One of the main differences between hiking and just walking is doing it on a route intended to take you beyond the ordinary. Word-of-mouth recommendations can provide some of the best boots-on-the-ground intel so don't be shy about asking friends, colleagues, and the staff at your local outdoor store about their favorites. You can also use the
AllTrails app or the American Hiking Society's
"Hikes Near You" feature to scout out potential trails.