Activities

15 of the Best Fall Hikes

September 13, 2024

Can you smell that crisp, autumn air? It’s the perfect excuse to ditch the couch and explore the great outdoors. There’s something truly magical about hiking in the fall – the leaves are a breathtaking explosion of color, the weather is just right, and there’s a certain peacefulness that comes with the season.

In this article, get ready to trade city streets for scenic trails as we embark on a journey through some of the most breathtaking fall landscapes that America and Canada have to offer.

From rugged mountains to serene forests, these fifteen hikes are your passport to an unforgettable autumn adventure.

Let’s hit the trails!

15 Fall Hiking Trails to Explore in the Fall

1. Sostomo and Deer Valley Loop Trail

Difficulty Level: Moderate

Distance: 6.3 miles

Situated in Malibu’s Santa Monica Mountains Recreation Area, this moderate hike offers diverse views for those who enjoy varied landscapes. It’s also a great option for dog owners, though pets must remain leashed.

To avoid the midday sun, begin early and travel counterclockwise on the Rising Sun Trail. As you traverse the elevated loop, you’ll encounter local bird species, scenic canyons, ocean vistas, beaches, and a waterfall. For the best viewpoint, continue an additional 0.3 miles beyond the waterfall.

KOAs nearby:
Ventura Ranch KOA Holiday

2. Oak Glen Preserve Trail

Difficulty Level: Easy

Distance: 1.8 miles

Located in Yucaipa, this hiking trail is a family favorite. You can go with your kids and even your dog through the beautiful wildflowers and past local attractions such as the Botanical Garden.

If you want to up the difficulty, you can go on a steep but beautiful 3-mile climb to Preservation Point. The amazing fall scenery and river views make it worth your while.

KOAs nearby:
Banning Stagecoach KOA Journey
Palm Springs / Joshua Tree KOA Holiday

 Sign at Glacier Point in Yosemite National Park marking trailheads.

3. The ‘Four-mile Trail’

Difficulty Level: Moderate/Difficult

Distance: 9.6 miles

If you’re up for a challenge, then this popular trail in Yosemite National Park is the one for you.

With the valley floor as your starting point, you’ll climb a steep path to Glacier Point, offering stunning views of Yosemite’s highlights. The hike begins through fall trees before a 3,200-foot ascent to breathtaking viewpoints. Along the way, you’ll spot iconic sights like El Capitan, Yosemite Falls, and Half Dome.

KOAs nearby:
Coleville / Walker KOA Holiday

4. Parker Lake Trail on the June Lake Loop, Mammoth Lakes

Difficulty Level: Moderate

Distance: 4 miles

The Eastern Sierra, vibrant with fall colors, is a must-visit in autumn and boasts one of California’s most stunning hiking trails. The June Lake Loop, ideal for those staying in Mammoth Lakes, offers a moderate hike through beautiful aspen groves, past waterfalls and lakes, with majestic mountain views.

This trail is perfect for families, providing the option to rent pedal boats at Gull Lake Marina for a water-side perspective.

Begin your adventure at the trailhead parking on Parker Lake Road, located at the northern end of Highway 158. Follow the creek lined with aspens, navigate the switchbacks, take in the lake views, and enjoy the picturesque walk down to June Lake Village.

KOAs nearby:
Coleville / Walker KOA Holiday

5. Appalachian Trail, Great Smoky Mountains

Difficulty Level: Moderate/Difficult

Distance: 170 miles+

In Tennessee, the Appalachian National Scenic Trail (A.T.) stands out as the quintessential Smoky Mountains experience. Stretching 2,190 miles, it is the longest hiking-only trail in the world. Within the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, the trail covers 71 miles, with an additional 160 miles along the Tennessee/North Carolina border.

Hikers typically spend at least 7 days on the Smoky Mountain segment, but shorter 3-4 day hikes are possible from Newfound Gap or Clingmans Dome. The trail is marked by ‘blazes’ on posts, rocks, and trees.

For stunning fall views, take the route via Clingmans Dome, which offers a 6,643-foot vantage point to enjoy the vibrant autumn colors. Don’t forget to pack extra layers for the high elevation. Hikers must use designated campsites and secure an advance permit from the Great Smoky Mountains National Park.

KOAs nearby:
Gatlinburg East / Smoky Mountain KOA Holiday
Cherokee / Great Smokies KOA Holiday
Newport / I-40 / Smoky Mountains KOA Journey
Pigeon Forge / Gatlinburg KOA Holiday
Townsend / Great Smokies KOA Holiday

6. Little Greenbrier Trail, Wears Valley

Difficulty Level: Easy/Moderate

Distance: 4.3 miles

This diverse woodland trail connects with both the Little Brier Gap and Laurel Falls trails, offering a great opportunity to explore the Smoky Mountains.

Start at the Wear Cove Gap Road trailhead for a moderately steep hike with a 1,883-foot elevation gain. Along the way, you’ll be treated to vibrant fall foliage and incredibly scenic views.

Notable points of interest include the historic Walker Sisters Place farmstead in nearby Sevierville, accessible via the Metcalf Bottoms trail.

KOAs nearby:
Gatlinburg East / Smoky Mountain KOA Holiday
Cherokee / Great Smokies KOA Holiday
Newport / I-40 / Smoky Mountains KOA Journey
Pigeon Forge / Gatlinburg KOA Holiday
Townsend / Great Smokies KOA Holiday

Clouds rolling in on Moraine Park in Rocky Mountain National Park with the Big Thompson flowing in the foreground.

7. Moraine Park Loop, Rocky Mountain National Park

Difficulty Level: Easy

Distance: 5.5 miles

Craving a magical mountain walk? The Moraine Park Loop is your ticket to an unforgettable adventure.

Fall is a particularly exciting time to visit for wildlife enthusiasts — you might witness the incredible spectacle of elk battling for dominance during mating season.

Start your journey at the Discovery Center, where you can soak up local knowledge before hitting the trail. Follow the path around the park’s edge, taking in the stunning views. The meadow itself is a breathtaking sight, but stick to the designated paths to avoid traffic. Continue your hike along South Moraine Road, enjoying the shade and scenery. The trail will lead you to Cub Lake, where you can soak in the tranquility.

To complete the loop, follow the path back to the Discovery Center, crossing the Big Thompson River on your way.

KOAs nearby:
Grand Lake / Rocky Mountain National Park KOA Journey
Estes Park / Rocky Mountain National Park KOA Holiday

8. The Baker’s Tank and Borese Pass hiking trail, near Breckenridge

Difficulty Level: Moderate

Distance: 5.1 miles

This hike offers stunning views of Breckenridge, the Ten Mile Range, and the Blue River Valley, all wrapped up in a vibrant autumnal display.

Start at the Baker’s Tank trailhead and walk back along the road for the best scenery. While it’s a moderate 5.1-mile hike with a bit of uphill climb, you can go as far as you like. Early birds often catch the best light and fewer crowds.

Bonus: dogs are welcome, so the whole family can enjoy the great outdoors. Keep an eye out for grouse and moose in fall, or wildflowers during other seasons.

Feeling adventurous? This trail is part of the longer Boreas Pass trail, which stretches for 20 miles. Or simply drive along the aspen-lined roads for a scenic tour.

KOAs nearby:
Denver West / Central City KOA Holiday

Wooden walk way cross over tree tops surrounded by tropical plants. Myakka State Park, Florida.

9. Myakka Trail & Canopy Walkway, Myakka River State Park

Difficulty level: Easy/Moderate

Distance: 39 miles

Just a short trip from Sarasota, Myakka River State Park is a hiker’s paradise. This massive 37,000-acre park is a wild heart of Florida, filled with prairies, forests, and waterways. With nearly 40 miles of trails spread across four loops, there’s something for everyone.

One popular choice is the William S. Boylston Nature Trail. This short but sweet path winds through shady woods and open areas, giving you a taste of the park’s diverse habitats.

For a truly unique experience, climb the 100 steps to the Myakka Canopy Walkway. Soaring 25 feet above the ground, you’ll feel like you’re walking among the treetops, offering an incredible perspective of the park’s wildlife.

Whether you prefer forest trails or open prairies, Myakka River State Park has something to offer every outdoor enthusiast.

KOAs nearby:
Bradenton / Hunsader Farms KOA Holiday

10. East Main Trail, Fakahatchee Strand Preserve State Park

Difficulty Level: Easy/Moderate

Distance: 2 miles+

Set in the largest state park in Florida, you’ll find endless hiking trails here.

Created from former logging roads, the paths are perfect for easy hikes through cypress forests. Look out for wild orchids and the elusive Florida panther!

This easy 2-hour trail starts at the end of the driveable section of Jane’s Scenic Drive. Walk the trail until you reach the old lakeside cabin comically named ‘Fakahatchee Hilton’. Explore the boardwalk which connects the private cabin to the water and enjoy a peaceful picnic here.

If you’re with the kids count how many alligators you can see!

KOAs nearby:
Naples / Marco Island KOA Holiday

Beautiful autumn golden larches on Mount Frosty. Manning Park. Hope. Harrison hot Springs. British Columbia. Canada.

11.  Frosty Mountain, Manning Park

Difficulty Level: Difficult

Distance: 13.67 miles

Frosty Mountain in British Columbia’s E.C. Manning Park is a special place to visit in the fall.

Just a short drive from Vancouver, this mountain is home to a magical forest of larch trees. These unique pines trade their green needles for a stunning golden coat each autumn. But hurry, this show is short-lived, usually happening in late September or early October.

Be prepared for chilly weather and possibly snow, especially if you plan to reach the summit. Frosty Mountain is the tallest peak in the park, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and the golden larch forest below. It’s a challenging hike, but the rewards are incredible.

KOAs nearby:
Winthrop / N. Cascades National Park KOA Holiday

12.  Healy Pass, Banff National Park

Difficulty Level: Difficult

Distance: 11.1 miles

Healy Pass in Banff National Park is a must-do fall hike.

Start in a shady forest and climb steadily upwards to a breathtaking reward: golden larch trees sprinkled across vibrant alpine meadows, with majestic mountains as a backdrop. Reaching the pass is like stepping into a postcard, with rolling hills dotted with yellow and green larches.

While it’s a long hike, the gradual climb gives you plenty of time to enjoy the scenery. Cross charming bridges as you immerse yourself in Banff’s autumn magic.

It’s about a six-and-a-half-hour return trip, but you can also camp overnight at either Healy Pass or Egypt Lake if you want to extend your adventure.

KOAs nearby:
Drumheller / DInosaur Trail KOA Holiday

The Autumn colored forest is on full display in this view from the top of Centennial Ridges Trail in Algonquin Park, Muskoka, Ontario, Canada.

13.  Centennial Ridges, Algonquin Provincial Park

Difficulty Level: Moderate

Distance: 7.6 miles

The Centennial Ridges trail in Algonquin Park is a popular choice for folks from Toronto and Ottawa, but be warned: recent rain can make the trail muddy, so plan accordingly.

This loop takes you through varied forests and up to stunning lookouts. The real magic happens at the top, where you’ll be rewarded with breathtaking views of the park’s vastness.

Unlike other Algonquin hikes that keep you at the forest level, the Centennial Ridges climb above the trees, offering panoramic vistas of lakes and rivers.

Be prepared for a workout. The trail is rocky and has plenty of uphill climbs. Sturdy hiking boots are a must. It’s also not perfectly marked, so pay attention to the trail signs. Allow 3-4 hours to complete the loop, depending on conditions. And don’t forget to buy a park pass before you go!

Bonus: Fall Hiking Trails with Waterfalls!

14.  Cascade Falls, Lake Tahoe

Difficulty Level: Moderate

Distance: 1.4 miles

Looking for a leisurely hike with stunning views? The Cascade Falls trail near South Lake Tahoe is perfect for families and furry friends. This easygoing path winds through a colorful forest and over rocky steps, offering glimpses of Cascade Lake, Emerald Bay, and the broader Lake Tahoe beauty.

While there’s not much uphill climbing, the trail is varied and interesting. Once you reach Cascade Falls, take a break, enjoy the scenery, and even cool off in one of the natural pools. It’s also a great spot for a picnic lunch.

KOAs nearby:
Reno KOA Journey at Boomtown
Lake Taho KOA Journey

15.  Big Sur Pfeiffer Falls

Difficulty Level: Easy

Distance: 1.3 miles

After a long makeover, the Pfeiffer Falls trail is back and better than ever! This hike is perfect for everyone, from families to seasoned hikers. Wander through a shady redwood forest, climbing 200 steps or taking a gentler path along Valley View. Kids will love crossing the new wooden bridge!

While the waterfall itself isn’t the biggest, it’s still a charming sight. Enjoy the view from the new observation deck, then treat yourself to ice cream at the lodge.

KOAs nearby:
Moss Landing KOA Express
Salinas / Monterey KOA


Leslie K Hughes

Leslie is a travel writer, copywriter, and web designer who gets butterflies from telling stories through words and visuals.

Her voice comes from a place filled with passion, dreams, and lots of sugar. “Cake over steak” is her go-to motto.

With over 10 years of experience in crafting words, and years of embarking on travels that have taken this Montana girl to some incredible places, Leslie loves the adventures of both body and mind her writing takes her on.

To see what Leslie’s up to in the writing and design world, visit her website here.

 

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