Start Planning Your Next Adventure
Spring is almost here and with it comes weather perfect for outdoor adventures. We know that planning an adventure can be difficult to know where to visit and whether or not it is family-friendly. Well, we are here to make outdoor adventures as accessible as possible for everyone! Here is a list of gorgeous trails that range from family-friendly to those who are more experienced hikers.
Lower Yosemite Fall Trail
The trail to Lower Yosemite Fall is open year-round. When the water is at its peak in spring and early summer, you can expect to get a little wet. This waterfall is often dry from late July or August through October. Expect icy conditions in some areas during the winter, especially on the short climb leading to the footbridge on the western trail.
Riverside Walk
Springdale, UT
This wonderfully low-commitment hike starts from the Temple of Sinawava and works its way north, along the shores of the Virgin River. Along the way, hikers will have awesome views of the river itself, as well as some ultra lush "hanging gardens" Zion is famous for. Riverside Walk ends just before the start of the famous "Narrows" portion of the Virgin River Canyon. From the end of the paved trail, you'll be able to see visitors venturing into the narrow canyon, weather permitting of course.
INTERMEDIATE TRAILS
Emerald Lake
Estes Park, CO
Hiking is very easygoing along the Dream Lake Trail as it contours at very mellow grades up the slope. Just over 1.5 miles from the trailhead, you'll reach Nymph Lake, a picturesque mountain lake that makes for a good place to take in the surrounding peaks. Continuing up the trail, you'll eventually cross Tyndall Creek and come to a junction with Lake Haiyaha Trail. Hike past this intersection to reach Dream Lake. Dream Lake is a spectacular, narrow lake that sits in a drainage on the rugged eastern slope of Flattop Mountain. The lake makes for a good resting point on this hike. Once you've gotten your fill at Dream Lake, continue hiking along the trail for another mile until you reach Emerald Lake. This lake is a beautiful sight to see as it sits nestled into the rugged western face of Flattop Mountain.
Eaton Falls
Altadena, CA
This out-and-back hike starts from the lovely Eaton Canyon Nature Center, which is a great place to get outside in and of itself. Heading north, the trail is wide and gradual until the final section that leaves the Nature Center and heads onto Angeles National Forest. This stretch is comparatively much wilder as the trail narrows into singletrack and heads up through a tight ravine to the falls.
Alum Cave - Cliff Top Out and Back
Gatlinburg, TN
Whiteoak Canyon to Cedar Run Loop
Stanley, VA
This route has you climbing through Whiteoak Canyon along beautiful waterfalls. During warm months, you're under a canopy and during winter months you'll likely enjoy fog. Sections are fairly steep, but you'll never be far away from a great view allowing you to catch your breath.
Once past the upper falls, your climb continues across a bridge and up a fire road that connects you to Cedar Run Trail. From here, you'll hike down 2500' along Robinson River, where you'll discover more waterfalls and will see more wildlife. Near the bottom, there is a swimming area and a waterfall slide.
Trekking Poles
Strong Trek Pro trekking poles keep you stable in exposed terrains and can save up to 30 % of your energy compared to walking without them. To offer greater comfort, the EVA foam handgrip is prolonged and features a drawstring loop. The poles are made of aluminum and have an enhanced locking system.