I consider myself an avid hiker.

Areas around Auburn are amazing; don’t get me wrong. I just love taking long road trips to tackle the many beautiful, iconic trails that the United States has to offer. Interested in doing it yourself? Here are a few of my favorites near and far to help you plan your next adventure.

Angels Landing in Zion National Park

Angels Landing is by far the most serene hike I’ve ever been on. It’s about a five-mile round trip, but don’t let this fool you, the large elevation gain means business. Steep switchbacks and hills make for an exhausting climb, but the views are all worth it.

Once you reach a plateau about two-thirds of the way up, you walk along the spine of a rock formation. It can get quite narrow at times, so be wary. On the spine, there are chains to hold onto because of how narrow the path is. Long story short, this trail is not for someone with a fear of heights.

The view of the valley below is absolutely breathtaking from the top. I mean, just look at this picture!

South Rim Trail in Grand Canyon National Park

The Grand Canyon is huge. I understood this before I went, but my brain couldn’t even process the magnitude once I saw it. The entire canyon looked like a painting; my eyes truly couldn’t believe what I was seeing.

When I took a trail down towards the Colorado River from the south rim of the canyon, and the views did not disappoint. I hiked for a total of seven miles, with various stopping points and lookouts to enjoy along the way. The Grand Canyon lives up to, and even surpasses, all the hype.

Queen’s/Navajo Combination Loop in Bryce Canyon National Park

Bryce Canyon is a green and orange masterpiece. Layers of rocks and trees make up this stunning landscape. Being in a tighter, more narrow canyon, this hike feels very intimate. The unique rock formations, plants, and animals make for a fun loop hike.

Providence Canyon State Park in Georgia

Providence Canyon is like a small chunk of Utah close to Auburn. Different rock formations and cliffs make for a maze through the Georgia woods. It was a fun getaway from university life, and isn’t too far of a drive from Auburn!

Smith Mountain Fire Tour at Lake Martin

If you’ve been in Auburn for at least a semester, you’ve probably heard about the fire tower’s breathtaking view. The view is certainly beautiful, but so it the hike. Getting out into the woods reminds me of adventuring with my friends when I was growing up, and it’s always a welcome experience. Sometimes, you just need a break, and Smith Mountain’s aura can calm just about anybody.

Hiking is a great source of exercise that gets you outside and into the fresh air. These are just a handful of my favorite hikes, and there are so many other great trails nearby in Georgia, Tennesse, and all over Alabama. There is a beautiful world out there ready for us to go and enjoy. So, what are you waiting for?

Happy hiking and…

Be well, Auburn.

Photography: Jacob H.