The best family-friendly hikes and walks in Worthington State Forest

The Hidden Lake Trail offers an accessible journey into Glacier National Park's high-alpine beauty, starting with a paved path that quickly becomes a raised boardwalk. You'll traverse alpine meadows, often called the Hanging Gardens, with wildflowers blooming in mid-summer, all while enjoying panoramic views of peaks like Clements Mountain and Mount Oberlin. This easy 1.9-mile (3.1 km) hike, with only 124 feet (38 metres) of elevation gain, takes about 49 minutes, making it a perfect family-friendly option for soaking in the scenery.

Planning your visit requires an early start, as parking at Logan Pass fills up quickly due to the trail's popularity. Consider using the park's shuttle system to avoid parking woes. Be prepared for rapidly changing weather conditions, even in summer, and always carry bear spray, as wildlife sightings, including mountain goats and bears, are common.

This trail is a hotspot for wildlife viewing and showcases some of Glacier National Park's most iconic scenery, including the stunning vista of Hidden Lake with Bearhat Mountain in the background. Approximately 1.2 miles from the trailhead, you'll cross the Continental Divide, adding a unique geographical highlight to your adventure.

If you're looking for a solid, scenic hike in the Delaware Water Gap area, the AMC Mohican Outdoor Center loop from Mohican Outdoor Visitor Center is a great option. This moderate 4.8-mile (7.7 km) hiking route takes about 2 hours and 13 minutes to complete, with 616 feet (188 metres) of elevation gain. You'll traverse notably rocky and rooted paths through quiet woodlands, with the reward of magnificent views of the Delaware Water Gap from various ridgelines. It's a good choice for hikers who appreciate varied terrain and rewarding vistas.

Your journey begins at the Mohican Outdoor Visitor Center, which provides convenient parking and amenities. There are no special permits required for this loop. To make the most of the panoramic views, plan your visit for a clear day. Autumn is particularly appealing, as it offers the chance to spot migrating hawks from higher vantage points.

This area is notable for its direct access to sections of the historic Appalachian Trail, allowing you to experience a piece of this iconic path. The region is rich in natural features, including wetlands that offer opportunities for wildlife spotting, and the geological marvel of the Delaware Water Gap itself. The variety of trails originating from the Mohican Outdoor Center means you can always find other loop options to explore.

The AMC Mohican Outdoor Center – Raccoon Ridge loop offers a rugged and rewarding experience through the Kittatinny Mountains. You'll navigate an extremely rocky path, often described as an "ankle-breaker," but your efforts are generously repaid with outstanding panoramic views from Raccoon Ridge. Look out over the Delaware Water Gap, the Delaware River, and eastern Pennsylvania, especially during the leaf-off season when views are almost constant along the ridge. This 10.6-mile (17.0 km) hike, with 1081 feet (330 metres) of elevation gain, is rated moderate and typically takes about 4 hours and 45 minutes.

Starting from the Mohican Outdoor Visitor Center, this loop provides convenient access to amenities like restrooms and a store at the AMC Mohican Outdoor Center. Given the challenging, rocky terrain, wearing quality hiking boots with good ankle protection is highly recommended. For those planning their visit, the best time of year to hike Raccoon Ridge loop for wildlife viewing is from late August to early December, with early to mid-October being peak season for hawk migration.

This trail incorporates a section of the historic Appalachian Trail, adding a layer of significance to your journey. Raccoon Ridge itself is a renowned spot for observing migrating hawks and other raptors, thanks to the ridge's topography which funnels these birds, offering eye-popping encounters. It's a unique opportunity to combine a challenging hike with exceptional wildlife viewing, making it one of the more popular trails near Mohican Outdoor Center.

This easy 2.6-mile (4.3 km) loop from Black Oak Lodge at the AMC Mohican Outdoor Center is a fantastic way to immerse yourself in the serene woods of the Delaware Water Gap. With only 347 feet (106 metres) of elevation gain, it's a gentle hike that takes about 1 hour and 14 minutes, perfect for a leisurely stroll. You'll wander through quiet forests, potentially spotting local wildlife, and experience the diverse terrain that characterizes this beautiful area.

For those staying at Black Oak Lodge, this trail is right on your doorstep, offering convenient access to the Mohican Outdoor Center hiking trails. Parking is available at the center, making it easy to start your adventure. This family-friendly hike is best enjoyed in the morning or late afternoon for cooler temperatures and a peaceful experience, and no special permits are needed.

The Mohican Outdoor Center provides a gateway to a network of trails, including access to the iconic Appalachian Trail nearby. While this specific loop offers a taste of the local environment, the area is rich with opportunities for longer hikes to panoramic viewpoints like Raccoon Ridge or to explore historical elements like old mine remnants along the Delaware River.