding forests and nature areas in the city. Note that this trail can get quite crowded in the urban sections, so go early or plan accordingly if you’re going during peak times of day.

Camp Chase Trail

• Distance from Columbus: Located in the city and surrounding counties
• Trail Length: 16.8 miles
• Elevation Gain: Varies

Not far from the Scioto Greenway is another one of the great urban trails for hiking in Columbus: the Camp Chase Trail . Taking the name of the railroad it runs close to, this trail is a shared recreation path with bikers, runners, and walkers and extends nearly 16 miles one-way to the rural outskirts of central Ohio. Notable sights along this trail include forested boardwalks and bridges, old industrial buildings, and lots of rolling farmland. However, if you’re seeking a trail that’s a little less crowded than the more popular Scioto Greenway, this one is a fantastic option.

Buckeye Trail

• Distance from Columbus: Varies
• Trail Length: Varies

The Buckeye Trail is a 1,440-mile recreational path that extends all throughout the state of Ohio. Once section runs through many areas near Columbus, including Hocking Hills State Park, and is perfect for getting that nature feel without straying too far from home. Marked by blue blazes and toting the slogan “follow the blue blazes,” it’s a pretty easy trail to follow and you can make your hike through green spaces and lush forests as long or as short as you want. Many people even take several days to complete longer stretches of the trail, stopping over in Ohio’s small towns along the way.

Gahanna Woods

• Distance from Columbus: 11 miles (20 minutes)
• Trail Length: 2.3 miles

Gahanna Woods is a nature preserve on the outskirts of the Columbus area. Filled with scenic forest boardwalks, tons of pretty wildflowers and plants, and lush forests that offer shade and tranquility, it’s an easy and accessible escape from the city if you’re on a time crunch or simply want to do an easy, leisurely hike. Many locals say that this is one of the hikes near Columbus that’s a real hidden gem. Note that the area often floods and the trails get muddy when it rains, so we’d recommend going to Gahanna Woods when it’s sunny and dry for the best hiking experience.

Conkles Hollow Nature Preserve

• Distance from Columbus: 56 miles (1 hour)
• Trail Length: 1.1 miles

Located near Hocking Hills State Park , the Conkles Hollow Nature Preserve trail is local favorite and is one of the most beautiful easy hikes near Columbus. Featuring peaceful forest surroundings, beautiful rock formations, and a waterfall, this partly paved trail is accessible to hikers of all levels, and is extremely family-friendly. Many locals cite this trail as one of their favorites in the Columbus area for its natural beauty and easy terrain. We’d highly recommend this to any hiker of any level if you’re looking for a nice day trip out of the city!

Dripping Rock & Overlook Trail

• Trail Length: 5.4 miles
• Elevation Gain: 354 feet

With a little bit more elevation gain and variety than many of the other easy hikes in Columbus, the Dripping Rock & Overlook Trail is a great example of a nature path that’s located right in the heart of the city. Hopping on this trail, which is located in Highbanks Metro Park, will transport you from traffic and buildings to beautiful forests, meadows, and creeks. It’s a beautiful, picturesque escape that you can explore even if you don’t want to go too far.

Along these dirt and gravel trails, you’ll find beautiful historic bridges, jagged cliff faces, and plenty of tree-lined shady spots to relax or wander in. You also have the chance to see plenty of local wildlife here, including a bald eagle observation deck.

Moderate & Difficult Hikes Near Columbus

• Distance from Columbus: 58 miles (1 hour)
• Trail Length: 0.9 miles
• Elevation Gain: 203 feet

Possibly one of the coolest hikes near Columbus, Rock House brings hikers up a 1-mile trail to a beautiful, unique cave system in the middle of Hocking Hills State Park . Hikers not only climb up a steep (but short) incline to get to the aptly-named “Rock House,” but can also hike through the rocks and view their curves, edges, and striations. A fantastic spot for photography, this unique spot in Hocking Hills is certainly worth the drive up alone, or as a stop along multiple trails in this scenic state park. Plus, it’s only an hour drive from Columbus!

Cantwell Cliffs Loop

• Elevation Gain: 269 feet

Another amazing hike in Hocking Hills State Park is the Cantwell Cliffs trail. On this hike, you’ll scale stone stairs and steep gravel trails to enjoy some of the park’s most jaw-dropping cliffs and rock formations. Many of the most famous and well-known photography spots in Hocking Hills are located on or near this trail, so it’s a perfect place to go to enjoy some of the finest views in the park. This is one of the more difficult hikes in Hocking Hills, so be prepared for steep hills and rocky terrain as you embark on this adventure.

Old Man’s Cave, Cedar Falls, & Ash Cave

• Trail Length: 12.3 miles
• Elevation Gain: 1,243 feet

As one of the longer and harder hikes near Columbus, the Old Man’s Cave, Cedar Falls, and Ash Cave hike brings together some of Hocking Hills’ best landscapes and challenges into one day-long hike. Known as one of the best hikes in Ohio, even among experienced hikers, this trail passes by the epic Cedar Falls, gorgeous rock formations and creeks, spooky tunnels, and more.

This trail is a real treat for the senses, and is a less popular hike than some of the shorter ones in Hocking Hills because of its length and difficulty. If you’re looking for a good challenge that will get your blood pumping and bring you to some of the most outstanding natural areas in the state of Ohio, the Old Man’s Cave, Cedar Falls, and Ash Cave hike is a must-do.

Natural Bridge at Rockbridge State Nature Preserve

• Distance from Columbus: 45 miles (45 minutes)
• Trail Length: 2.7 miles
• Elevation Gain: 544 feet

One of the most beautiful hikes near Columbus is the Natural Bridge trail at Rockbridge State Nature Preserve . This trail takes hikers nearly 3 miles to one of Ohio’s natural spectacles: a bridge-like rock formation with a waterfall that is lovingly called the “natural bridge.” The trail does have a bit of gradual elevation gain and is mostly rock and gravel, giving hikers of all levels a bit of challenge as they make their way to the main attraction.

The trail is well marked and quite popular on weekends, so it’s easy to navigate. If you want to avoid the crowds, we’d recommend going on a weekday or early in the morning, as the trail can get very crowded during weekends in the warmer months.

Jacobs Ladder and Christmas Rocks Trail

• Distance from Columbus: 35 miles (45 minutes)
• Trail Length: 4.5 miles
• Elevation Gain: 672 feet

If you’re looking for hikes near Columbus with a little bit more challenge and elevation gain, the Jacob’s Ladder and Christmas Rocks Trail is a fantastic option. Located in the Christmas Rocks Nature Preserve , this trail takes you atop rocky peaks and through magnificent forests, with plenty of nice shade and beautiful views, too. Like many of the places for hiking near Columbus, there are several striking rock formations scattered around the preserve that you can admire along the trail. This hiking trail has a little bit of everything in its 4 miles, and we’d recommend it if you’re looking for an escape from the concrete of the city.

Glen Helen, Little Miami & Clifton Gorge

• Distance from Columbus: 56 miles (55 minutes)
• Trail Length: 11.6 miles
• Elevation Gain: 1,023 feet

Known as one of the most beloved nature reserves in the Columbus area, Clifton Gorge is home to many wonderful trails and landmarks. The challenging and thrilling Glen Helen, Little Miami, and Clifton Gorge trail gives experienced hikers access to these hidden gems. The trail largely follows the gorges surrounding the Little Miami River, bringing hikers to some of the most amazing and beautiful rock formations in the state. Because of the variety in terrain and the difficulty of the hike, sturdy, waterproof hiking boots are always recommended.

Note: There is a $5 parking fee.

Hemlock Gorge to Covered Bridge

• Distance from Columbus: 76 miles (1.5 hours)
• Trail Length: 7.5 miles
• Elevation Gain: 118 feet

The Hemlock Gorge to Covered Bridge is a fun, hilly trail in Mohican State Park that gives hikers a little bit of everything. Scenic rivers and knobby trees intersect with picturesque historic bridges and waterfalls on this varied and moderately difficult trail. With mostly shaded dirt paths and wooded boardwalks, this forested trail is a wonderful escape as a day trip from Columbus and an introduction to the quiet, scenic lands of Mohican State Park.

Hemlock to Creekside Meadows Trail

• Distance from Columbus: 41 miles (45 minutes)
• Trail Length: 5.1 miles
• Elevation Gain: 823 feet

For history lovers and hikers alike, the Hemlock to Creekside Meadows trail is a really wonderful spot for hiking near Columbus that’s less than an hour from the city. Large boulders and rock cliffs line the roads and trails of Clear Creek Metro Park, where this trail is located. On the trail, you’ll find waterfalls, mossy rock formations, and an old barn that’s cool for photographs. To lengthen your adventure even more, you can add a detour on the nearby Cemetery Ridge trail as well.

Additional Resources

What to bring.

• Breathable hiking clothes – For warmer hikes, you’ll want to wear a sweat-wicking shirt and breathable pants, like these Patagonia hiking shorts for men and women . For cold-weather hikes, we recommend dressing in layers, including merino wool baselayers for men and women , a down puffer jacket for men and women , and a Northface waterproof outer shell for men and women (a must for hiking in Seattle). And don’t forget a pair of the best women’s and men’s hiking socks!
• Trekking poles – You won’t need these for every single hike , but we suggest throwing them in your car just in case. We recommend the Black Diamond Trail Ergo cork trekking poles , which are lightweight, easy to transport, and durable.
• Water bottle – Having water available at all times is a huge must. To limit disposable plastic, we recommend bringing your own refillable water bottle. We’re obsessed with Hydro Flask water bottles because they keep water cold for hours.
• Sunscreen and bug spray – Sweatproof sunscreen and DEET bug spray can help you avoid sunburn and bug bites, two of hiking’s most annoying after-effects. Our favorite kind of sunscreen is Sun Bum , as it is free of harsh chemicals and safe for marine life, including coral reefs.
• A brimmed hat or cap – The sun can be brutal in open hikes, so always pack a brimmed hat or cap for day hikes in the sunshine.
• Emergency blanket and first aid kit – We’d strongly recommend bringing a first aid kit and a lightweight emergency blanket on every hike. Why? Because the unfathomable can happen, and it’s always best to play it safe.
• Durable day pack – A durable day pack is the perfect spot to stash all your hiking gear. While any backpack will do, we recommend the Osprey Tempest 20 or the Talon 22 day packs because they’re comfortable and breathable for long hikes. For more information, check out our best day packs for any terrain guide.

Wondering what exactly you should pack for your next hike? Visit our Complete Day Hiking Packing List for our full list and our top gear recommendations.

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