Best Hiking Trails for the Adventurous Travel Nurse

Get ready to hit the trails! We’re celebrating Earth Day and Trails Day by sharing our favorite hiking trails in some of our travel assignment destinations throughout the country.

Arkansas

• Whitaker Point Trail, Ozark National Forest Kingston, AR
• Hiking: 3 miles R/T

A moderate hike in the Upper Buffalo Wilderness Area (Newton County) in the Ozark National Forest consisting of a waterfall and stunning views of Whitaker Creek Valley.

California

• Mirror Lake Loop, Yosemite National Park Yosemite Valley, CA
• Hiking: 2 miles R/T to the lake and back; 5-mile loop around the lake

A beautiful loop through Tenaya Canyon; hikers are rewarded with views from the base of Half Dome.

Colorado

• Lake Haiyaha Hike, Rocky Mountain National Park Estes Park, CO
• Hiking: 3.9 miles R/T

The historic trail built in the 1930’s crosses past Bear and Dream Lake. This moderate hike is surrounded by boulders and mountain views.

Tennessee

• Fiery Gizzard Trail, South Cumberland State Park Tracy City, TN
• Hiking: 4.5 miles R/T

Ranked as one of the best trails in the US by Backpacker magazine, this impressive trail features creeks, waterfalls, and rock gardens. At the end of the trail is an overlook and camping area for extended trips.

Louisiana

• Barataria Preserve Trail, Jean Lafitte National Historic Park, Marrero, LA
• Hiking: 1.8 Miles R/T

Located half an hour south of New Orleans, the trail offers a unique look into Louisiana’s wetlands. Trails weaving through bayous, marshes, and forests offer opportunities to see local wildlife such as alligators, turtles and over 200 species of birds.

Ohio

• The Ledges Trail, Cuyahoga Valley National Park, Brecksville, OH
• Hiking: 1.5 miles R/T

Explore this serene national park in northeast Ohio with waterfalls, hiking trails, and the scenic Cuyahoga Valley Scenic Railroad.

>> Find more trails and camping areas across the US by visiting AllTrails.com

Hiking Trail Tips

• Plan ahead, and check the weather.
• Stay prepared by bringing the essentials.
• Be sure to dress in layers. Temps can change drastically throughout the day, so wear or pack some clothes that you can easily slip on or off.
• Be sure to tell someone where you’re going and when you’ll be back.
• Make sure you have the proper amount of food, water, sunscreen and a first-aid kit
• Choose the right shoe/sock combo.
• Pack your phone, and make sure it’s charged.
• Always carry a source of light.
• Read up on basic first aid.

Looking for your next great assignment near a top hiking destination? Check out all our latest jobs and plan your next amazing trip!

Looking for your next assignment near a top hiking destination? Explore the incredible opportunities waiting for you with Advantage Medical Professionals.

Check out our latest job openings and start planning your next amazing trip today! Embark on unforgettable adventures while pursuing your nursing career. Join Advantage Medical Professionals – Contact us today!

>> Treat yourself to a change of pace (and PLACE) by exploring all the travel nursing assignments we have available nationwide.

>> Check out our Travel Safety Tips blog post for a quick brush-up of best practices & safety measures to help travel nurses like you work, travel, and adventure safely.