Are you looking for some ideas to keep your kids (and hubby’s) bodies active and their minds engaged this summer? It can be tough coming up with activities that they can enjoy that can also provide opportunities to learn.
One such activity is a family hike! You can teach them about all the different plants and animals you see along the way, plus it offers a chance to instill in them value and respect for nature—most importantly, it will keep them active and let them get all that pent-up summer energy out!
Below is a list of some of the best hiking spots across the country.
Lost Coast Trail
Located in Northern California, this beautiful trail is the largest section of undeveloped coastline in the country outside of Alaska.
Spanning nearly 25 miles—24.6 to be specific—the trail can be traversed in either direction and starts at either Mattole Beach or Black Sands Beach near Shelter Cove.
Winding through forests and beaches, the trail becomes impassible at high tide at certain points, so it’s imperative hikers do their research before setting out.
Tonto Trail
Located in Arizona’s Grand Canyon National Park, Tonto Trail offers hikers an opportunity to get up close and personal with one of the most breathtaking natural wonders of the U.S.
Spanning 70 miles, the trail, officially classified as a South Rim hike, runs from Garnet to Red Canyon and provides stunning views of the Colorado River, and the red rock canyon.
Hikers should make sure to bring plenty of water, as there are few places to resupply along the way, and many of the freshwaters that can be found would have to be filtered or treated before being consumed.
Mount Katahdin
For hikers looking for a shorter trek, Maine’s Mount Katahdin may seem to fit the bill—its trail is only 2.5 to nine miles depending on the starting point. However, the trail is still challenging and can take anywhere from eight to 12 hours to complete.
It’s worth the trek though, as it provides breathtaking views in all directions of the tallest mountain in the whole state of Maine.
Cracker Lake
Located in Montana’s Glacier National Park, this hike has one of the most beautiful views in the entire country.
The trail is 12.6 miles long, and, due to the location, stays relatively cold even during the summer, so it’s a good idea to bundle up and dress in layers.
It also has plenty to offer in terms of visuals, from the mountains to forests, to water features including a stunning view of Canyon Creek, there is so much to see, you’ll want to bring your camera and take plenty of pictures.
Titcomb Basin
Located in Wyoming, this trail spans 28 miles amid the Wind River Range mountains—some of the most rugged terrain in the country.
Hikers trekking through the boulder-covered tundra will be treated to a variety of stunning, natural visuals—from lush forests to flowery meadows, to sparkling ponds, to the snow-capped mountains.
Hikers who intend to do the trip over several days can set up camp at Island Lake, a popular campsite at the base of the trail.
