The 5 Best Wetland Hikes in the National Parks

If you thought hiking was all about mountains and forests, think again. Wetland hikes provide everything from opportunities to lace up your boots and chances to jump inside a boat. Just bring your sense of adventure and prepare to get at least a little wet!

Wetland Hike in Olympic National Park

A rainforest in a national park? You bet! And the Wetlands Loop Trail will take you there. Embrace your inner explorer as you navigate treacherous switchbacks and cross a creek into the lush wetland biome between Morgenroth and Kahkwa Creeks.

Wetland Hikes in Cuyahoga Valley National Park Wetlands Hike

This national park’s nearly 1,500 wetlands might take several years to explore. If you don’t have that kind of time, take the Ohio and Erie Towpath Trail for the best tour. Opened to facilitate transportation in the early 19th century from Cleveland to Portsmouth, today this historical route welcomes tourists choosing to travel the canal path. Several visitor centers along the way offer places to chat with a ranger and learn more about this park’s history.

Wetland Hikes in Yellowstone National Park Wetlands Hike

Between its streams, geysers, hot springs, and mountains… is there any kind of natural feature not found in Yellowstone? We’re certain the answer is no. And to prove our point, we’ll add wetlands (an example is the picture above) to its list of impressive features. For the best wildlife and nature encounters, try the Northeast Entrance Road, Firehole Lake Road, Dunraven Pass, and Norris Geyser Basin. Among other wonders, you’ll be sure to spot frogs, dragonflies, and wildflowers!

Wetland Hike in Big Cypress National Preserve Wetlands Hike

Ready to try something a little different? Here, water trails for canoeing and kayaking offer a unique approach to exploration. You may never want to hike on land again after experiencing waterways like this!

Wetland Hikes in Everglades National Park Wetlands Hike

Here you’ll find similar opportunities to explore waterways, but travel with caution. Especially intrepid canoers, kayakers, and powerboaters may choose to embark along the Wilderness Waterway Trail. At 99 miles long and an eight-day journey, it’s not for the faint of heart. But not to worry – the less adventurous can explore Turner River, Halfway Creek, Sandfly Island, or Ten Thousand Islands, home to dozens of birds, manatees, dolphins, and other wildlife. For more ideas on where to find great wetland hikes, consult our experts at Visit USA Parks. We would love to help you plan your dream vacation!