With an estimated 83% of the U.S. population living in urban areas, there are millions of people who feel like connecting with nature and finding ways to get outside is a major challenge. And when you open social media only to see three of your friends on an afternoon hike in the mountains or escaping with their dog to the forest for an evening walk, you can’t help but look around and wonder, “why can’t I have that?”
But from north to south, east to west—no matter what urban area you call home in the U.S., there are bound to be accessible trails nearby to help you “get out there” on a daily basis.
Keep reading for some trails we recommend in the following cities:
Home to over 44,000 people, and surrounded by the Green Mountains, living in Burlington is an outdoor adventurers' paradise. Whether you’re looking for quick ways to get some exercise during your lunch break or a beginner-friendly trail to test your first pair of hiking shoes, these trails make getting outside accessible to anyone within the city.
As North Carolina’s second-largest city, Raleigh has dozens of trails that take you out of the city and into nature in 30 minutes or less. With trails ranging from 1.2 to 7.4 miles, our curated list has a trail that everyone can explore.
From walking distance from downtown to just outside of the city, Minneapolis has plenty of opportunities for those looking for beginner-friendly or quick ways to get outside and soak up the sounds of nature. Choose from views of the city, the Mississippi River, or seasonal wildflowers along these popular trails.
While you might not be surrounded by towering mountains, that doesn’t mean there aren’t countless opportunities to find a trail within and nearby the city limits. You’ll find seasonal falls, scenic rivers, and wildlife along these trails that are just a quick drive from downtown.
Even though Denver attracts thousands of experienced hikers that want to take on the highest peaks in the state, there are plenty of opportunities to take in your own version of solitude near the city. With trails from neighborhood parks to loops around scenic lakes, our list of trails includes those with quick access and beginner-friendly trails for all to enjoy.
You don’t have to travel far to find natural beauty in Seattle. No matter where you live in the city, getting outside for a morning hike, afternoon bird-watching, or evening adventure with the kids is as easy as getting in the car and heading in any direction. Check out our list to find a trail closest to you.
FOUND A TRAIL? JOIN THE OBOZ FAST TRAIL CHALLENGE!
If you’re looking for some additional motivation to find a local trail near your city—join our Fast Trail Challenge.
During the Challenge, hike as many trails as you can in TEN days, 5/1 - 5/10. The more you hike, the more chances you have to win prizes from Oboz and other outdoor companies.
The Oboz Fast Trail Challenge is not about how far or fast you can go; it’s about how often. Just choose any trail one mile or longer, record it on your tracking device, and you’ll be entered to win. Even better—for every hike you complete during the Challenge, Oboz will plant one tree. If you complete a bonus trail, Oboz will plant two trees.
So, find a trail, grab your Oboz hiking boots or shoes (and maybe a friend), and get ready to hit the trail!