Best National Parks for First-Time Hikers
Your complete beginner's guide to safe, enjoyable national park hiking
Choosing your first national park hiking destination can feel overwhelming. With 63 national parks across the United States, each offering hundreds of trails, how do you know which one is right for a beginner?
The wrong choice can turn an exciting adventure into a frustrating or even dangerous experience. Too difficult, and you risk exhaustion or injury. Too remote, and you might feel unsafe. Too crowded, and you won't enjoy the natural beauty you came for.
This guide solves that problem. We've identified the best national parks for first-time hikers based on trail difficulty, safety infrastructure, accessibility, and overall beginner-friendliness. Whether you're a family with young children, an older traveler, or simply new to hiking, you'll find clear recommendations that match your comfort level.
What You'll Learn in This Guide
- What makes a national park beginner-friendly
- The 8 best national parks for first-time hikers
- What to expect on your first national park hike
- Essential safety tips for beginner hikers
- Common mistakes that ruin first hiking experiences
By the end of this guide, you'll know exactly which national park to visit, which trails to hike, and how to prepare for a safe, memorable first hiking experience.
What Makes a National Park Beginner-Friendly?
Not all national parks are created equal when it comes to beginner hikers. The best parks for first-timers share specific characteristics that make hiking safer, easier, and more enjoyable.
Easy, Well-Marked Trails
Beginner-friendly parks have trails with clear signage, obvious paths, and minimal navigation challenges. You shouldn't need advanced map-reading skills or GPS devices for basic hikes.
Minimal Elevation Gain
The best beginner trails have less than 500 feet of elevation gain per mile. Steep climbs can quickly exhaust new hikers and increase injury risk.
Good Infrastructure & Facilities
Parks with visitor centers, clean restrooms, cell service, and nearby medical facilities provide peace of mind for first-time hikers.
Active Ranger Presence
Parks with visible ranger patrols, staffed visitor centers, and regular trail maintenance offer better safety and support for beginners.
Popular, Well-Trafficked Trails
Trails with steady foot traffic mean you're never truly alone. Other hikers can offer help if needed and provide reassurance for nervous beginners.
Proximity to Medical Services
Parks near towns with hospitals or urgent care facilities are safer for beginners who may experience unexpected health issues or injuries.
What Beginners Should Avoid
- Remote wilderness areas with no cell service or nearby help
- High-altitude trails above 8,000 feet without acclimatization
- Trails with exposure to steep drop-offs or narrow ledges
- Unmarked or poorly maintained trails requiring navigation skills
- Areas with dangerous wildlife without proper safety education
Best National Parks for First-Time Hikers
These eight national parks offer the perfect combination of easy trails, excellent facilities, stunning scenery, and beginner-friendly infrastructure. Each park includes specific trail recommendations suitable for first-time hikers.
1. Acadia National Park, Maine
Easiest OverallAcadia is widely considered the best national park for beginner hikers. With over 120 miles of trails ranging from easy coastal walks to moderate mountain hikes, it offers something for every fitness level. The park's compact size, excellent signage, and proximity to Bar Harbor make it incredibly accessible.
Best Beginner Trails:
- Ocean Path Trail - 2.2 miles, mostly flat, paved sections
Stunning coastal views, wheelchair accessible portions, perfect for families
- Jordan Pond Path - 3.3 miles loop, flat, gravel path
Circles beautiful pond with mountain backdrop, very well-maintained
- Sand Beach Trail - 1.8 miles, easy, scenic
Connects parking area to beautiful beach, minimal elevation change
Very Easy
May-October
Bar Harbor (5 min)
2. Great Smoky Mountains, Tennessee/North Carolina
Most AccessibleAs America's most visited national park, the Smokies offer exceptional infrastructure and numerous easy trails. The park's free admission, multiple entrance points, and proximity to Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge make it extremely beginner-friendly.
Best Beginner Trails:
- Laurel Falls Trail - 2.6 miles roundtrip, paved, 314 ft gain
Most popular waterfall hike, wide paved path, suitable for all ages
- Cataract Falls Trail - 0.8 miles roundtrip, easy, minimal gain
Short walk to beautiful cascading waterfall, perfect for young children
- Cades Cove Loop - 11 miles (bike/drive) with short walks
Scenic valley with multiple 0.5-1 mile nature walks, wildlife viewing
Easy
April-November
Gatlinburg (10 min)
3. Zion National Park, Utah
Best SceneryZion offers dramatic scenery with surprisingly easy access. The park's free shuttle system eliminates parking stress, and several paved trails provide stunning views without difficult climbs. Note: Avoid Angels Landing and The Narrows as a beginner.
Best Beginner Trails:
- Riverside Walk - 2.2 miles roundtrip, paved, flat
Paved path along Virgin River, wheelchair accessible, stunning canyon views
- Pa'rus Trail - 3.5 miles roundtrip, paved, minimal gain
Only trail allowing bikes and pets, follows Virgin River, very easy
- Lower Emerald Pool Trail - 1.2 miles roundtrip, 69 ft gain
Paved trail to waterfall and pool, short and rewarding
Easy
March-May, Sept-Nov
Springdale (5 min)
4. Yosemite National Park, California
Iconic ViewsWhile Yosemite has challenging backcountry trails, Yosemite Valley offers numerous easy, flat walks with world-class views. The valley floor trails provide access to iconic landmarks without strenuous climbing.
Best Beginner Trails:
- Lower Yosemite Fall Trail - 1 mile loop, paved, flat
Wheelchair accessible, close-up views of tallest waterfall in North America
- Valley View Trail - 2.3 miles roundtrip, flat, easy
Classic Yosemite Valley views, El Capitan and Bridalveil Fall visible
- Mirror Lake Loop - 5 miles loop, mostly flat
Longer but easy walk, stunning reflections of Half Dome (seasonal)
Easy
April-June (waterfalls)
El Portal (30 min)
5. Grand Canyon National Park, Arizona
Most DramaticThe South Rim offers spectacular views with minimal effort. Paved rim trails provide safe, easy access to one of the world's most iconic natural wonders. Important: Stay on designated trails and behind railings—the canyon is dangerous.
Best Beginner Trails:
- Rim Trail - 13 miles total (do any section), paved, mostly flat
Walk any distance you want, multiple viewpoints, wheelchair accessible sections
- Trail of Time - 2.8 miles one-way, paved, flat
Educational geology walk along rim, connects multiple viewpoints
- Bright Angel Trail - 1.5 miles to first rest house (3 miles RT)
Only go to first rest house and turn back, well-maintained, shade houses
Easy (Rim), Moderate (into canyon)
March-May, Sept-Nov
Tusayan (10 min)
6. Olympic National Park, Washington
Most DiverseOlympic offers incredible diversity—rainforests, beaches, and mountains—with easy access to each ecosystem. The park's coastal and rainforest trails are particularly beginner-friendly, offering unique experiences without difficult terrain.
Best Beginner Trails:
- Hoh Rain Forest Hall of Mosses - 0.8 miles loop, flat, easy
Magical moss-draped forest, wheelchair accessible, very short and rewarding
- Rialto Beach Walk - 1.5 miles roundtrip, flat beach walk
Dramatic sea stacks, driftwood, tide pools, easy beach stroll
- Marymere Falls Trail - 1.8 miles roundtrip, 100 ft gain
Beautiful waterfall through old-growth forest, well-maintained trail
Very Easy
June-September
Port Angeles (30 min)
7. Bryce Canyon National Park, Utah
Best for PhotosBryce Canyon's rim trails offer otherworldly views of hoodoo rock formations with minimal effort. The park is smaller and less crowded than Zion, making it perfect for beginners who want dramatic scenery without overwhelming crowds.
Best Beginner Trails:
- Rim Trail - 11 miles total (do any section), paved sections, mostly flat
Walk between viewpoints, spectacular hoodoo views, wheelchair accessible sections
- Bristlecone Loop Trail - 1 mile loop, 200 ft gain, easy
Ancient bristlecone pines, panoramic views, short and manageable
- Mossy Cave Trail - 0.8 miles roundtrip, 300 ft gain
Short hike to waterfall and cave, great for kids, quick adventure
Easy
April-October
Bryce Canyon City (5 min)
8. Shenandoah National Park, Virginia
Best for East CoastShenandoah offers over 500 miles of trails, including many easy options perfect for beginners. Skyline Drive provides access to numerous trailheads, and the park's proximity to Washington D.C. makes it highly accessible for East Coast visitors.
Best Beginner Trails:
- Stony Man Trail - 1.6 miles loop, 340 ft gain, easy
Highest peak in park, gentle climb, 360-degree views from summit
- Limberlost Trail - 1.3 miles loop, flat, accessible
Wheelchair accessible, crushed greenstone path, beautiful forest walk
- Dark Hollow Falls Trail - 1.4 miles roundtrip, 440 ft gain
Closest waterfall to Skyline Drive, short but steep descent (easier going down)
Easy to Moderate
April-November
Luray (20 min)
Quick Comparison: Which Park Is Right for You?
| Park | Best For | Easiest Trail | Crowd Level |
|---|---|---|---|
| Acadia | Absolute beginners, families | Ocean Path (2.2 mi) | Moderate |
| Great Smokies | Accessibility, waterfalls | Cataract Falls (0.8 mi) | High |
| Zion | Dramatic scenery | Riverside Walk (2.2 mi) | Very High |
| Yosemite | Iconic landmarks | Lower Yosemite Fall (1 mi) | Very High |
| Grand Canyon | Views without effort | Rim Trail (any length) | High |
| Olympic | Diverse ecosystems | Hall of Mosses (0.8 mi) | Moderate |
| Bryce Canyon | Photography, unique geology | Rim Trail (any length) | Moderate |
| Shenandoah | East Coast access, fall colors | Limberlost (1.3 mi) | Moderate |
What Beginners Should Expect on Their First National Park Hike
Setting realistic expectations prevents disappointment and helps you prepare properly. Here's what first-time hikers typically experience on beginner-friendly national park trails.
Time Management
Most beginners underestimate how long hikes take. A general rule: allow 30 minutes per mile on flat terrain, 45-60 minutes per mile with elevation gain.
Example: 3-mile roundtrip hike with 300 ft gain
- • Hiking time: 1.5-2 hours
- • Photo stops: 15-30 minutes
- • Snack/rest breaks: 15-20 minutes
- • Total time: 2-3 hours
Physical Effort
Even "easy" trails require more effort than walking on sidewalks. Uneven terrain, elevation changes, and altitude all increase difficulty.
What "easy" really means:
- • You can maintain conversation while hiking
- • No technical skills or equipment needed
- • Suitable for ages 6-70 with average fitness
- • You'll feel tired but not exhausted
Weather Considerations
Weather in national parks changes quickly and differs significantly from nearby towns. Mountain and canyon temperatures can vary by 20-30°F from base to summit.
Weather surprises for beginners:
- • Afternoon thunderstorms in summer (common)
- • Wind chill on exposed ridges
- • Sun intensity at high altitude
- • Temperature drops in shaded canyons
Trail Traffic
Popular beginner trails can be crowded, especially during peak season (June-August) and weekends. This is actually good for safety but can affect the wilderness experience.
Crowd management tips:
- • Start hikes before 8 AM or after 3 PM
- • Visit on weekdays if possible
- • Shoulder seasons (May, September) less crowded
- • Embrace it—crowds mean safety for beginners
Your First Hike: Realistic Timeline
This timeline is for a 3-mile roundtrip hike with 300 feet elevation gain—a perfect first hike.
How to Know If You're Ready for Your First Hike
You don't need to be an athlete to enjoy beginner national park hikes. If you can comfortably do these activities, you're ready:
If you have health concerns or haven't exercised recently, consult your doctor before attempting even easy hikes, especially at high altitude.
Essential Safety Tips for First-Time National Park Hikers
National parks are generally safe when you follow basic precautions. These safety guidelines will help ensure your first hiking experience is enjoyable and incident-free.
Hydration: The #1 Beginner Mistake
Dehydration is the most common problem for new hikers. You need more water than you think, especially at altitude or in hot weather.
How much water to bring:
- Short hikes (1-2 hours): 1 liter (32 oz) per person minimum
- Half-day hikes (2-4 hours): 2 liters (64 oz) per person
- Hot weather or high altitude: Add 50% more water
- Children: Bring extra—kids dehydrate faster than adults
Pro tip: Drink before you feel thirsty. If you're thirsty, you're already mildly dehydrated.
Footwear & Clothing
Proper footwear prevents blisters, twisted ankles, and foot pain. Clothing should protect you from sun, wind, and temperature changes.
Footwear guidelines:
- Closed-toe shoes with good tread (no sandals or flip-flops)
- Broken-in shoes (never wear brand new shoes)
- Athletic shoes OK for paved/easy trails
- Hiking boots for rocky or muddy trails
Clothing essentials:
- Moisture-wicking layers (avoid cotton)
- Light jacket or fleece (even in summer)
- Hat with brim for sun protection
- Sunglasses with UV protection
Wildlife Awareness
Wildlife encounters are rare on popular beginner trails, but you should know basic safety rules. Most animals avoid humans if given the chance.
Wildlife safety rules:
DO:
- • Make noise on blind corners (talk, clap)
- • Keep 25 yards from most wildlife
- • Keep 100 yards from bears and wolves
- • Store food in bear-proof containers
- • Report aggressive animals to rangers
DON'T:
- • Feed any animals (illegal and dangerous)
- • Approach or corner wildlife
- • Get between mothers and babies
- • Run from large animals
- • Leave food or trash unattended
In bear country, carry bear spray and know how to use it. Rangers at visitor centers provide specific wildlife safety briefings.
Emergency Preparedness
Even on short, easy hikes, carry basic emergency supplies. Most of the time you won't need them, but they're essential when you do.
Basic emergency kit for beginners:
- Fully charged cell phone
- Basic first aid kit (bandages, pain reliever)
- Whistle (3 blasts = distress signal)
- Trail map or downloaded offline map
- Sunscreen (SPF 30+) and lip balm
- Extra snacks (energy bars, trail mix)
- Emergency contact information
- Small flashlight or headlamp
Navigation & Staying on Trail
Getting lost is rare on well-marked beginner trails, but it happens. Follow these rules to stay safe and on course.
- Always stay on marked trails. Shortcuts damage ecosystems and often lead to getting lost.
- Download offline maps before you go. Cell service is unreliable in national parks.
- Tell someone your plans. Share your trail name, expected return time, and vehicle description.
- Turn back if conditions worsen. There's no shame in cutting a hike short for safety.
- If you get lost, stay put. Don't wander. Call 911 if you have service, or use your whistle to signal for help.
When to Call for Help
Don't hesitate to call 911 or contact park rangers if you experience:
- Severe injury, chest pain, or difficulty breathing
- Signs of heat exhaustion (dizziness, nausea, confusion)
- Lost and unable to find the trail after 30 minutes
- Aggressive wildlife encounter
- Witnessing someone else in distress
Emergency services in national parks: Dial 911 or contact the nearest ranger station. Many parks also have emergency call boxes at trailheads.
Common Beginner Hiking Mistakes (And How to Avoid Them)
Learning from others' mistakes is easier than making them yourself. These are the most common errors first-time national park hikers make—and simple solutions to avoid them.
Mistake #1: Overestimating Your Fitness Level
Many beginners choose trails that are too difficult because they underestimate how challenging hiking can be compared to regular walking. Elevation gain, altitude, and uneven terrain make hiking much harder than it looks.
How to avoid this:
- Start with trails rated "easy" by the National Park Service
- Choose hikes under 4 miles roundtrip for your first attempt
- Look for less than 500 feet of total elevation gain
- You can always do a second hike if the first feels too easy
Mistake #2: Starting Too Late in the Day
Beginning a hike at noon or later means dealing with afternoon heat, thunderstorms (common in summer), and the risk of finishing in darkness. Most hiking accidents happen in the afternoon.
How to avoid this:
- Start hikes between 7-9 AM for best conditions
- Plan to finish at least 2 hours before sunset
- Check sunset times before you go (varies by season)
- If you must hike afternoon, choose very short trails only
Mistake #3: Ignoring Weather Forecasts
Weather in national parks can be dramatically different from nearby towns and can change rapidly. A sunny morning can turn into a dangerous thunderstorm by afternoon, especially in mountains.
How to avoid this:
- Check park-specific weather forecasts (not just town forecasts)
- Ask rangers about current trail conditions at visitor centers
- Postpone hikes if thunderstorms, high winds, or extreme heat predicted
- Always bring a light jacket, even on warm days
Mistake #4: Wearing Brand New or Inappropriate Shoes
Blisters ruin more first hikes than any other single factor. Wearing new shoes without breaking them in, or choosing fashion over function, leads to painful feet and cut-short adventures.
How to avoid this:
- Wear shoes you've walked in for at least 10-15 miles already
- Choose closed-toe shoes with good tread (no sandals, flip-flops, or fashion sneakers)
- Wear moisture-wicking socks (avoid cotton)
- Bring moleskin or blister bandages in your first aid kit
Mistake #5: Not Bringing Enough Water
This is the single most dangerous beginner mistake. Dehydration causes dizziness, confusion, and can quickly become a medical emergency, especially in hot weather or at altitude.
How to avoid this:
- Bring 1 liter (32 oz) per person for every 2 hours of hiking
- Add 50% more water in hot weather or above 8,000 feet elevation
- Drink regularly throughout the hike, not just when thirsty
- If you run out, turn back immediately—don't push forward
Mistake #6: Relying Solely on Cell Phone Navigation
Cell service is unreliable or nonexistent in most national parks. Depending only on your phone for navigation, maps, or emergency contact is dangerous.
How to avoid this:
- Download offline maps before entering the park (AllTrails, Gaia GPS)
- Get a paper trail map from the visitor center
- Fully charge your phone before hiking and bring a portable charger
- Tell someone your plans before you go (don't rely on texting from trail)
Mistake #7: Prioritizing Photos Over Safety
Many accidents happen when people step off trails, get too close to edges, or ignore warning signs to get better photos. No photo is worth risking your life.
How to avoid this:
- Stay behind railings and on designated trails at all times
- Never back up without looking—many falls happen this way
- Respect all warning signs and closed area markers
- Take photos from safe, designated viewpoints only
Mistake #8: Not Knowing Your Limits
Pride or peer pressure causes many beginners to push beyond their capabilities. There's no shame in turning back if a trail feels too difficult, you're too tired, or conditions worsen.
How to avoid this:
- Turn back if you're breathing too hard to talk comfortably
- Take breaks whenever you need them—hiking isn't a race
- Listen to your body: pain, dizziness, or nausea means stop
- Remember: reaching the destination is optional, returning safely is mandatory
The Golden Rule for First-Time Hikers
It's better to finish an easy hike feeling great than to struggle through a difficult one. Your first national park hike should build confidence and excitement for future adventures, not leave you exhausted, injured, or discouraged. Start easy, learn what your body can handle, and gradually increase difficulty on future trips.
How TravelAndTime Helps You Plan Your First National Park Hike
Planning your first national park visit involves more than just choosing a trail. Use these TravelAndTime tools to make informed decisions about timing, logistics, and preparation.
Distance Calculator
Calculate driving distance and time from your home to different national parks. Compare travel times to help choose the most accessible park for your first visit.
Flight Time Calculator
Find flight times to airports near national parks. Essential for planning trips to distant parks like Acadia, Olympic, or Yosemite.
Trip Cost Estimator
Estimate total trip costs including gas, lodging, food, and park entrance fees. Budget accurately for your first national park adventure.
Trip Planning Tools
Access comprehensive trip planning resources including itinerary builders, packing lists, and seasonal guides for national park visits.
Related Hiking Guides
Before You Go: Essential Pre-Trip Checklist
One Week Before:
- Check park website for alerts, closures, and current conditions
- Make lodging reservations (book early for popular parks)
- Purchase or print America the Beautiful Pass if visiting multiple parks
- Break in new hiking shoes (if needed)
Day Before:
- Check weather forecast for park (not just nearby town)
- Download offline maps and trail information
- Charge all devices and portable chargers
- Pack daypack with essentials (water, snacks, first aid, layers)
- Tell someone your hiking plans and expected return time
Summary: Choosing Your First National Park Hike
Your first national park hiking experience should be enjoyable, safe, and confidence-building. By choosing the right park and trail for your fitness level, you'll create positive memories that inspire future outdoor adventures.
Quick Decision Guide: Which Park Should You Choose?
If you want the easiest possible experience:
Choose Acadia National Park - Ocean Path Trail (2.2 miles, paved, coastal views)
If you're traveling with young children or elderly family:
Choose Great Smoky Mountains - Cataract Falls (0.8 miles, very short, waterfall reward)
If you want dramatic scenery with minimal effort:
Choose Grand Canyon South Rim - Rim Trail (walk any distance, spectacular views)
If you want iconic landmarks:
Choose Yosemite - Lower Yosemite Fall (1 mile, paved, world-famous waterfall)
If you're on the East Coast:
Choose Shenandoah - Limberlost Trail (1.3 miles, accessible, beautiful forest)
If you want unique geology and great photos:
Choose Bryce Canyon - Rim Trail sections (any length, stunning hoodoos)
If you want diverse ecosystems:
Choose Olympic - Hall of Mosses (0.8 miles, magical rainforest experience)
If you want red rock desert scenery:
Choose Zion - Riverside Walk (2.2 miles, paved, canyon views)
Key Takeaways for Success
- Start with trails rated "easy" and under 4 miles
- Begin hiking early morning (7-9 AM) for best conditions
- Bring more water than you think you need
- Wear broken-in shoes with good tread
- Check weather and trail conditions before you go
- Tell someone your plans and expected return time
- It's okay to turn back if the trail feels too difficult
Your Next Steps
- 1.Choose a park from the list above based on your location and preferences
- 2.Visit the park's official website to check current conditions and alerts
- 3.Use TravelAndTime tools to plan travel time and costs
- 4.Download offline maps and trail information
- 5.Gather essential gear (water, snacks, first aid, layers)
- 6.Start early, take your time, and enjoy your first national park hike!
Ready to Plan Your First National Park Adventure?
Use our planning tools to calculate travel time, costs, and create your perfect itinerary.
Disclaimer: Trail conditions, weather, and park regulations change frequently. Always check official National Park Service websites and visitor centers for current information before hiking. This guide provides general recommendations and does not replace official park guidance or personal judgment about your fitness and abilities.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the easiest national park for first-time hikers?
Acadia National Park in Maine is often considered the easiest for beginners. It offers numerous short, well-maintained trails with minimal elevation gain, excellent signage, and stunning coastal views. The Ocean Path Trail (2.2 miles) and Jordan Pond Path (3.3 miles) are perfect starter hikes with paved or smooth surfaces. The park's compact size, proximity to Bar Harbor, and excellent infrastructure make it ideal for first-time national park visitors.
How long should my first national park hike be?
For your first hike, aim for 2-4 miles roundtrip with less than 500 feet of elevation gain. This typically takes 1-2 hours and allows you to gauge your fitness level without overexertion. You can always do a second short hike later in the day if you feel good. Remember that hiking takes longer than walking the same distance on flat ground—allow 30 minutes per mile on flat terrain, 45-60 minutes per mile with elevation gain.
Do I need hiking boots for my first national park hike?
For easy, well-maintained trails, sturdy athletic shoes with good tread are sufficient. However, if the trail is rocky, muddy, or involves stream crossings, hiking boots or trail shoes provide better ankle support and traction. The most important rule: avoid brand-new shoes—break them in before your trip to prevent blisters. Whatever shoes you choose, make sure you've walked in them for at least 10-15 miles before your hike.
What should I bring on my first national park hike?
Essential items include:
- Plenty of water (at least 1 liter per person for a 2-hour hike)
- Snacks (energy bars, trail mix, fruit)
- Sunscreen (SPF 30+) and hat
- Map or downloaded trail app
- Basic first aid kit
- Phone with emergency contacts
- Light jacket or fleece (even in summer)
Even on short hikes, always tell someone your plans and expected return time.
Are national parks safe for beginner hikers?
Yes, when you choose appropriate trails and follow safety guidelines. Stick to well-marked, popular trails during daylight hours, check weather forecasts, stay on designated paths, and respect wildlife by keeping a safe distance (25 yards from most animals, 100 yards from bears and wolves). Rangers are available at visitor centers for advice and trail recommendations. Most accidents happen when people ignore warnings, go off-trail, or attempt hikes beyond their ability level.
What time should I start hiking as a beginner?
Start early morning (7-9 AM) to avoid afternoon heat, crowds, and thunderstorms (common in summer). This also gives you plenty of daylight to complete your hike safely. Always plan to finish at least 2 hours before sunset, as trails can be difficult to navigate in low light. If you must hike in the afternoon, choose very short trails only and be prepared for warmer temperatures and more crowded conditions.
Can I hike alone as a first-time hiker?
While possible on very popular, well-trafficked trails, it's safer to hike with at least one other person, especially as a beginner. If you must hike alone, choose extremely popular trails during peak hours, tell someone your exact plans (trail name, expected return time, vehicle description), carry a charged phone, and consider a personal locator beacon for remote areas. Solo hiking requires extra caution and preparation that beginners may not have yet developed.
Which national parks should beginners avoid?
Beginners should be cautious with parks known for extreme conditions: Death Valley (extreme heat, especially May-September), Denali (remote wilderness requiring backcountry skills), North Cascades (rugged terrain and unpredictable weather), and high-altitude parks like Rocky Mountain without proper acclimatization. These parks are beautiful but require more experience, preparation, and physical fitness. Start with the beginner-friendly parks in this guide, then work your way up to more challenging destinations as you gain experience.
Made with Readdy