Best Spring Hiking Trails in the U.S.
Where to Find Wildflowers, Waterfalls, and Perfect Spring Hiking Weather
Two hikers making their way through a lush spring forest, surrounded by vibrant greenery. Photo by Tim Foster.
Spring is one of our favorite times to hit the trails—mild temps, fresh greenery, and wildflowers everywhere. Whether you’re looking for a laid-back stroll or a challenging climb, we’ve got you covered with some of the best spring hikes across the U.S.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What are the best spring hiking trails in the U.S.?
The best trails feature blooming wildflowers, moderate temperatures, and stunning scenery. This list includes top destinations from the Smoky Mountains to the Oregon coast.
Where can I see wildflowers while hiking?
The Great Smoky Mountains, Columbia River Gorge, Big Bend National Park, and Shenandoah National Park are among the best places for spring wildflower displays. Shenandoah even publishes a seasonal wildflower calendar, making it a top choice for bloom-focused hikes. You can learn more by reading our article, Best Spring Hikes for Wildflowers in the U.S. [2025 Guide].
1. Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Tennessee/North Carolina
Spring in the Smokies means misty mornings, lush green valleys, and some of the best wildflower displays in the country. The Alum Cave Trail to Mount LeConte offers a mix of history, natural rock formations, and breathtaking summit views.
Trail: Alum Cave Trail to Mount LeConte
Distance: 11 miles round trip
Why Go: This trail showcases the Smokies’ famous wildflowers, tunnels of rhododendrons, and panoramic views from the top of Mount LeConte.
Best Time to Visit: April to early June
Visit the official Great Smoky Mountains National Park site here.
2. Zion National Park, Utah
Zion’s towering cliffs and deep canyons make for unforgettable spring hikes. The Watchman Trail is a great way to experience stunning views of the valley without the heavy crowds that some of Zion’s more famous trails attract.
Zion National Park on a bluebird spring day, with wildflowers in the foreground and dramatic canyons stretching into the distance. Photo by Nancy O’ Connor.
Trail: The Watchman Trail
Distance: 3.3 miles round trip
Why Go: A less-crowded alternative to Angel’s Landing, this hike provides sweeping views of Zion Canyon’s towering red rock formations with fresh spring greenery.
Best Time to Visit: March to May
Visit the official Zion National Park website here.
3. Shenandoah National Park, Virginia
Shenandoah is a springtime paradise with cascading waterfalls, blooming mountain laurels, and far-reaching Blue Ridge views. The Old Rag Mountain Loop is a classic, offering rock scrambles and panoramic summit vistas.
Trail: Old Rag Mountain Loop
Distance: 9.5 miles round trip
Why Go: One of the most famous hikes in the East, this challenging trail rewards hikers with rock scrambles and 360-degree views of the Blue Ridge Mountains.
Best Time to Visit: April and May
Visit the official Shenandoah National Park website here.
4. Columbia River Gorge, Oregon
The Columbia River Gorge is most magical in spring, with waterfalls at their fullest and moss-covered trails bursting with wildflowers. The Eagle Creek Trail to Punchbowl Falls is a stunning option showcasing the region's best.
Trail: Eagle Creek Trail to Punchbowl Falls
Distance: 4 miles round trip
Why Go: Lush moss-covered cliffs, misty waterfalls, and vibrant spring wildflowers make this Pacific Northwest hike a must-do.
Best Time to Visit: April to June
Visit the Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area site here.
5. Big Bend National Park, Texas
Spring is the best time to explore Big Bend before the summer heat sets in. The Lost Mine Trail winds through blooming desert landscapes, leading to a spectacular overlook of the Chisos Mountains.
Trail: Lost Mine Trail
Distance: 4.8 miles round trip
Why Go: This moderate hike winds through blooming desert landscapes, leading to a stunning overlook of the Chisos Mountains.
Best Time to Visit: March to May
Visit the official Big Bend National Park website here.
6. Great Sand Dunes National Park, Colorado
Hiking across the dunes in spring offers cooler temperatures and striking contrasts between golden sands and snow-capped peaks. The High Dune Trail is a rewarding challenge, with sweeping views of the entire dune field.
Trail: High Dune Trail
Distance: 2.5 miles round trip (but it feels longer in the sand!)
Why Go: The contrast of golden dunes against snow-capped peaks makes this one of the most unique spring hikes in the country.
Best Time to Visit: Late March to early May
Visit the official Great Sand Dunes National Park website here.
Essential Gear for Spring Hiking
A good day on the trail starts with the right gear. We’ve put together a few essentials to keep you comfortable and prepared for spring conditions:
Hiking Boots: A sturdy, comfortable pair is key for trail grip and foot protection. Check out our complete Hiking Boot Guide, Best Hiking Boots for 2025: The Top Trail-Tested Picks, to find the right fit.
Clothing: Breathable, moisture-wicking layers from brands like Patagonia and Stio keep you dry and comfortable as temps fluctuate.
Hydration: A reliable pack and water filter (Osprey and Katadyn make solid options) are necessary for longer or remote hikes.
Sun Protection: Don’t forget UPF-rated clothing, sunglasses (Smith Optics), and sunscreen to stay protected on exposed trails.
Pro Tip: Why We Use Trailforks for Planning Hikes
Trailforks is one of our favorite tools for planning hikes across the U.S. It offers detailed maps, trail conditions, and user reports. Even better—with a Trailforks membership, maps work offline. That’s a big deal when you're deep in the mountains without cell service. Without a membership, the app doesn’t function offline—so that extra layer of safety is well worth it.
Take a Hike
We hope this guide gives you ideas for your next spring hike. Pack smart, enjoy the views, and we’ll see you out there.
