Trekking locations

The Best Treks for Beginners

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A Guide to Easy and Accessible Trekking Routes

The United States is home to some of the world’s most breathtaking natural landscapes, and there are plenty of trekking routes that are perfect for beginners. Whether you’re looking for an easy day hike or a multi-day backpacking trip, there’s a trek in the United States that’s right for you. Here are some of the best treks for beginners in the United States:

  1. Yosemite Valley Loop Trail, California: The Yosemite Valley Loop Trail is a 13-mile trek that takes you through some of the most iconic landscapes in Yosemite National Park, including Yosemite Falls and Half Dome. The trail is relatively flat, making it an easy trek for beginners. It’s a great way to experience the beauty of Yosemite without having to tackle some of the more challenging trails in the park.
  2. Grand Canyon Rim-to-Rim, Arizona: The Grand Canyon Rim-to-Rim trek is a bucket list item for many hikers, and it’s a great trek for beginners who are up for a challenge. The trail is approximately 24 miles long and takes you from the North Rim of the Grand Canyon to the South Rim. The trek offers stunning views of the canyon and is a great way to experience one of the world’s most iconic natural wonders.
  3. Angels Landing, Utah: Angels Landing is a short but challenging trek that takes you to the top of a rock formation in Zion National Park. The trek is just 2.5 miles long, but it includes steep switchbacks and a narrow ridgeline with steep drop-offs on either side. It’s not recommended for those with a fear of heights, but if you’re up for the challenge, the views from the top are truly breathtaking.
  4. Skyline Trail, Massachusetts: The Skyline Trail in Massachusetts is a 8.5-mile trek that takes you through the beautiful Blue Hills Reservation. The trail offers stunning views of the Boston skyline and is a great way to escape the city and experience the beauty of the New England landscape. The trail is relatively easy, with only a few steep sections, making it a great choice for beginners.
  5. Hoh River Trail, Washington: The Hoh River Trail is a 17.5-mile trek that takes you through the lush rainforest of Olympic National Park. The trail is relatively flat, with only a few short steep sections, and offers stunning views of the Hoh River and surrounding forest. It’s a great way to experience the beauty of the Pacific Northwest and is a great choice for beginners.

In conclusion, the United States offers a wide range of trekking routes for beginners, from easy day hikes to more challenging multi-day treks. No matter what your skill level or interests, there’s a trek in the United States that’s right for you. So grab your hiking boots, pack your backpack, and start exploring the beauty of the American wilderness!

There are also some great trails worldwide that are suitable for the beginner.

  1. Camino de Santiago, Spain: The Camino de Santiago is a network of trails that lead to the Cathedral of Santiago de Compostela in northern Spain. The most popular route, the Camino Francés, is approximately 500 miles long and can take up to 35 days to complete. However, there are shorter sections of the trail that can be completed in a week or less. The Camino is well-marked and well-traveled, making it a great choice for beginners.
  2. Great Ocean Walk, Australia: The Great Ocean Walk is a 104-mile trek along the southern coast of Victoria, Australia. The trail offers stunning views of the ocean and the surrounding countryside, as well as opportunities to spot wildlife like kangaroos and koalas. The trek can be completed in six to eight days and is relatively easy, with well-maintained trails and plenty of rest stops along the way.
  3. Annapurna Base Camp Trek, Nepal: The Annapurna Base Camp Trek is a classic trek in the Annapurna region of Nepal. The trek takes you through traditional villages and lush forests, and offers stunning views of the Himalayas. The trek is approximately 55 miles long and can be completed in seven to ten days. While the trek is more challenging than some of the other options on this list, it’s still suitable for beginners who are in good physical condition.
  4. West Highland Way, Scotland: The West Highland Way is a 96-mile trek through the Scottish Highlands, from Milngavie to Fort William. The trail takes you through beautiful landscapes, including lochs, forests, and moors. The trek can be completed in six to eight days and is relatively easy, with well-maintained trails and plenty of accommodation options along the way.
  5. Tongariro Northern Circuit, New Zealand: The Tongariro Northern Circuit is a 27-mile trek through Tongariro National Park on the North Island of New Zealand. The trek takes you past active volcanoes, thermal springs, and beautiful alpine landscapes. The trek can be completed in three to four days and is relatively easy, with well-maintained trails and plenty of huts for overnight accommodation.