As summer approaches, the sweltering heat becomes a nuisance.
In ancient times, Chinese emperors would escape to their Imperial Mountain Resort in Chengde to cool off.
But for us, without such luxury, there are plenty of hiking trails that offer relief from the hot sun.
Whether you prefer shaded forests, refreshing rivers, or breezy coastal paths, there's something for everyone.
That's why we've rounded up ten of the best summer hiking trails for all levels, from beginners to experts:
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Emerald Lake Trail - Rocky Mountain National Park, Colorado
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Waterfalls Trail - Cloudland Canyon State Park, Georgia
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Angel’s Landing - Zion National Park, Utah
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The Mist Trail - Yosemite National Park, California
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Cascade Canyon Trail - Grand Teton National Park, Wyoming
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The Franconia Ridge Loop - White Mountain National Forest, New Hampshire
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Sliding Sands Trail - Haleakalā National Park, Hawaii
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Highline Trail, Glacier National Park, Montana
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Yellow Mountain Trail, Nantahala National Forest, North Carolina
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The Narrows - Zion National Park, Utah
Excited to explore? Let's dive in together!
Emerald Lake Trail - Rocky Mountain National Park, Colorado
Type of hike: Out-and-back
Length: 3.6 miles (5.79 km) round trip
Elevation Gain: 605 feet (184 meters)
Difficulty: Easy
Permits/Reservations: No permit required for day hikes; timed entry permit required during peak season
Fees: Park entrance fee $15.00–$35.00
Let's kick off with the Emerald Lake Trail, right in the heart of Rocky Mountain National Park.
For those just starting out with hiking, this trail is a dream. It's not steep, and it's less than 5 miles (8.05km) long, so it's totally doable.
Starting at the Bear Lake trailhead, you'll stroll past Nymph Lake and Dream Lake before reaching the stunning Emerald Lake.
It's like a little turquoise jewel tucked beneath the towering slopes of Hallett Peak and Flattop Mountain.
Taking a breather by the lake and sipping some water will help you cool off in no time.
Thinking of taking a dip? Think again! Swimming isn't allowed in these lakes to protect the delicate ecosystem.
But don't worry, the shady forest parts of the trail keep things nice and cool, making it a great choice for a summer hike.
With its jaw-dropping scenery and easy-going path, this hike is perfect for families and folks looking for a relaxed day out in the Rockies.
Waterfalls Trail - Cloudland Canyon State Park, Georgia
Type of hike: Out-and-back
Length: 2 miles (3.22km) round trip
Elevation gain: 400 feet (122 meters)
Difficulty: Moderate
Permits/Reservations: No permits required
Fees: $5 parking fee
If you're up for a bit of a challenge, check out the Waterfalls Trail in Cloudland Canyon State Park.
It's a short hike, but oh-so-rewarding! You'll get to see two stunning waterfalls: Cherokee Falls and Hemlock Falls.
The trail takes you down into the canyon, where it stays pleasantly cool during the summer due to the abundant shade and mist from the waterfalls.
Sure, there are quite a few steps on the steep way down, but trust me, the sight and sound of those waterfalls are totally worth it.
And with all the lush greenery and cool waters, it's the perfect spot to escape the heat for a while.
Angel’s Landing - Zion National Park, Utah
Type of hike: Out-and-back
Length: 5.4 miles (8.7km) round trip
Elevation gain: 1,488 feet (454 meters)
Difficulty: Strenuous
Permits/Reservations: Permit required (lottery system)
Fees: Park entrance fee $20.00–$35.00
If you're up for more adventure, Angel’s Landing is the hike to try.
It's one of Zion National Park's most famous trails, known for its stunning views and thrilling sections along narrow ridges with steep drop-offs.
Your journey starts at the Grotto Trailhead, leading you through Refrigerator Canyon, where you'll find some nice shade from the blazing sun.
And yes, it's as cool as it sounds, even on hot summer days.
But here's where the real fun begins: the final stretch to Angel’s Landing involves tackling a series of switchbacks known as Walter’s Wiggles and navigating a narrow ridge with chains for support.
Like I said before, this hike isn't for the faint-hearted, but if you're feeling brave, reaching the top is incredibly rewarding.
For the best experience, set out early in the morning or later in the afternoon to beat the midday heat and steer clear of the crowds.
The Mist Trail - Yosemite National Park, California
Type of hike: Out-and-back
Length: 7 miles (11.3km) round trip
Elevation gain: 1,900 feet (579 meters)
Difficulty: Moderate
Permits/Reservations: No permit required for day hikes; permits required for overnight backpacking
Fees: Park entrance fee $20.00–$35.00
Now, let's dive into some trails perfect for intermediate hikers.
First up is The Mist Trail in Yosemite National Park, named for the cooling mist generated by its majestic waterfalls.
It's a top pick among SilverAnt influencers for summer hiking adventures.
Renowned for its breathtaking waterfalls and shady paths, The Mist Trail starts at the Happy Isles trailhead.
As you hike alongside the rushing Merced River, you'll feel the refreshing spray from Vernal Fall and Nevada Fall.
The mist from these falls acts like a natural air conditioner, making it an ideal hike for the summer months.
And hey, if you're a fan of whiskey, why not stash your hip flask in the fall to enjoy a chilled sip along the way?
But a word of caution: the trail can get steep and slippery, so be sure to wear sturdy footwear and take it slow.
With its cool mist and stunning scenery, The Mist Trail is a must-do hike for anyone visiting Yosemite.
Cascade Canyon Trail - Grand Teton National Park, Wyoming
Type of hike: Out-and-back
Length: 10 miles (16.1km) round trip
Elevation gain: 1,100 feet (335 meters)
Difficulty: Moderate
Permits/Reservations: No permit required for day hikes; permits required for overnight backpacking
Fees: Park entrance fee $20.00–$35.00
If you're a wildlife enthusiast, you absolutely have to check out The Cascade Canyon Trail in Grand Teton National Park.
This picturesque hike follows the clear waters of Cascade Creek right into the heart of the stunning Teton Range.
Along the way, you'll be treated to breathtaking views of rugged peaks and lush forests, with plenty of chances to spot wildlife like moose and bears.
Thanks to its high altitude and shaded path, this hike stays pleasant in the summer heat.
Starting at Jenny Lake, you can even shorten the hike by taking a shuttle boat across the lake.
The trail culminates at the Forks of Cascade Canyon, where you'll be rewarded with splendid views of the Grand Teton.
With its manageable elevation gain and well-maintained trail, this hike is truly unforgettable.
The Franconia Ridge Loop - White Mountain National Forest, New Hampshire
Type of hike: Loop
Length: 8.6 miles (13.8km)
Elevation gain: 3,900 feet (1,189 meters)
Difficulty: Strenuous
Permits/Reservations: No permit required
Fees: $5 parking fee
Moreover, for those who want cooler weather and awesome views, the Franconia Ridge Loop in the White Mountains is just the ticket.
This loop takes you along the Falling Waters Trail, Franconia Ridge Trail, and Old Bridle Path, winding through rocky slopes and high mountain meadows with breathtaking views all around.
The high altitude and mountain setting offer relief from the heat, and walking along the ridge gives you stunning vistas of the peaks nearby.
And hey, why not brew yourself a cup of coffee or tea while you take a break? It'll make the views even better.
You'll start your hike at the Lafayette Place parking area, trekking up alongside waterfalls and through shady forests before hitting the open ridge.
Just a heads up: the weather can change pretty quickly up here, so make sure you're prepared for anything!
Sliding Sands Trail - Haleakalā National Park, Hawaii
Type of hike: out-and-back
Length: 11 miles (17.7 kilometers) round trip
Elevation gain: 2,800 feet (853 meters)
Difficulty: Moderate
Permits/Reservations: No permit required for day hikes; reservations required for sunrise viewing
Fees: Park entrance fee $15.00–$35.00
When it comes to escaping the summer heat, Hawaii is definitely on the list!
Hiking the Sliding Sands Trail in Haleakalā National Park is a must-do experience on Maui Island.
This trail takes you down into the crater, where you'll feel like you're walking on the moon with its red and black volcanic rock.
Due to the high altitude, it stays refreshingly brisk up there in the summer.
As you hike, you'll be treated to breathtaking views of the crater and its colorful cinder cones.
While going down into the crater is pretty easy, the climb back up can be tough due to the steep incline and altitude.
So, it's best for experienced hikers, especially since the hike is over 10 miles long.
Make sure to start your hike early and bring plenty of water in your lightweight bottle to stay hydrated along the way.
Highline Trail, Glacier National Park, Montana
Type of hike: One way (shuttle recommended)
Length: 11.6 miles (18.7 kilometers)
Elevation gain: 800 feet (244 meters)
Difficulty: Moderate
Permits/Reservations: No permits required for day hikes; backcountry permit required for overnight stays.
Fees: Park entrance fee $20.00–$35.00
The Highline Trail in Glacier National Park is similar to the Cascade Canyon Trail, offering chances to see wildlife like mountain goats, bighorn sheep, and grizzly bears.
Beginning at Logan Pass, this trail at high elevation, along with the glaciers you'll come across, will help you stay comfortably cool despite the summer heat.
Plus, you'll get to enjoy some truly breathtaking views of the park's rugged landscapes and glacial valleys.
The trail follows the Continental Divide and includes sections carved into cliffs, with stunning vistas of wildflower meadows and mountain peaks.
You can also meet Indigenous tribal members who share their knowledge as part of the Native America Speaks program.
With its moderate elevation gain and well-marked path, this hike is perfect for adventurers looking to explore the wild beauty of the American West.
And here's a bonus: a free shuttle service is available to help you do a one-way hike.
Yellow Mountain Trail, Nantahala National Forest, North Carolina
Type of hike: Out-and-back
Length: 12.4 miles (20km) round trip
Elevation gain: 4,100 feet (1,250 meters)
Difficulty: Moderate
Permits/Reservations: Northwest Forest Pass required
Fees: Free lifetime access for U.S. citizens
You can count on hot summers in the southern Appalachian Mountains, so you can find yourself exploring the higher peaks where it's a bit cooler.
The Yellow Mountain Trail in the Nantahala National Forest is always above 4,100 feet (approximately 1,250 meters), and it's worth the effort to reach its summit.
Yellow Mountain, standing at 5,127 feet (about 1,563 meters), is the tallest peak in the Cowee Mountains of western North Carolina, and it has a rugged lookout tower at the top.
From the tower and the rock slab nearby, you can see four different states and almost all of North Carolina’s high mountain ranges.
The tower, built in 1934 by Franklin D. Roosevelt’s Civilian Conservation Corps during the Great Depression, was used for over thirty years to watch over the eastern half of the Nantahala National Forest until it was closed in 1969.
Now, it's open to the public and not too scary for those who are afraid of heights since it's only a 7.5-foot (around 2.3 meters) climb to reach its deck and cab.
The Narrows - Zion National Park, Utah
Type of hike: Out-and-back
Length: Up to 15 miles (25.14 kilometers) round trip
Elevation gain: Minimal (River hike)
Difficulty: Strenuous
Permits/Reservations: No permit required for bottom-up day hike; permit required for top-down hike
Fees: Park entrance fee $20.00–$35.00
And the final trail, also within Zion National Park, is the Narrows. Similar to the Angel’s Landing trail, it's still an adventure but more refreshing.
Most of the hike involves walking through the water in a deep slot canyon, and the towering canyon walls will provide ample shade.
It's a truly appealing hiking trail, and I've definitely added it to my list for when I travel to the US in the future.
The hike starts at the Temple of Sinawava and follows the Virgin River upstream, ending at Big Springs.
However, due to the uneven terrain and swift water, the hike can be quite challenging, so it's better suited for experienced hikers.
So, we've talked about the top 10 summer hiking trails, all under 15 miles (25.14 kilometers).
But if you're up for longer trails, make sure to take a look at the blog post: 10 Best Backpacking Trails in the US - 20 to 100 Miles.
Tips for Summer Hiking
And to ensure you have a safe and fun summer adventure, here are some tips to remember.
Plan and Prepare
As we've stressed before, planning and preparation always come first.
Always research the trail and check the weather forecast before you go, especially in mountainous areas where weather can change quickly.
Check when the sun rises and sets, and plan your hike to steer clear of being stuck in the dark. And pack a headlamp, just in case.
And remember to bring your first aid kit, even for short trails.
If you're not sure how to make one, check out the blog post: How to Make Your Own Backpacking First Aid Kit.
Stay Hydrated
Next, staying hydrated is extra important during the summer.
A good rule of thumb is to drink about half a liter per hour of moderate activity in moderate temperatures. If it's hotter, you'll need even more.
In addition to water bottles, you can think about using a hydration pack. It lets you sip water continuously without having to stop, which can be really handy on longer hikes.
And don't forget to pack electrolyte tablets to replace the salts and minerals lost through sweat. This can help prevent dehydration and cramping.
Wear Appropriate Clothing
When it comes to clothing, go for lightweight, moisture-wicking fabrics that'll keep you cool and dry.
Steer clear of cotton—it gets heavy and uncomfortable when wet.
And remember to layer up! Wear clothes that you can easily add or take off as the weather changes.
Think about wearing long-sleeved shirts and lightweight, breathable pants. They can shield your skin from the sun and bugs.
On your feet, opt for sturdy, comfy hiking shoes or boots with good traction. And make sure they're well worn-in to avoid blisters and discomfort.
Use Sun Protection
As a man, I used to think applying sunscreen was kind of girly. But I learned the hard way when I got a nasty sunburn while hiking in Xinjiang Province.
You should use a broad-spectrum sunscreen with at least SPF 30 on all exposed skin. Reapply every two hours, or more often if you're sweating or swimming.
And don't forget to wear a wide-brimmed hat to protect your face, neck, and ears from the sun.
Sunglasses with UV protection are also important to shield your eyes from harmful rays and reduce glare.
Whenever you can, take breaks in shaded areas to give your skin a break from direct sunlight. This can help prevent heat exhaustion and sunburn.
Start Early or Late
Lastly, when you're all set to hit the trail, start your hike in the early morning or late afternoon when it's cooler and the sun isn't as strong.
The midday sun can be really harsh, making the hike tougher and upping the chance of heat-related issues.
Getting going early often means fewer folks on the trails, so you can savor a quieter, more peaceful time in nature.
Plus, wildlife tends to be more active during these cooler hours, giving you a better shot at spotting some critters.
Conclusion
Even though summer brings the heat, there's no need to stay cooped up in the AC all day.
The great outdoors is calling, offering up different sights and scenes than any other season.
By picking your hiking trails wisely, you can still beat the heat while soaking in amazing views and staying active.
Our chosen ten trails offer all kinds of landscapes and adventures, each giving you a break from the summer sun.
Whether you're up for a short, shady walk, a challenging mountain trek, or a refreshing dip near waterfalls or rivers, these hikes show off nature's best while keeping you cool.
So, lace up those hiking boots, grab your gear, and hit the trail to enjoy the beauty of nature without melting in the heat.
Which cool trails have you tackled? Where are you headed to stay cool this summer? Share your plans in the comments below and inspire others to get outdoors!
To your next adventure
Steve