Finding an ideal family-friendly hiking trail can be a challenge. There are many factors to consider, such as the trail’s length, difficulty, and location. But with a little research, you can find the perfect trail for your family. Here are seven family-friendly hiking trails in the United States.
1. Petrified Forest National Park, Arizona
Petrified Forest National Park is a great place to explore with your family. The park has many easy hiking trails that are perfect for exploring with young children. Many trails wind through petrified woodlands and offer stunning views of the surrounding area.
One of the best things about Petrified Forest National Park is that it is home to many different species of plants and animals. You and your family can explore the different ecosystems in the park and see firsthand how diverse the landscape is.
2. Mount Rainier National Park, Washington
If you’re looking for a family-friendly hike that will take your breath away, head to Mount Rainier National Park in Washington. The park is home to some of the most beautiful scenery in the country, and the hikes here are sure to please everyone in the family.
One of the most popular trails in the park is Skyline Trail, which offers stunning views of Mount Rainier and the surrounding area. The trail is about four miles long round trip, making it a great option for families with kids of all ages.
3. Assateague Island National Seashore, Maryland/Virginia
With over 37 miles of beach to explore, Assateague Island is a great place for a family hike. The island is also home to various wildlife, including ponies, deer, and birds.
Check out the Tom’s Creek Nature Trail or the Life of the Forest Trail for some great hiking options.
4. Catoctin Mountain Park, Maryland
Catoctin Mountain Park offers 25 miles of hiking trails that wind through forests and past streams. The park is also home to various wildlife, including deer, foxes, and birds.
The Catoctin Trail is a great option for a family hike. The trail is marked with blue blazes and is easy to follow.
5. Rock Creek Park, Washington D.C.
Rock Creek Park is one of the best places to go for a hike in Washington, D.C. The park offers over 32 miles of hiking trails, as well as a variety of other activities, such as horseback riding and biking.
Be sure to check out the Soapstone Valley Trail or the Pinehurst Branch Trail for some great hiking options.
6. Shenandoah National Park, Virginia
Shenandoah National Park offers over 500 miles of hiking trails through forests, mountains, and meadows. The park is also home to various wildlife, including deer, bears, and birds.
Be sure to check out the Appalachian Trail or the Old Rag Mountain hike for some great hiking options.
7. Mount Rushmore National Memorial, South Dakota
This famous monument is a great place to start your family-friendly hiking adventure. The Presidential Trail is a one-mile loop that takes you close to the massive sculptures of former presidents George Washington, Thomas Jefferson, Theodore Roosevelt, and Abraham Lincoln. If your kids feel energetic, they can also hike the two-mile Borglum Viewpoint Trail, which takes you to an overlook with stunning views of the surrounding Black Hills.
