Top Family Hiking Destinations

Top Family Hiking Destinations

Diamondhead Crater, Hawaii
If you’re on the big island of Oahu, one of the best family experiences is to climb up Diamondhead, the landmark extinct volcano that towers over Waikiki.  Be sure to bring a flashlight for the trip, since the trail runs through dark tunnels!  The rocky trail can be steep, but with patience even small kids can reach the observation deck at 761 feet.  From the top, you’ll have stunning views of the beaches and shores, including Koko Head and Waikiki.

Baxter Mountain Trail, New York
Take your family on an Adirondack hiking trip and enjoy fabulous views of the High Peaks and Keene Valley.  The 2.2-mile trail (round trip) leaves from Spruce Hill.  Parts are steep, but manageable for most kindergarteners.  To ensure that you won’t be hiking through snow, plan your trip for a warm day between May and October.

Winchester Mountain Trail, Washington
The Cascade Mountains are serious in size, but this trail is great for anyone in fifth grade or above.  The four-mile (round trip) route carries you through lush forests, past an old lookout post.  After its start at Twin Lakes, the trail climbs 1,300 feet on its way to the summit. (Visit between August and mid-October.  You’ll need four-wheel drive to reach the trail head.)

Deer Mountain Trail, Colorado
This six-mile long trail is best for fifth or sixth graders and above.  You’ll hike through the stunning Rocky Mountain National Park, curving along Deer Ridge to the top of the mountain.  Don’t miss the great views of Longs Peak (14,255-feet)! Visit between June and September, and be prepared for afternoon storms or snow.

Lassen Peak Trail, California
Fourth and fifth graders are ready to tackle this five-mile long (round trip) trail up stunning Lassen Peak.  Set in the Lassen Volcanic National Park, this hike includes a lot of uphill climbing, but the view of the Sierra Nevadas makes it all worthwhile.  Visit in late summer if you want a snow-free trail.