All Things Day Hiking
Hiking Trails, Packing Lists, & Gear for Every Level
Your Guide to Hiking Trails, Gear & What to Pack
Whether you're searching for the best day hikes, a detailed guide to a trail you've had your eye on, or advice on what to pack, you'll find it here. Browse full trail guides, seasonal hike roundups, gear reviews, and packing lists built for all levels of day hikers.
Hiking Trail Guides & Day Hike Roundups
Find detailed trail guides for specific hikes and curated roundups of the best day hikes by area and season. Whether you're planning ahead or looking for inspiration, these guides cover everything from trail stats and difficulty to what to expect on the trail.
Hike the Enchantments in One Day
Complete the full Enchantments traverse in one day, without worrying about the permit lottery. Learn how to tackle Aasgard Pass, explore the Core Zone, and descend via Snow Lakes. This guide includes route tips, pacing strategies, and gear recommendations.
Hike the Lake O’Hara Alpine Circuit
Plan the ultimate Lake O’Hara day hike in Yoho National Park. This guide shows how to hike the Alpine Circuit in one day without a shuttle or camping permit, plus where to see golden larches, the most scenic alpine lakes, and everything you need for an unforgettable fall hiking trip.
The Best Spring Wildflower Hikes in WA
Discover the 7 best balsamroot wildflower hikes near Leavenworth and Wenatchee, Washington. This guide includes our favorite trials, along with expert timing tips, trail details, and stunning spring bloom locations in Central Washington's Cascades.
Hike Mount Elbert: Colorado’s Tallest 14er
At 14,440 feet, Mount Elbert is Colorado's highest peak and one of the most accessible 14ers for hikers. This trail guide covers everything you need to summit, from what to expect on the North Elbert Trail to gear, packing tips, and where to stay in Leadville.
Sedona Hiking Guide: 3 Epic Trails
The best of the best, these three hikes will get you amazing views of Sedona. If you are planning a trip to Sedona, add these hikes to your bucket list. Plus get all the Sedona travel info for planning your trip, including where to stay and things to do in the area.
Best Fall Larch Hikes Near Banff & Canmore
Heading to Banff in the fall? These are the best hikes in and around Banff and Canmore for fall colors and golden larches. Learn about the best trails in the area, and get tips on baking your Banff adventure the best it can be, including lodging info and what to pack.
Day Hike Packing Lists & What to Wear
Never wonder what to bring on a day hike again. These packing lists and clothing guides are built for day hikers at every level, so you can spend less time prepping and more time on trail.
What to Pack for Day Hikes
Learn exactly what to pack for a day hike, from essential gear and a deep dive into the Ten Essentials, to clothing tips for every season. Hit the trail with confidence and a comprehensive packing list for every day hike.
Fall & Winter Hiking Guide: Gear + Safety Tips
Planning a fall or winter hike? This guide covers everything you need to know, from layering systems and essential cold-weather gear to packing tips and safety advice. Stay warm, dry, and confident on every cold-weather adventure.
What to Wear for Hiking & Backpacking
Whether you’re new to hiking and backpacking or just looking to dial in your clothing, this guide breaks down exactly what to wear and pack on trips. For day hikes, check out the section on what to wear on the trail.
Hiking Gear Reviews
The right gear makes every hike better. Browse honest, trail-tested reviews on hiking clothing and footwear to help you build a kit you'll actually love wearing or using.
Best Sun Hoodies & Sun Shirts for Hiking
A trail-tested gear review of the best sun hoodies and UPF sun shirts for hiking, backpacking, and climbing. Every piece has been worn on real trips to find the most breathable, lightweight, and protective outdoor clothing for year-round sun protection.
Fleece Mid-Layers: Best Grid & Alpha Direct
Discover the ultimate guide to fleece mid-layers for hiking, backpacking, and outdoor adventures. Compare Grid Fleece, Alpha Direct, Quarter/Half-Zip, and Hybrid jackets to find the perfect mid-layer for warmth, weight, and performance.
Outdoorsy Sandals for Hiking & Travel
If you're looking for the best minimalist sandals for hiking, backpacking, and travel, LUNA Sandals might be exactly what you're after. We tested four different pairs, from rugged trail days on early season backpacking trips (yes, even on snow), to wearing around town.
Why Trust Our Hiking Guides?
Hi, we're Skye and Garrett, two lifelong hikers who have spent most of our lives exploring trails across the U.S., Canada, and all around the world. We both serve as volunteer hike leaders for The Mountaineers in Washington State, leading trips and helping other hikers build skills and confidence on the trail. From well-loved Pacific Northwest classics to off-the-beaten-path routes in the Canadian Rockies and beyond, we're constantly adding new miles and new trails to our list.
Our hiking guides, trail roundups, and gear recommendations are built on real experience, not just research. Whether you're looking for your next summit hike, a wildflower walk, or advice on what to pack for a long day out, our goal is to give you the information you need to hit the trail feeling prepared and excited. We want to help you hike more, hike better, and keep coming back for more.
Our Favorite Day Hiking Gear
Everything below is gear we've personally tested on trail and bring on all of our day hikes. The daypacks, hiking shoes, trekking poles, and essentials we reach for every time we head out.
