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How We Find the Best Hikes: A Guide for Adventure Seekers
When it comes to finding the perfect hike, we like to explore all the options available, from trusted apps to good old-fashioned conversations with locals. Here’s a breakdown of the tools we use to discover those hidden gems in nature:
1. AllTrails: Our Go-To Hiking App
AllTrails is a lifesaver when it comes to narrowing down the perfect trail. With detailed trail descriptions, elevation gain, difficulty ratings, and real-time reviews from other hikers, it’s easy to get an idea of what to expect. We use it to filter hikes based on length, difficulty, and trail conditions. It's particularly useful for checking recent trail reports, so we’re always prepared for seasonal closures or trail maintenance. Download AllTrails here! We also recommend Alltrails+ as you can download the trail and navigate using the app!
2. Talking to Park Rangers
Rangers are an incredible resource. They have firsthand knowledge of the park’s trails, road conditions, and wildlife activity. Whether we’re visiting a popular national park or a lesser-known state park, we make it a point to stop by the visitor center and chat with a ranger. They often know about lesser-known trails or can advise us on current conditions that might not be available online.
Don't be afraid to ask them what they like to do outside of the park they work at! That is a great way to branch out and find hidden gems!
3. Chatting with Locals
Nothing beats insider knowledge from locals. Whether it's the owner of a nearby café or someone we meet at a trailhead, locals tend to know the trails that aren’t on every map. They can point us toward quiet paths with amazing views or give us tips on when to hike popular trails to avoid crowds. This kind of information can turn a good hike into an unforgettable adventure.
4. Social Media Recommendations
Social media can be a treasure trove for finding hikes. We often scroll through Instagram, TikTok, or Reddit to find trail recommendations from fellow hikers. Following hashtags related to national parks, hiking, and specific trails helps us uncover amazing spots we might not have found otherwise. Plus, we can get a visual preview of what to expect!
Follow our Instagram for hiking and travel recommendations!
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