The United States is well known for its beautiful and diverse hiking trails. No matter where you are in the country, you are never too far from scenic views and sprawling natural landscapes.

Hiking is an excellent way to get out there and explore, it is a great form of exercise and there are many beginners’ friendly trails to try for those who are yet to spend much time walking in nature.

Before starting a hike there are a number of necessities first time hikers need to remember to bring along for their comfort and safety. One is a decent amount of water in a durable water bottle, you should bring more than you think you will need in case your hike is longer than planned.

Snacks are also important to put in your backpack. Choose foods that will provide slow-release energy and help to sustain you. Meat jerky is one great choice, it’s high in protein and won’t spoil quickly like fresh food items.

It is wise to bring a first aid kit along too. This kit should include band aids, sterile wipes, bandages and creams for burns and bug bites. Also, a whistle, torch and emergency foil blanket are good to include for longer hikes.

Here are just five of the most extraordinary and popular hiking trails that are beginner friendly in the United States:

Fairy Falls Trail Hike, Yellowstone National Park

At 200 feet high, Fairy Falls is one of the most impressive of Yellowstone’s waterfalls. The trail is located a few miles from Old Faithful and consists of a 2.6km walk through a young lodgepole pine forest.

Walking an additional kilometer will take you up to the Spray and Imperial geysers. The walk is between three to five hours in length and unsuitable for pets. Be aware that parking in the area is limited.

Lands’ End Trail, San Francisco, California

While San Francisco may not be an obvious destination for hiking, there are some wonderful trails like the Lands End. In the west of the city, the trail loops around on a 3.4-mile path and at its highest point you will reach 538 feet elevation.

Parking at the beginning at the trailhead is recommended at the Sutro Baths parking lot. Along the way you will have beautiful views of the Pacific Ocean and Golden Gate Bridge.

Points you will pass on-route include the USS San Francisco Memorial, the Mile Rock Lighthouse, Lands’ End point, Mile Rock Beach and Eagle Point Overlook.

Bobcat Boardwalk, Everglades National Park, Florida

If you are looking for a short trail in the Everglades, then the Bobcat Boardwalk at 0.4 miles is for you. Consisting of boardwalks and bridges, the trail loops and follows the water.

This walk is particularly popular with wildlife enthusiasts as there is the opportunity to spot rare birds and sometimes even alligators. Parking at the National Park is $30 but access to the trail is free.

Calico Tanks Trail, Red Rock Canyon, Las Vegas, Nevada

Fancy hiking while in Las Vegas? The Calico Tanks Trail at Red Rock Canyon is a great choice. Just 30 minutes outside of Vegas, the trail is 2.2 miles long and will take you around two hours at a leisurely pace.

The walk will take you through a canyon and alongside hills and boulders.

Crater Rim Trail, Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park

The Crater Rim Trail will take you around the Kilauea’s summit caldera. Not only do you pass through an active volcano, but you will also come across many rare and beautiful plant species along the way.

John Mali Director of Media Relations

Director of Media Relations at AboutBoulder.com

john@aboutboulder.com