Best Fall Hiking Spots in the U.S.

There are so many beautiful destinations to visit year-round, but there’s something special about fall that just can’t be beat. Whether it’s the fall colors, the weather, or the cozy meals, fall might be our favorite season to spend in the backcountry. We want to help you make the most of the fall season, so we’ve put together a little list of some of the best fall hiking spots in the U.S.

Haystack Mountain Trail: Wilmington, Vermont

The Green Mountain State has plenty of hiking and trekking opportunities, but while The Long Track, with its 272 miles, tends to get all the attention, adventurous individuals will undoubtedly enjoy the welcoming Haystack Mountain's five-mile out-and-back trail. The mud season in Vermont, which begins right after the ski resorts put away their poles for the season, gradually gives way to lush summer vegetation and an abundance of wildflowers, although locals believe that fall is the greatest time to visit. At this time of year, tourists who make the ascent to Haystack's peak are rewarded with bursts of burnished reds, oranges, and yellows.

Dismal Trail Loop, Caesars Head State Park: Cleveland, South Carolina

Beat the summer heat of the southern summer by visiting Caesars Head State Park west of Greenville, an excellent starting point for exploring the area. The 8.8-mile Dismal Trail Loop has some difficult terrain, making it a formidable option for experienced hikers. The Raven Cliff Waterfalls and a picturesque suspension bridge invite stopping for photos and to give your legs a break from all the bends and steep climbs.

La Perouse Bay: Wailea, Maui, Hawaii

To get to the beginning of this lengthy hiking trail south of Wailea, you'll need more than just sturdy shoes for walking. This hike's introduction must be spent watching out into the water in search of dolphins, whether you arrive by car or bicycle. As visitors accustomed to Hawaii's varied landscape may anticipate, this beachfront excursion truly has it all. Although there are a few rocky spots that should be approached with appropriate caution, there aren't any steps that are particularly difficult, thus the only reason it might take longer is due to the nearly continual breathtaking views.

Springwater on the Willamette: Portland, Oregon

Thanks to the 2005 construction of this 3-mile north-south "Springwater on the Willamette" portion, Portland visitors interested in escaping the city for a walk in the wilderness don't need to commit to the popular Spring Corridor's 21.5-mile journey. The simple route leads travelers over abandoned railroad tracks for a leisurely stroll through one of the most scenic areas of the Pacific Northwest.

Laramie Peak: Garrett, Wyoming

Laramie, the tallest and most notable peak in the wild state of Wyoming, is one of the tougher hikes on this list. There are several opportunities to see wildlife along the 9.9-mile out-and-back, including black bears, deer, and mountain lions. The base of Laramie is somewhat remote; a vehicle is required to get to it over a winding dirt road. However, due to its truly off-the-beaten-path location, it offers enough solitude and mountain zen. Since the trip is mostly through trees, fall travelers can very well count on a picturesque journey.

Tom's Thumb Trail: Scottsdale, Arizona

Tom's Thumb, the first of what would eventually become several trailheads, is situated on the north side of the McDowell Mountains and is well-known for its striking rock formations. Given the amazing views, it makes sense that the four-mile climb is well-liked. Visitors will undoubtedly feel accomplished as they climb steep inclines and apparently endless switchbacks.

Virginia Creeper Trail: Southern Virginia

The slow Virginia-Carolina Railway is known as the "Creeper Trail," and it is a stunning and alluring hike. Visitors wishing to pass an hour or spend the day will find breathtaking views, wooden bridges, gushing streams, beautiful towns, and miles and miles of nearby farmland.

Of course the best way to make a beautiful hike even better is by bringing your ultralight Littlbug Junior to warm up some hot chocolate or heat up a quick snack. Littlbug stoves are easy to light when you have fall debris. We encourage everyone to follow Leave No Trace practices out in the backcounrty.

Which hiking and backcountry spot are you planning to visit this fall?

ICYMI: Littlbug was featured on The Camping Show! Check it out HERE if you haven’t watched our episode yet!