Best Hiking Trails for College Spring Break

Many students are eager to escape campus life as college spring break approaches. There’s no better way to recharge than by exploring America’s stunning national parks and scenic hiking trails. Whether you’re seeking breathtaking views, thrilling outdoor adventures, or a chance to connect with friends, these spring break destinations are perfect for a memorable hiking trip.

Big Bend National Park, Texas

Big Bend National Park is a hidden gem with diverse landscapes of desert, rugged mountains, and the winding Rio Grande. This Texas treasure is ideal for adventurous college students looking for excitement and stunning scenery.

• Chisos Basin Loop: A moderate hike through diverse ecosystems, with chances to spot black bears and various bird species.

• The Window Trail: A 5.6-mile round trip leading to breathtaking mountain views, perfect for catching a sunset.
• Lost Mine Trail: This 4.8-mile round trip offers sweeping vistas of the mountains and valleys, which are great for photographers.
• Mule Ears Spring Trail: A less crowded, 3.5-mile loop showcasing dramatic rock formations, ideal for those seeking tranquility.

Great Smoky Mountains National Park, North Carolina and Tennessee

With over 800 miles of hiking trails, Great Smoky Mountains National Park is a must-visit for hiking enthusiasts. Known for its lush landscapes and stunning mountain views, this park is perfect for any outdoor adventurer.

• Appalachian Trail: An iconic trail that offers countless hiking opportunities, stunning vistas, and a chance to meet fellow hikers.
• Grotto Falls: A 2.6-mile trail that leads behind a picturesque waterfall, perfect for a refreshing break.
• Alum Cave Trail: A 5-mile round trip featuring unique geological formations and views of Mount LeConte.
• Cades Cove Loop Trail: An 11-mile loop showcases beautiful valleys and historic homesteads—great for viewing wildlife.

Yellowstone National Park, Wyoming and Montana

Yellowstone National Park is the ultimate adventure destination known for its geothermal wonders and abundant wildlife. Visitors can explore unique landscapes and experience nature at its finest.

• Fairy Falls: An easy 5-mile round trip to a picturesque waterfall, ideal for wildlife viewing, especially at dawn or dusk.
• Mount Washburn: A 6-mile round trip offering panoramic views of the park, perfect for wildflower enthusiasts in late spring.
• Lamar Valley Trail: A 5-mile trail known for bison and elk sightings, making it a great choice for wildlife lovers.
• Canyon Rim Trail: This 3-mile trail provides stunning views of the Grand Canyon of Yellowstone, perfect for photography.

Joshua Tree National Park, California

Joshua Tree National Park is a captivating wonderland of unique rock formations and iconic Joshua trees, making it an adventurous and fantastic spot for college students seeking outdoor fun and exploration.

• Hidden Valley Trail: A moderate 1-mile loop showcasing incredible rock formations—ideal for climbing enthusiasts.
• Barker Dam Trail: A 1.3-mile loop featuring historic petroglyphs and great wildlife viewing opportunities, including bighorn sheep.
• Ryan Mountain Trail: A 3-mile round trip to the park’s highest point, rewarding hikers with stunning views.
• Cholla Cactus Garden Trail: An easy 0.25-mile loop surrounded by thousands of cholla cacti, with spectacular views at sunrise or sunset.

Great Sand Dunes National Park, Colorado

Home to the tallest dunes in North America, Great Sand Dunes National Park offers a unique and breathtaking hiking experience against the stunning backdrop of the majestic Rocky Mountains.

• High Dune Trail: A 3-mile round trip leading to the tallest dune, perfect for sandboarding or enjoying the view.
• Dune Life Nature Trail: A 0.8-mile loop introducing visitors to the park’s unique ecosystem, complete with educational signs.
• Medano Creek Trail: A 4-mile round trip trail along the creek, great for a refreshing dip during warmer months.
• Little Sand Dunes Trail: A short 0.5-mile round trip to smaller dunes, providing a unique landscape perspective.

New River Gorge National Park and Preserve, West Virginia

Known for its stunning views and thrilling outdoor activities, New River Gorge National Park is an excellent option for a spring break trip. Whether you’re into hiking, rock climbing, or simply soaking in nature’s beauty, this park offers something for everyone.

• Long Point Trail: A moderate 3-mile hike leading to breathtaking gorge overlooks—perfect for sunset photography.
• Kaymoor Trail: A 2.5-mile trail that takes you to the river, ideal for a picnic by the water and exploring old coal mining remnants.
• Canyon Rim Trail: A 1.5-mile loop with stunning New River Gorge Bridge views—great for birdwatching during spring migration.
• Babcock State Park Trail: A 4-mile loop showcasing a historic gristmill and scenic creek views, making it family-friendly.

Discover U.S. National Parks for an Epic Spring Break with Student City!

Spring break is the perfect time to venture into nature and experience the beauty of America’s national parks. Each destination offers miles of hiking trails and a chance to immerse yourself in breathtaking landscapes, vibrant wildlife, and unique experiences.

Whether you’re trekking through the diverse landscapes of Big Bend or scaling the heights of Rocky Mountain National Park, these destinations offer stunning views, plenty of opportunities for exploration, and the chance to create lifelong memories with friends. Contact StudentCity at 1-888-777-4642 to connect with our travel expert team to help you plan the ultimate college spring break adventure!