Tired of the concrete jungle? Do you find yourself gazing out your office window, dreaming of mountain vistas and forest paths? What if your next city break or even your hometown could offer both bustling urban energy and instant access to epic trails? It’s more possible than you think. We’re diving into the best cities for hiking across the United States, uncovering urban havens where skyscrapers meet trailheads.
Choosing the best cities for hiking isn’t just about a few nearby parks. It’s about seamless access to diverse trails, stunning natural beauty right on your doorstep, and a city culture that embraces the outdoors. Get ready to lace up your boots and explore!
Why Urban Hiking is More Than Just a Trend
Living in or visiting a city no longer means sacrificing your connection to nature. The demand for a better work-life-trail balance is booming, and for good reason.
- Boost Your Wellbeing: Regular doses of nature, even short urban hikes, can significantly improve your mental and physical health.
- The Perfect Blend: Imagine exploring a vibrant new restaurant scene after a challenging morning summit, or catching a museum exhibit after a peaceful forest walk. This unique mix is a powerful draw.
- Accessibility is Key: The best cities for hiking make it easy to escape into the wild, often with trailheads reachable by public transport or a short drive.
Our Top Picks: Best Cities for Hiking in the US
Ready to discover which cities made our list? We’ve scoured the country to find urban centers that offer unparalleled hiking experiences. Each of these destinations provides something special for trail lovers.
Phoenix, Arizona: Desert Majesty Meets City Life
Don’t let the desert heat fool you; Phoenix is a hiker’s paradise, especially outside the scorching summer months.
- Why It’s Great: Stunning Sonoran Desert landscapes, unique flora and fauna, and an extensive network of trails within the city and surrounding mountains. Phoenix boasts one of the largest municipal parks in the country.
- Notable Trails:
- Camelback Mountain: An iconic, challenging climb via the Echo Canyon or Cholla Trails, rewarding you with panoramic city views.
- South Mountain Park and Preserve: Over 50 miles of trails for hiking, biking, and horseback riding. Dobbins Lookout offers fantastic sunset views.
- Piestewa Peak: A popular, steep trail that’s a great workout with rewarding vistas.
- Local Tip: Hydration is non-negotiable here. Hike early in the morning or late in the afternoon, especially from late spring to early fall. Always carry more water than you think you’ll need.
Denver, Colorado: The Mile High Hiking Hub
Denver serves as the ultimate gateway to the Rocky Mountains, offering an incredible variety of trails for every skill level.
- Why It’s Great: Proximity to towering peaks, a vibrant outdoor culture, and sunny days perfect for hitting the trails. The city itself has great paths, and world-class mountain hiking is just a short drive away.
- Notable Trails:
- Red Rocks Park & Amphitheatre: Explore the unique geological formations on several trails surrounding the famous music venue.
- Mount Falcon Park: Offers diverse trails with views of Denver and the Front Range.
- Day Trip to Rocky Mountain National Park: Just 1.5 hours away, offering alpine lakes, towering peaks, and abundant wildlife. (Check for reservation requirements).
- Local Tip: If you’re visiting from a lower elevation, give yourself a day or two to acclimate to Denver’s altitude (5,280 feet) before tackling strenuous hikes. Drink plenty of water.
Seattle, Washington: Emerald City Escapes
Surrounded by water, mountains, and evergreen forests, Seattle is a dream for hikers who love lush landscapes.
- Why It’s Great: Incredible access to diverse ecosystems, from coastal walks to alpine scrambles. Plus, three stunning National Parks are within easy reach.
- Notable Trails:
- Discovery Park: The city’s largest urban park, offering miles of trails through forests and along Puget Sound beaches with views of the Olympic Mountains.
- Mount Si: A challenging but rewarding climb popular with locals, offering great views.
- Rattlesnake Ledge: A shorter but steep hike leading to a dramatic viewpoint.
- Gateway to Giants: Day or weekend trips to Mount Rainier, Olympic, and North Cascades National Parks offer unparalleled wilderness experiences.
- Local Tip: Seattle’s weather is famously variable. Always pack rain gear and dress in layers, even if the day starts sunny. Waterproof hiking boots are a wise investment.
Portland, Oregon: Quirky, Green, and Trail-Rich
Portland seamlessly blends its unique urban charm with a deep love for the outdoors, making it one of the best cities for hiking.
- Why It’s Great: Home to one of the largest urban forests in the U.S., Forest Park, and close proximity to the stunning Columbia River Gorge.
- Notable Trails:
- Forest Park: Over 80 miles of trails, including the 30-mile Wildwood Trail, perfect for long runs or section hikes.
- Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area: (Check trail status due to past fires) Home to iconic waterfalls like Multnomah Falls and numerous hiking trails like Angel’s Rest.
- Council Crest Park: Offers panoramic views of downtown Portland, Mount Hood, and Mount St. Helens on clear days.
- Local Tip: Embrace the Portland culture post-hike. Refuel at one of the city’s many excellent craft breweries, coffee shops, or unique food trucks.
Salt Lake City, Utah: Big Mountains, Easy Access
Nestled against the dramatic Wasatch Mountains, Salt Lake City offers incredibly quick access to serious alpine terrain.
- Why It’s Great: The “Greatest Snow on Earth” tagline also means fantastic summer and fall hiking. Canyons full of trails are just minutes from downtown.
- Notable Trails:
- Bonneville Shoreline Trail: A long, relatively flat trail system that skirts the foothills, offering great city views.
- City Creek Canyon: A beautiful, paved path for walking and biking, with dirt trails branching off.
- Big Cottonwood Canyon: Home to stunning hikes like Lake Blanche Trail and Donut Falls.
- Little Cottonwood Canyon: Offers challenging routes like the Cecret Lake Trail (often with wildflowers in summer) and access to Snowbird and Alta ski areas for summer hiking.
- Local Tip: Be aware of watershed regulations in some canyons (no dogs allowed to protect drinking water). Always check avalanche conditions for shoulder season hikes in higher elevations.
Asheville, North Carolina: Blue Ridge Beauty
This vibrant artsy city is enveloped by the ancient Blue Ridge Mountains, offering a different flavor of mountain hiking.
- Why It’s Great: Access to some of the highest peaks in the Eastern U.S., segments of the Appalachian Trail, and a charming downtown with a strong local food scene.
- Notable Trails:
- Appalachian Trail Access: Numerous trailheads near Asheville allow for day hikes or shorter backpacking trips on this legendary trail.
- Mount Mitchell State Park: Hike to the summit of the highest peak east of the Mississippi River.
- Blue Ridge Parkway: Scenic drives with countless trailheads, including Craggy Gardens (famous for rhododendrons) and Graveyard Fields.
- Local Tip: Combine your outdoor adventures with Asheville’s cultural offerings. Explore the Biltmore Estate, browse art galleries, and enjoy live music.
San Francisco Bay Area, California: Coastal Wonders and Redwood Giants
While known for its iconic bridge and tech scene, the San Francisco Bay Area is a treasure trove of diverse hiking.
- Why It’s Great: Dramatic coastal bluffs, towering redwood forests, rolling hills with city views, and a variety of microclimates mean there’s always somewhere new to explore.
- Notable Trails:
- Lands End Trail: Stunning coastal views of the Golden Gate Bridge and the Pacific.
- Mount Tamalpais State Park (Marin County): Offers a vast network of trails with everything from redwood groves to panoramic ocean and bay views.
- Muir Woods National Monument: Walk among ancient Coast Redwoods (reservations usually required).
- Presidio National Park: Offers miles of trails with historic sites and Golden Gate views right in the city.
- Local Tip: The Bay Area is famous for its microclimates. Fog can roll in quickly, especially near the coast. Dress in layers and be prepared for changing conditions.
Boulder, Colorado: Where the Mountains Meet Main Street
Boulder is a city that lives and breathes the outdoors, with the iconic Flatirons serving as a dramatic backdrop and playground.
- Why It’s Great: An extensive and well-maintained trail system starts literally at the edge of town. The community is incredibly active and outdoor-focused.
- Notable Trails:
- Chautauqua Park: The gateway to the Flatirons, with trails ranging from easy strolls to challenging scrambles.
- Mount Sanitas Trail: A steep, popular loop offering a great workout and views.
- Boulder Creek Path: A paved multi-use path that runs through the city, perfect for a leisurely walk or bike ride.
- Local Tip: Boulder is an excellent place to try trail running. Many locals hit the trails before or after work. Consider joining a local hiking group to discover hidden gems.
San Diego, California: Sun, Surf, and Summits
San Diego offers a fantastic combination of beautiful beaches, coastal bluffs, and surprisingly rugged inland mountains.
- Why It’s Great: Pleasant year-round hiking weather and a variety of landscapes, from oceanfront paths to desert canyons.
- Notable Trails:
- Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve: Famous for its rare Torrey pine trees and stunning coastal cliffs.
- Cowles Mountain: The highest point within San Diego city limits, offering 360-degree views. Part of Mission Trails Regional Park.
- Mission Trails Regional Park: Over 60 miles of trails through diverse habitats.
- Local Tip: During winter and spring (December-April), keep an eye out for migrating gray whales from coastal trails like those at Torrey Pines or Cabrillo National Monument.
Chattanooga, Tennessee: The Scenic City Reimagined
Chattanooga has undergone a remarkable transformation, embracing its stunning natural setting of mountains and the Tennessee River.
- Why It’s Great: It’s earned its “Scenic City” nickname, with incredible hiking, rock climbing, and paddling opportunities right on its doorstep.
- Notable Trails:
- Lookout Mountain: Explore historic Point Park, hike to Sunset Rock for breathtaking views, or tackle longer trails within the Chickamauga and Chattanooga National Military Park.
- Stringer’s Ridge Park: Offers great trails with city views, easily accessible from North Chattanooga.
- Prentice Cooper State Forest: Features miles of rugged trails for more challenging adventures.
- Local Tip: After your hike, take a stroll across the Walnut Street Bridge, one of the world’s longest pedestrian bridges, for fantastic views of the river and city.
Anchorage, Alaska: Urban Gateway to True Wilderness
For those seeking an unparalleled connection to vast, wild landscapes from an urban base, Anchorage is unique.
- Why It’s Great: Chugach State Park, one of the largest state parks in the U.S., forms the city’s eastern boundary, offering immediate access to rugged Alaskan wilderness.
- Notable Trails:
- Flattop Mountain Trail: Anchorage’s most popular hike, providing stunning panoramic views of the city, Cook Inlet, and surrounding mountain ranges.
- Tony Knowles Coastal Trail: A beautiful, paved 11-mile trail perfect for walking, running, or biking, with chances to see moose or beluga whales.
- Chugach State Park: Countless trails ranging from easy nature walks to multi-day backpacking expeditions.
- Local Tip: This is bear country! Always be bear aware, make noise while hiking, carry bear spray, and know how to use it. Check local advisories before heading out.
Boise, Idaho: Foothills Fun in a Thriving City
Boise is rapidly gaining recognition as an outdoor lover’s haven, with an incredible network of trails easily accessible from downtown.
- Why It’s Great: The extensive Ridge to Rivers trail system in the Boise Foothills offers over 190 miles of interconnected trails. The city has a friendly, laid-back vibe.
- Notable Trails:
- Ridge to Rivers System: Explore popular spots like Table Rock for city views, Camel’s Back Park for family-friendly hikes, or delve deeper into the foothills.
- Boise River Greenbelt: A 25-mile tree-lined pathway that follows the river through the city, perfect for easy walks and bike rides.
- Local Tip: The Boise Foothills are a high-desert environment. Trails can be hot and exposed in summer, so hike early or late. The local craft beer and food scene is booming – perfect for post-hike refreshment.
Read more: Best Hiking Trails in Texas: Explore Nature’s Wonders
How to Choose the Right Hiking City for YOU
With so many fantastic options, how do you pick your next urban hiking destination?
- Match Your Skill Level: Are you looking for gentle park paths or challenging alpine ascents? Most of these cities offer a range, but some lean more towards advanced terrain (e.g., Salt Lake City, Anchorage) while others have abundant beginner-friendly options (e.g., Portland’s Forest Park, San Diego’s coastal trails).
- Consider Climate and Seasonality: Phoenix is ideal for winter hiking, while Seattle’s best trails shine in summer. Denver and Salt Lake City offer year-round opportunities but with significant seasonal differences in trail access and conditions.
- What’s Your Vibe? Do you prefer a major metropolis with nature on the fringes (like San Francisco or Seattle), or a smaller city where the outdoors is deeply woven into its identity (like Boulder or Asheville)?
- Trail Accessibility: Will you have a car, or do you need trailheads reachable by public transport? Many cities like Portland and San Francisco offer good public transit to some trail areas.
- Beyond the Trails: What else do you want from your city experience? Consider dining, arts, culture, and other attractions that complement your hiking adventures.
Essential Gear for Your Urban Hiking Adventures
Even if the trails are close to the city, being prepared is key for a safe and enjoyable hike.
- Proper Footwear: Sturdy, comfortable hiking shoes or trail runners with good traction are essential.
- Hydration System: A reusable water bottle or a hydration reservoir (like a CamelBak) is a must.
- Navigation Tools: Your smartphone with a GPS app (like AllTrails, which offers offline maps with a Pro subscription) is great, but consider a physical map and compass for more remote areas or as a backup.
- Sun Protection: Sunglasses, sunscreen, and a wide-brimmed hat, even on cloudy days.
- Layers of Clothing: Weather can change quickly. Pack moisture-wicking base layers, an insulating layer, and a waterproof/windproof outer shell.
- Small First-Aid Kit: Band-aids, antiseptic wipes, pain relievers, blister treatment.
- Daypack: A comfortable backpack (15-30 liters) to carry your essentials.
- Snacks: Energy bars, trail mix, fruit to keep you fueled.
Making the Most of Your Urban Hike
A little planning goes a long way in enhancing your city-based trail experiences.
- Research Trails in Advance: Use online resources, local park websites (like the National Park Service for NPS units), or guidebooks to find trails that match your fitness level and interests.
- Check Weather and Trail Conditions: Look up the forecast and recent trail reports. Conditions can vary greatly, especially in mountainous or desert areas.
- Practice Leave No Trace: Stay on marked trails, pack out everything you pack in (including food scraps and pet waste), respect wildlife, and minimize your impact.
- Inform Someone of Your Plans: Let a friend or family member know where you’re going and when you expect to be back, especially if hiking solo.
- Embrace the Journey: Enjoy the unique juxtaposition of nature and urbanity. The views of a city skyline from a mountaintop are a special reward!
FAQs: Best Cities for Hiking
Q1: What is the absolute #1 best city for hiking in the US?
A: That’s subjective and depends on your priorities! However, cities like Denver (for Rocky Mountain access), Seattle (for lush forests and national parks), and Salt Lake City (for dramatic, quick-access mountains) consistently rank high for their sheer volume and quality of nearby trails. Boulder is also a strong contender for its deeply ingrained hiking culture.
Q2: Are there good hiking cities on the East Coast besides Asheville?
A: Absolutely! While Asheville is a standout, cities like Portland, Maine, offer charming coastal and forested hikes. Even larger hubs like Boston provide access to the Blue Hills Reservation, and Washington D.C. is close to Shenandoah National Park and trails along the Potomac. New York City dwellers can explore Harriman State Park or the Hudson Highlands.
Q3: Can I find beginner-friendly hikes in these top cities?
A: Yes, definitely! All the cities listed offer a range of trail difficulties. For example, Phoenix has flat desert paths in South Mountain Park, Seattle has Discovery Park’s gentle trails, and Denver has accessible paths in city parks like Washington Park or along the Platte River. Always check trail descriptions for elevation gain and distance.
Q4: How important is altitude when choosing a hiking city like Denver or Salt Lake City?
A: Very important. If you’re not accustomed to higher elevations (Denver is ~5,280 ft, Salt Lake City ~4,300 ft, and many nearby trails go much higher), take it easy for the first day or two. Drink plenty of water, avoid alcohol and caffeine initially, and choose shorter, less strenuous hikes to acclimatize. Listen to your body.
Q5: What’s the best time of year to explore these best cities for hiking?
A: This varies greatly:
Phoenix: Ideal from October to April. Summers are extremely hot.
Denver/Boulder/Salt Lake City: Summer and fall are prime. Spring can be muddy, and winter often requires snowshoes or skis for higher trails.
Seattle/Portland, OR: Summer offers the driest, sunniest weather. Spring has wildflowers, fall has foliage, but expect rain.
Asheville: Spring for wildflowers, summer for lush greens (can be humid), fall for incredible foliage.
California Cities (San Francisco, San Diego): Year-round, though winter brings rain to SF, and summers can be hot inland from San Diego.
Anchorage: Late May to early September for snow-free lower elevation trails.
Your Next Adventure Awaits
You truly don’t have to choose between the vibrancy of city life and the soul-refreshing power of the great outdoors. The best cities for hiking in the US offer an incredible fusion of both, proving that epic trails can be just a stone’s throw from your hotel or home.
So, which city will you explore first? Start planning your trip, pack your boots, and get ready to discover the incredible urban hiking adventures waiting for you. The trails are calling!