First-Time Climb: Try These Mountains to Hike for Beginners 

You took that article’s advice and went for a nature walk — and fell in love. Now, you can’t wait to get out in the woods, and you’re ready for a challenge. You’ve worked the vertical climber and the elliptical trainer at the gym and climbed hills aplenty. What are the best mountains to hike for beginners? Plan your next vacation or weekend getaway around one of these destinations and tackle that slope. 

1. Mount Marcy, New York

Mount Marcy in New York is one of the best mountains to hike for beginners because it offers the optimal blend of challenge, length, and proximity to safety, depending on the time of year. Winter weather can complicate rescue efforts, so tackle this behemoth in the spring after the risk of frost has passed. 

The tallest peak in New York, your Mount Marcy hike takes you up the Van Hoevenberg trail, where you’ll climb 3,526 feet to its highest elevation. The first part of the hike may deceive you. The challenge begins after passing Mercy Dam. Be sure to stop at Indian Falls to refill your water bottle before tackling the final ascent to the top. 

2. Cathedral Rock, Arizona 

If you prefer a short but scary challenge, climbing Cathedral Rock all the way to the spires definitely qualifies. Although improvements have made the route safer, the final ascent features a steep scramble up slick rock that will challenge anyone with vertigo. Even though this hike is short, you’ll still need plenty of water, as desert hikes dehydrate you quickly. 

However, the route is just over a mile, meaning you can tackle this out-and-back ascent with plenty of time to explore the surrounding trails. National Forest land encircles the surrounding town of Sedona, and you’ll find a veritable hiker and mountain bike paradise no matter where you stay in town. On the West Side, Bear Mountain presents a longer challenge. In the adjacent Village of Oak Creek, Hiline Trail offers sweeping views of Bell Rock and Cathedral Buttes — and ample warning signage about this trail’s difficulty.

3. Calloway Peak, North Carolina 

The devastation wrought by Hurricane Hazel closed Profile Trail, the more popular route to this North Carolina peak that ranks among the best mountains to hike for beginners. However, you can still take the Daniel Boone Scout Trail to Calloway Peak, a 7.1-mile loop trail. Grandfather Mountain challenges you to take a side trail to one of the overlooking crags. 

You’ll need to pay a fee and leave large dogs at home. While trail authorities allow pets, there are several ladders Fido cannot safely ascend. This loop ascends 2,000 feet and offers a moderate challenge in the spring, summer and fall, although most advise against winter visits unless you’re experienced outdoors.

4. Mt. Sherman, Colorado 

Mount Sherman ranks among Colorado’s easiest 14ers — peaks where you ascend above 14,000 feet of elevation. However, this hike ascends less than 2,000 feet in total. Nevertheless, you should acclimate for a day or two if you’re traveling to the region from closer to sea level, as altitude sickness can strike you, sometimes severely. 

Fortunately, this popular route sees plenty of other people, so you’ll likely find someone to ask for assistance if you get into trouble. Visit during the summer months, as winter weather can close roads and create dangerous conditions. 

5. White Mountain Peak, California 

White Mountain is one of the longest and most challenging hikes on this list. It’s a full-day adventure taking eight hours, but you’re sure to see multiple other adventurers on the trail. This route is technically a 14er, so ensure you acclimate to higher elevations if you live near sea level. Another option is to pack a tent on your back frame. The region allows dispersed camping, letting you take your time on the ascent, although you must follow leave-no-trace principles. 

6. Unicorn Peak, Washington 

Unicorn Peak is the tallest member of the Tatoosh Mountain Range. It offers spectacular views of Mt. Rainier, another appropriate mountain to climb for beginners. You’ll need a reservation to enter the area between May 24 and September 2. 

You’ll also need gear to reach the summit, so bring your ropes, carabiners and crampons. Tackling this peak takes you beyond strictly hiking and into mountaineering. Going with an experienced guide is best. 

7. Killington Peak, Vermont

Killington Peak in Vermont is a challenging but picturesque hike that draws scores of outdoor adventurers. Although you won’t do any mountaineering, you’ll need crampons in the winter months. Some areas near the summit offer a scramble. Feel free to bring your leashed dog along for the adventure. 

The Killington Peak Loop Trail is a 4.6-mile moderate loop for those not interested in the final ascent. It’s popular with trail runners, but most folks take around three hours to complete it. 

8. Mount Lafayette, New Hampshire

Mount Lafayette lies along the Appalachian Trail, so who knows? You might encounter some through hikers on your adventure, get inspired and decide to go for the Triple Crown yourself one day. 

First, start with this slope. The 8.6-mile Franconia Ridge Trail Loop is the selected route chosen by many. While you won’t need any gear, park authorities recommend trekking poles as the terrain can get rough. 

9. Hawk Mountain, Pennsylvania

Hawk Mountain might be the best mountain to hike for beginners on this list. If you take the Skyline Trail route, you’ll enjoy a moderate challenge that lasts only an hour and a half, with a 561-foot elevation gain. You won’t need any gear, but supportive footwear is a must, and you should prepare for a bit of rock scrambling in areas. 

However, you’ll find the effort worth it when you glimpse the scenic views. Go in October to witness the raptor migration and wonder what it must be like to be a bird of prey. 

Best Mountains to Hike for Beginners

If you have a thirst for adventure and love the outdoors, add these best mountains to hike for beginners to your bucket list. Whether you plan a vacation or simply take a weekend trip, you’ll find ample challenge, fantastic vistas and the connection with nature you seek.