If you want to see a volcanic landscape without a long hike, the Trail of the Molten Land in Newberry National Volcanic Monument is an easy choice. This short, paved loop crosses a young lava flow and explains how the terrain formed and how life is slowly returning to the rock.
If you want to see active geothermal features without committing to a long hike, Bumpass Hell is one of the best stops in Lassen Volcanic National Park. The trail leads to steaming vents, boiling pools, and a boardwalk that keeps you safely above the heat.
The Barber Peak Loop Trail is a winter favorite in Mojave National Preserve, offering sunshine, solitude, and varied desert scenery. This moderately difficult six-mile loop circles Barber Peak crosses washes and volcanic slopes and ends with a fun climb through Banshee Canyon using metal rings. It’s a rewarding hike with minimal crowds and big desert character.
The Seven Falls hike is a Tucson staple for a reason. You will walk among giant saguaros and cross a canyon wash several times before reaching the iconic waterfalls. It is a moderate challenge with a world class payoff. Whether you hike from the Visitor Center or take the shuttle to save your legs, the scenery at the pools makes this a worth-while trek.
The Panorama Loop Trail serves as a perfect escape for hikers who want to leave the crowds behind. You will climb through pinyon pines to reach a ridge with views of the highest peaks in Southern California. It requires some sweat, but the silence and the scenery make it one of the top hikes in Joshua Tree National Park.
The Gower Gulch and Golden Canyon Loop in Death Valley National Park combines the best geology of the park into one manageable trip. You get to walk through narrow canyons and look out over the valley floor from the badlands. It is a solid choice if you want to see the famous yellow rocks and old mining sites without spending the entire day on the trail.
Late September through October is the best time to hike The Narrows in Zion National Park, with cooler temps and safer river flows.