Hiking Destinations

Most recently updated November 19th, 2019

Posts below include hiking info about destinations in the USA, Internationally, and close to home.

The list covers hiking destinations such as National and State Parks as well as local parks and trails.

See my Travel Resource and Adventure Travel pages for more destination and trip planning tips and deals.

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Grayson Highlands State Park is a nice smaller park with wild ponies and camping, so it's a great family vacation spot! The park has miles of hiking trails, including a portion of the Appalachian Trail, and it's just a short drive away. Read on to learn more. #Idratherwalk #Hiking

Hikes and Wild Ponies at Grayson Highlands State Park

LJSeptember 22, 2023
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Myrtle Beach – 5 Days of Walks and Outdoor Fun!

LJJune 21, 2023
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I finally got to explore the Great Channels on Brumley Mountain, Virginia earlier this Fall after obsessing about it for nearly a year! The Great Channels features a maze of slot canyons similar to those you might find in the parks in Utah or Arizona.  You can hike down into the Channels and also climb up top to get an amazing 360 view! Read how you can hike the Channels, too.  #Idratherwalk #Hiking #OutdoorsWithKids

Hike the Great Channels on Brumley Mountain

LJNovember 22, 2022
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Tour Apple Hill Farm near Grandfather Mountain!

LJNovember 3, 2022
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I hiked the Flat Top Tower Trail in Moses H Cone Memorial park on the Blue Ridge Parkway this past summer. I found it by accident while hiking nearby Grandfather mountain, and I'm so glad I did! Read about the Blue Ridge Parkway, Cone Memorial Park, this hike and other local attractions, and how you can visit too. #Idratherwalk #Hiking

Hike to the Flat Top Observation Tower on the Blue Ridge Parkway

LJOctober 18, 2022
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The New River Gorge National Park and Preserve in West Virginia is our nation's newest National Park. For the past couple of years, I've taken short road trips to see what the new park has to offer. Read about what I found in this Visit Guide with 5 days of hikes to help plan your New River Gorge National Park outdoor adventure!

New River Gorge National Park – 5-Day Hike Guide

LJAugust 6, 2022
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I made the journey to Shenandoah National Park in Virginia again this Spring, specifically to (finally!) hike Old Rag, the iconic circuit hike with a legendary scramble. While I was there, I hiked the Bearfence Scramble and Stony Man, too. Read more about my hikes and how you and your family can visit, Shenandoah National Park! #Idratherwalk #Hiking #OutdoorsWithKids

Hike Old Rag in Shenandoah National Park

LJJune 4, 2022
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North Carolina State Natural Areas can be an exciting outdoor adventure for young children, like your kids or grandkids. Mitchell Mill State Natural Area in Northern Wake County is one such very unique spot to explore. The 93-acre site is a Registered Heritage Area, and sits atop one of the largest granite domes on the east coast, called the Rolesville Batholith. Read more to learn how you can visit! #Idratherwalk #Hiking #KidsOutdoors

Explore the Rolesville Batholith at Mitchell Mill State Natural Area

LJApril 21, 2022
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The Mountains-to-Sea Trail (MST) is a trail that spans 1200 miles across North Carolina, from the Great Smoky Mountains to the Outer Banks. I've been hiking MST in Falls Lake, and Day Hike 22 is my favorite Read about how you can go, too. #Idratherwalk #Hiking

Hike the Mountains to Sea Trail at Rolling View in Falls Lake

LJMarch 16, 2022
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This Summer I hiked the Rock Castle Gorge Trail on the Blue Ridge Parkway and found out what I was missing! Read about the Blue Ridge Parkway, this hike and other local Rocky Knob Recreation Area attractions, and how you can visit too. #Idratherwalk #Hiking

Hike the Rock Castle Gorge Trail on the Blue Ridge Parkway

LJOctober 22, 2021
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Stone Mountain State Park is rugged enough to be interesting to hikers, but is also a nice smaller park with camping and other recreation options, so it's a great family vacation spot! The pike has more than 18 miles of hiking trails, and it's just a short 2.5 hour drive away. Read on to learn more. #Idratherwalk #Hiking

Hike Stone Mountain State Park

LJAugust 27, 2021
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I went back to Shenandoah National Park again this Spring, to finish hiking the trails on my list - which included the Rose River Loop and Cedar Run Whiteoak Circuit! I also had a great hike break at the Barboursville Ruins and Winery. Read more about my hikes and how you can visit, too! #Idratherwalk #Hiking #OutdoorsWithKids

Hike Rose River and Cedar Run in Shenandoah National Park

LJJuly 12, 2021
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Cannon's Point Preserve (CPP) is a unique 600-acre primitive greenspace at the north end of St. Simons Island, Ga. The Couper's Field out-and-back hike takes you down a pleasant dirt road or marsh trail from Taylor's Fish Camp to the ruins of the Couper Plantation at the Point. A fun and unique hike for all ages! Read more :-) #Idratherwalk

Hike Cannon’s Point Preserve on St Simon’s Island

LJMay 14, 2021
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Winterpast Farm and Petting Zoo provides a home for goats (and baby goats!), sheep, emu, two mini donkeys, several types of ducklings, peacocks, a goose, pigs, lots of bunnies, hedgehogs, guinea pigs and many varieties of chickens. And -  luckily for us -  Winterpast  a place where families, students, scouts, and pretty much anyone can go to pet and play with all of the animals. Read more about how you can visit, what other activities are available, and how you can help! #Idratherwalk.

Baby Goats, Emus and Peacocks – Visit Winterpast Farm and Petting Zoo!

LJFebruary 17, 2021
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The Great Smoky Mountains National Park in North Carolina and Tennessee is one of the largest protected areas in the United States. And if that's not enough to warrant a visit, there are 850 miles in the park for hiking, including 70 miles of the Appalachian Trail! I'll show you how I planned my GSMNP visit and which hikes I took - maybe you'll get some ideas for your next vacation! #Idratherwalk #Hiking

Great Smoky Mountains National Park – 5 Great Hikes in 4 Great Days

LJJanuary 27, 2021
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Schenck Memorial Forest is home to a hike that I call the Zombie Tunnels Trail. Just in time for Halloween, here is a turn-by-turn route description so you can take this somewhat spooky hike yourself! The hike is a combination of the Loblolly Trail in Umstead state Park, the  Schenck Loblolly Trail, and Richlands Creek Greenway. It's not a technically difficult hike, but at 11ish miles for the full route, it's a pretty good distance.   #Idratherwalk #HalloweenHike #HikingRaleigh

Hike to the Zombie Tunnels! – Schenck Forest’s Richland Creek Trail

LJOctober 10, 2020
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Raven Rock State Park near Lillington, North Carolina, was a favorite day trip when my daughter was in grade school. There are lots of hiking trails even short enough for smaller kids, and they have great features along the way. Raven Rock, the massive stone that gives the park it's name, and two sets of rapids on the Cape Fear River are just two of the natural assets that make this park a great kids day out. Get more info for your visit here! #Idratherwalk #GetKidsOutdoors #Hiking

Have a Kids’ Day of Adventure at Raven Rock State Park

LJSeptember 16, 2020
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I hiked the Triple Crown this summer! It's a group of three hikes - Dragon's Tooth, McAfee Knob, and Tinker Cliffs - that can be done individually or tackled all together as a backpacking trip. This 35 mile loop contains some of the best hiking in the Roanoke Valley and some of the best overlooks in the entire state of Virginia! I'll tell you what I found on this bucket-list-worthy portion of the Appalachian Trail, and how you can do it too :-) #Idratherwalk #KidsOutdoors #Hiking

Hike Virginia’s Triple Crown – an Appalachian Trail Section

LJAugust 18, 2020
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Historic Yates Mill County Park features one of the oldest buildings in Raleigh and the only remaining functioning gristmill in Wake County. There's a pond, a few shorter  - mostly shady - flat hiking trails, and fishing (with a permit). If you've got grade school or younger kids, or just want an easy outdoor break, Historic Yates Mill County Park could be a wonderful hang-out for your family!

Historic Yates Mill County Park – Hike and Learn

LJAugust 7, 2020
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Fort Macon State Park's Eliot Coues' Trail lets you hike through many diverse habitats, including the rarely-found maritime forest. The trail runs for a 3.3 mile loop through wooded forest, boardwalks through salt marsh, and peaceful natural beaches. It's a great dayhike for adults and families year-round. You can easily add on an afternoon at the beach, or spend time exploring the Fort too! Read more for details...

Fort Macon State Park – Hikes and History at the Beach

LJJune 26, 2020
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We have miles and miles of local greenways available near where I live in North Carolina. Greenways are a great off-road resource for healthy outdoor family activities like bike rides, hikes and walks. Learn details of the Black Creek, White Oak Creek, Crabtree Creek, Reedy Creek and American Tobacco Trail greenways - and have fun exploring them all! #Idratherwalk #GetKidsOutside #Hike

Hike and Bike Your Local Greenways

LJApril 30, 2020
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The Tongariro Alpine Crossing, a 12 mile day hike on New Zealand's North Island, is one of the most popular day hikes in the country. The trail is located inside Tongariro National Park, which was made famous by it's appearance in the Lord of the Rings movie trilogy. The park's alpine, volcanic scenery is the setting of Mordor, home of Mount Doom. I hiked this trail on a trip to the North Island early this Spring. Here's how hiking the Tangeriro Alpine Crossing  went for me, and some info if you want to try it for yourself! #Idratherwalk #Hiking #OutdoorActivities

Hike the Tongariro Alpine Crossing – New Zealand’s Favorite Day Hike

LJApril 12, 2020
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Outdoor Activity Ideas for Homeschool Kids

LJMarch 22, 2020
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When you're in Tella, Spain you can enjoy the Hermitages de Tella (3 Chapels) walk which takes you to each of these beautiful Romanesque Sobrarbe gems: the chapels of  Fajanillas, Saints John and Paul and La Virgen de la Peña. Our hike started outside our lodgings at Casa Ruben, and for a little ways went along the northern route of the Camino de Santiago. This is easy enough for older children, but a satisfying and scenic hike for everyone - with a lot of history thrown in!

Hike the Route of the Hermitages de Tella in Spain

LJMarch 2, 2020
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First Landing State Park's Cape Henry Trail winds through many diverse habitats, including the rarely-found maritime forest. The trail runs for 6.1 miles (one way) through heavily wooded forests, paved urban segments and peaceful, quiet beaches - and is a great dayhike for adults and families year-round. You can easily add on an afternoon at the beach, too!

First Landing State Park – Hike the Cape Henry Trail

LJJanuary 13, 2020
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Bryce Canyon National Park is just a short, hour-and-a-half drive northeast of Zion National Park, so it was good stopping place on our springtime tour of southern Utah's parks. We only spent half a day in Bryce Canyon, but it was enough time for a 3-mile hike and stops at many of the most popular view points. Here's what we did, and some other trails and park attractions we'll see on our next visit - maybe you'll get some ideas for your visit, too. #Idratherwalk #UtahHikes #FamilyAdventures

Bryce Canyon National Park Hikes and Hoodoos

LJDecember 6, 2019
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Pullen Park, the fifth-oldest operating amusement park in the U.S., is right here in Raleigh and open all year round.  With a historic carousel, a miniature train and paddle boats - plus playgrounds and a cafe, there's something for everyone! Founded in 1887, Pullen Park is also the oldest public park in North Carolina.

Have a Day Out with the Kids at Pullen Park

LJNovember 2, 2019
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Shenandoah National Park, located in Virginia’s Blue Ridge mountains, has some of the best hiking in the entire mid-Atlantic region of the US! I had a great time exploring on my own,  but the park hosts a variety of  campgrounds, trails and attractions for everyone from expert hikers to families with small children. Read more to plan your family outdoor adventure!

Shenandoah National Park – Visit Guide and 5 Days of Hikes

LJSeptember 12, 2019
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The North Carolina Museum of Art Park has been a tremendous gift to the Raleigh community. The park's trails for hiking, biking and jogging, big open lawns, ponds and pools, larger than life outdoor art, plus the amphitheater and outdoor movie screen, provide a beautiful open air gathering place for everyone. Learn about outdoor activities the NCMA Park can offer for your family!

Hike, Bike or Just Relax at the North Carolina Museum of Art Park

LJAugust 21, 2019
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Divine Llama Vineyards is famous for its wine and for the Llama Treks they host together with their neighbor, the Four Ladies & Me Farm. It's a great outdoor activity for kids and adults, too! Llamas walk with you on 2.5 miles of winding creekside hiking trails at their farm. You can bring a picnic and even have a wine tasting when you're done! Even if you don't take a trek, guests re encouraged to walk the farm and meet the animals.

Go Llama Trekking at Divine Llama Vineyards

LJJuly 3, 2019
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Pilot Mountain State Park is a recreational oasis for the whole family, with miles of trails, camping, climbing, canoeing, Ranger programs and spectacular scenery! I've been visiting this park for many years, first with my young daughter, and later with hiking friends or on my own. The trails and local attractions are fantastic, and the view from the mountain suummit never loses it's charm. Read here for trail recommendations, lodging and active family vacation ideas!

Pilot Mountain State Park – Hike, Climb, Paddle and Camp

LJJune 15, 2019
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The Flume Gorge natural area in New Hampshire's Franconia Notch State Park is spectacular and pictures just don’t do it justice! I went on my own, but walking the self-guided 2-mile Flume Trail through the Flume Gorge is a great way to spend some time outdoors with the whole family.

Explore the Flume Gorge in Franconia Notch State Park

LJMay 28, 2019
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The Lake Pine Trail is a 2 mile paved loop that circles 50-acre Lake Pine in Apex Community Park, located near the dividing line between the towns of Cary and Apex, North Carolina. Lake Pine is a great trail for running or walking, is smooth and wide enough to use your stroller or baby jogger, too - and is good for all skill levels. The trail runs between the lake and other natural areas, so even though you're in the middle of town, there's a good chance to see wildlife.

Run and Hike the Lake Pine Trail – Even if You Have Asthma!

LJApril 30, 2019
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Though Palo Duro Canyon is less than half the size of the Grand Canyon, it still offers great opportunities for the whole family for hiking, biking, horse-riding, and camping. Palo Duro Canyon State Park, the second largest canyon in the country, lies in the heart of the Texas Panhandle.

Hikes and History at Palo Duro Canyon State Park, Texas

LJMarch 5, 2019
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Lake Crabtree County Park is the best in-town alternative to a trip to the beach for a quick fix of sand and time on the water. In my opinion, any park where you can take your kids to paddle or even just watch the sun on the water is a big bonus - especially when you don't have to drive more than 15-20 minutes to get there. Located in a forested area near Raleigh-Durham International Airport, Lake Crabtree County Park offers visitors a 520-acre flood-control lake adjacent to a  215-acre wooded site, with 16-plus miles of hiking and biking trails, picnic areas, boating and catch-and-release fishing.

Explore Lake Crabtree County Park – Sail, Fish, Bike, or Hike

LJFebruary 8, 2019
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One very simple thing you can do for your child’s health is to make sure they spend plenty of time playing outside. The JC Raulston Arboretum is full of inexpensive fun outdoor activities for toddlers. Older kids will like it, too.

Get Outdoors with Your Toddler at JC Raulston Arboretum

LJJanuary 27, 2019
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If you're ever going to take that big hiking trip you've been dreaming about, you'll need to stash more money - or at least some money! - in your vacation saving account. Whether you're looking at a 1-2 week getaway or several months on the trail, these saving strategies add up. #vacationsaving #frugalliving #saveforatrip #idrtherwalk.com

Grow Your Vacation Saving Account – 4 Simple Steps

LJDecember 31, 2018
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The M&M Alpaca Farm is a great place for family photos, or a kids outdoor activity. They can feed some alpacas and have a picnic, or take a fiber class in the studio. It's even a good place to get started on shopping for your Christmas list. I had a great visit - here's how you can get your own tour!

Outdoor Activities for Kids at M&M Alpaca Farm!

LJDecember 17, 2018
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Hiking the W Trek, and the whole Patagonia trip,  was an unforgettable experience.  Torres del Paine National Park is located on the eastern edge of the South American continent. Patagonia, Chile is at the southernmost tip, very close to Antarctica.   It's a place of spectacular beauty, with dark jagged snow-topped mountains, turqouise glacier-fed lakes and rivers, and abundant wildlife. If you ever get a chance to go - you should! I've written up some helpful info and tips for your trip.

Hiking in Patagonia – The W Trek in Torres del Paine

LJNovember 28, 2018
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The Prairie Ridge Ecostation is a great place for family outdoor activities, learning, and short hiking trails for kids and adults year-round. Admission is free.  It's a great place for an outing in Nature with your kids, whether or not there is a special event or program going on.

Prairie Ridge EcoStation – Easy Family Hikes, Fossils and Fun!

LJNovember 8, 2018
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Kid friendly and dog friendly, you can see why Bond Park is a favorite place to go for Cary locals, and not-so-locals.  Bond Park provides a natural setting that's not as untouched as the nearby Umstead Park, but the park design still highlights natural beauty over man-made additions.

Walk or Run on Stroller-Friendly Routes in Bond Park

LJSeptember 25, 2018
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Sunset over Lake Crabtree, viewed from the Black creek Greenway

Umstead State Park: Combining Trails for Longer Hikes

LJAugust 30, 2018
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Trail Signs and Tokens – Practical and Sentimental Journeys

LJJuly 25, 2018
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Arches National Park is a great place to take the whole family for an adventure they'll never forget!

Tips for Your Visit to Arches National Park

LJMay 12, 2018
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Springtime in the Desert – Utah Hiking One Week Plan

LJMay 5, 2018
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How to Plan Your Multi-Day Hiking Trip

LJMarch 22, 2018
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Wild Things – A Short Hike at the Carolina Tiger Rescue

LJMarch 16, 2018
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Lodging Options for Unhappy Campers

LJFebruary 23, 2018
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It's already been a full week since I made the 30+ hour return trip back home from my multi-day hiking and camping trip in Patagonia, at Chile's famous Torres del Paine National Park. I've posted a few photos for now, and will return later with a more detailed account of the trip.

View from the Bottom of the World – Back from Patagonia

LJFebruary 2, 2018
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Umstead State Park has been my go-to hiking place for at least the past ten years.  Company Mill trail, Loblolly Trail and Sycamore Trail are the longest natural trails in the area.  I hike in the forest, or with the forest as a starting place, at least twice per week. Located in Wake County, NC between Raleigh, Cary and Durham, this 5,579 acre park is at most a 15 minute drive (or a 5 mile walk) from my house.

Top 3 Reasons William B. Umstead State Park is my Favorite Forest

LJJanuary 16, 2018
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Find hiking trails and gear for hikers and families with kids of all ages, including outdoor adventure vacations for the whole family! We also have posts in our Library to help beginning and advanced hikers find the best gear and trails for your specific needs!