Walking with Nature: A Guide to 20 Different Types of Hiking

As a hiking enthusiast, it’s essential to understand the variety of hiking experiences available to you. Each type offers different challenges, terrain, and objectives that cater to specific preferences and skill levels.

Hiking is an enjoyable and fulfilling recreational activity that allows you to immerse yourself in nature.

By walking on well-marked trails or traversing uncharted territory, you can discover the beauty of the great outdoors at a pace that is comfortable for you. So, which type of hiking are you excited to try?

The 20 Different Types of Hiking

1. Day Hiking

Day hiking is perfect for those looking to enjoy the outdoors without committing to longer trips.

You’ll cover a manageable distance in a single day, typically using general trails and carrying minimal gear. Day hikes can be as simple or challenging as you prefer, making them suitable for all skill levels.

Hiking for Beginners

Just starting out? Day hikes are perfect for beginners. Remember to pack your essentials—including water, snacks, a good map, and a trusty first aid kit. Don’t forget to check the weather before you set off and let someone know where you’re headed.

A Brief Affair with Nature

There’s something magical about setting off in the morning light, carrying just enough essentials for the day’s journey. The joy of exploring the unfolding terrain is heightened by knowing you’ll be returning to comfort and a good night’s sleep.

Recommended Trails for Day Hiking

Famous Trail: The Angels Landing Trail at Zion National Park is a popular day hike that’s as rewarding as it is rigorous.

1. Half Dome Trail, Yosemite National Park, California: A strenuous 14-16 mile (23-26 km) hike leading to fantastic views from the park’s signature landmark, the granite Half Dome.
2. The Highline Trail, Glacier National Park, Montana: This 11.8-mile (19.0 km) trail rewards hikers with incredible views of Glacier National Park’s high alpine ecosystem.
3. Franconia Ridge Loop, White Mountain National Forest, New Hampshire: A challenging 8.9-mile (14 km) loop trail that offers panoramic views from atop a mountain ridge.

2. Summit Hiking

If you enjoy a challenge, summit hiking is a thrilling option, as you’ll aim to reach the peaks of mountains and hills.

This type of hiking is more physically demanding, requires route planning, and often involves technical trails. The reward, however, is experiencing breathtaking views from the summit.

Pro-tip: Your body needs time to adjust to high altitudes, especially if you are climbing a high peak. Acclimatization is vital to prevent altitude sickness, so plan your trip with overnight stops at various altitudes to get acclimated and avoid rushing to the peak.

The Highs of Hiking

Reaching a summit is an exhilarating experience. It’s not just about the physical challenge, but also the sense of achievement and the breathtaking vistas. Every peak conquered is a testament to one’s tenacity and determination.

Best Trails for Summit Hiking

Famous Trail: The Mount Whitney Trail in California leads to the highest summit in the contiguous United States.

1. Uhuru Peak via Marangu Route, Mount Kilimanjaro, Tanzania: Known as the “Coca Cola” route, this is the most popular path to climb up the highest peak in Africa.
2. El Capitan, Yosemite National Park, California: A challenging climb up a sheer rock face, popular with experienced climbers.
3. Mauna Kea Trail, Mauna Kea, Hawaii: A 6-mile (9.7 km) trail ascending the world’s tallest mountain when measured from below sea level.

3. Long-Distance Hiking

Long-distance hiking involves covering a greater distance on general trails over multiple days or weeks.

This type of hiking often requires camping or staying in shelters along the way, making it perfect for those looking for an immersive adventure in the wilderness.

Preparing for a Long-Distance Hike

Preparation is key. Pack the right amount of food and water, plan your accommodation or camping spots in advance, and consider packing light to preserve energy.

Why It’s Worth a Try

When I embark on long-distance hikes, it’s like stepping into a different time zone. Time here is measured in sunrises and sunsets, heartbeats, and breaths. It’s a journey as much within yourself as it is across the landscape.

Top Long-Distance Hiking Locations

Famous Trail: The Continental Divide Trail covers a massive 3,100 miles (4,989 km) across five U.S. states.

1. The Great Trail, Canada: Formerly known as the Trans Canada Trail, it stretches over 14,913 miles (24,000 km), making it the longest recreational trail in the world.
2. Te Araroa Trail, New Zealand: This 1,864-mile (3,000 km) trail spans the length of New Zealand, from Cape Reinga in the North to Bluff in the South.
3. Camino de Santiago, Spain: A network of pilgrimages leading to the shrine of the apostle Saint James the Great in northwestern Spain.

4. Thru-Hiking

For ambitious adventurers, thru-hiking means traversing a long trail from start to finish in a continuous journey. The most well-known examples are the Appalachian Trail and the Pacific Crest Trail.

Thru-hikers cover thousands of miles through various terrains, climates, and challenges, often taking months to complete.

A Few Thru-Hiking Tips

This is a long-term commitment, so plan and prepare thoroughly. Invest in reliable gear, map out your resupply points, and never underestimate the importance of mental preparation.

Hiking From One End to Another

When you go thru-hike, you learn how to be persistent and flexible. Every day on the trail brings a new set of challenges, and overcoming them is a testament to human endurance. The journey is long, the path treacherous, but the rewards are priceless.

Recommended Thru-Hiking Spots

Famous Trail: The Pacific Crest Trail, spanning 2,650 miles (4,265 km) from Mexico to Canada, is a popular choice for thru-hikers.

1. Continental Divide Trail, U.S.: Spans five U.S. states and covers 3,100 miles (4,989 km) between Mexico and Canada, following the Continental Divide along the Rocky Mountains.
2. The Grand Italian Trail (Sentiero Italia), Italy: A long-distance hiking trail covering around 3,800 miles (6,116 km), traversing the entire Italian peninsula.
3. The Great Himalaya Trail, Nepal: One of the longest and highest walking trails in the world, this trail covers a distance of about 1,056 miles (1,700 km).

5. Section Hiking

Section hiking is an accessible way to conquer long trails by breaking them into smaller, manageable sections.

This method allows for flexibility in planning, enabling you to complete different sections over weekends or vacations. Like thru-hiking, section hiking also encompasses a wide range of trails and terrain.

Note: Do research on the sections you plan to hike, take your time, and enjoy the flexibility this type of hiking offers. Good footwear is especially essential to keeping you comfortable on different terrains.

An Adventure for Rookies

Section hiking offers a unique opportunity to savor the beauty of a long-distance trail, bit by bit, without the commitment of a continuous journey. It’s like reading a good book — each section is a chapter in a grand adventure story.

Where to Go Section Hiking

Famous Trail: The Appalachian Trail, which stretches over 2,180 miles (3,508 km) across 14 states, is often section-hiked.

1. Pacific Northwest National Scenic Trail, U.S.: A 1,200-mile (1,931 km) trail running from the Continental Divide in Montana to the Pacific Ocean.
2. South West Coast Path, UK: At 630 miles (1,014 km), it’s the longest National Trail in the UK, offering stunning views of the English coastline.
3. Via Dinarica, Western Balkans: A mega-trail that extends across Slovenia, Croatia, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Montenegro, Albania, Serbia, Kosovo, and Macedonia.

6. Backpacking

Backpacking is a blend of hiking and camping, where you’ll carry all your gear and essentials in a backpack.

Overnight or multi-day backpacking trips allow you to explore more remote trails, sleep under the stars, and fully immerse yourself in nature.

Pack Up Like A Pro

Learn to pack efficiently—distribute weight evenly, pack versatile gear, and remember “leave no trace” principles. If you’re fairly new to this type of hiking, practice setting up your tent before you leave home.

Living on the Trail

When you combine the best of hiking and camping, as in backpacking, you get to experience life at its simplest. Carrying everything you need on your back is liberating and humbling, reminding you to appreciate the small comforts of life.

Top Backpacking Trips

Famous Trail: The John Muir Trail in California, spanning over 210 miles (338 km) through breath-taking wilderness areas, is a top choice for backpackers.

1. West Coast Trail, British Columbia, Canada: A 75 km (47 miles) long backpacking trail following the southwestern edge of Vancouver Island.
2. Overland Track, Tasmania, Australia: A six-day trek across the Tasmanian wilderness, covering approximately 50 miles (80 km) from Cradle Mountain to Lake St. Clair.
3. Laugavegur Trail, Iceland: Iceland’s most famous trek, showcasing colorful mountains, glaciers, hot springs, and vast landscapes over 34 miles (55 km).

7. Peak-Bagging

Peak-bagging is the pursuit of reaching the summits of multiple peaks within a specific region or timeframe.

These challenges often involve set lists of peaks to “bag,” and enthusiasts aim to complete them as personal accomplishments and milestones.

Take note: It’s a lot about personal challenge. Set realistic goals, do your research on peaks, and always respect the mountain. 

Consider Chasing Peaks

To me, peak-bagging is a personal challenge and an exciting game. It’s about setting goals, conquering them one by one, and discovering the thrill of standing on top of the world again and again.

Best Peak-Bagging Trails

Famous Trail: The Colorado 14ers consist of 58 mountain peaks exceeding 14,000 feet (4,267.2 m), widely considered the ultimate peak-bagging challenge in the U.S.

1. Three Peaks Challenge, UK: A popular challenge in the UK, with participants attempting to climb the highest mountains of Scotland, England, and Wales within 24 hours.
2. Seven Summits: A mountaineering challenge to climb the highest peak on each of the seven continents.
3. Highpointing, U.S.: A pursuit to reach the highest point in each of the 50 states.

8. Bushwhacking

For those who crave adventure off the beaten path, bushwhacking involves navigating through dense wilderness without a set trail.

This type of hiking requires excellent navigation skills, knowledge of local flora and fauna, and a sense of adventure. Preparation is key to ensuring a safe and enjoyable bushwhacking experience.

Pro-tip: Dress in long pants and long-sleeved shirts to protect your skin from scratches, insects, and harsh vegetation. 

Depending on your location, consider wearing gaiters for extra protection for your lower legs. Eye protection, such as sturdy sunglasses, can prevent eye injuries from branches.

Remember: Carry a reliable map and compass and be prepared for unforeseen situations.

What to Wear for a Bushwhacking Hike

Dress in long pants and long-sleeved shirts to protect your skin from scratches, insects, and harsh vegetation.

Depending on your location, consider wearing gaiters for extra protection for your lower legs. Eye protection, such as sturdy sunglasses, can prevent eye injuries from branches.

Hiking Into the Unknown

Bushwhacking is the pinnacle of daring expeditions. It requires a keen sense of direction, respect for nature’s unpredictability, and a willingness to forge your own path. It’s not just about reaching a destination; it’s about the thrill of the unknown.

Recommended Bushwhacking Locations

Famous Trail: The Adirondack High Peaks Wilderness in New York offers numerous off-trail paths for bushwhacking enthusiasts.

1. Alaska’s Wrangell-St. Elias National Park: Covering a vast expanse of wilderness with minimal trails, opportunities for bushwhacking are endless.
2. The Catskill Mountains, New York: The “Catskill 3500 Club” encourages hikers to bushwhack to the area’s lesser-known peaks.
3. The Sierra Nevadas, California: The Sierra High Route is a famous off-trail trek through one of America’s most iconic mountain ranges.

9. Swim Hiking

Swim hiking combines hiking and swimming, creating a unique outdoor experience. This type of hiking typically involves traversing shorelines, islands, or following rivers and lakes.

Waterproof gear, adequate swimming skills, and proper planning are essential for a successful swimming and hiking adventure.

Before You Take a Dip

Opt for quick-drying clothes and invest in a dry bag for your gear. Ensure you’re a confident swimmer and always be aware of local marine life and water conditions.

Benefits of Swim Hiking

With swim hiking, you can enjoy the benefits of both a thrilling workout on the trail and a relaxing dip in the water. It’s about exploring nature’s bounty on land and in water, making every trip doubly rewarding.

More Popular Swim Hiking Trails

Famous Trail: The Abel Tasman Coastal Track in New Zealand incorporates picturesque beaches and crystal-clear waters, making it perfect for swim hiking.

1. Lycian Way Swim, Turkey: A unique experience that combines coastal trekking with swimming across open water along Turkey’s Mediterranean coast.
2. The Coast to Coast Walk, UK: A walking trail from one coast of England to the other, with opportunities for swim hikes along the way.
3. Lake Jocassee Swim Hike, South Carolina, U.S.: A hike and swim to refreshing waterfalls dropping into Lake Jocassee.

10. Scrambling

Scrambling bridges the gap between hiking and mountaineering, incorporating elements of both for an exhilarating experience.

Scramblers cover steep and rocky terrain, often using their hands for balance and assistance. This type of hiking demands physical fitness, caution, and knowledge of proper technique.

You’ll need a good grip when scrambling. Choose sturdy footwear designed for hiking or approach shoes that offer a good grip on rocky surfaces. Ensure your shoes are comfortable and well broken-in before your outing.

Keeping A Grip

You’ll need a good grip when scrambling. Choose sturdy footwear designed for hiking or approach shoes that offer a good grip on rocky surfaces. Ensure your shoes are comfortable and well broken-in before your outing.

Hiking and Climbing in One

The thrill of navigating steep, rocky terrain with the help of your hands and feet is unparalleled. It demands focus, agility, and a sense of adventure like no other.

Challenging Scrambling Destinations

Famous Trail: The Angel’s Landing Trail in Zion National Park, Utah, is a famous scrambling route.

1. Knife Edge on Katahdin, Baxter State Park, Maine: A treacherous, narrow ridge of granite on Katahdin that requires scrambling.
2. Longs Peak via The Keyhole, Rocky Mountain National Park, Colorado: A difficult scramble to the top of the park’s tallest mountain.
3. Mount Olympus, Olympic National Park, Washington: A mountaineering challenge with most of the final climb requiring scrambling.

11. Glacier Hiking

Glacier hiking allows you to traverse ice-covered landscapes, offering unique challenges and spectacular views.

Involving the use of specialized equipment like crampons and ice axes, glacier hiking requires caution, expertise, and awareness of potential hazards.

Pro-tip: Bring proper equipment when you go glacier hiking. You’ll need crampons for traction, an ice axe for stability, a rope to secure team members, and a helmet for protection from falling ice. 

Make sure to learn how to use all your gear effectively before heading onto a glacier.

Do a Glacier Hike During Winter

Even though most of a glacier is ice, it can still melt a bit. See, the icy surface reflects a ton of sunlight and heat, but there are these rocks underneath, and their heat can cause parts of the ice to melt. 

So, for safety reasons, winter, when there’s more snow, is the go-to season for glacier hiking.

Why Do People Go On Glacier Hikes?

There’s a stark, profound beauty to glacier hiking. The shimmering icy landscapes, the crunch of snow underfoot, the crisp, frosty air – it’s a unique experience that leaves you in awe of the power and grandeur of nature.

Great Places to Go Glacier Hiking

Famous Trail: The Harding Icefield Trail in Kenai Fjords National Park, Alaska, offers stunning glacier views.

1. Grey Glacier, Torres del Paine, Chile: Trekkers can explore the surface of this sprawling glacier in the Southern Patagonia Ice Field.
2. Vatnajökull, Vatnajökull National Park, Iceland: Treks on Europe’s largest glacier offer views of unique ice formations and deep crevasses.
3. Franz Josef Glacier, New Zealand: Guides lead hikers across this fast-moving glacier with a constantly changing landscape.

12. Base Camping

Base camping involves setting up a base camp from which you’ll embark on multiple day hikes.

This style of hiking allows you to explore various trails and terrain without carrying all your gear with you on each hike, providing the comfort of a central “home away from home.”

As you won’t have to carry all your supplies on your back each day, you can afford to bring more diverse food options compared to a backpacking trip. Consider meal planning to ensure you have enough food for your stay and can enjoy a variety of meals.

Getting the Best Out of Base Camping

Choose a campsite that gives you access to several trails. Comfort is crucial in your base camp, so bring items that make you feel at home.

As you won’t have to carry all your supplies on your back each day, you can afford to bring more diverse food options compared to a backpacking trip. Consider meal planning to ensure you have enough food for your stay and can enjoy a variety of meals.

Why Make a Home in the Wild

You can have both convenience and excitement when you set up a base camp. It’s about exploring varying trails during the day and returning to the familiarity of your camp at night. 

The best part? You get to enjoy a variety of adventures while keeping your base camp a cozy retreat.

Favorite Base Camping Locations

Famous Trail: The Wonderland Trail in Mount Rainier National Park is an excellent option for base camping with multiple trails branching off.

1. Denali Base Camp, Denali National Park, Alaska: A popular destination for climbers preparing to ascend North America’s highest peak.
2. Torres Del Paine Base Camp, Torres Del Paine National Park, Chile: Base Camps for multi-day treks to the famous Towers and the Southern Patagonian Ice Field.
3. Everest Base Camp, Himalayas, Nepal: The starting point for summit expeditions to Mt. Everest, the world’s highest peak.

13. Trekking

Trekking is a step beyond hiking, often covering greater distances and more varied terrain.

Treks typically involve multi-day journeys through diverse landscapes, from hills and forests to deserts and mountains. Many treks showcase the beauty and culture of remote locations, offering unforgettable experiences.

Good to know: Physical fitness is vital, so make sure you train beforehand. Pack smart, as you’ll be carrying everything for several days. Take your time to acclimatize and respect local customs if trekking in foreign countries.

Test Your Limits with Trekking

The very definition of trekking is an expedition into the wild. From lush forests and rolling fields to towering mountains and arid deserts, it’s about pushing your boundaries and discovering the beauty of the wilderness in all its forms.

Recommended Trekking Trails

Famous Trail: The Inca Trail in Peru, leading to the ancient city of Machu Picchu, is an iconic trekking route globally.

1. Annapurna Circuit, Nepal: A 128-mile (206 km) trail that circles Nepal’s heaven-high Annapurna range.
2. Kilimanjaro, Tanzania: The highest mountain in Africa, with several routes of varying difficulty leading to the summit.
3. Fitz Roy Trek, Argentina: A trail leading to some of the most iconic mountain views in Patagonia.

14. Dog Hiking

Dog hiking is an opportunity to bond with your furry companions while enjoying the outdoors together.

When opting for dog-friendly trails, always ensure your dog is well-prepared, fit, and comfortable for the hike, considering factors like distance, elevation, and terrain.

Your dog will need food, water, and possibly a leash and poop bags for the hike. Consider getting a dog backpack so that your dog can carry its supplies. Also, think about trail-specific gear, like booties to protect your dog’s paws in rough terrain or a jacket in a colder climate.

Before Heading Out

Check the trail rules for dogs, pack enough water and snacks (for both of you), and consider your dog’s fitness level. 

Your dog will need food, water, and possibly a leash and poop bags for the hike. Consider getting a dog backpack so that your dog can carry its supplies. Also, think about trail-specific gear, like booties to protect your dog’s paws in rough terrain or a jacket in a colder climate.

Trails and Tails

Hiking with your dog is about sharing the joy and adventure of the great outdoors with your four-legged companion. Seeing their boundless enthusiasm as they explore new trails makes every hike an unforgettable bonding experience.

Our Favorite Dog Hiking Parks

Famous Trail: The Cascade Canal Access Trail in Nevada City, California, is a renowned dog-friendly trail.

1. Acadia National Park, Maine: With over 100 miles (161 km) of hiking trails that allow dogs, it’s a paradise for dog owners.
2. Runyon Canyon Park, Los Angeles, California: The park offers off-leash areas and stunning views of the city and the ocean.
3. Cherry Creek State Park, Colorado: Offers a massive, fenced-in off-leash area, perfect for dogs to run and play.

15. Winter Hiking

Winter hiking brings a different set of challenges compared to regular hiking, but it also offers the chance to experience the tranquil beauty of a snow-covered landscape.

Layer up to stay warm and invest in insulated, water-resistant gear. Similar to glacier hiking, microspikes or crampons will provide extra traction on icy trails.

The Beauty of a Winter Hike

Winter hiking is like stepping into a living Christmas card scene. The quiet calm of a snow-laden trail, the crisp winter air, and the soft crunch under your feet transport you to a peaceful winter wonderland.

More Famous Winter Hiking Locations

Famous Trail: The Skyline Trail, Mount Rainier National Park, Washington, is known for its winter beauty.

1. Methow Trails, Washington: The largest cross-country ski area in North America, with over 120 miles (193 km) of trails.
2. Stowe Recreation Path, Vermont: A scenic trail along the West Branch River, beautiful in every season but particularly lovely in winter.
3. Maroon Bells, Colorado: This area near Aspen is stunning when it’s coated in snow.

16. Night Hiking

Night hiking gives you the chance to experience nature under a starlit sky. It offers a whole new perspective on trails you may have traveled during the day. 

Note: A good headlamp is your best friend. Always make sure to stick to familiar trails and hike with a group.

What Makes Night Hiking Alluring?

Even well-known trails can look very different when hiked at night. There’s a sense of mystery and wonder under a starlit sky that transforms the ordinary into the extraordinary.

Top Night Hiking Places to Explore

Famous Trail: The Mt. Wilson Observatory Trail in Southern California is a famous spot for night hiking and star-gazing.

1. Red Rock Canyon, Las Vegas, Nevada: The trail system offers beautiful views of the Las Vegas Valley and the Red Rock escarpment, especially under the stars.
2. Stargazing at Mauna Kea, Hawaii: World-class stargazing from one of the most important astronomical sites on Earth.
3. The Natural Bridges National Monument, Utah: Named the world’s first International Dark Sky Park, it offers stunning views of the Milky Way.

17. Heli-Hiking

Heli-hiking involves getting airlifted by a helicopter to otherwise inaccessible trails or mountain peaks. This type of hiking allows you to experience remote and untouched landscapes.

Heli-hiking is more expensive due to the cost of the helicopter ride, but it offers a unique hiking experience.

Why Heli-Hiking Is Worth It

If you have the budget, this is a thrilling way to access remote places. Choose a reputable company, listen carefully to the safety instructions, and don’t forget to capture the incredible helicopter views!

The thrill of the helicopter ride, coupled with the serenity of secluded trails, offers an unforgettable hiking experience.

Great Heli-Hiking Destinations

Famous Trail: Canadian Mountain Holidays in Alberta, Canada, is renowned for offering a wide range of heli-hiking adventures.

1. Bobbie Burns and Bugaboo Lodges, British Columbia, Canada: Provide access to remote areas of the Purcell Mountains for hiking and mountaineering.
2. Denali National Park, Alaska: Offers heli-hiking tours to areas otherwise inaccessible.
3. Fiordland National Park, New Zealand: Heli-hiking is a popular way to explore this stunning, remote wilderness area.

18. Urban Hiking

Urban hiking involves exploring a city on foot and can be a great way to get to know your city better, explore its parks, and take in the local sites and architecture

Street Strolling Can Be Fun

This exciting new trend takes place in the middle of the action. It’s about discovering the city’s hidden gems, exploring its parks, and appreciating the beauty of urban landscapes.

Best Places for Urban Hiking

Famous Route: The 49-Mile (79 km) Scenic Drive in San Francisco serves as a great urban hiking route, passing through many of the city’s famous landmarks.

1. The Freedom Trail, Boston, Massachusetts: A 2.5-mile-long (4.0 km) path through downtown Boston that passes 16 of the city’s historic landmarks.
2. The High Line, New York City, New York: A 1.45-mile-long (2.33 km) elevated linear park, greenway, and rail trail created on a former New York Central Railroad spur.
3. The Thames Path, London, England: A National Trail following the length of the River Thames from its source to the Thames Barrier.

19. Speed Hiking

Speed hiking is for those seeking a more intense physical challenge. It combines running and hiking, where the aim is to cover a trail as fast as possible. Proper training, endurance, and lightweight gear are necessary for speed hiking.

Before You Take Off  

Fitness is paramount. Start by speed hiking shorter trails. Light gear is a must, and remember to maintain good form to prevent injuries.

Why Speed Hiking?

As a competition of strength and stamina, experienced hikers are pitted against the clock. The thrill of the challenge isn’t just about the speed; it’s about the sheer joy of pushing your limits on the trail.

Try considering this type of challenge once you’ve tried out all sorts of other hiking adventures mentioned above.

Challenging Speed Hiking Trails

Famous Trail: The Grand Canyon Rim-to-Rim Trail is a popular choice for speed hikers.

• Mount Marathon Race, Seward, Alaska: This extreme race up and down a steep, rocky mountain has been a Fourth of July tradition since 1915.
• Pikes Peak Ascent, Colorado: A half-marathon race gaining over 7,800 feet (2,377 m) in elevation to the summit of Pikes Peak.
• The Presidential Traverse, White Mountains, New Hampshire: A challenging, high-elevation route over the Presidential Range, often completed as a timed challenge.

20. Waterfalling

Waterfalling is a style of hiking that focuses on reaching and enjoying waterfalls along the hiking trails.

This type of hiking takes you through often lush and wet terrain, which is teeming with biodiversity.

The thrill of discovering the cascading waterfalls, hearing the roaring waters, and feeling the cool mist on your face, gives waterfalling its unique charm and popularity.

How to Do a Waterfalling Hike

Map out your route ahead of time. Many trails have more than one waterfall, so plan your route to make sure you see each one.

Safety is paramount during waterfall hikes. The areas around waterfalls can be slippery and dangerous, so ensure you wear appropriate footwear, and never venture off the marked trails.

Heeding the Call of the Cascades

This is all about following the sound of flowing water, discovering hidden cascades, and capturing the enchanting scenery in photos or simply in memory.

The best part? Every waterfall hike brings a different experience, dependent on the time of year, the volume of water, and the unique surrounding flora and fauna.

Favorite Waterfalling Locations

Famous Trail: The Havasu Falls Trail in Grand Canyon, Arizona, offers stunning blue-green waterfalls throughout the hike.

1. Angel Falls, Canaima National Park, Venezuela: A long hike or a flight is needed to see this world’s highest waterfall, but the experience it offers is indescribable.
2. Niagara Falls, Ontario, Canada & New York, USA: Although it’s more of a tourist spot than a hiking destination, the falls are still a must-see for waterfall enthusiasts.
3. Plitvice Lakes National Park, Croatia: Renowned for a chain of 16 terraced lakes, joined by waterfalls that extend into a limestone canyon.

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Different Types of Hiking Terrain

General Trails

When you set out on a hiking adventure, you’ll often encounter general trails that provide you with diverse hiking experiences. These trails can cover a variety of terrain, from gentle hills to rocky mountains.

The beauty of general trails is that they cater to hikers of all skill levels and enable you to explore different landscapes.

As you hike on these trails, you’ll come across varied terrain, such as forests, open fields, or even marshlands.

Stage Trails

If you’re seeking a more immersive hiking experience, try stage trails.

On these trails, you’ll hike through multiple stages, each with its own unique terrain. Stage trails are often divided into separate sections, which can span across different ecosystems or geographical locations.

One day, you might find yourself hiking up steep hills, while the next day, you could be enjoying a scenic walk alongside a picturesque river.

Technical Trails

When you’re ready to push your boundaries and take on a more challenging hike, technical trails are the way to go.

As the name implies, these trails require a higher level of hiking expertise and may involve navigational challenges, steep inclines, and rougher terrain.

Examples of technical trails include those that lead you through rocky mountain passes or demand the use of specialized equipment, such as rope or harness systems.

While hiking on technical trails, it’s important to stay alert and be prepared for potentially hazardous conditions, such as loose rocks, unstable footing, and slippery slopes.

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