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Sarah GiekExplorer

Teacher by day. Explorer by weekend.

Although I didn't have any trouble finding a parking spot, once I walked down to the lake, it felt crowded. There were multiple photographers set up and groups of tourists walking the trail. It's easy to see why the lake is so popular, but it can be hard to enjoy the peaceful lake when surrounded by so many people. Regardless, it's worth a quick stop; I just might find another spot if you're looking for something a little more secluded (like Tipsoo Lake)

I went on a Friday afternoon in early August and couldn't believe how few people were there. I stuck around for sunset and the numbers dwindled even more. A great little place to get away from the crowds and enjoy the views of Mount Rainier.

I loved this hike! The views are constantly changing, from wilderness and wildflowers at the beginning to head-on views of Mount Rainier at the end (make sure you go clockwise for the best experience). It's a great follow-up to a more challenging hike in Sunrise, with its short distance and minimal elevation gain. I liked it so much, I went back on the trail counterclockwise to catch the last light on Mount Rainier. Highly recommend!

This easy day hike pays off with big rewards. The trail can get busy, but it's definitely not crowded. And although Sunrise isn't quite as popular as Paradise, the lot will still fill up in the summer months, so head out early. For a post hike bite to eat, stop by the "snack bar" for a sandwich.

This quick stop off Highway 20 is a must-do if you're in the park. The color of Diablo Lake is just incredible. And with no effort required, you'd be crazy not to have a look!

I happened to time it so that the sun was rising from behind the mountains as I walked the short loop at Washington Pass Overlook. Liberty Bell had a beautiful glow, and I had the view all to myself!

Explorer

08/12/16

Although this is a short hike, the 1400 feet of elevation gain will require some effort; especially on the rocky, narrow, and root-covered trail. That being said, it is worth the effort! The views of Mt. Baker and the surrounding mountains are breathtaking!

It's hard to believe that you can get such incredible views on an 8-mile day hike! I would also suggest the counter-clockwise route; the views on the way up are a nice distraction from the elevation gain. A quick note about the Lake Ann detour - this is not a "sit by the lake and enjoy a snack" kind of experience. It was more like, "let me take a few pictures and escape these bugs." Not saying you shouldn't go - just have the right expectations. Also, once you reach the paved trail, you have less than a half mile to go (not a mile).

Although this hike gains elevation quickly, the many switchbacks make it manageable. Even with cloudy skies that obstructed the views at the summit, the hike (and drive up) were worth it! *Side note: avoid taking the "shortcuts" that others have worn in to the trail. They really only save you a few seconds at most and are causing erosion.

Fort Williams Park is a well-maintained, family-friendly park that provides stunning ocean views and access to the Portland Head Light. Don't just limit yourself to the popular lighthouse path though; other areas of the park provide beach access and photo opportunities of passing sailboats.

The short walk down to the shore behind Bass Harbor Lighthouse will provide a beautiful spot for capturing the lighthouse against the backdrop of the sunset. A wooden stairway helps make the descent, but as Jonathan mentioned, sturdy shoes will make it easier to get out on the rocks for the best views.

While I didn't get to see the sunset from Jordan Pond, it is a beautiful sight any time of day. Like most places in Acadia, head out early to get a parking spot as the lots fill up quickly, or consider taking the park's shuttle. And be prepared to share the trail with many other travelers - this family-friendly/dog-friendly spot is popular for a reason!

Seeing the sunrise from Cadillac Mountain is almost required when visiting Acadia National Park. Be sure to get there early as the parking lot fills up quickly. We arrived 30 minutes before sunrise and there were only a few dozen cars. By the time we left, the road was lined with parked vehicles. After watching the sunrise, get a head start on your hiking and take advantage of the empty park!

This hike can be combined with the popular Beehive Trail for a longer adventure. The trail to Gorham Mountain is well-suited for a family adventure and is easy to follow using the blue blazes and well-placed cairns. This hike provides some of the most easily-accessible mountain views in the park.

The Beehive is a popular hike in Acadia for a good reason - the unique trail full of rock climbing and iron rungs is exciting enough, but the views just add to the experience! Although this is rated as a difficult hike, if you are comfortable climbing near the edge, you should have no trouble at all. I went with a friend who does not hike frequently (or ever) and she loved it! Definitely a must-do!

The "trail" up the hill is rocky and unstable. But if you take your time and are careful about where you step, you'll be rewarded with incredible views of Grand Prismatic Spring. Definitely worth seeing it from both viewpoints!

Explorer

04/23/16

This is a nice option when you've just tackled a longer, more strenuous hike and need something a little easier. As mentioned, the entire route is mostly on a paved road, making it suitable for walking or riding a bike. Beautiful views await once you reach the lake!

Explorer

04/21/16

I loved this short hike! Maybe I was just motivated to get to the top, but the walk up the steps didn't seem bad at all. The top of the rock can get crowded, so be prepared to be patient if you want the classic panorama shot. Overall, a must-see if you're in the park!

This hike has quickly become one of my favorite spots in Shenandoah. The trail is close to the Route 33 entrance, which is convenient for a quick after-work hike. And the rock scramble provides enough of a challenge to make it more than just a walk in the woods, without being an exhausting endeavor. Great for sunsets and sunrises too!

This is one of the most accessible hikes in Glacier National Park, which of course means it's often crowded. If parking is a concern, you can take the park shuttle to the Logan Pass Visitor Center. I went in late July and there was still a bit of snow on the trail, but nothing impassable. For such a short, easy hike, the views are incredible!

Explorer

04/03/16

This was such an amazing experience! Yes, the arch gets crowded. If you go during the day, you'll be hard-pressed to get a picture without at least 10 other people in your shot, but that's no reason not to go. And the benefit of having all those people around is that you don't have to worry about losing the trail! This hike alone puts Arches near the top of my adventure list!

This was a great hike in Yellowstone. But like the write-up says, the weather can change rather quickly, so be prepared! When I began the hike, the skies were blue and the sun was out. By the time I reached the summit, a storm had rolled through. And then about halfway down the hike, the sun was out again! Regardless, it was still a great hike with beautiful views along the entire trail!

This is a great hike for viewing the sunset in Shenandoah. You can take the 3 mile loop hike (via the Appalachian Trail - to the right at the parking lot) counterclockwise - getting to the summit for sunset and then taking the steeper and shorter Lower Hawksbill trail on the way down in the dark.

This was the first hike I ever did in Yosemite. I had no intention of going the whole way up to Nevada Falls, but once you reach Vernal Falls, it's hard to turn back. I'm so glad I continued on! As the other reviews have stated, it does get busy, so plan accordingly. As such, I would suggest taking the Muir Trail on the way down - it helps avoid the jams, especially on the granite stairs.