5 Tips for Choosing Safe Hiking Trails in Early Spring

Stick to low-elevation, south-facing trails Trails below about 6,000 feet that face south or southwest catch the most sun and dry out first after snowmelt. North-facing trails at higher elevations hold snow and ice well into May.

Avoid north-facing and high-elevation routes These trails stay icy and muddy longer, especially in the Rockies or Sierra. Don’t assume “spring” means clear conditions.

Choose trails with good drainage Look for front-range foothills, coastal bluffs, or low-elevation canyon trails. Avoid routes that follow creeks or stay in deep shade.

Check recent trip reports Use AllTrails or local hiking groups to see current conditions. Mud season is real, and postholing through wet snow or trudging through shoe-sucking mud is not fun.

Verify conditions the morning of your hike Conditions change quickly in spring. Check the day you go, not the week before.