The Most Beautiful Winter Hikes
1. Thunder Creek
Location: North Cascades National Park
The Thunder Creek hike is 12 miles round-trip and the highest point is at 1900 ft. elevation. Start off this hike by entering a beautiful forest; eventually you will reach an uphill walk where you will enjoy the view of the water. Then you will reach a bridge that takes you to Thunder Creek camp. It's the perfect resting location. After your rest, hop back on your trail and don't forget your camera! View the amazing peaks across the valley, the streams and water rushing through the canyon.
2. Beacon Rock Trail
Location: Beacon Rock State Park
The Beacon Rock Trail is only 2 miles round-trip. Climbers can scale the rock on the northwest face. The view at the top of the 848 ft. mountain is absolutely stunning. Not interested in climbing all the way up? Still catch the view of the river and enjoy a relaxing picnic at Riddell Lake.
3. Cadillac Mountain
Location: Acadia National Park
Cadillac Mountain was formally known as the Green Mountain. Bring your camera to capture pictures of the Porcupine Islands, Frenchman Bay, the glaciers and the geological gauges in the surface of the mountain. You can catch the beautiful sunrise on the top of Cadillac Mountain! Interested in hiking the steeper slope? Hike up the North side.
4. Twin Falls
Location: Near North Bend, Snoqualmie Region
Twin Falls is a round-trip of 3.5 miles. Its highest point is at 1,000 ft. Capture the views of the incredible hillsides and forests. At the end of your hike, you will arrive at the stunning falls. *Bonus: In the summer months you can actually swim in the waterfall and splash pool!
5. Santa Catalina Mountains
Location: Arizona
The Santa Catalina Mountains are full of beautiful trails to hike in the winter. For the best view, hike Cathedral Rock. Although this hike is one of the most difficult, it will take you to one of the highest points on the mountain. View the Tuscan lights at night, the colorful rock formations and the variety of wildlife.
6. Sandalwood Trail
Location: Hawaii Volcanoes National Park
Visit two of the world's most active volcanoes at Hawaii Volcanoes National Park. Sandalwood Trail is great for hikers of all skill levels; it is only 1.3 miles and is not as strenuous as other hikes in the park. While you are there, don't forget to visit the beautiful Holei Sea Arch and the Thurston Lava Tube!
7. Petit Jean State Park
Location: Arkansas
Petit Jean State Park is full of stunning hikes in the winter. If you are into historic treasures you definitely want to visit! View the ancient geology, beautiful bridges, meadows, forests and streams. For an easy trail, try the Bear Cave Trail. Hike over the huge sandstone boulders and through narrow passageways.
8. Cumberland Island
Location: Georgia
Bring your camera, the Cumberland Island trail is going to take you to Carnegie mansion ruins and beautiful beaches. Make your trip a day trip; there are over 50 miles of trails to choose from! Interested in spending the night? Camp out on the island or stay at the Greyfield Inn.
9. Deer Mountain
Location: Rocky Mountain National Park
Deer Mountain features the most amazing panoramic views. Looking out into the snow covered mountains is just incredible. It is about 6.2 miles and reaches 8940 ft. in elevation. Catch views of Estes Park, Longs Peak, Moraine Park, Hallett Peak and the various mountains.
10. Fairyland Loop
Location: Bryce Canyon National Park
Fairyland Point is where you will begin your hike on the Fairyland Loop Trail. Bring your camera to capture the amazing views. Pass through gardens of spires and sculptures and hike along the rim of the canyon. Hike takes about 3 ½ hours to complete. *Bonus: Bryce Canyon National Park gets plenty of snow and is a very popular cross-country ski area.
11. Marble Falls Trail
Location: Sequoia National Park
Start at the Potwisha Campground and head onto the Marble Falls Trail. The trail is 8 miles round-trip. Make sure you have your camera. Follow the path up the mountain canyon and reach a breathtaking waterfall.
12. Mirror Lake Trail
Location: Yosemite National Park
Yosemite is open all year-round and quiet during the winter months. This makes it the perfect time of year to go hiking! The Mirror Lake Trail leads to Mirror Lake. Bring your camera to capture the lakes beauty, it is frozen over, and the trees and cliffs are covered in snow.