LIFESTYLE | Hiking
The USA’s Best Beaches & Hiking Trails BY PHOEBE OLLEREARNSHAW
The US contains a wealth of natural beauty: experience it first-hand with these breathtaking coastal hikes
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ombine the benefits of a relaxing beach retreat with an exuberant hiking trip by sampling our top coastal walks—you won’t regret it.
KALALAU TRAIL, NAPALI COAST STATE WILDERNESS PARK, HAWAII
OCEAN PATH, ACADIA NATIONAL PARK, MAINE Beginning at Sand Beach and meandering in a southerly direction along the eastern shore of Mount Desert Island is the famous Ocean Path. Explore its surprising coves and granite rock formations along the way. This trail is ideal for a relaxed saunter with friends; a good place to stop for a picnic is
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Thunder Hole—coined so because of the thundering waves that crash against the rocks there. For the best views, opt for the path that runs closer to the shoreline. Sturdy hand railings make this route suitable for visitors of all experience levels; being just a 4.4 mile round-trip, it is easily completely in one afternoon. Bear in mind that the national park involves a small entrance fee. Distance: 2.2 miles Difficulty: Easy
ANDREW MOLERA LOOP, ANDREW MOLERA STATE PARK, CALIFORNIA Offering great hiking and beachcombing opportunities, this state park is relatively undeveloped. The paths, however, are well maintained, making it an enjoyable excursion. Navigate your way across the dramatic coastline and breathe in the fresh, salty air. The loop winds through miles of meadows, hills, beaches and bluffs, making it
the ideal approach to explore Big Sur by foot. Aim to visit in the morning before the path gets overly crowded; early birds can catch the breath-taking sunrise over the water. Distance: 8.8 miles Difficulty: Moderate cn
© S H U T T ER STOCK
Take a break from beach lounging and embark on a refreshing hike along the Nap Pali coast of Kauai. The Kalalau trail is the only land access to this scenic strip of coastline, which crosses over soaring cliffs and traverses through five valleys. While the track is suitable for excursions all year around, it is best enjoyed during the summer months. With 180-degree views of navy Pacific waters to keep visitors entranced, it’s no wonder that this area attracts a diverse crowd. However, don’t let the tropical sights fool you, this is by no means a beginner’s endeavor. It is a demanding 11 mile stretch (or a 22 mile round-trip) with Kalalau Beach’s pristine sands and wondrous caves awaiting at the end. Distance: 11 miles Difficulty: Moderate
Summer 2018 | collegenews.com
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