Do you fancy hiking to the mountains to enjoy the sunsets and sunrises from among the mountains? Or perhaps, just enjoy the feeling of being there for each other during the hike? A mountain excursion is a peaceful and calm choice for getting in touch with nature and enjoy some quality private time, away from the busy lives we lead.
In this article, I’ll share some of the best romantic hikes in the US for your next vacation!
Arches National Park, Utah
The Arches National Park is situated along the Colorado River of eastern Utah. Let alone the scenic hiking trails around 2000 arches in Arches National Park, the car ride up to the park itself is very picturesque.
Hiking in Arches National Park is comfortable, peaceful and naturally beautiful. The Delicate Arch trail is one of the most popular trails in the park, that is the longest natural arch of the world. It is a three mile moderate hike, with spectacular views all the way up to the arch, and the arch itself. Camping at the Delicate Arch at nights is especially popular for stargazing with your loved ones.
The Fiery Furnace is another romantic destination in Arches National Park. It is named so, owing to the red and orange furnace like sunsets that make the trail popular. Take this trail for romantic sunsets and stunning views of arches and narrow canyons all around. Point to note, this hike requires a hiking permit so make sure you get one before planning the hike.
Yosemite National Park, California
Situated at the Nevada mountains of California, Yosemite National Park is all things beautiful and romantic. You are treated with views of stunning landscapes, waterfalls, pinewood trees and its wildflowers.
Though some of the trails in Yosemite National Park are difficult and for the adventurous, there are numerous trails that offer gorgeous views that you can soak in just by taking a long romantic walk with your partner.
The four mile hike is once such, an uphill hike that gives you the best views of the Yosemite valley, Yosemite Falls, Clouds rest, North Dome, Half Dome, and Tenaya Canyon. may sound easy but it is entirely uphill, right from the start of the trailhead till you reach the Glacier Point at the top. You could do the hike either from the top to bottom or vice versa. The views only get better as you hike your way up to the Glacier point which is the vantage point of the hike.
The Mirror Lake is one such that gives you breathtaking views of the Tenaya Creek to reach the Mirror Lake, where you can picnic for a short time, enjoy the beauty of the lake with the mountains as their backdrop.
Heart Lake Loop, Washington
The Heart Lake Loop trail is perfect for couples, with the forest trails as the highlight. It is a three to four km moderately trafficked hike that is mostly through the forests. It is a perfect hike to spend some quality time with your loved one, with the peace and calm the surroundings provide. The hike ends very close to the Mt. Erie, with a heart shaped lake that you can’t miss ;)
The Heart Lake is a romantic picnic spot for families and children alike. You can hear the birds chirping in the woods, and majestic mountains hovering over you wherever you turn. Make sure not to miss the Heart Lake if you are planning a romantic hike.
Kalalau Trail, Hawaii
The Kalalau Trail, on the island of Kauai in Hawaii is for the adventurous couple perfect for backpacking, camping and hiking. The hike is difficult and is of 11 miles. The hike begins at the Ke’e Beach and ends at the Kalalau Beach, most of it following the Na Pali Coast.
The hike is famous for the majestic views of the Pacific from the trails, and the mountain views. This is not the hike for beginners, so make sure you practice adequate number of less difficult hikes prior to taking this one. There are a number of camping spots on the trails, where you can sit back, relax and rejuvenate yourself for the next day’s hike.
Despite the difficult level, taking this hike with your partner can be a wonderful experience of a lifetime, as the difficult ones are the ones that bring out the best and worst out of you. And who best to experience this with?
Juat remember, romance isn’t about the place, rather about the person you are with. Have you hiked up any of these trails with your loved one before? Are you planning one in the near future? Let me know--I would love to hear your experiences. :)
Mark Bennett is an American writer and traveler, whose major inspiration has been camping with his father ever since his childhood. He aims to visit 75 countries before he’s 30. You can also follow his adventures on his site Outdoorily.