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How to find the right hiking boot!
Cross-training Shoes
Cross-training shoes are a good choice for new scouts and for activities like day hikes, weekend camps, and light terrain. They are lightweight and breathable, but they offer limited ankle support and aren’t suitable for rugged terrain or carrying heavy loads.
Hiking Boots
Hiking boots are best for experienced scouts (age 16+) and longer backpacking trips. They offer good ankle support but are heavier and more expensive, and you’ll need to break them in before a hike.
Mountaineering or Backpacking Boots
For advanced treks, high-adventure outings, or difficult terrain, consider mountaineering or backpacking boots. These heavy-duty boots are waterproof and built for carrying heavy loads. They offer superior support and durability, but they are not recommended for younger scouts.
Camp shoes or sandals
Camp shoes or sandals are the best choice for walking around the campsite or in swimming areas. They are lightweight and breathable, but it’s important that they are not used for hiking or on rugged trails. For safety, closed-toe options are preferred. It is highly discouraged to wear flip-flops due to the high risk of injury.
A Few Multi-day Hiking and Backpacking Experiences
Appalachian Trail (USA)
- Over 2,190 miles from Georgia to Maine
- One of the longest continuous hiking trails in the world
- Popular for thru-hiking and scenic forest views
Pacific Crest Trail (USA)
- Runs 2,650 miles from Mexico to Canada through California, Oregon, and Washington
- Crosses deserts, mountains, and alpine forests
- Featured in the book and movie Wild by Cheryl Strayed
John Muir Trail (California, USA)
- Runs through the Sierra Nevada mountains
- Named after naturalist John Muir
- Passes through Yosemite, Kings Canyon, and Sequoia National Parks
Continental Divide (USA)
- The trail spans 3,100 miles from Mexico to Canada and crosses New Mexico, Colorado, Wyoming, Idaho, and Montana
- Completion time: Hikers can typically take 4 – 6 months to complete
Same Day Hiking Experiences
The Narrows – Zion National Park, UT
Distance:
Varies (up to 9.4 miles)
Highlights:
Hike through the Virgin River in a slot canyon
Half Dome – Yosemite National Park, CA
Distance:
16 miles round trip
Highlights:
Iconic granite dome, cable-assisted summit climb, views of Vernal and Nevada Falls
Mt. Katahdin - Knife Edge Trail in Maine
Distance:
Only 1.1 miles, it can take up to 2 hours due to its difficulty and exposure.
Highlights:
A dramatic, narrow, and exposed 1.1-mile granite ridge with steep drops on both sides—some sections only 3 feet wide.
Urban Hiking Experiences
Chicago
Lakefront Trail
18-mile path along Lake Michigan that is great for biking, walking, and exploring the suburban lifestyles.
This elevated trail was built on an old rail line, connecting the local parks and public artwork around the city.
Portland
Forest Park and
Wildwood Trail
80 miles of trails in the largest urban forest in the U.S.
The Springwater Corridor is a scenic riverside trail ideal for walking and biking
Los Angeles
Runyon Canyon and Griffith Park
This urban trail is popular with the youth and families that are in for short hikes and city views.
Runyon Canyon and Griffith Park both offer trails that lead to iconic landmarks like the Hollywood Sign and Griffith Observatory.
Join the Effort to Preserve Our Hiking Trails!
American Hiking Society
The American Hiking Society is a nonprofit dedicated to preserving public lands and protecting hiking trails across the country. Want to get involved? They offer volunteer opportunities for those passionate about maintaining safe and enjoyable hiking experiences for everyone.
The Sierra Club
The Sierra Club was founded by John Muir in 1892. The club protects our environment, advocates for clean energy, promotes environmental justices, and engages in policy and advocacy to promote environmental laws and sustainability.
The Wilderness Society
The Wilderness Society is a nonprofit organization that focuses on climate change, preserving U.S. land, advocating for conservation policies, and supporting underrepresented communities.
National Parks Conservation Association
Join the movement! The NPCA is an advocacy group that protects and preserves the U.S. national parks which include national parks, monuments, historical sites and natural areas.
National Forest Foundation
Founded by Congress in 1992, this organization partners with local communities to care for nearby forests. It’s known for tree planting, educational programs, and improving trails, campsites, and visitor areas to make forests more enjoyable for everyone.
