Top Hiking Trails in the U.S. for Travelers Over 50

Think hiking is just for twenty-somethings in head-to-toe REI gear? Think again.
Across the U.S., there are breathtaking trails perfectly suited for travelers over 50—offering rich nature, accessible paths, and peaceful scenery without the knee-breaking terrain.

Whether you’re a seasoned walker or a curious explorer ready for your first trek, these handpicked trails combine natural beauty with comfort, safety, and inspiration. Let’s lace up and dive in.

1. Shenandoah National Park – Skyline Drive Trails, Virginia

Best for: Forest lovers, fall foliage, and accessible viewpoints
Shenandoah’s Skyline Drive offers over 500 miles of trails, but not all require steep climbs.

Try: Limberlost Trail – a 1.3-mile loop, ADA-accessible, with benches and shaded woods.

Why it works: Crushed greenstone paths, gentle elevation, and blooming mountain laurel in spring.

Bonus: Pack a picnic and enjoy scenic overlooks from your car along Skyline Drive if your legs need a break.

2. Bryce Canyon National Park – Queens Garden Trail, Utah

Best for: Striking rock formations and easy-to-moderate elevation
The Queens Garden Trail is one of the most approachable routes into Bryce Canyon’s famous hoodoos—those tall, twisted rock spires that feel like a fantasy movie set.

Length: 1.8 miles one way (can loop with Navajo Trail for more adventure)

Tip: Go early or late to avoid desert sun. Hiking poles help on the steeper switchbacks.

This trail gives you a “wow” experience without needing to conquer a mountain.

3. Acadia National Park – Ocean Path, Maine

Best for: Ocean views, dramatic cliffs, and fresh sea air
This 4-mile (round trip) coastal walk runs from Sand Beach to Otter Point, offering wide, flat paths along the Atlantic coast.

Highlights: Thunder Hole (where waves boom into a rocky inlet), wildflowers in summer, and sweeping coastal vistas.

Perks: You can hike shorter sections and hop on the park’s free shuttle bus to return.

If you enjoy sea breezes, this might be your perfect “forest meets ocean” trail.

4. Great Smoky Mountains – Laurel Falls Trail, Tennessee

Best for: Waterfall lovers and paved-path fans
This 2.6-mile round-trip trail to Laurel Falls is one of the most popular in the park—and for good reason.

Path: Paved and gently sloping

Scenery: Mountain ridges, rhododendrons, and a photo-worthy waterfall at the end

Note: While paved, some parts can be cracked—bring sturdy shoes and consider a walking stick for balance.

The falls are stunning year-round, especially after rain.

5. Columbia River Gorge – Multnomah Falls Trail, Oregon

Best for: Iconic waterfall experience without the long hike
This is one of the most visited waterfalls in the U.S.—and it’s incredibly easy to access.

Option 1: Walk just 0.2 miles to the Benson Bridge viewpoint

Option 2: Hike up to the top via a 2.6-mile round-trip trail (moderate, with switchbacks)

Rest spots: Plenty of benches and shaded points to pause along the climb

You’ll hear the roar of the falls before you even see them—pure magic.

6. Sedona – Bell Rock Pathway, Arizona

Best for: Desert landscapes, energy vortexes, and wide, open views
Sedona’s red rock trails offer a spiritual and visual treat, and the Bell Rock Pathway is perfect for over-50 hikers.

Distance: 3.6 miles round-trip, mostly flat

What you’ll see: Iconic sandstone formations, juniper trees, and maybe a wild jackrabbit or two

Accessibility: You don’t need to climb the rock—just walking its base is spectacular.

Bonus: Some believe Bell Rock is an “energy vortex”—you might just feel more grounded by the end.

7. Muir Woods National Monument – Main Trail Loop, California

Best for: Peaceful forest walks beneath ancient redwoods
Only 30 minutes from San Francisco, Muir Woods offers an almost spiritual experience among towering redwoods.

Length: Several options from 0.5 to 2 miles, mostly boardwalk and flat trail

What’s special: You’re walking among 600–800-year-old trees that are over 250 feet tall.

Extras: Interpretive signs and benches help you slow down and absorb the silence.

Perfect for anyone craving calm and cool forest air.

8. Rocky Mountain National Park – Bear Lake Trail, Colorado

Best for: Alpine views without altitude extremes
At just 0.6 miles round trip, Bear Lake Trail is short but offers stunning views of alpine lakes and snow-capped peaks.

Elevation: 9,400 feet (so take it slow if you’re new to higher altitudes)

Trail type: Mostly flat, well-maintained loop around the lake

Wildlife: You might spot marmots, elk, or even moose from a distance

Early morning brings still waters and mirror-like reflections.

Tips for Hiking Over 50 (and Loving It)

• Choose comfort over conquest – You don’t need to summit Everest. Focus on pleasure, not pain.
• Invest in good shoes – Supportive soles and traction reduce fatigue and joint strain.
• Bring trekking poles – Great for knees, balance, and pacing
• Layer smart – Weather can shift quickly in parks. Always pack a light jacket.
• Hydrate and fuel – Don’t wait until you’re thirsty. A protein bar + water go a long way.

Final Word

You don’t have to be 25—or extreme—to enjoy some of the best trails in the U.S.
From coastal paths to forest boardwalks, the country is full of accessible, beautiful, and soul-nourishing hikes that meet you right where you are.

Whether you want quiet reflection, a sense of accomplishment, or just a peaceful afternoon outdoors, these trails are waiting.
Your adventure didn’t end at 50. It just got smarter.