There's a special kind of magic to a winter hike. The world is hushed, the air is crisp, and familiar landscapes are transformed into something new and beautiful. But if you've never hiked in the snow before, it can feel intimidating. Where do you go? What do you need?
Let's get real: your first snow adventure should be inspiring, not stressful. We've picked six easy, accessible trails that are perfect for beginners. They offer stunning winter scenery without requiring expert skills or technical gear. Here's where to start.
🌲 The 6 Best Winter Hikes for Beginners
1. The Pa'rus Trail, Zion National Park, Utah
Why it's great for beginners: This trail is paved, mostly flat, and follows the beautiful Virgin River. It's one of the most accessible trails in Zion, and a light dusting of snow on the red canyon walls is an unforgettable sight.
What to See: You'll get stunning views of The Watchman and the towering cliffs of Zion Canyon. The contrast of the red rock, the green of the riverbanks, and the white of the snow is breathtaking.
Pro Tip: This is a multi-use path, so you might see cyclists. It's also one of the few trails in Zion that is dog-friendly (on-leash).
2. The Mirror Lake Loop, Yosemite National Park, California
Why it's great for beginners: This is a classic Yosemite experience with a high reward for little effort. The trail is mostly flat, and in winter, the crowds are a fraction of their summer size.
What to See: The trail offers iconic, straight-on views of Half Dome. When the water is calm, the lake offers a stunning reflection. In deep winter, the frozen lake and snow-covered meadows are serene.
Pro Tip: The first mile to the lake is paved. Even if you don't do the full loop, the walk to the main viewing area is well worth it. Check for icy spots, especially in the shade.
3. The Sprague Lake Loop, Rocky Mountain National Park, Colorado
Why it's great for beginners: This half-mile loop is completely flat and circles a beautiful subalpine lake. It's a perfect introduction to the feel of a high-elevation winter landscape without the strenuous climbing.
What to See: The trail offers spectacular, panoramic views of the Continental Divide, including Hallett Peak and Flattop Mountain. It's a popular spot for photographers.
Pro Tip: The lake is often frozen solid enough for people to walk on, but always exercise extreme caution. The path is hard-packed and well-traveled, but microspikes can be helpful if it's icy.
4. The Laurel Falls Trail, Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Tennessee
Why it's great for beginners: This is one of the most popular trails in the Smokies for a reason. It's paved, making it an easier walking surface even with a bit of snow or ice.
What to See: The trail leads to the stunning, 80-foot Laurel Falls. In the cold of winter, the falls can be adorned with incredible ice formations, creating a magical, frozen spectacle.
Pro Tip: Because it's paved, the trail can get very icy. It's highly recommended to use traction devices like microspikes for your boots. The parking area is small and fills up fast, even in winter, so try to go on a weekday.
5. The Taggart Lake Trail, Grand Teton National Park, Wyoming
Why it's great for beginners: This trail offers some of the most iconic Teton views for a relatively short and gentle hike. It's a popular snowshoeing and cross-country ski trail, so it's usually well-tracked.
What to See: The trail winds through a beautiful forest and opens up to a stunning view of Taggart Lake, with the jagged peaks of the Tetons rising dramatically behind it.
Pro Tip: Rent snowshoes in the nearby town of Jackson for the full experience. It makes walking in deeper snow much easier and more fun. Pack a thermos of hot chocolate to enjoy by the lake.
6. The South Rim Trail, Grand Canyon National Park, Arizona
Why it's great for beginners: The paved, mostly flat Trail of Time section of the South Rim Trail is open and maintained year-round. It offers world-class views without having to descend into the canyon.
What to See: A snow-dusted Grand Canyon is one of the most beautiful sights in the world. The contrast between the red rock layers and the white snow is simply stunning.
Pro Tip: The South Rim is at a high elevation (around 7,000 feet), so it gets cold and snowy. Dress in warm layers, but be prepared for the sun, which can still be strong. Stick to the paved path for safety.
Final Thoughts
A winter hike doesn't have to be an epic expedition. It can be as simple as a quiet walk in a beautiful place. With the right trail and a little preparation, you can discover a whole new side of the parks. Don't forget your America the Beautiful Pass!
What's your favorite easy winter walk? Let us know!
