Best Hikes to Take Guided: Why a Guide Can Make All the Difference

When it comes to hiking, there’s nothing quite like exploring a new trail and soaking in the incredible views. But sometimes, tackling that tough peak or exploring unfamiliar terrain can be a bit daunting—especially if you’re new to hiking or unfamiliar with the area. That’s where guided hikes come in. Whether you’re an experienced hiker with a specific objective in mind (like climbing a 14er!), or a beginner looking to build your outdoor skills, guided hikes are the best way to have a fun and seamless adventure. Here are our top reasons to consider going guided, plus a round-up of some of the best guided hikes available on TripOutside.

Why Choose Guided Hikes?

Expertise and Training

Setting out for a hike involves more than just following a trail—it’s about being able to navigate in the backcountry, understanding the terrain and the climate, knowing how to respond to sudden weather changes, and being prepared for unexpected challenges or medical emergencies. Guides bring a wealth of knowledge, experience, and training that ensure you and your group are prepared for a day in the mountains, whether it’s avoiding avalanche-prone areas on a snow-covered 14er or spotting potential hazards on a technical rock scramble. Their expertise in first aid and emergency response can make all the difference in the event that your adventure doesn’t go as planned.

Local Knowledge and Insights

Have you ever wondered about the story behind a rugged canyon or the best time to spot wildlife on a trail? Guides offer deep local knowledge beyond what you’ll find in a guidebook. They know the history, geology, and ecology of the areas you’re exploring, and usually have a funny personal story or a local legend to share as well. There’s no substitute for the passion that you’ll find from someone who has dedicated their career to exploring their favorite mountains. It’s not just about the hike—it’s about understanding the world around you, and there’s no one better to share the experience with than a knowledgeable and passionate guide!

Access to Local Secret Spots

The most magical spots aren’t always on the main trail. Guided hikes can lead you to secret waterfalls, secluded overlooks, and trails or lookouts that aren’t marked on standard maps. Whether it’s finding the perfect sunset viewpoint or discovering a hidden slot canyon, guides know where to go to avoid the crowds and deliver those unforgettable, off-the-beaten-path experiences.

Convenience and Logistics

Planning a hike involves more than just picking a trail—it’s permits, maps, route finding, and sometimes complex logistics like shuttles or weather considerations. Guides handle all the details so you can focus on enjoying the hike. This is especially valuable on multi-day backpacking trips, where logistics can get complicated with camping permits, food planning, and route navigation. They’ll also make sure you’re prepared with the right gear and equipment, so you don’t end up stuck on a summit without the essentials.

Skill Development

Guided hikes are an amazing way to learn more about hiking and improve your personal skills. Learn to navigate tricky terrain, improve your pacing on long climbs, or get hands-on instruction for using gear like crampons and ropes. Whether your goal is to climb a 14’er, improve fitness, or simply enjoy time in nature, hiking guides are great at tailoring the experience to your personal objectives, no matter how big or small. Guides are there to teach and encourage, helping you build confidence and skills that you can take to your next adventure.

Multi-Day Hike Planning & Gear

Multi-day hikes can be the ultimate way to disconnect and immerse yourself in nature, but planning them can be challenging. From arranging permits to figuring out the best campsites, a lot goes into making these adventures successful. Guides handle the heavy lifting by planning the route, securing necessary permits, and even providing gear like tents, sleeping bags, and cooking equipment. They take care of the meals, navigation, and campsite setup, so you can just enjoy the journey. Plus, they carry extra safety gear and first-aid supplies, offering peace of mind as you explore remote backcountry areas.

Our Favorite Guided Hikes and Destinations

Guided Hikes in Colorado

Guided hikes in Colorado offer something for everyone, from beginner-friendly hikes near Denver to the infamous 14’ers. Colorado’s 14ers are legendary, and for good reason—they’re high, they’re challenging, and they offer some of the most spectacular views in the state. But with high elevation comes high risk, and a guided 14er hike ensures you’re prepared, especially if you’re new to tackling 14ers. For those who want to start with shorter, more accessible hikes, guided hikes near Denver, Boulder, and Estes Park provide access to stunning alpine scenery without as much risk or logistical challenges as 14ers.

Sedona Guided Hikes

Sedona’s red rock canyons are a hiker’s paradise, offering stunning views of the unique desert landscape, but the maze of trails can be tricky to navigate without local knowledge. Guided hikes in Sedona not only ensure you stay on the right path but also dive into the area’s spiritual history and geological wonders. From iconic spots like Cathedral Rock to lesser-known vortex sites known for their mystical energy, a guide will help you make the most of your time in this enchanting landscape. Whether you’re after breathtaking views or deeper connection with nature, a guided hike is an amazing way to enjoy the beauty of Sedona.

Yosemite National Park Guided Hikes

Yosemite’s granite cliffs and towering waterfalls are some of the most recognizable natural wonders in the world. But the park’s popularity means trails can get crowded, and permits can be hard to come by, especially for multi-day hikes to areas like the John Muir Trail, Half Dome, or the Grand Canyon of Tuolumne. Guided hikes in Yosemite are a great way to take the logistics out of the picture and explore the best spots at the best times.

Moab Guided Hikes

Moab is an adventure mecca with easy access to both Arches and Canyonlands National Parks. The best Moab guided hikes venture off the beaten path, exploring hidden arches, narrow canyons, and prehistoric rock art. Whether you’re navigating slickrock or squeezing through a slot canyon, a guide’s expertise is a great way to make sure you’re selecting a trail that’s right for your ability level, and make the sometimes technical hikes accessible to everyone. Guided hikes in the Moab area are also a great way to explore the hidden gems of Arches and Canyonlands National Park.  Hiring a guide is also a great way to stay safe in the challenging desert environment, since guides know the best time of day to beat the heat, time of year to consider flash floods, and what kind of wildlife to look out for and avoid.

Guided Hikes in Kauai and Maui

Hiking in Hawaii offers a blend of tropical jungles, volcanic landscapes, and coastal views, but the trails can be tricky with steep inclines and unpredictable weather. Guided hikes in Kauai and Maui provide a safe and informative way to explore these islands’ most iconic trails. From the dramatic cliffs of the Na Pali Coast to the craters of Haleakalā, guides will take you to all the best spots, and even share a local legend or two.

Yellowstone Guided Hikes

Yellowstone is known for its geothermal wonders, but navigating its vast landscapes can be overwhelming. Guided day hikes in Yellowstone offer a stress-free way to explore the park’s highlights, from iconic geysers to lush valleys filled with wildlife. Guides are also extremely knowledgeable about park’s unique geothermal activity – learning about the geology and how the area formed is an essential part of the Yellowstone experience best shared by a passionate guide.

Guided Multi-Day Hikes

For those looking to truly escape and reconnect with nature, guided multi-day hikes are the way to go. Whether you’re hiking through the remote High Sierra or exploring the alpine meadows of Rocky Mountain National Park, these adventures offer the opportunity to challenge yourself and immerse into nature. With guides handling everything from permits to meals, you’ll be able to enjoy wilderness without the hassle of logistics.

Lace Up and Let’s Go

Guided hikes offer more than just a scenic walk—they provide a richer, safer, and more immersive experience. Whether you’re aiming to conquer a Colorado 14er, explore the mystical red rocks of Sedona, or trek through the iconic valleys of Yosemite, a guide can elevate your adventure from good to unforgettable. Ready to send it on your next hike? Check out the epic lineup of guided hikes on TripOutside and find your next adventure.