As spring arrives, the flowers bloom, the ground thaws, and natural beauty comes to life. This is one of the best times to get out into the wilderness and hike some beautiful scenic routes. There are all kinds of side benefits. You can get fit, discover epic vistas, and view wildlife and numerous birds. ReserveAmerica has listed some parks for great hikes to experience this spring.
Wapsipinicon State Park, Iowa
As you move from extensive cornfields to the splendor of Wapsipinicon State Park, get set to experience some amazing activities. This state park offers so much beauty with its limestone and sandstone bluffs covered in columbine and moss. One thing that makes the park unique is the three-span arch bridge which is the last such bridge in Iowa. Hiking offers different types of scenery and some challenges for hikers of all skill sets. Enjoy 3.5 miles of multi-use trails. Walk the Wapsipinicon River bank on a 1.4-mile trail.
Berry picking is a favorite here, as well as harvesting nuts and mushrooms. You’ll want to visit the Horse Thief Cave and the Ice Cave. They are open to explore and the kids will love to splash in the streams that run through them. For golf enthusiasts, there is a 9-hole golf course within the park’s boundaries.
Watkins Glen State Park, New York
This state park has stunning emerald pools where water cascades from one to the other. Sun hits the sides of the gorges, bringing every inch of rock to life. For a spring hike, you can experience the Watkins Glen State Park Gorge Trail which takes you under a suspension bridge. You’ll view 19 active waterfalls as you go. When you aren’t hiking, you can picnic or try fishing Seneca Lake or Catherine Creek. You can’t miss making a catch here as spring is the time of the annual run of rainbow trout. There are 305 campsites to choose from, each equipped with a fire ring and cooking grill.
Tishomingo State Park, Mississippi
The Natchez Trace Parkway, a famous highway from early in the 1800s, runs through the park, and as you drive, you’ll be able to experience the landscape much like the Native Americans did many years ago. This is a unique perspective with huge rock formations blanketed in moss and beautiful wildflowers in bloom. The Bear Creek Outcropping Trail rewards the hiker with views of the Appalachian foothills as well as the many outcroppings and bluffs that make this area special. A spring hike here promises an enjoyable adventure. Other adventures await, such as canoe float trips, fishing, rock climbing, and even disc golf.
Recommended: The 13 Best Waterfall Hikes for Spring
Cloudland Canyon State Park, Georgia
This park, located at the edge of Lookout Mountain, offers scenery, caves, waterfalls, and exceptional hiking. Miles of trails will provide all types of hiking adventures, from the easy walk on the Overlook Trail, to a challenging trek on the Waterfalls Trail. If you are a backpacker, you can go on the 2-mile Backcountry Loop and camp out in a hemlock grove. Other activities include mountain biking, horseback riding, and fishing. This park also offers yurts to reserve for a night or two. The whole family can stay in one of these circular tents.
Hanging Rock State Park, North Carolina
Although not part of the Blue Ridge Range, the Sauratown Mountains are close by and provide similar beauty for the visitor to this state park. With more than 20 miles of hiking trails, you will find you can keep exploring until you feel you can explore no more. The trails go to waterfalls, rock outcroppings, and even a cave. Enjoy splendid views of the mountains. When you aren’t hiking, you can take a dip in one of the pools, boat on the lake, fish for catfish and bass, or tube on the Dan River. Rock climbers come from all over to climb the 400-foot cliffs at Cook’s Wall and Moore’s Wall. The fun is never ending.
Turkey Run State Park, Indiana
Indiana has some truly lovely spots for a spring vacation. This state park is at the top of the list for its views and amazing sandstone gorges. They seem almost out of place as they contrast so much to the surrounding areas. Hike the trails here and you will find yourself exploring deep ravines, walking by stands of ancient forests, and taking in the scenery along Sugar Creek. Be sure to stop and take some photos of the historic Cox Ford Covered Bridge. Your trip won’t be complete without a visit to the Colonel Richard Lieber Cabin, which commemorates the father of Indiana’s state parks.
Are you ready for your adventure? Plan your camping trip!
Check with your Local Government Organization
Many policies have been established to counter and control the coronavirus outbreak. State and local officials have been taking decisive action to stop the spread. The policies vary by state, sometimes to a great degree. When you book a reservation, make sure to review the park and state’s latest rules and regulations prior to your visit.
For COVID-19 updates, please visit our Impacted Park List and Reservation Guide for the latest information.