Did you know that hiking is a cardio workout that can lower the risk of getting heart disease or high blood pressure?
As people age, their risk of these things increases, which is why you must take every preventative measure possible.
If you want to increase your health, lifespan, and memories, hiking is a great way to do so.
Continue reading to discover easy hikes in the country that you can enjoy at any age!
1. Maroon Bells Loop Trail
One of the best and easy hikes for seniors is at the Maroon Bells Scenic Loop Trail.
Maroon Bells Loop Trail is a great place to check out if you want to experience everything that Colorado has to offer. The base of the trail is in the highlands of Aspen and expands to Maroon Lake.
This hike offers amazing views of the mountains, forests, and waterways. Each season brings something new to this trail, making it the perfect spot to hike all year. The loop is only 2 miles long, which is ideal for seniors and beginner hikers.
Although you get surrounded by the mountains, the trail is simple to walk and has a small incline.
2. Dukes Creek Trail
Those looking for accessible hiking in Georgia should head to Dukes Creek Trail.
Dukes Creek Trail is just over 2 miles long from start to finish. A unique feature of this trail is that if you take a back trail, you can view a magnificent waterfall.
The beginning of this hike is the easiest part of the hike and is fully paved. As you go deeper into the hike, there will be a couple of challenges. There is a set of stairs that will lead to an old roadbed and the rest of the trail consists of switchbacks.
Since the walking surface changes and there is a slight elevation, this hike should only get taken by active seniors.
3. Landscape Arch Trail
If you are in Utah, looking for a place to go hiking, the Landscape Arch Trail is the perfect spot to discover.
The Landscape Arch Trail is perfect for seniors because the trail’s paved and smooth. There is a dirt road for some of the hikes, however, it is compact and easy to walk on. If you decide to walk this trail, be sure to pack plenty of water and snacks.
Since the trail is in the desert of Utah, you will want to prepare to be in warmer weather. There are two views of the arch, which makes it more enjoyable to go on hikes multiple times. Another reason this spot is perfect for seniors is that it is typically busy, so there are always people around.
4. Torrey Pines Beach Trail
Finding a hiking trail that is open all year long can be a challenge, however, Torrey Pines is the perfect place to walk.
Torrey Pines Beach Trail is in the shape of a loop, this is nice because people don’t have to worry about doubling the walk or needing a shuttle. This trail is just over 2 miles long and has an elevation gain slightly above 360 feet.
The head of this trail is located on the beach and you will get many viewpoints of the ocean. This trail is ideal for seniors because there are rest stops located along the path. The only time that you won’t be able to hike this trail is certain times when it rains to prevent erosion.
5. Zion Narrows Riverside Walk
If you are looking for more places to hike in Utah, Zion Narrows Riverside Walk is an excellent place to visit.
The Zion Narrows Walk is popular in the area and has a length of 1.8 miles long. There is only a 206-foot elevation, which makes it perfect for seniors. Many companies offer mobility aids for seniors if they have special accommodations.
This hiking trail is in southeast Utah. You don’t have to worry about extreme temperatures, however, because you will be at the bottom of the Narrows. By walking in the Narrows, you won’t be as exposed to the sun and will be in the valleys where it is much cooler. Don’t get surprised if you encounter deer, birds, and other wildlife.
This is the perfect trail to hike if you want to make a day trip out of it. You can stop at various places on this trail to take in the scenery and relax.
6. Multnomah Falls Trail
For seniors looking for a slight challenge, the Multnomah Falls Trail is recommended.
The Multnomah Falls Trail is along the Columbia River Gorge in Oregon. This area has beautiful scenery, which you will be in the heart of. The trail is only 2 miles from start to finish, however, the elevation gain is more than 800 feet.
To make the hike easier, the entire trail is paved, which helps people beat how steep the path is. The hike is worth it though, with amazing views of waterfalls and forests.
7. Centennial Lake Loop
Although the west coast is primarily known for hiking trails, the east coast has many options.
The Centennial Lake Loop is in Baltimore, Washington DC. This loop is 2.5 miles long and has less than 100 feet of elevation gain. There is a gorgeous lake in the center of the loop, although it is man-made, it is still just as great.
There is a lot of wildlife that you will pass when walking this trail, making it engaging to each hiker. Keep your eyes open for deer, beavers, and turtles!
8. Hoh Rain Forests
If you are looking for a unique trail to hike, the Hoh Rain Forest Hall of Moss is the best place to start.
The Hoh Rain Forest is in the Olympic National Park. This trail is perfect for senior hikers because it is only a mile long and has an elevation of 82 feet.
Those that have an interest in plants and nature will enjoy this hike. The trail is lined with many species of moss, ferns, and lichens. You will also see wildflowers in the area. You might encounter elk on your journey, just watch out for the banana slugs!
9. Giant City Nature Trail
Those that have a big imagination and love to be surprised should head to southern Illinois.
The Giant City Nature Trail is a 1-mile loop that is perfect for seniors to hike. The elevation gain is just over 150 feet. This trail is only a mile long, however, connects to many other side trails.
Although it sounds like a short hike will get boring over time, there are many ways to keep things interesting. The side trails will let you explore different areas where there is just as much to see.
There are interesting rock formations that line the path which will keep you interested.
10. Lakeshore North Country Trail
A great place to check out in northern Michigan is Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore.
The Lakeshore Country trail is located in the area of Pictured Rocks, which is known for having some of the most impressive views in the state. This trail begins in Grand Marais, Miners Castle, and Twelvemile Beach. The entire hiking trail is 42 miles long, so you can make it as challenging as you want!
11. Anhinga Trail
Those that are living in or headed to Florida should think about stopping at the Anhinga Trail.
The Anhinga Trail is a popular hiking destination that is located in the Everglades National Park. This trail begins in the Royal Palm Center and is a 1.5-mile loop. The great thing about this hike is that there isn’t any elevation gain the entire walk!
Anhinga Trail is paved, making it a simple surface to walk on. You can view the breathtaking plants and look for alligators and birds.
12. Kaaterskill Falls
If you are in the area of Tannersville, New York, you should add Kaaterskill Falls to your hiking list.
Kaaterskill Falls has some of the prettiest waterfalls in the area that come down layers of rock formations. This hike is only a mile long and located near a scenic road in Catskill.
The first set of falls that you will encounter is the Bastion Falls where you will then end up at the Kaaterskill Falls. There isn’t much elevation for this hike, making it ideal for seniors.
Enjoy Easy Hikes with Beautiful Views
No matter how old you are, you should still be able to find easy hikes that offer a beautiful view.
There are hiking trails across the country that are vastly different from any other. These hiking spots provide the best scenery and you can explore areas that you never considered. If you want to be active at an older age, walking and hiking are some of the best things for you.
Don’t be afraid to travel somewhere new if you have the time. There are many areas that you can find in your state but the options are endless when you go further out.
Be sure to check out our blog for more articles about United States hikes for seniors and staying active!