Underrated Hiking Trails to Try This Summer When the summer sun hits its peak, popular national parks often turn into congested parking lots. Yet, for hikers seeking solitude, cooler temperatures, and breathtaking views, the North American landscape is dotted with incredible, under-the-radar trails that offer the same, if not better, rewards without the crowds. Swapping the crowded, iconic viewpoints for hidden gems can transform a summer hike from a logistical challenge into a serene, unforgettable adventure. Here are some of the most underrated trails to experience this summer. The Enchantments Alternative: Chain Lakes Loop, Washington
While crowds fight for permits in Washington’s famous Enchantments, the Chain Lakes Loop in the Mt. Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest offers dramatic alpine scenery with far more accessibility. This 6.5-mile loop, located near the Artist Point trailhead, provides stunning views of both Mount Baker and Mount Shuksan. Hikers traverse rocky ridgelines, wander through alpine meadows that bloom with wildflowers in late summer, and pass several crystal-clear, deep blue lakes perfect for a refreshing dip. The elevation gain is moderate, making it accessible for varied skill levels, while the panoramic views rival those of much more difficult treks. The best time for this hike is mid-July through September, when the snow has melted, revealing the vibrant, colorful landscape. Coastal Serenity: Tettegouche State Park Trails, Minnesota
The North Shore of Lake Superior is popular, but many visitors stick to the main overlooks, leaving the deeper trails of Tettegouche State Park relatively quiet. Hiking to the top of Shovel Point offers dramatic, high-cliff views of the massive lake, often feeling like a freshwater ocean. However, for a true hidden gem, the trail to High Falls on the Baptism River is spectacular. The river winds through a deep, shaded gorge, offering a cool sanctuary even on the hottest days. Combining these trails allows for a perfect day of dramatic vertical cliffs and lush, green forests, providing a quiet, temperate escape from the summer heat. High Desert Solitude: South Warner Wilderness, California
Far from the crowded California coast and the Sierras, the South Warner Wilderness in the northeast corner of the state is a forgotten mountain range. Trails like the Squaw Peak Trail offer panoramic views of the surrounding desert valleys and high mountain lakes. This area is characterized by dramatic volcanic geology and a quiet, expansive beauty. Hiking here means experiencing solitude, with only the sound of the wind through the pines. It is a fantastic place to experience high-altitude, cool temperatures, and pristine, uncrowded, pristine alpine wilderness. Alpine Hidden Gem: Mount Sanitas, Colorado
While many flock to Rocky Mountain National Park, the foothills around Boulder offer challenging hikes with incredible rewards. Mount Sanitas is often overlooked by tourists heading higher, yet the Hogback Ridge Trail provides a strenuous climb with 360-degree views of the Flatirons and the city below. Early morning hikes here offer cooler temperatures and the chance to see local wildlife before the sun hits peak intensity. The terrain is rocky and steep, providing a rewarding workout that delivers sweeping, expansive vistas of the Front Range without the long drive into the congested national park system.
Island Paradise: The West Coast Trail Alternatives, British Columbia
The West Coast Trail is famous, but Vancouver Island is packed with lesser-known, equally beautiful coastal hikes. The Nootka Trail is a rugged alternative for experienced hikers, taking adventurers along remote beaches and through dense coastal forests. For a more moderate option, the Juan de Fuca Marine Trail offers spectacular oceanfront hiking with much easier access points. These trails offer the raw beauty of the Pacific Northwest coastline—sea stacks, tidal pools, and misty beaches—without the intense, required preparation of the more popular, crowded alternatives.
Exploring these underrated trails this summer promises a richer experience, allowing hikers to connect with nature without the constant buzz of heavy traffic. Choosing these alternative paths means supporting less-visited, equally beautiful regions, providing the quiet, awe-inspiring moments that make hiking such a fulfilling passion. As the weather warms, these hidden trails provide the perfect escape into the serene, untouched wild. I can add:
Specific trail difficulty ratings (beginner, moderate, hard) Best time of day to start to avoid heat/traffic Nearby camping options for a full weekend trip Trailhead parking information
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