Best National Parks to Hike in Summer
Hey hey, Hiker Babes!
Summer is prime time for hitting the trails, soaking up those golden rays, and channeling your wild woman energy in the best way possible… outside!
Whether you’re planning a solo escape, a girls’ trip, or your first-ever national park adventure, these five parks are serving epic views, wildflower vibes, and serious main character moments.
Let’s dive into the best national parks for summer hiking, and why they belong on your trail bucket list this season.
1. Glacier National Park, Montana
For the babe who dreams in turquoise lakes and mountain magic.
Glacier is prime in summer. The Going-to-the-Sun Road is open, the alpine meadows are blooming, and the glacier-fed lakes are so clear they look fake (but we promise they’re real).
Trail to try: Hidden Lake Overlook – short, scenic, and gives serious “I’m on top of the world” energy.
Confidence tip: This is bear country—pack your bear spray, know how to use it, and own your space on the trail.
2. Yosemite National Park, California
For the waterfall chasers and granite lovers.
There’s a reason people write poetry about Yosemite. Summer brings its waterfalls to life and opens up the high-country trails for some jaw-dropping hiking.
Trail to try: Mist Trail to Vernal & Nevada Falls – yes, it’s popular, but it’s 100% worth the hype (and the climb).
Confidence tip: Start early, take breaks, and remember: everyone was a beginner once. You belong out here, babe.
3. Olympic National Park, Washington
For the indecisive babe who wants mountains, rainforests, AND beaches.
Olympic is basically the sampler platter of national parks—Rainforest? Got it. Alpine hikes? Check. Ocean views? Yes, queen. Plus, it’s cooler in summer, making it perfect for long hikes without melting.
Trail to try: Hurricane Hill – not too hard, but gives you those sweeping views that make you feel like a wilderness goddess.
Confidence tip: Weather changes fast here—layers are your best friend (along with a good rain shell!).
4. Rocky Mountain National Park, Colorado
For the altitude-chasing, lake-loving, flower-sniffing adventurer.
This park glows in summer. The snow melts just in time for you to hike high and wild. The alpine tundra blooms, the lakes shine, and the mountain views? Total heart-eyes.
Trail to try: Sky Pond via Glacier Gorge – it’s a bit of a challenge, but you’ll feel like a straight-up trail hero at the top.
Confidence tip: Altitude is real, babe. Listen to your body, hydrate like a desert cactus, and take breaks guilt-free.
5. Mount Rainier National Park, Washington
For the wildflower lover and mountain fangirl.
Mount Rainier is like stepping into a dream—especially in late July or early August when the flowers explode. You’ll find epic hikes, quiet forests, and that snow-covered queen standing tall above it all.
Trail to try: Naches Peak Loop – easy, photogenic, and packed with “OMG I need to post this” moments.
Confidence tip: Rainier feels big (because it is), but don’t be intimidated. Pick your pace, pack smart, and embrace the magic.
What to Bring on Your Summer National Park Hikes
Because being prepared = being powerful, hiker babe
Whether you’re summiting the Half Dome or strolling through wildflowers at Rainier, having the right gear makes a huge difference. Here’s your go-to packing list for a safe, comfy, and confident hiking day:
🎒 Essentials
- Daypack with hydration sleeve
→ Gregory Backpack
- Water reservoir or bottle (2L minimum)
→ Gregory Water Reservoir
- Trail map or GPS tracker
→ Garmin
👟 Apparel & Footwear
- Hiking boots or trail runners
→ Merrell Women’s Hiking Boots
- Moisture-wicking top + breathable layers
→ Eddie Bauer Women’s shirt
- Lightweight rain jacket or shell
→ Marmot rain jacket
- Hat & sunglasses
→ Hiking hat
🧴 Safety & Comfort
- Sunscreen (reef-safe if you’re coastal)
→ Badger organic sunscreen
- Bug spray or wipes
→ Badger organic bug spray
- First aid kit (mini but mighty)
→ First aid kit
- Headlamp or mini flashlight
→ Headlamp
🥨 Snacks & Extras
- Trail snacks or protein bars
→ Protein bars
- Electrolyte packets
→ Salt Stick Electrolytes
- Trekking poles
→ Black Diamond hiking poles
🐻 For Bear Country Parks (Glacier, Yosemite, Rockies)
- Bear spray + holster
→ Bear spray
- Bear-proof food storage (if backpacking or picnicking)
→ Bear-proof food storage
Final Trail Talk 💚
Whether you’re gliding through Glacier or soaking in a Yosemite waterfall mist, remember: you don’t have to be the fastest, the most experienced, or the fanciest-outfitted hiker to belong here. You just have to show up, relax and enjoy. And that? That’s powerful.
So go out there, Hiker Babe! Take the trail. Snap the pics. Trust your instincts. And don’t forget your snacks. 😉
Happy hiking!
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