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11 Summer Sunset Hikes That Are Way Better Than Midday Misery
There’s something undeniably thrilling about setting out on a hike as the sun dips low, isn’t there? The air cools down, the trails quiet, and the world feels just a little more mysterious.
And summer is prime time for these evening and nighttime adventures… mostly because doing them in other seasons could get you a front-row seat on the “bad life choices” highlight reel. Darkness, chillier temperatures, and unwelcoming terrain aren’t exactly great companions.
But in summer, the extended daylight and warmer air create the perfect window for safe-ish exploration after hours. Curious to learn where you can make it happen? Keep reading.
And hey, drop a comment on MSN afterward (unless you’re too busy planning your next nighttime escape).
Mount Washington via Tuckerman Ravine Trail – White Mountain National Forest, New Hampshire
Mount Washington, where the weather has a personality so unpredictable that it could star in its own reality show. Between –100°F wind chills and enough snow to rival an arctic tundra, you’d think this trail was trying to scare hikers away.
But summer evenings? That’s when it plays nice (at least as nice as it’s willing). Gone are the icy death traps from winter and blistering heat from midday, replaced with a chance to enjoy a rugged climb that almost feels forgiving. Almost.
The views from the top are spectacular (assuming clouds don’t crash the party). Just don’t forget that even in summer, Mount Washington is the boss. You’re just, well, visiting. Respect its quirks, and it might respect you back. Probably.
Manoa Falls Trail – Round Top Forest Reserve, Hawaii
Tropical paradise? Sure, until you’re sliding on mud like an awkward penguin or wondering if those mosquitoes have plans to unionize against you. Mānoa Falls Trail can be stunning, especially in summer evenings when rain chills out and leptospirosis risk takes a backseat (gross, but real).
It’s a much safer time to explore this lush, greenery-packed trail without worrying about mudslide wipeouts turning your hike into a reality blooper. And the 150-foot waterfall at the end is an absolute stunner, making the trek worth every mosquito bite (yes, they’ll still find you).
Bring bug spray, water, and maybe a little gratitude for dry-ish trails. You’re in Hawaii, after all; even hiking disasters feel a bit less tragic here.
Marufo Vega Trail – Big Bend National Park, Texas
Ever felt like you’re hiking through an oven while nature whispers, “Good luck”? That’s the Marufo Vega Trail for you, rolling out its triple-digit red carpet during the day. Summer evenings, though, are when this Texas trail eases up on the heat parade, giving you a chance to explore without feeling like a casserole.
And the trail’s rugged reward is some of the most dramatic views in Big Bend, but word to the wise: this isn’t your casual stroll. The exposed terrain feels endless, so hydrate like your life depends on it (because it does).
And in case you’re thinking, “I’ve hiked steeper things,” remember, this is where even cacti dream of shade. Summer nights are your golden ticket to conquer it… without becoming barbecue.
Cactus to Clouds Trail – Mount San Jacinto State Park, California
They don’t name a trail “Cactus to Clouds” for fun – it’s because you’re trekking from “Is it just me or is the sun angry?” desert heat to “Okay, who turned off the heater?” alpine chill.
With a 10,400-foot climb, this beast demands a summer evening start if you want to avoid frying at the base in midday summer or freezing your toes off at the peak in winter.
Pack layers, lots of water, and a sense of humor. The views promise to be worth every painful step, but don’t underestimate the task. This trail has humbled many a hiker who thought they were part mountain goat. Late spring and summer are the sweet spots, and trust me, you’ll want both the sweet and the spot.
Hidden Lake Trail – Glacier National Park, Montana
Hidden Lake Trail is gorgeous, but it’s less “hidden” and more “mediated by grizzly schedules.” Mid to late summer is prime time here because the bears are living their best lives further from the trail, and therefore, you don’t have to.
The snow has finally melted off those scenic overlooks, leaving everything less like a death trap and more like a nature catalog. Step out earlier in the year (or late fall), and suddenly, it’s you vs. 1,000 pounds of furry motivation to reconsider your hiking choices.
Oh, and the snow-covered trail? Beautiful… until you’re slip-sliding your way into a frigid pond. Stick to safe summer months, layer up for Montana’s unpredictable mood swings, and soak in those epic views.
South Kaibab To Ooh Aah Point – Grand Canyon National Park, Arizona
Ooh Aah Point earns its name, but those oohs can turn into ouches if you pick the wrong season. Summer evenings? Chef’s kiss. Temps are mild with just enough glow from the sunset to make you feel like a poetic adventurer.
Spring and fall days, on the other hand, will have you sweating through 90+ degrees by late morning, wondering if leaving the AC was brave or unhinged. And don’t even think about a summer day. Winter? Bring crampons, because those icy switchbacks are nature’s way of saying, “Maybe the view is good enough from here, pal.”
The payoff, though, is legendary, views that make the effort worth every step. Well, every safe, temperature-considered step.
Barker Dam Trail – Joshua Tree National Park, California
If you think desert hikes sound relaxing year-round, Joshua Tree is here to humble you. Daytime summers? Stick your head in an oven instead… same vibe, fewer rattlesnakes. Evening summer hikes, though? Absolute bliss.
You’ll feel like a visionary as temps drop to “pleasant” and the golden hour sun dips below those gnarly boulders. Spring and fall, however, can be deceptive. Clear skies might trick you into pulling a “just one more mile” move, only for the thermostat to hit 105°F and leave you clutching your water bottle like it’s a lifeline.
So stick to cooler months or take evening summer hikes, but either way, it’s worth finding Barker Dam’s remnants and checking out the oddly lush greenery hiding in the middle of this Mars-meets-Earth landscape.
Juniper Springs Recreation Area Trail – Ocala National Forest, Florida
Florida, the land of alligators and mosquitoes the size of house pets. June through August is your golden window for an evening hike because those daytime lightning storms are just aches waiting to happen. At night, it’s almost serene.
You’ll still need to dodge biting bugs (always up for a blood drive) and plan around Florida’s impromptu mood swings. While winter through spring might seem inviting, hurricane season can rage in the background, turning trails into rivers faster than you can say “flash flood.”
That said, this forest is peak magic, with crystal-clear springs that look like they were photoshopped into existence. Bring bug spray, check the forecast, and appreciate Florida’s chaotic charm.
Dark Hollow Falls Trail – Shenandoah National Park, Virginia
This trail combines the joy of moving uphill with the constant temptation to just sit down next to a cascading waterfall and call it a day. Dark Hollow Falls Trail is short, but don’t be fooled – it’s got steep sections that make you question your hiking choices.
Summer evenings are your best bet for this hike, sparing you tick-related paranoia and hefty doses of Virginia’s signature thick-as-pudding humidity. Tackle this one after dinner (but before dark) for fewer crowds and more serenity.
Just be aware of the slippery rocks near the falls. It’s not exactly graceful to end a hike with an unplanned swim. The waterfalls may be gorgeous, but they’re not impressed by your clumsiness.
Anhinga Trail – Everglades National Park, Florida
The Anhinga Trail is essentially Florida waving all its unique features in your face, from prehistoric-looking gators to bird species you can’t pronounce without Google’s help. The trail itself is a laid-back walk, making it perfect for evenings when the worst of the blistering sun has finally called it quits.
Winter and spring dry seasons turn this place into a bit of a wildlife show, but trust me, you don’t want to be out there midday even then. It’s a dehydration contest you’re bound to lose. Keep your eyes peeled for herons, turtles – and yes, alligators that move significantly faster than you’d like.
If you’re lucky, you’ll stroll back from this one sweaty but not on the verge of passing out from the heat. Pack water, a sense of adventure, and a smidge of caution around sharp-toothed locals.
Clingmans Dome – Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Tennessee
Clingmans Dome is one of those places where the view does 90% of the heavy lifting. Sitting at the highest point in the Great Smoky Mountains, this spot is breathtaking. And the climb to the observation tower is steep enough to make you question your cardio fitness.
But it’s worth it for the panorama of ridges that seem to stretch into infinity. Summer evenings shine here, offering cooler temps and clear skies for some perfect stargazing. Other seasons tend to bring their own quirks, with winter’s icy trails and unpredictable fog ready to humble even the most seasoned hikers.
Bring a jacket even in summer… a wind chill party up here isn’t everyone’s cup of tea.
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