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Family-Friendly Hikes: Best Trails in the US for All Ages

By JJames Januar 19, 2025

Exploring nature with your family is a rewarding way to bond, get active, and enjoy the outdoors. The United States boasts a variety of family-friendly hiking trails suitable for adventurers of all ages and skill levels. From gentle woodland paths to breathtaking scenic routes, here are the best trails to explore with your loved ones.


1. Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Tennessee/North Carolina

Trail: Laurel Falls Trail

  • Length: 2.6 miles round trip
  • Difficulty: Easy
  • Highlights: A paved path leads to a stunning 80-foot waterfall, making it stroller-friendly and perfect for families with younger children.

2. Acadia National Park, Maine

Trail: Jordan Pond Path

  • Length: 3.3 miles loop
  • Difficulty: Easy to moderate
  • Highlights: This scenic loop features views of the pristine Jordan Pond and the iconic Bubbles mountains. Flat sections make it accessible for families, with opportunities for wildlife spotting.

3. Yosemite National Park, California

Trail: Mirror Lake Trail

  • Length: 2 miles round trip to the lake, 5 miles for the full loop
  • Difficulty: Easy
  • Highlights: This well-maintained trail offers spectacular views of Yosemite's granite cliffs, with opportunities for picnics near the tranquil lake.

4. Shenandoah National Park, Virginia

Trail: Limberlost Trail

  • Length: 1.3 miles loop
  • Difficulty: Easy
  • Highlights: This accessible trail features flat terrain and beautiful forest views. It’s great for toddlers, with benches for rest stops along the way.

5. Bryce Canyon National Park, Utah

Trail: Mossy Cave Trail

  • Length: 0.8 miles round trip
  • Difficulty: Easy
  • Highlights: A short hike with unique views of hoodoos and a small waterfall. Perfect for kids to explore while taking in Bryce Canyon’s striking landscapes.

6. Grand Canyon National Park, Arizona

Trail: Rim Trail (Bright Angel Lodge to Trailview Overlook section)

  • Length: 1 mile one way
  • Difficulty: Easy
  • Highlights: Paved and mostly flat, this trail offers stunning views of the canyon, with railings for safety, making it a great introduction for kids to one of the world’s natural wonders.

7. Olympic National Park, Washington

Trail: Hoh Rain Forest Trail (Hall of Mosses)

  • Length: 1 mile loop
  • Difficulty: Easy
  • Highlights: Walk through a magical temperate rainforest with moss-draped trees and vibrant greenery, perfect for captivating younger hikers.

8. Zion National Park, Utah

Trail: Riverside Walk

  • Length: 2.2 miles round trip
  • Difficulty: Easy
  • Highlights: A paved path along the Virgin River with opportunities to splash in shallow waters and admire Zion’s towering sandstone cliffs.

9. Rocky Mountain National Park, Colorado

Trail: Bear Lake Trail

  • Length: 0.6 miles loop
  • Difficulty: Easy
  • Highlights: A short and scenic loop around Bear Lake with picturesque views of the surrounding peaks. It’s ideal for families with small children or those short on time.

10. Cuyahoga Valley National Park, Ohio

Trail: Brandywine Gorge Trail

  • Length: 1.5 miles loop
  • Difficulty: Easy to moderate
  • Highlights: This trail leads to the stunning 65-foot Brandywine Falls and offers wooden boardwalks and bridges for easy navigation.

Tips for Family-Friendly Hiking

  1. Pack Snacks and Water: Keep everyone hydrated and energized.
  2. Dress Comfortably: Layer clothing for changing weather and ensure sturdy footwear.
  3. Choose Age-Appropriate Trails: Opt for shorter and easier hikes for young kids.
  4. Involve Kids in Planning: Let them help choose the trail or pack essentials to keep them engaged.
  5. Take Breaks: Allow time to rest and enjoy the surroundings.

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