Looking for an easy hike with big views? A new InsureMyTrip study just spotlighted the best beginner-friendly trails in the U.S., and the top spots might surprise you. Researchers analyzed 50 popular hikes across the country, comparing elevation, difficulty, fall temperatures, and accessibility to find the ultimate treks for newbies or anyone craving a low-stress adventure.
In first place is the Ledges Trail in Ohio’s Cuyahoga Valley National Park with an impressive score of 8.4. This 2.4-mile trail takes just about 55 minutes to complete, making it perfect for a quick nature fix. It’s open 24/7, averages a crisp 52.5°F in fall, and sits only 1.4 miles from the nearest town, so you can easily grab a snack after your hike.
Coming in second is Horseshoe Bend Trail in Page, Arizona, with a score of 7.1. At only 1.5 miles long, it takes just over 30 minutes to complete and rewards hikers with fantastic canyon views. Fall temperatures hover around 69.8°F, and while the visitor center is open during the day, early mornings or late afternoons are the best times to avoid the crowds.
Rounding out the top three is Mount Tammany via Red Dot and Blue Dot Loop in New Jersey, earning a score of 7.0. At 3.6 miles, it’s a bit more challenging but still accessible for beginners looking to push themselves while enjoying the sweeping scenery of the Delaware Water Gap.
Other standouts include trails in California, Colorado, and Arizona, each of which secured two spots in the top 10.
America’s best hiking trails: The full list
- Ledges Trail, Ohio
- Horseshoe Bend Trail, Arizona
- Mount Tammany via Red Dot and Blue Dot Loop Trail, New Jersey
- Red Rocks Trading Post Trail, Colorado
- Lower Yosemite Falls Trail (Nedre Yosemite Vandfalds Route), California
- Lands End Trail, California
- Devil’s Bridge via Mescal Trailhead, Arizona, Discovery Park and Lighthouse Loop, Washington, and Saint Mary’s Glacier, Colorado (tied)
- Zion Canyon Overlook Trail, Utah
