Trail Guides

Our trail guides are organized by region and difficulty. Each one is written from first-hand experience and updated seasonally.

Pacific Northwest

Rattlesnake Ledge - Easy

Distance: 4 miles round trip | Elevation Gain: 1,160 ft | Time: 2-3 hours

A Seattle-area classic. The trail climbs steadily through second-growth forest to a rocky ledge with panoramic views of Rattlesnake Lake and the Cascades. Expect crowds on weekends - arrive before 9 AM or go on a weekday.

Pro tip: The upper trail continues past the ledge for another 2 miles with far fewer people and equally impressive views.

Enchantments Traverse - Expert

Distance: 18 miles one-way | Elevation Gain: 4,500 ft | Time: 1-3 days

The crown jewel of Washington hiking. Alpine lakes, granite spires, and mountain goats in a landscape that looks like it belongs in Patagonia. Permits are required May through October and the lottery is brutally competitive.

What to know: Most day-hikers start at the Snow Lakes trailhead and turn around at the lower Enchantments. The full traverse requires a car shuttle between Stuart Lake and Snow Lakes trailheads.

Rocky Mountains

Bear Lake to Emerald Lake - Easy

Distance: 3.6 miles round trip | Elevation Gain: 605 ft | Time: 1.5-2 hours

One of the most popular hikes in Rocky Mountain National Park for good reason. You pass three alpine lakes in under two miles, each more striking than the last. The trail is well-maintained and suitable for families.

Sky Pond - Hard

Distance: 9 miles round trip | Elevation Gain: 1,740 ft | Time: 5-7 hours

This trail packs waterfalls, scrambles, and a stunning alpine lake beneath the Cathedral Spires into a single day hike. The route follows Glacier Gorge past Alberta Falls, then climbs to the Loch before a short but exposed scramble up Timberline Falls to reach Sky Pond.

What to know: The scramble at Timberline Falls is Class 2 and requires hands. In spring, it can be icy - microspikes recommended until mid-July.

Appalachian Region

Max Patch - Easy

Distance: 2.5 miles loop | Elevation Gain: 600 ft | Time: 1-1.5 hours

A grassy bald on the Appalachian Trail near the North Carolina-Tennessee border. The 360-degree views of the Great Smoky Mountains are some of the best on the entire AT. Perfect for sunset hikes and stargazing.

Franconia Ridge Traverse - Hard

Distance: 8.6 miles loop | Elevation Gain: 3,800 ft | Time: 6-9 hours

The most dramatic ridge walk in the White Mountains. After a punishing climb up Old Bridle Path, you’re rewarded with a mile-long exposed ridge above treeline connecting Little Haystack, Lincoln, and Lafayette. The views are non-stop.

Submit a Trail

Hiked something amazing that isn’t listed here? We’re always looking to expand our guides. Send us the details at hello@trailandsummit.com.