While most hikers stick to the well-known hiking trails, there are so many more ways to explore the world in peace, and it’s never too late to try something new! In this post we’re going to show you some of the best alternative hikes that you can take when your usual stomping grounds just aren’t cutting it anymore. So pull on those boots, lace up your hiking shoes, hikers suspenders and get ready for some seriously experiential adventuring.
1) Explore Frog Pond Park –
Located down by Stony Creek Metropark in New Jersey, this state park is one of the best hiker’s paradises around. Around 6,400 acres, this park is home to over 1,000 species of plants as well as a huge variety of birds and animals such as turtles, frogs, deer and even fish! Whether you’re looking for a relaxing stroll along the pond or for a little adventure in the forest, this park has it all.
2) Explore the ruins at Fort Winnebago –
Built in 1828 by soldiers from the War of 1812 at what was then called the Portage between Fox River on Lake Winnebago and Wisconsin River. This fort was mostly used as a point of defense against attacks from Native Americans throughout its use. Nowadays though it’s a pretty cool place to explore and hunt for some hidden treasure. There are a few different trails you can take through this historical site so you’ll never get bored!
3) Take the Alternate Appalachian Trail –
The A.T. is one of the most popular hiking trails in the country, but did you know there’s an alternative trail that goes right next to it? The Georgia-to-New York alternate trail is a little less traveled, so if you’re looking for more solitude and adventure this one will definitely be up your alley. This Appalachian trail is not only a great way to see some new places, but also gives you the chance to enjoy some great backpacking without the crowds!
4) Explore Starved Rock State Park –
If you love exploring nature and learning about local flora and fauna then this Illinois park is for you! Full of over 100 miles of trails, about 200 species of birds, turtles, crayfish and insects. You can even see a museum where they display many different types of wildlife right in the park. There’s also an arboretum with over 300 different varieties of trees that are on display. Not to mention the spectacular view of Starved Rock (which is a famous rock formation that you can look at from the park’s South Rim).
5) Explore the Washington Park Arboretum –
This Arboretum in Missouri is one of the best places in the world to see what trees and plants will thrive in different climatic zones. There are over 1,000 different species of trees and plants on display as well as a greenhouse where you can learn more about them. If you want to learn more about the herbs and flowers that grow in Missouri then take a walk through this amazing natural resource.
6) Explore The Fralin Park Arboretum –
This park in Texas is home to many different types of trees from around the world. Not only does this park have beautiful plants but it’s also home to a butterfly house, which allows visitors to see rare species of insects from around the country. If you’re looking for a calming stroll in the woods then this Texas park is the place for you!
7) Take A Hike On The Lost Coast –
There are a few different trails you can take down this coast in California, but all of them lead to some beautiful and remote vistas. If you’re looking for a hike that’s off the beaten path then this is definitely the trail for you.
8) Explore The Long Trail –
This trail runs from the southern border of Vermont to just shy of the Canadian border and takes hikers on an amazing adventure through some spectacular sites like Mount Mansfield, Killington Peak and Mount Independence.
9) Explore The Saugerties Lighthouse Trail –
For a hike that’s just a little more laid back then the Long Trail, this one will give you some amazing views of the Hudson River and if you’re lucky, you might just see some whales swim by! While it’s only around 6 miles in length, this trail doesn’t take any detours and is completely flat so it’s great for hiking beginners.
10) Explore Mount Evans –
If you love climbing high peaks then you’ll definitely want to climb Mount Evans in Colorado. At 14,278 feet this climb takes every bit of determination to reach the top. But that’s just what makes it a great adventure to do with some friends!
So there you have it. 10 awesome hiking trails you can take when your old stomping grounds just aren’t cutting it anymore. There are so many beautiful places out there to see, and we’d love for you to share some of your favorite hikes with us in the comments section! As always, thanks so much for reading, and we’ll see you next time!
