For healthcare professionals embracing the travel lifestyle, summer offers an array of breathtaking hiking destinations across the U.S. Whether you’re between assignments or enjoying a well-deserved day off, these trails provide the perfect escape into nature!
Olympic National Park, WA
Top Trail: Mount Storm King
Washington State is a top pick for travelers this summer, offering diverse landscapes from lush rainforests to rugged coastlines. Olympic National Park stands out with its variety of trails suitable for all skill levels. The Hoh Rainforest Trail immerses hikers in a verdant, moss-draped environment, while the Hurricane Ridge offers panoramic views of the Olympic Mountains. While the most popular, Mount Storm King is a very challenging hike, but can give you a great vantage point of Lake Crescent.
Great Smoky Mountains, TN
Top Trail: Alum Cave trail to Mount LeConte
Tennessee is a hidden gem for healthcare professionals seeking a balance of work and leisure. The Great Smoky Mountains National Park boasts over 800 miles of trails, including the popular Alum Cave Trail and the challenging hike to Mount Le Conte. The park’s rich biodiversity and mist-covered peaks provide a serene backdrop for relaxation and reflection.
Rocky Mountain National Park, CO
Top Trail: Emerald Lake Trail
Colorado offers an abundance of hiking opportunities, making it a favorite among outdoor-loving travel nurses. Rocky Mountain National Park features trails like the Bear Lake Loop for beginners and the Sky Pond Trail for seasoned hikers. There are several clear water lakes that can be seen filled with trout and towering mountain peaks down every trail.
Grand Canyon National Park, AZ
Top Trail: South Kaibab Trail to Ooh Aah Point
Arizona is a popular travel healthcare destination all year long with stunning hikes and plenty of national parks to see. The Grand Canyon is arguably the most popular park though, and for good reason. It offers trails such as the South Kaibab Trail and the Bright Angel Trail, providing awe-inspiring views of the canyon’s layered rock formations. For a unique experience, consider a sunrise hike to witness the canyon bathed in golden light.
Yosemite National Park, CA
Top Trail: Vernal and Nevada Falls via Mist Trail
California is a great place for adventure-seeking healthcare professionals. California is one of the rare states that offers beaches, mountains, rural farmland, vibrant city life, and more, depending on what part of the state you end up in. Yosemite National Park, with its iconic granite cliffs and waterfalls, offers trails like the Mist Trail to Vernal and Nevada Falls, and the challenging Half Dome hike. The park’s diverse elevations create varying climate zones, making it accessible year-round, although the best time is April through October.
Acadia National Park, ME
Top Trail: The Beehive Loop Trail
Acadia offers coastal mountain hikes with Atlantic views. The beehive loop trail is so popular because, while it has some challenging aspects to it, the views are incredible. Acadia is also home to carriage roads, a man-made element so that John D. Rockefeller Jr. could travel through the park via horse and carriage! Explore tide pools, check out the first sunrise on Cadillac mountain, and more at this amazing place!
Zion National Park, UT
Top Trail: Watchman Trail
Zion is a bucket-list destination. Angels Landing is thrilling and strenuous with dramatic drop-offs, while The Narrows (a river hike through a slot canyon) offers a completely different, water-filled adventure. Ideal for travelers working in the Southwest. These are two popular trails, but don’t miss out on the Watchman trail! This hike is available without having to use a shuttle, it’s moderately rated, and less busy than some of the more popular places.
Redwood National Park, CA
Top Trail: Lady Bird Johnson Grove Trail
Walk among ancient redwoods that tower over 300 feet high. This quieter hike offers solitude and awe-inspiring scenery, perfect for decompressing after a long shift. A must-do for travelers on assignment in Northern California! Plus, who doesn’t want to pretend they are on the planet Endor in the Star Wars universe?!
Tips for Healthcare Travelers:
- Pack Smart: Ensure you have appropriate gear, including sturdy hiking boots, hydration packs, and weather-appropriate clothing.
- Stay Safe: Always inform someone of your hiking plans and expected return time.
- Respect Nature: Follow Leave No Trace principles to preserve the beauty of these trails for future hikers.
Travel with Ventura MedStaff
Embrace the opportunity to explore and find your next assignment near one of these great hiking locations. Each trail offers a chance to recharge and find inspiration amidst the demands of healthcare work. Ready to get started? Connect with a recruiter today!
