Easy Trails: Your Guide to 26 of the Worlds Best
Easy trails that offer stunning views, and are accessible to many physical abilities? YES please!
I love to explore and travel and have always thought the best ways to truly see new places is on foot! Living in Vancouver, BC, I have done a lot of beautiful hikes, and love finding beautiful easy trails across the globe!
I’ve enlisted some of my travel buddies to share their favourite easy trails around the world!! I have so many of these trails on my bucket list now and cannot wait to visit some of these!! Check out these stunning easy trails across our beautiful planet đ
Beginner Trails in Canada
Quercus Lookout/Murrin Loop, BC, Canada
Recommended by Jess of Next Up Adventure (me!)
This is one of the most scenic easy trails around Vancouver BC. It offers mindblowing views out over Howe Sound and the surrounding mountain peaks with a short hike. The hike is located within Murrin Provincial Park between Squamish and Vancouver, and meanders through rainforest and large granite rocks. Although this trail is short, it does have some stairs and some roots along the way. Hikers will reach Quercus lookout in less than 1km, and be treated to stunning views. If you are looking to continue on a bit further, the Jurassic Ridge loop moves up to a higher viewpoint, and has some rope sections along granite. After the hike, take some time at Brohm Lake below, there are plenty of picnic spots. Many people love swimming here, be aware that the water is deep and there are no lifeguards within the park.
The park has a couple outhouses, and free parking. Parking can be very busy on weekends during the summer. This is a stunning sunset spot, if you plan to come later afternoon, there will be plenty of parking available. The nearest town is Squamish, or Lions Bay.
Rockpile Trail Moraine Lake, Banff, Canada
Moraine Lake in Banff National Park has garnered lots of attention, and has been called the most beautiful lake in the world. The view was even pictured on the Canadian 20$ bill. This view is at the top of a beautiful easy trail, called the Rockpile Trail. Although the trail is easy, Banff is a popular location, and in order to manage impact on the environment, the road to Moraine Lake has been closed to private vehicles. Visitors must book a shuttle through a private company or Parks Canada shuttle to get here. The access road is only open during the summer months, usually June-October. The trail is less than 1km, and is a smooth dirt trail that meanders to the top of a rockpile. The views at Sunrise here have become particularly popular, for good reason, it is stunning!
Georgian Bay via Marr Lake, Ontario Canada
This is one of Canada’s most beautiful easy trails along the turquoise waters of Lake Huron. The water is surrounded by limestone cliffs, beaches, forest, and caves! Georgian Bay is located in Bruce Peninsula National Park in Ontario Canada and offers many outdoors activities including watersports and hiking. Although this trail is relatively short and flat at about 4kms round trip, be prepared for rocky terrain along with the spectacular views! You can also access the bay for swimming in these beautiful waters. There are bathrooms within the park, and you will need to get a Canadian National Parks Pass. The closest town is Tobermory where there are galleries, shops, and a famous lighthouse.
Red Rock Canyon, Waterton National Park, Canada
Waterton National Park is located in Southern Alberta and borders on the American Glacier National Park. Although the park has many stunning, easy trails, Red Rock Canyon is unique because of the bright colored layers of rocks. The actual trail is less than 1km long, however you can add on as it links to many other trails in the park. A highlight of this trail is that you can walk right in the canyon, and along the creek. It is possible to swim here. The parking lot is well marked and maintained, and there are clean washroom facilities at the parking lot. The townsite of Waterton is about 10 mins drive up the road. The businesses in the town of Waterton for the most part are open seasonally from May -October. Waterton is a part of the Rocky Mountain range and offers views and trails on par with the beauty of Banff National Park, with much less crowds.
Easy Trails in USA
Marymere Falls, USA
Recommended by Meeshka, Sand & Elevation
Itâs rare for a short hike to feature stunning lake views, old-growth forests, and a waterfall, but thatâs exactly what makes the Marymere Falls Trail so special.
Marymere Falls is a must-do hike on your Olympic National Park day trip, only thirty minutes from Port Angeles, the nearest city. Youâll need either a Standard Entrance Pass or an America the Beautiful National Park Pass.
The parking lot fills up early on the weekends and during the busy summer months, so get here as early as possible. Near the trailhead, thereâs a bathroom, picnic tables, and a ranger station.
This 1.7-mile/2.5km out-and-back hike, with 314 feet of elevation gain, starts along the shores of Lake Crescent. Moss-covered Maple trees line the trail.
After going through a tunnel underneath the famed Highway 101, itâs an easy walk along a wide pathway. You will find towering evergreen trees, nurse logs, ferns, and moss blanketing the forest throughout this trail . Even though the waterfall is the main attraction, the forest views here are some of my favorites in the park.
The sounds of Barnes Creek become part of this spectacular experience, and soon after crossing a bridge, youâll navigate steps before finally arriving at Marymere Falls, where you can choose from two viewing points.
Birthing Cave, Arizona USA
Recommended by Jess of Uprooted Traveller
If youâre looking for one of the best easy trails in Sedona, Arizona, be sure to checkout Birthing Cave. Low effort, high reward!
The trail to Birthing Cave is mostly dirt, and is a total distance of 2 miles and with 291 feet of elevation gain. Because the trail is not well-signed it can be confusing. You will want to download a map of the trail ahead of time so you donât get lost along the trail.
At 1 mile, you will reach an enormous cave thatâs been carved over the centuries into Sedonaâs famous red rocks. Although the climb up to the cave is short, it is also a bit steep and rocky. You will want to wear hiking boots on this trail.
Once youâre in the cave, youâll have incredible views over Ponderosa pine tree forests and the red rock mesas in the distance. If you want an extra spectacular show, visit at sunset, when the cliffs will glow a fiery red.
Thereâs a handful of parking spots near the trailhead and along Long Canyon Road, just north of the trailhead. Sedona has exploded in popularity in recent years so, if youâre visiting during a particularly busy time, like during the spring or fall, your best bet will be to get here bright and early.
Laurel Falls Trail, Great Smoky Mountains National Park, USA
Recommended by Alanna from Periodic Adventures
One of the most popular hikes in Great Smoky Mountains National Park in the USA is Laurel Falls Trail. Leading to a beautiful cascading 80-foot waterfall, this trail is accessible for all including those with strollers and wheelchairs.
Although the length of Laurel Falls Trail is a bit long at 2.5-miles round trip, the difficulty is still easy as the way is paved and it only has a 400-ft elevation gain. It typically takes an hour and a half to complete and is an out-and-back type trail.
The biggest challenge of the Laurel Falls Trail is parking at the start of the trail as itâs extremely limited and ranger-enforced, meaning you canât make your own spaces in undesignated spots. Getting there early is the best way to guarantee a spot.
While admission to the national park is free, you do need a daily parking pass, which is $5 daily or $15 weekly.
The closest and most popular nearby town with full amenities is Gatlinburg, Tennessee, where they have their own hotels, attractions, and restaurants. For more bare-bones, but closer amenities, the Sugarlands Visitor Center has restrooms, snacks, and park maps.
Donât let the parking situation deter you from this beautiful and easy trail. Laurel Falls is one of the must-sees on any Great Smoky Mountains National Park itinerary!
Cape Flattery Trail, Washington USA
Recommended by Alec Sills-Trausch, Explore With Alec
The Cape Flattery Trail on Washington’s Coast offers gorgeous ocean views and few crowds just outside of Olympic National Park. Tucked far away from most busy areas, this gem is at the most northwestern point in the lower USA, just outside of the town of Neah Bay. Because Cape Flattery is outside of the National Park Boundaries, you dont need a National Parks Pass here. However, you will need a Makah Recreation pass and if you plan to stop anywhere along the way in Olympic National Park you will need a National Parks Pass.
It’s 0.75 miles from the parking lot to the final lookout, with about two hundred feet of vertical loss. Half of the trail is dirt, while the final stretch is boardwalks, making this a great option for easy trails in Washington. Along the trail, you’ll enjoy the famous lush forests of the Olympic Peninsula.
Cape Flattery is almost five hours from Seattle and hours from the classic Olympic National Park locations, so you’ll feel the peace in this true off-the-beaten-path destination. The entire area is amazing, and you’ll have lots to do for a night or two!
Mendenhall Glacier Visitor Center, Alaska
Recommended by Karen of Alaska Trippers
Juneau is the capital of Alaska in the USA, and is home to one of the most accessible glaciers in the state, Mendenhall Glacier. Its recreational area has a many hiking trails and a wonderful visitor center that documents the area’s fauna and flora.
Visiting Mendenhall Glacier independently allows unlimited time to explore. A park pass is not required to hike, however it does cost 5$ US to access the visitor center, Steep Creek Trail, and washrooms, a park pass isn’t required to hike its other trails.
The route to Nugget Falls is a good choice in beautiful easy trails. It is just under a mile and is the most popular choice. The out-and-back route takes under an hour, and the reward is a thunderous waterfall nearer the glacier’s terminus. Along the way, enjoy views of house-sized icebergs gracing the waters of Mendenhall Lake.
Another option for beautiful easy trails is the Trail of Time route. This route is busy! It starts behind the visitor center and documents the glacier’s retreat and its effects on the ecosystem. The Trail of Time Route travels through the rainforest with no lake or mountain views. The trail has some inclines and declines, but overall, it is an excellent option for beginner hikers.
Although mosquitoes aren’t generally a problem in the park, hikers must be bear-aware. Black bears frequent Steep Creek during late summer when the salmon are running.
Osho Trail, New Mexico USA
Recommended by Sabrina from New Mexico Insider
Cloudcroft in New Mexico is one of the best towns for beginner hikers and experienced enthusiasts. There are quite a few trails to choose from, ranking from easy to moderate.
One of the easy trails to hike in Cloudcroft is the Osha Trail. The terrain is mostly smooth and there is not a lot of altitude to cover. Toward the end, there is one moderate incline, but nothing that beginners couldn’t handle.
Hiking the trail takes about an hour, it is 2.2 miles long. There is lots of free parking available, and you don’t need a pass. If you are lucky, you can spot some deer or other wildlife on the trail.
The best part of the Osha Trail is the amazing view. You can see the entire Tularosa Basin and White Sands National Park in the distance. At the beginning of the hike, you can also catch a glimpse of the Mexican Canyon Railroad Trestle.
If you get excited about the old Railroad Trestle, there are also hiking trails that will lead you closer to the structure.
After hiking the trail, you should definitely check out the town of Cloudcroft. Since there are no amenities on the trail, you’ll probably want to grab some food and drinks in town. Cloudcroft is an adorable mountain town, that is definitely worth a visit.
Red River Gorge, Kentucky USA
Recommended by Mike Lynch of Our Campfire Unplugged
Red River Gorge in Slade, KY is home to the most natural arches and bridges east of the Mississippi River. Over 150 natural sandstone arches are located in this wild section of Daniel Boone National Forest.
Daniel Boone National Forest in Eastern Kentucky has over 600 miles of hiking trails and the best trails are located in Red River Gorge. Two of the best easy trails in Red River Gorge are:
- Sky Bridge Arch
- Rockbridge Arch to Creation Falls
Sky Bridge Trail (Trail #214) is an easy 0.6-mile/1km trail that loops around, under, and across the Sky Bridge Arch. The trail includes a mix of asphalt and packed dirt. Hikers need to climb about 50 stairs, along the trail. If youâre unable to climb stairs, no worries, just walk across the arch and take in the magnificent views of Red River Gorge!
Rock Bridge Trail (Trail #207) is a 1.4-mile/2km looped trail that takes hikers on a journey to the valley of Red River Gorge. Along the banks of Swift Camp Creek you will get a fabulous view of the Rock Bridge Arch which crosses the creek forming a natural bridge.
Hikers will want to continue on the trail to see Creation Falls. The sandstone rock creates beautiful waterfall pools where the water looks turquoise.
Red River Gorge is free to access and does not require a reservation. However, overnight camping in the National Forest require an overnight car tag which costs $5 for a day, $7 for 3 days, or $50 for an annual pass. Check out Miguelâs Pizza for the best pizza in the Gorge! We live near Red River Gorge and love visiting the amazing arches of this wonderland!
Olympic National Park, USA
Olympic National Park is always a visitor favourite. It has huge diversity of landscapes and ecosystems. In addition to Marymere Falls, noted above, there are many easy trails to explore.
First up, Madison Creek Falls. At just .1 miles from the parking lot, this gem is the sweetest deal in the park. A quick, paved journey from the trailhead lands you at the best viewing spot for the magnificent falls. This waterfall viewing platform is stroller and wheelchair friendly.
Next, drive to Sul Duc Falls’ trailhead. Also, keep your eyes peeled for the Salmon Cascades. Depending on the time of year, you may be lucky enough to spot salmon or trout leaping up a waterfall and even bears.
Sul Duc Falls is an easy, beautiful hike inside Olympic National Park. The round trip route is a little over 2kms/1.6 miles. Because it can be muddy, boots or hiking shoes are recommended. When you reach the falls, you’re rewarded with views of powerful falls gushing into a narrow canyon. The mist sent off from the falls often reveals a rainbow.
Lastly, if you visit Olympic National Park be sure to check out the Hoh Rainforest. You will want to arrive before 10am as the parking lot fills up early and results in bumper to bumper traffic waiting to secure a spot. bear. There are two main trails inside this section of the park; Hall of Mosses (.8 miles) and Spruce Nature Trail (1.2 miles). Both are smooth, easy, trails with little elevation changes.
Wondering where to stay in the area? Forks, Washington or Port Angeles, Washington both make great home bases for exploring Olympic National Park. There’s a Park Visitor Center at the Port Angeles entrance to the park. A daily or annual parks pass is required.
Easy Trails in the Carribean,Mexico, and South America
Lookout Trail Galleon Beach Antigua
My family and I have spent the last 3 winters living in Antigua and surprisingly there are, some awesome easy trails and hikes to enjoy. A favourite is the hike from Galleon Beach, near English Harbour, that takes you up to Shirley Heights Lookout which is part of the Nelsonâs Dockyard National Park. Once you reach the lookout youâll have the most amazing view over Nelsonâs Dockyard with its historic naval buildings and the yachts moored up in the dock.
Youâll want to leave early in the morning (before 8am) to miss the heat. And, youâll also want to take plenty of water because the lookout bar isnât open first thing!
There are several routes up to the top that you can choose from. They are all easy, however, they do include some sections of steep incline, which are comfortable if you take your time. The main trail is called âLookout Trailâ. It runs from the beach at Galleon Beach and along the coast. There are a couple of cool places to stop on the way, the first one is the Mermaids Pool (weâve yet to see a mermaid!). Youâll often see people fishing into the waves below. Then as you follow the trail youâll come to a rocky outcrop where there are lots of Turkscap cacti and you can pick and eat the pink berries. They taste like dragon fruit! Thereâs a final steep section to the top and the lookout where we stop to enjoy the epic view.
On the way back down you can either choose to take the Carpenters trail out the back of the lookout. On the way down, youâll get great views of the beach and dockyard. Or, you can take the Jones trail which takes you through the old graveyard back down to the beach. If youâre short of time, or want to stay in the shade the whole hike, then you can go up the Jones trail and down the Carpenters trail.
Tayrona National Park in Colombia
Recommended by Adam McConnaughhay from Cartagena Explorer
Tayrona National Park, located on Colombiaâs Caribbean coast near the city of Santa Marta and a few hours north of the popular historic destination city of Cartagena, is one of Colombiaâs most famous natural areas.
Considered a sacred cradle of life by Colombiaâs indigenous peoples, people all over the world enjoy the scenic hiking here today. The scenery is what makes hiking here especially unique. The Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta mountain range is one of the the highest coastal mountain ranges in the world and seeing its roots run into the sea while hiking between jungle and beach is really special.
The most popular hike in Tayrona is from the main El Zaino entrance to the park to the beach at Cabo San Juan de GuĂa. This hike is one of the best easy trails in Columbia with a few uphill sections and a few sections walking along the sandy beach. It takes around 4 hours round trip. Youâll start hiking through the jungle before coming out to some incredible views of pristine beaches with giant boulders and roots of the mountains. Finally, you will head back through the jungle to arrive at Cabo San Juan.
At Cabo San Juan there are tents and hammocks available to rent to spend the night. There are also some nicer ecolodges outside the park nearby for those looking for more comfortable accommodations.
There is a fee to enter Tayrona Park, which can be paid at the entrance. Tayrona is most easily reached by car, taxi, or bus from Santa Marta. Other hikes in the park include hiking from Cabo San Juan to Playa Brava or the much longer and more difficult hike from the Calabazo entrance to the park to Playa Brava.
Playa Balandra, Baja California Sur, Mexico
Recommended by Daria, Explore Baja
Playa Balandra (Balandra Beach) is 30 minutes outside of La Paz, the capital of Baja California Sur. It can be visited by car, guided tour, or public transportation from La Paz.
Playa Balandra has crystal-clear waters and beautiful views of the volcanic mountains dotted by tall cacti trees. Itâs a beautiful area, and you can enjoy it by exploring one of the easy trails on short hikes that lead to an overlook of the beach.
The beach area has kayaks, and you can also hike to the overlook above the beach where you will enjoy a spectacular views.
This is a relatively short hike, however, itâs very rocky and itâs easy to slip as you walk to the top. Make sure to wear good hiking shoes and put on plenty of sunscreen, as thereâs no shade here.
Balandra Beach is part of the much larger Balandra Bay which shelters the area from the Sea of Cortez and is home to 7 beaches.
Another spot to see in the area is El Hongo (or The Mushroom). El Hongo is a rock formation that’s a popular photo spot and is part of the Balandra Wildlife Protected Area. You can reach El Hongo by kayak from Balandra Beach or wading through the shallow waters from the neighbouring beach.
At the back of the Balandra beach, you will find a mangrove habitat thatâs home to many birds and fish.
Balandra has a parking lot, public restrooms and free palapas, but no stores or restaurants. Local authorities designated the beach and surroundings as protected areas and have made a great effort to protect this place.
Trails in Europe
Piora Valley 3 Lakes, Ticino Switzerland
Recommended by Zoe from Together In Switzerland
Looking for easy trails in Europe? Piora Valley 3 lakes is a beautiful easy hiking trail in Ticino Switzerland and is great for all ages. This hiking route is one of our favourites as locals in Switzerland.
For the Piora Valley, the route of the three lakes Lago Ritom, Lago di Tom and Lago Cadagno is a special route. Its overall elevation is between 1800-2200 meters.
Start by taking the local Ritom Funicular from the base of the valley. This is easily reachable by car (with free parking) or public transport. The funicular takes you to the first lake of Lago Ritom, which officially is an artificial reservoir.
From here, you can start the loop hike. Enjoy this trail for a minimum of 2 hours over a distance of 6.5km / 4 miles. We suggest taking a picnic and plenty of breaks to enjoy the scenery. The terrain is mostly dirt and smooth, but some rocks in sections also.
The start is flat, then it’s a small climb to Lago di Tom. This is a great spot to enjoy a swim and take a dip in the water. From here, it’s another small climb before a descent to Lago Cadegno. At Lago Cadegno you will find a little restaurant, Ristoro Taneda, that sells some drinks and snacks. It makes a great pit stop before heading back down to Lago Ritom, past a big waterfall, and to the funicular.
For wildlife, during summer, you may see Swiss cows up grazing by the lakes, as well as birds of prey. In the lakes, youâll easily spot local fish, with Lago Ritom known for its trout population.
Vereda dos BalcÔes, Madeira
Recommended by Tamara, My Elated Odyssey
Madeira is known for its moderate and challenging trails, there are also great easy trails! One of the easiest hikes on the island is Vereda dos BalcÔes.
At an elevation of 880 meters, the hike is around 1.5 kilometers (.93 miles). It takes about 1 hour and 30 minutes roundtrip to complete and is flat throughout.
The highlight of this hike is the view at the end. You will be impressed with the panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. Throughout the hike, thereâs also colourful and unique flora and fauna.
Vereda dos BalcĂ”es is located in the Santana municipality of Madeira. Itâs in Ribeiro Frio, a small forested village that is an attraction on its own. Around the hike are several restaurants where you can enjoy some post-hike poncha and Portuguese cuisine.
Parking is limited around the hike and it can get quite busy throughout the day. Arrive as early as possible to avoid the crowds.
The Path of the Gods, Almalfi Coast, Italy
Recommended by Madison of Madisons Footsteps
The Amalfi Coast is known around the world for its scenic cliffside towns, sparkling blue waters, andâof courseâfresh limoncello. However, this famous Italian coast offers also offers beautiful easy trails with amazing rewards.
In the sleepy town of Bomerano, youâll find the trailhead to one of the best easy trails and most scenic hikes in Italy (maybe even Europe). This hike lives up to its name Il Sentiero degli Dei, or The Path of the Gods!
The best way to start this hike is by taking a bus or ferry into Amalfi from either Sorrento or Positano. Once in Amalfi, hop on the SITA bus and ask the driver to drop you off in Bomerano. From there, there are many clear signs around town that will direct you to the trailhead.
Thereâs no park pass or registration neededâso enjoy one of the only free activities on the Amalfi Coast! The trail itself is very flat, but in a warm Italian climate things can go downhill fast. Be sure to pack plenty of water and wear good hiking shoes, as the terrain can get slippery during the rain. The hike from Bomerano to Positano took about three hours at a normal pace, and if you time it perfectly with the sunset, you might be lucky enough to end your hike with one of the most spectacular views youâve ever seen.
Grunas Waterfall Hike, Albania
Recommended by Nathaniel Willmore, The Endless Travellers
Theth National Park has many picturesque hikes that allow you to explore the beauty and nature of Albania. Theth is a great starting point for many of the best hikes in Albania, offering many guesthouses, and a few local shops and restaurants.
The Grunas Waterfall hike is an easy out and back trail suitable for most abilities. This hike is 4 miles (6.5 kilometers) long, lasting around 1 hour 30 minutes, with 236 metres of elevation gain. On this trail, you will wind through the stunning Grunas valley, picturesque traditional mountain huts, and towering peaks of the Accursed Mountains. There are no facilities en route, so make sure you stock up with food and drinks in Theth before you head out.
Although this hike is flat and easy, along marked dirt paths, be careful near the waterfall, as the rocks can be slippery. Donât let this put you off, you will be rewarded with stunning views of Grunas Waterfall. Make sure to pack swimsuits, as there is a plunge pool where locals come to cool off. The water can get quite cold! So whether you are a keen hiker, or just want a gentle stroll in nature, be sure to check out one of the most stunning easy trails in Albania!
Levada das 25 Fontes, Portugal
Recommended by: Marga, Discover Portugal
Madeira is the perfect hiking holiday destination in Portugal! Even for inexperienced hikers, there are incredible easy trails to discover. PR 6 Levada das 25 Fontes, is a beautiful trail that is known for 25 waterstreams and two waterfalls! The 11-kilometre (6.8 miles) long trail is primarily flat and one of Madeira’s most popular levada walks!
With so much water nearby, the trail can be muddy, so even though it is flat, wearing good hiking shoes is recommended. There are different routes to the Risco Waterfall and the 25 Fontes Waterfall, and you can add more kilometres to your hike. Enjoy the route to Lagoa do Vento, for example!
When it’s time for a break, you can enjoy one at Rabaçal Nature Spot Cafe, which has bathrooms. They serve hot and cold drinks and have some fantastic pies and snacks! You can also head back to the nearest town, Calheta, where you’ll find some excellent restaurants.
You can park for free at two different locations. Depending on your chosen location, you’ll walk through a kilometre-long tunnel or have a steep hike back uphill afterwards. If you’re lucky, there is sometimes a service bus to the starting point at the Rabaçal Forestry House! Bringing a light is a must if you choose to enter the tunnel.
Belgrad Forest & Princess Islands, Turkiye
Recommended by Olga Atanasova of A Girl in Istanbul
Istanbul is the most populous city in Europe. It is known for being a busy area crowded with tourists who usually are visiting for the historical attractions. However, there are some beautiful easy trails in and around Istanbul where you can escape into nature.
Belgrad Forest (Belgrad Ormanı): Belgrad Forest is one of the biggest forest parks in Istanbul and offers many short and longer trails. You can access it all year and easily reach it by public transport: take the M2 metro line from Taksim Square and then change it with the 42HM bus. The trails are 0 to 50 m in elevation and 5-6km long. There are also a couple of ponds you can enjoy in the Belgrade Forest.
Princess islands (Buyukada: Princess Islands are a true paradise near the city of Istanbul. These islands are only accessible by ferry, which means there are no cars there! The ferry will take 1.5 hrs to arrive. Get on the ferry from the central EminönĂŒ terminal. Once you have arrived, there is a beautiful loop trail- up to 14kms long. The whole loop will take around 4 hours. You will want to plan to spend a whole they on the Princess Islands and enjoy the views and scenery! The elevation is about 350m with many great sea viewpoints, views of the other smaller Princess islands, and of course of Istanbul
Roques de Garcia Trail, Tenerife Spain
Recommended by Charlotte of Charlie’s Wanderings
The Roques de Garcia Trail in Teide National Park is one the world’s most spectacular easy trails. It is a 3.5km loop with 175m of elevation. The first half of the trail is paved and accessible for strollers and wheelchairs. Then about 1/2 way through, the path changes to rocks and loose gravel and requires decent hiking boots. There is a parking lot directly across from the Parador hotel, which is very close to the start of the Roques de Garcia trail. This loop trail offers panoramic views over Mount Teide, stunning volcanic landscapes, and the famous Roque Cinchado, a symbol of Tenerife often featured on postcards. Because of the high elevation and no shade, wear layers and bring sun protection.
Levada do CaldeirĂŁo Verde, Madeira
Recommended by Marga of Discover Portugal
If you are looking for beautiful easy trails and exploring on foot, be sure to try Levada do CaldeirĂŁo Verde. Although the 17.4-kilometre full trail might be too long for some, the trail’s starting point has a lot to offer for kids.
At the start there is a traditional Madeira house. You can look inside and there is also a great cafe with cakes and hot and cold drinks. The Queimadas Forest Park has some fantastic picnic spots, and you can look at the geese and ducks.
If you choose to complete the full trail, you are up for a longer but rewarding walk. Bring plenty of water and snacks, as there are no facilities along the way. You’ll pass plenty of waterfalls along the way, including tunnels. Bring a light source! Enjoy a cold swim in the ice-cold water at the Green Cauldron and enjoy the beautiful waterfall view here.
You can also extend your hike to CaldeirĂŁo do Inferno, which adds another 2.4 kms to the hike. This path is not always open, so check the WalkMe Madeira App or other resources beforehand. You can park your car at the parking lot at Queimadas Forest Park for a small fee. If you have energy left, visit the nearby village of Santana, known for its traditional houses.
Easy Trails in Africa
Chapman’s Peak, Capetown South Africa
Recommended by Dotti, from Travel Oasis
With Table Mountain towering in the background, Cape Town is known for its world-class hiking. Hands down, one of the best (and easiest) Cape Town hiking trails is Chapmanâs Peak.
Chapmanâs Peak has one of the best views in the entire Cape Town region (and thatâs saying a lot). From the summit, there are excellent views over Hout Bay, Fish Hoek, Gordonâs Bay and the entire Cape Peninsula.
The peak sits on the very famous Chapmanâs Peak Drive, an incredibly scenic road that winds around part of the Cape Peninsula.
The hike to Chapmanâs Peak is easy, covering around 5 kms roundtrip and with less than 400m of elevation gain. It starts with a somewhat steep ascent but then levels out and becomes very flat. The hike takes around 2 to 3 hours round-trip, depending on how often you stop to take photos of the scenery.
If you want to complete the entire Chapmanâs Peak Drive after your hike, you must pay the road toll fee of 61 ZAR (around $3 USD). However, if you are just going hiking, you can get a free day permit. You must park at the signposted day pass area and cannot go any further on the road.
The trailhead to Chapmanâs Peak is an easy, 40-minute drive from Cape Town, where you can find all the amenities you need.
Easy Trails in New Zealand, Australia, and Asia
Fox Glacier South Side Walkway, South Island, New Zealand
Recommended by Oli from Travel Bugs World
Off the beaten path in New Zealand’s South Island lies the tiny village of Fox Glacier. The area is home to a glacier of the same name and many trails through lush forests.
One of the best easy trails, the Fox Glacier South Side Walkway, is an easy, mostly flat trail. You will find this is perfect for hikers of all skill levels.
The trail winds through a canopy of trees, providing hikers with spectacular views. Along the way, you will find pristine creeks, waterfalls, native birdlife, and ancient rainforests.
One of the highlights of the Fox Glacier South Side Walkway is the stunning views of the Southern Alps, including the majestic Fox Glacier itself. These breathtaking views make this short hike one of the best easy trails in New Zealand.
The trail is conveniently located minutes from the village of Fox Glacier and offers easy access to amenities such as cafes, restrooms, and accommodation options.
You can access the well-maintained trail from the parking lot. A return trip takes 1.5 to 2 hours, offering several glacier viewpoints.
Our Insider Tips: Take a rain jacket, as weather conditions are known to change quickly. Additionally, bring insect repellant, as West Coast sandflies can be a nuisance.
Abel Tasman National Park, New Zealand
Recommended by Ksenia, Explore with Wonder
Visitors to New Zealandâs South Island are spoiled for choice when it comes to stunning scenery and hiking opportunities. One of the most iconic easy trails to experience while visiting this part of the world is the coastal track at Abel Tasman National Park.
Nestled on the northern edge of the South Island, Abel Tasman is the smallest and most accessible national park in New Zealand. It is renowned for its golden-sand beaches, turquoise waters, and tranquil native forest that lines the coast.
The full-length coastal track, designated one of New Zealandâs Great Walks, spans 60 kilometres and typically takes four days to complete. However, you don’t need to do the full track to enjoy the park.
Instead, you can take a water taxi from the nearby villages of Marahau or Kaiteriteri to one of the picturesque bays within the park. From there, you can tackle a shorter section of the track.
A particularly scenic route to consider is the Pitt Head Loop Track from Anchorage Beach. This return walk lasts up to two hours and is considered easy, although there are some uneven sections with a bit of an incline.
Along the way, you can enjoy breathtaking coastal views, visit the site of an ancient MÄori defensive settlement, and take a break at the spectacular Te Pukatea Beach.