Many who love traditional hiking choose the northeastern region of the U.S. due to its beautiful summers and incredible fall foliage tours, and it never fails to impress. Finding yourself in the great outdoors may seem as easy as putting on your favorite hiking boots and stepping out the door, but obviously you will need to do some planning, and that's where we come in. If you're going to hike in the Northeast then you need to be ready to take in some beautiful scenery from coastlines to mountain ranges, and everything in between.
Sure, hiking in the this region isn't exactly the Rocky Mountains, but it is every bit as stunning as some of the most amazing vistas that you can take advantage of in the nation. There are many trailheads awaiting those who are ready to get afoot and begin their journey, and these five Northeast hikes don't disappoint.
Watkins Glen State Park, New York
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You can take my word for it: The gorge glen hiking trail at Watkins Glen State Park in Schuyler County, New York, is not only a great family hike, it has everything you want in a hiking trail. You will feel yourself taking a trip back in time to a day where the indigenous peoples of the area must have marveled at the sights and sounds just as you and I would.
Within a mere 2 miles, the glen's stream falls 400 feet past 200-foot cliffs while the path winds its way back down the chasm. You will want to know that pets are not allowed on the trail (there are other pet friendly areas in the park) and that you will need to be prepared to hike on wet ground along with the mist from the rushing water that will pour over you on your way.
The Presidential Traverse, New Hampshire
Getty: Douglas Rissing
This is a hike that will call for more of a demand on your body than some, so you will need to be prepared for it. This trek, if completed, accounts for nearly 9,000 total feet in elevation gain so you will need to be ready to be completely stocked with food and water, move slowly, and know where you are at all times.
the Presidential Range crosses seven peaks that are all named after U.S. presidents: Madison, Adams, Jefferson, Washington, Monroe, Eisenhower, and Pierce and cover some 4,000 feet in height. The reward is superb photographic opportunities coupled with scenery that has to be seen to be believed.
Baxter State Park, Maine
Getty: Dave Oxford
Or more specifically, the Katahdin trail at the extreme north end of the Appalachian Trail. This is another hike that some may think is more for veteran hikers, but with some forethought, you will discover that it doesn't need to finished to be a part of it, and that Baxter State Park has many other hiking trails fit for anyone.
If peak climbing is a part of your hiking repertoire, then Katahdin is for you, and if you want to take part in some of the most stunning scenery in the northeast, then just visiting this area may be all that you need. The average hike time for this trail is 8-10 hours so be ready for a complete day trip, or to time it so that you know how long it takes to return.
Mount Mansfield, Vermont
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As with all of those listed here, Mount Mansfield has multiple hiking trails and areas to enjoy for backpackers and day hikers alike. Mount Mansfield has a virtual web of trails to climb, and is a peak you can crest multiple times without repeating your route.
Underhill State Park is nestled in at the base of Mount Mansfield, and near to it western edge. In an interesting turn, you can climb the Chin, the Adam's Apple, or the Forehead of this amazing summit hike, as they are all named after the various parts of the mount and have namesakes to match their appearance.
Ausable Chasm, New York
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If you're looking for a family adventure and one that will get the kids active and involved, then Ausable Chasm is just right for you. You'll find incredible rope bridges, gorges, and cable climbs along your way to keep everyone involved and thrilled to try it all again.
This is a hike for families and other groups of like-minded friends who aren't afraid of an adrenaline-pumping challenge, all created in areas that are perfectly safe for everyone. Ausable Chasm is a must see for every hiker and includes tube rides, campgrounds, and mountain biking trails just to name a few for those that want more to do after their hike is over.
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