Top 4 Scenic Hikes to Take in August 

Top 4 Scenic Hikes to Take in August

A good long hike is always a good idea, as it benefits your mind and body in one fell swoop. But when the temps climb with summer weather, heat and humidity may factor into your hiking efforts, or lack thereof. Here are a few good summer hikes to consider: 

The Bar Island Trail: Before you head out on this lovely hike across the water, make sure you know when low tide is expected as it’s the only time the sandbar is exposed allowing the trek across to Bar Island. This is a lovely short loop trail with great views of Frenchman Bay. Fun fact – it is one of the oldest known hiking trails on Mt. Desert Island with descriptions dating to 1867. Plan a glamping stay at Mt. Desert Narrows Campground or Narrows Too Campground

Cabins at Narrows Too Camping Resort
Cabins at Narrows Too Camping Resort

Tuolumne Meadows: Located within California’s Yosemite National Park, the Tuolumne Meadows are a great spot for a summer hike not only thanks to the lower temps experienced here due to its higher elevation location within the park, but also the wildflower blooms that are in full view from late May through October. Plus, the views of the Park’s granite peaks are spectacular from the Meadows. Plan a glamping stay at Thousand Trails Yosemite Lakes.  

Cabins at Thousand Trails Yosemite Lakes
Cabins at Thousand Trails Yosemite Lakes

Starved Rock State Park: Illinois’ Starved Rock State Park has several great summer hikes that offer shade trees and waterfalls to help keep temperatures more moderate, so hikes are pleasant. Consider the St. Louis Canyon Trail at 2.1-miles out and back (note – there is a steep staircase to traverse) or the LaSalle Canyon, an easy-to-moderate hike, with spectacular canyon photo ops. Plan a glamping stay at O’Connell’s RV Campground and you’re less than 40 miles from the park.  

Cabins at O'Connell's RV Campground
Cabins at O’Connell’s RV Campground

If you love vibrant pink blooms of flowering rhododendrons, or just a beautiful hike with lush scenery, consider the Ramona Falls hike in Mt. Hood National Forest. This longer hike at roughly a little less than eight miles is worth it for the scenery, and of course, the 120-foot waterfall. Book a stay in a tiny home at the Mt. Hood Tiny House Village to be near this hike.  

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