My 20 Favs

San Francisco, California

A nice urban hiking trail in San Francisco is the Lands End Trail. This trail offers stunning views of the Pacific Ocean, the Golden Gate Bridge, and the rugged coastline of the city. Starting at the Lands End Lookout, hikers can follow the well-maintained trail as it winds along the cliffs, passing by historic sites such as the Sutro Baths and the ruins of the 19th-century Cliff House. The trail offers a mix of paved paths and dirt trails, making it accessible to hikers of all skill levels. Along the way, visitors can enjoy panoramic vistas, scenic overlooks, and opportunities to observe local wildlife. The Lands End Trail provides a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of the city, allowing hikers to immerse themselves in the natural beauty of San Francisco's coastline

Seattle, Washington

A fantastic urban hiking trail in Seattle is the Discovery Park Loop Trail. Located in the Magnolia neighborhood, Discovery Park is Seattle's largest city park and offers a beautiful escape into nature within the city limits. The Loop Trail is approximately 2.8 miles long and takes hikers through diverse habitats, including forested areas, open meadows, and along rugged sea cliffs overlooking Puget Sound and the Olympic Mountains. Along the trail, hikers can explore landmarks such as the West Point Lighthouse, sandy beaches, and viewpoints offering panoramic vistas of the surrounding landscape. With its mix of natural beauty and urban amenities, the Discovery Park Loop Trail provides a serene and refreshing outdoor experience for hikers of all levels.

Portland, Oregon

A wonderful urban hiking trail in Portland, Oregon is the Forest Park Wildwood Trail. Forest Park is one of the largest urban forests in the United States, offering a lush oasis of greenery within the city. The Wildwood Trail is the park's main artery, stretching for about 30 miles from the northern to the southern end of Forest Park. While hiking the Wildwood Trail, visitors can immerse themselves in the tranquil beauty of the Pacific Northwest's temperate rainforest, passing through towering Douglas fir and cedar trees, fern-filled gullies, and alongside babbling creeks. With numerous access points throughout the city, the Wildwood Trail provides a convenient and scenic escape into nature for Portland residents and visitors alike.

Denver, Colorado

A popular urban hiking trail in Denver, Colorado is the Cherry Creek Trail. This scenic trail follows the course of Cherry Creek, offering a peaceful escape from the city's hustle and bustle. Stretching for over 40 miles, the Cherry Creek Trail passes through diverse urban landscapes, including parks, residential neighborhoods, and commercial districts. Hikers can enjoy views of the creek, shaded pathways, and opportunities to observe local wildlife along the way. The trail is paved and well-maintained, making it accessible to hikers, cyclists, and runners of all skill levels. Whether you're seeking a leisurely stroll or a more vigorous hike, the Cherry Creek Trail provides a convenient and scenic outdoor experience in the heart of Denver.

Los Angeles, California

A fantastic urban hiking trail in Los Angeles, California is the Griffith Park Trails, specifically the hike to the iconic Griffith Observatory. The park offers a network of trails that wind through rugged terrain and scenic vistas, providing hikers with stunning views of the city skyline, the Hollywood Sign, and the surrounding mountains. The hike to the Griffith Observatory is one of the most popular routes in the park, offering a moderately challenging ascent through chaparral-covered hillsides and rocky outcrops. Along the way, hikers can enjoy the shade of native oak trees, observe local wildlife, and take in panoramic views of the city below. At the summit, visitors are rewarded with breathtaking views of Los Angeles and the opportunity to explore the Griffith Observatory's exhibits and planetarium shows. Whether you're a local looking for a quick escape into nature or a visitor seeking an iconic Los Angeles experience, the Griffith Park Trails offer a memorable urban hiking adventure.

Austin, Texas

A wonderful urban hiking trail in Austin, Texas is the Barton Creek Greenbelt Trail. This trail system winds along Barton Creek through a rugged and scenic urban wilderness right in the heart of the city. The greenbelt offers over 13 miles of trails, ranging from easy strolls to more challenging hikes, making it suitable for hikers of all skill levels. Along the way, hikers can enjoy shaded pathways, limestone cliffs, swimming holes, and beautiful views of the creek. The Barton Creek Greenbelt Trail provides a refreshing escape from the city's hustle and bustle, allowing hikers to immerse themselves in nature while still being close to urban amenities.

Phoenix, Arizona

A fantastic urban hiking trail in Phoenix, Arizona is the Camelback Mountain Echo Canyon Trail. Camelback Mountain is an iconic landmark in the Phoenix metropolitan area, offering stunning views of the city skyline and surrounding desert landscape. The Echo Canyon Trail is one of the most popular routes to the summit, providing a challenging yet rewarding hike for outdoor enthusiasts. The trail features steep switchbacks, rocky terrain, and sections of scrambling, offering a thrilling adventure for hikers. At the summit, hikers are rewarded with panoramic views of the Phoenix metropolitan area, including downtown Phoenix, Scottsdale, and beyond. The Camelback Mountain Echo Canyon Trail provides a memorable hiking experience that showcases the natural beauty of the Sonoran Desert while being conveniently located within the city limits.

Salt Lake City, Utah

A beautiful urban hiking trail in Salt Lake City, Utah is the Bonneville Shoreline Trail. This trail system follows the ancient shoreline of Lake Bonneville, offering scenic views of the Salt Lake Valley and the surrounding Wasatch Mountains. The Bonneville Shoreline Trail stretches for over 100 miles throughout the Salt Lake City area, with various access points and segments that cater to hikers of all levels. The trail meanders through urban neighborhoods, parks, and natural areas, providing a convenient escape into nature within the city limits. Hikers can enjoy views of the Great Salt Lake, the city skyline, and the rugged beauty of the Wasatch Range while exploring this iconic trail. Whether you're seeking a leisurely stroll or a more challenging hike, the Bonneville Shoreline Trail offers a memorable outdoor experience in Salt Lake City.

San Diego, California

A wonderful urban hiking trail in San Diego, California is the Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve trails. This reserve is a coastal wilderness area known for its stunning ocean views, unique Torrey pine trees, and diverse plant and animal life. The reserve offers several hiking trails of varying lengths and difficulties, allowing visitors to explore the coastal bluffs, sandy beaches, and coastal chaparral habitats. The Guy Fleming Trail and the Razor Point Trail are popular choices for hikers, offering panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean, sea cliffs, and wildflowers in the spring. With its proximity to the city and its natural beauty, the Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve trails provide a scenic and accessible outdoor experience for residents and visitors alike.

Boulder, Colorado

A fantastic urban hiking trail in Boulder, Colorado is the Mount Sanitas Loop Trail. Located just west of downtown Boulder, Mount Sanitas offers a challenging yet rewarding hiking experience with stunning views of the city and the surrounding Rocky Mountains. The loop trail is approximately 3.1 miles long and features steep switchbacks, rocky terrain, and panoramic vistas. Hikers can enjoy shaded sections of forest, open meadows, and opportunities to observe local wildlife such as mule deer and songbirds. The summit of Mount Sanitas offers breathtaking views of Boulder, the Flatirons, and the Indian Peaks Wilderness Area, making it a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts of all levels. Whether you're seeking a challenging workout or a leisurely stroll in nature, the Mount Sanitas Loop Trail provides a memorable hiking experience in the heart of Boulder.

Honolulu, Hawaii

A wonderful urban hiking trail in is the Diamond Head Summit Trail. Located within Diamond Head State Monument, this iconic trail offers hikers the chance to ascend to the summit of Diamond Head Crater for breathtaking panoramic views of Honolulu and the surrounding coastline. The trail is approximately 1.6 miles round trip and features a moderately steep incline with switchbacks and stairs. Along the way, hikers pass through tunnels, bunkers, and World War II-era military installations, adding historical interest to the hike. At the summit, visitors are rewarded with stunning vistas of Waikiki Beach, the Pacific Ocean, and the lush green landscapes of Oahu. The Diamond Head Summit Trail provides a memorable outdoor experience and a unique perspective of Honolulu's natural beauty within the city limits.

Minneapolis, Minnesota

A popular urban hiking trail in Minneapolis, Minnesota is the Chain of Lakes Trail, specifically the section around Lake Calhoun (also known as Bde Maka Ska). This trail offers scenic views of the lake, surrounding parkland, and the Minneapolis skyline. The Chain of Lakes Trail is approximately 13.3 miles long and connects several of the city's picturesque lakes, including Lake Calhoun, Lake of the Isles, and Cedar Lake. The trail is paved and relatively flat, making it suitable for walking, running, and biking. Along the way, hikers can enjoy views of sailboats on the water, lush greenery, and opportunities for birdwatching. The Chain of Lakes Trail provides a peaceful escape into nature within the heart of Minneapolis, making it a popular destination for outdoor recreation and relaxation.

Atlanta, Georgia

A wonderful urban hiking trail in Atlanta, Georgia is the Atlanta BeltLine Eastside Trail. This popular trail follows a former railway corridor, connecting several vibrant neighborhoods and parks along its route. The Eastside Trail stretches for approximately 2.25 miles from the Historic Fourth Ward Park to Piedmont Park, offering scenic views of the city skyline, street art installations, and opportunities for shopping and dining. The trail is paved and accessible to walkers, runners, and cyclists of all ages and abilities. Along the way, hikers can explore parks, green spaces, and public art installations, making it a dynamic and engaging outdoor experience within the city limits. The Atlanta BeltLine Eastside Trail provides a unique opportunity to explore Atlanta's urban landscape while enjoying nature and community connections.

Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania

A popular urban hiking trail in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania is the Three Rivers Heritage Trail, specifically the section that runs along the North Shore. This scenic trail follows the Allegheny River, offering stunning views of the city skyline, bridges, and the riverfront. The North Shore section of the Three Rivers Heritage Trail is approximately 6 miles long and connects several landmarks and attractions, including PNC Park, Heinz Field, and the Carnegie Science Center. The trail is paved and accessible to walkers, runners, and cyclists, making it a popular destination for outdoor recreation and leisure. Along the way, hikers can enjoy public art installations, green spaces, and opportunities for birdwatching and picnicking. The Three Rivers Heritage Trail provides a peaceful escape into nature within the heart of Pittsburgh, allowing visitors to explore the city's riverfront and cultural attractions while enjoying scenic views of the Allegheny River.

Boston, Massachusetts

A wonderful urban hiking trail in Boston, Massachusetts is the Charles River Esplanade. This scenic trail runs along the banks of the Charles River, offering stunning views of the city skyline, historic landmarks, and the riverfront. The Charles River Esplanade features paved pathways, landscaped gardens, and recreational amenities, making it a popular destination for walkers, runners, and cyclists of all ages. The trail stretches for approximately 3 miles from the Museum of Science to the Boston University Bridge, with several access points and attractions along the way. Hikers can enjoy public art installations, historic monuments, and opportunities for picnicking and boating. The Charles River Esplanade provides a peaceful escape into nature within the heart of Boston, allowing visitors to explore the city's waterfront while enjoying scenic views of the Charles River and skyline.

Washington, D.C.

A fantastic urban hiking trail in Washington, D.C. is the Rock Creek Park Trail. This trail follows the course of Rock Creek through the heart of the nation's capital, offering a serene escape into nature within the city limits. The Rock Creek Park Trail is approximately 20 miles long and features paved pathways, wooded areas, and scenic overlooks. Hikers can explore historic sites, cultural landmarks, and natural attractions along the way, including the National Zoo, the Kennedy Center, and the Theodore Roosevelt Island. The trail provides opportunities for walking, running, and cycling, making it a popular destination for outdoor recreation and leisure. The Rock Creek Park Trail offers a unique perspective of Washington, D.C., allowing visitors to experience the city's green spaces and natural beauty while enjoying views of the creek and surrounding landscapes.

Chicago, Illinois

A wonderful urban hiking trail in Chicago, Illinois is the Lakefront Trail. This iconic trail runs along the shores of Lake Michigan, offering stunning views of the city skyline, beaches, and parks. The Lakefront Trail stretches for approximately 18 miles from the South Side to the North Side of the city, providing ample opportunities for walking, running, cycling, and rollerblading. The trail features paved pathways, landscaped gardens, and recreational amenities, making it a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts of all ages. Along the way, hikers can explore cultural landmarks, historic sites, and public art installations, including Millennium Park, Navy Pier, and the Museum Campus. The Lakefront Trail provides a peaceful escape into nature within the heart of Chicago, allowing visitors to enjoy scenic views of Lake Michigan and the city skyline while experiencing the vibrant energy of the city's waterfront.

New York City, New York

A fantastic urban hiking trail in New York City, New York is the High Line. This elevated park and greenway is built on a historic freight rail line above the streets of Manhattan's West Side. The High Line stretches for approximately 1.45 miles from Gansevoort Street in the Meatpacking District to 34th Street, offering stunning views of the city skyline, Hudson River, and surrounding neighborhoods. The park features landscaped gardens, public art installations, and seating areas, providing a peaceful oasis in the midst of the bustling city. Along the way, hikers can explore cultural attractions, historic landmarks, and architectural marvels, including the Whitney Museum of American Art, Chelsea Market, and Hudson Yards. The High Line offers a unique and memorable outdoor experience in New York City, allowing visitors to enjoy nature, art, and urban exploration while taking in panoramic views of the cityscape.

San Antonio, Texas

A wonderful urban hiking trail in San Antonio, Texas is the Mission Reach Trail. This scenic trail stretches for approximately 15 miles along the San Antonio River, connecting several historic missions, parks, and neighborhoods. The Mission Reach Trail is part of the larger San Antonio River Walk system, offering paved pathways, landscaped green spaces, and recreational amenities for walkers, runners, and cyclists. Along the way, hikers can explore cultural landmarks, historic sites, and natural habitats, including the San Antonio Missions National Historical Park, Concepcion Park, and Roosevelt Park. The trail provides a peaceful escape into nature within the heart of San Antonio, allowing visitors to experience the city's rich history, cultural heritage, and scenic beauty while enjoying views of the river and surrounding landscapes.

Anchorage, Alaska

A wonderful urban hiking trail in Anchorage, Alaska is the Tony Knowles Coastal Trail. This scenic trail stretches for approximately 11 miles along the shores of Cook Inlet, offering stunning views of the ocean, mountains, and downtown Anchorage. The Tony Knowles Coastal Trail is paved and accessible to walkers, runners, cyclists, and skiers, making it a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts year-round. Along the way, hikers can enjoy wildlife viewing opportunities, including sightings of bald eagles, beluga whales, and moose. The trail also features interpretive signs, picnic areas, and public art installations, providing a unique and memorable outdoor experience in the heart of Anchorage. The Tony Knowles Coastal Trail allows visitors to explore the natural beauty of Alaska's coastline while enjoying panoramic views of the surrounding landscapes.

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The Urban Hiker

My 20 Favorite Urban Hikes