Let’s talk about the best time to visit Sedona in Spring for wildflowers, and which trails to hike to see the most!
Sedona, Arizona, renowned for its striking red rock formations and mystical energy, is also a hidden gem for wildflower enthusiasts. As spring unfolds, this desert landscape bursts into a vibrant tapestry of colors, completely transforming the rugged terrain. Amidst the arid surroundings, wildflowers offer a stunning contrast to the earthy tones of the rocks and soil. From delicate pinks and purples to bold reds and yellows, these resilient blooms add a touch of ephemeral beauty to the enduring desert.
The sight of these colorful blossoms against the backdrop of Sedona’s iconic scenery creates a visual symphony that enchants visitors and locals alike. Whether you’re a seasoned botanist, a nature photographer, or simply someone who appreciates the wonders of the natural world, Sedona’s wildflower season is a must-see!
Certain times of spring will be better for wildflower viewings, which I’ll go over in this post. But there are also certain trails that will boast far more blooms than others (and they’re not all the trails you’d expect) so let’s dive into the best hikes in Sedona* to see the most wildflowers!
*in no particular order*
Little Horse Trail
Length: Approx. 3.5 miles roundtrip
Little Horse trail is a relatively easy hike, mostly flat, with a few stretches of more challenging terrain. There are flowers all along the trail. I found most of them to be more towards the beginning and ends of the trail. In between you can find an incredible and somewhat secret view of the Chapel of the Holy Cross!
I took this trail as a less crowded route to get to Chicken Point. This lookout has some amazing views of Sedona and the sprawling red rocks. If you’re feeling brave, you can hike up the steep slab of rock to get to the white line bike “trail”. It’s more of a daredevil experience than an actual trail. But walking along it was thrilling and the view (and distance it gave me from the pink jeep tours down below) was well worth it!
Afterwards, head to the nearby Crescent Moon Picnic site to eat lunch and soak in the beautiful scenery. This site boasts a refreshing creek lined with trees, and one of the best views of Cathedral Rock in Sedona!
Mescal Trail
Length: Approx. 5.9 miles out and back
Mescal trail is located in NW Sedona, on Long Canyon Road off of Dry Creek Rd. It’s considered a moderately challenging route, but I found it to be more on the beginners side. It was pretty flat for most of the trail, though some of the terrain can be a bit rocky!
Aside from a couple bikers and a small group of friends, I was the only one out on this trail. I did start around 8am, but some Sedona hikes would’ve already been incredibly crowded even that early in the morning! Why it’s not as popular eludes me, as I found the trail to be quite beautiful, and thanks to all the wildflowers, one of my top favorites in Sedona!
This was one of those hikes where I found myself stopping every five seconds to take photos of wildflowers. I swear every five feet there was a new and beautiful flower that was just calling out to me for a photoshoot!
Margs Draw Trail
Length: Approx. 4 miles (only roughly 100 ft of elevation gain) and can be extended by taking Huckaby trail.
This hike is another one of the lesser known gems in Sedona. It doesn’t get nearly as much traffic as other nearby routes despite its impressive, panoramic view of many of Sedona’s most recognizable mountains and rock formations and close proximity to the town. It’s a very easy hike and great for the whole family.
There are a couple trailheads from which to start this hike, including Margs Draw TH, Broken Arrow TH, Sombart Lane Trailhead, or from Schnebly Hill. However, you’ll probably encounter the most parking availability at Margs Draw TH or Schnebly Hill.
This hike had a wonderful array of flowers lining the trail, you’ll see the most about .5 miles in (from the Margs Draw TH). As you come to a fork in the road, turn right (towards Broken Arrow TH) to see the most flowers!
When to Visit Sedona For Wildflowers
When it comes to the desert, the window of time to see wildflowers in their full glory is pretty narrow. Luckily, wildflower season also falls on the best time of the year to visit Sedona weather-wise.
The peak season for wildflower viewing in this desert oasis typically spans from late April through May. During this period, the weather is just right—not too hot and not too cold—providing ideal conditions for both the flowers and the visitors eager to see them.
The earlier spring rains and the warming sun create a perfect environment for a diverse range of wildflowers to flourish. Planning your visit during these months ensures that you’ll witness Sedona at its most picturesque. Wildflowers paint the desert in hues of purple, yellow, red, and orange, a haven for nature lovers!
Some of the flowers you can expect to see include:
Claret cup cactus
Indian paintbrush
Prickly pear
Beavertail
Mexican Poppies
Black-footed daisies
Fleabane
Evening primrose
Purple owl’s clover
and cream cups!
If you’re heading to Sedona in the springtime, make sure to check out these hikes to see some wildflowers! Looking for some other tips on what to do in Sedona? Check out my recent post on how to spend one day in Sedona for some ideas!
I go through #50 items that all make perfect hiking gifts for her or for the hiker in your life. This list includes budget gift items, luxury items, gifts for those with dogs, and more!
Do you have a woman hiker in your life who you want to celebrate? Maybe they’ve got a birthday coming up or maybe you just want to show them a little love….either way, this guide is sure to have the perfect hiking gifts for her.
This gift guide is tailored more towards female hikers, but there’s certainly something for everyone in this guide. And most outdoor products can be enjoyed by all!
I’ve broken these lists up to make them easier to navigate. But keep in mind that there will be gifts in most price ranges within each category, so keep scrolling to find the perfect fit!
Best Budget Hiking Gifts Under $25
Join us on a hike
There’s nothing us hikers love more than spending quality time outdoors. So if you’re on a tight budget for gifts, just know that offering to join us on a hike is an excellent option! Bonus points for letting us pick our favorite one or offering to drive! You’ll create lasting memories on top of it being free 🙂
Outdoorsy Stickers & Patches
You can’t go wrong with a couple cute hiking themed stickers or patches. They’re so fun to put on water bottles, backpacks, laptops and more! If you know what national parks they’ve visited, you can get them a sticker to celebrate each one! Etsy has loads of fun stickers, and as a bonus, you get to support a small business.
You can never have too many hiking socks! Especially if you’re like me and you’ve got a sock-eating kitty roaming your home! These ‘Darn Tough’ merino wool socks are temperature regulating, keeping you warm in the winter and cool in the summer. Plus they have antimicrobial & odor resistant properties!
It’s very important to keep your eyes protected from the sun while exploring the trails. Even in the winter, the snow can reflect more sunshine into your eyes, so a good pair of sunglasses are a must. GoodR’s have an incredible reputation in the outdoorsy world, plus, they’re cute and affordable!
What better way to create lasting memories than with a film camera? Disposable film cameras are a great way to dip your toes into the world of film photography and they are so fun to use! I’ve got a whole shelf in my room with my photo books packed with film photos from all my adventures. I love flipping through them whenever I miss my friends, my adventures, or just want to show others. Gift your hiking buddy a disposable camera so you can share in the joy of film photos!
If you’re looking for a good hiking gift for her under $25, you certainly can’t beat this black diamond headlamp! A reliable headlamp is an essential item for the hikers in your life that love a good sunrise/sunset hike! This one is both comfortable and lightweight, and it’s got multiple lighting modes that will provide you with hours of reliable light on the trails.
This portable charger can give you up to four full charges. Plus, it’s as compact as a credit card, making it the perfect gift for outdoor explorers who like to pack light but need to make sure they have a charged phone for emergencies, google maps or taking photos on the trail (hint… that’s pretty much all outdoor explorers!)
This is one of those things that you don’t really need, until you need it! This tick kit clips right on to your keys, pet’s collar & backpack and works for humans and pets. It removes the entire tick (whereas tweezers will sometimes leave the mouth behind). I know it’s not the cutest gift… but it’s a super helpful one!
This Gregory Nano 18L is the perfect daypack for exploring the nature trails or the urban trails around the world! It’s got a zippered pocket for a hydration reservoir (or tablet), tuck-away hip belt, quick access front pockets and more. I love the sleep and comfortable design of this bag! Plus all of Gregory’s products are sustainably and responsibly made!
These hiking poles are an excellent option for those looking for a little extra stability on the trails. Steep or rocky hikes can be brutal on the knees. Hiking poles are a great way to protect your joints so you can last longer on the trails!
A good water bottle can make all the difference on the trails. A filtered water bottle can make all the difference in one’s health! The grayl water bottle is built specifically for backpackers, campers, hikers, fishers & travelers to be able to get water from any source without worrying about bad bacteria, viruses, heavy metals and more.
This Lifewater filtered water bottle is a great option for trail runners or those who want to pack light but don’t want to sacrifice bag space!
Help your hiker stay hydrated with LMNT (element) electrolyte packs! It’s well known that the Earth’s soil no longer has enough minerals and electrolytes for us. Hence needing to supplement them. LMNT is one of the few electrolyte companies out there that doesn’t put any sugar, fillers or dodgy ingredients into their products. They truly give you everything you need (and nothing you don’t) to support energy levels, endurance and recovery.
My favorite flavor is grapefruit, but you can gift your hiker this variety pack so they can choose for themself!
Keep your hiker warm and cozy with this affordable and lightweight puffer jacket! A good puffy jacket is an essential outerwear piece and will help provide your hiker with motivation to get outside even on the chillier days!
Embark on your hiking adventures with Toup, a brand renowned for its sustainable approach and commitment to real, natural ingredients. As a devoted fan of sustainable products, Toup has become a staple in my daily routine. Whether it’s their eco-conscious sunscreen, nourishing tallow moisturizer, or natural deodorant, Toup ensures I stay protected & pampered while exploring the great outdoors!
Use code BEYONDTHESHIRE11 for 10% off your order (now thats a gift for you AND your hiker!)
With a Birdie personal safety alarm on her keychain, she’s sure to feel a whole lot safer, both on and off the trails. The Birdie alarm features a 130dB siren (130dB is LOUD) and a very bright strobe light. All she has to do is pull the top pin to activate the alarm, and it will create a diversion to help deter an attack, plus draw the attention of anyone in the vicinity that help is needed. Even better, the Birdie is TSA- approved (unlike pepper-spray) so she can bring it with her on hikes around the world!
This little bracelet includes a fire starter, loud whistle, compass & 12 ft of military grade paracord all in one! The all-in-one paracord bracelet is the perfect hiking gift for the wilderness explorer in your life and will help ensure they stay safe no matter what happens, without adding any weight to their bags!
Bear spray and a bear horn are essential hiking safety tools, and not just for the trails! They can be carried around while exploring the city as well for bonus protection on top of the Birdie!
The titanium emergency whistle, compact yet powerful, is a vital tool for hikers, providing a reliable means to signal for help in critical situations. Its durability and affordability make it an indispensable addition to any hiker’s pack & an excellent choice for an affordable and practical gift.
As an EMT who frequently works a lot of outdoor events, I rely on these blankets to address potential hypothermia cases. Rest assured, the PrimaCare blankets offer exceptional quality and reliability in critical situations like these! Compact and affordable, it’s a must-have for every hiker’s pack and makes a thoughtful and practical gift for outdoor enthusiasts.
A mini first aid kit can really come in handy on the trails, whether you need a small band-aid or essential life-saving supplies during outdoor adventures. It’s a thoughtful gift for hikers and outdoor enthusiasts, ensuring safety and preparedness in every excursion.
My favorite thing about this emergency knife is the glass breaker! Should you ever find yourself in a car crash that lands your car underwater, you won’t be able to roll your windows down & the glass on cars doesn’t break easily, you need something specific like this tool. I know that’s a pretty specific situation to worry about…but hey…sometimes anxiety makes the rules. This tool also has a folding knife, seat belt cutter, LED light, magnesium fire starter, and bottle opener. It’s a great tool for camping, hiking, hunting and to just keep one handy in the car for emergencies.
Water filtration tablets are the ultimate solution for clean drinking water on the trail, effectively purifying water from any source. This is an excellent item for your hiker to keep in their bag for extreme emergencies.
She’ll love spending a night with good food, good company, and a beautiful puzzle of her favorite places in nature! The colors in this national parks puzzle are as vivid and beautiful as the scenery they represent in real life and will make the perfect wall art once completed!
Hikes to waterfalls and swimming holes are some of my favorite types of adventures to go on! While it can be nice on super hot days to dip in with your regular clothes, most of the time you want a good swimsuit on. I love that Carve offers super cute rash guards, swim tops, and swim shorts, so she can wear just her swimsuit ‘outfit’ for the whole hike or choose to layer underneath her hiking clothes! Even better, she’ll know that her swimsuit came from a company that cares about the environment. All Carve swimsuits are made from recycled plastic bottles!
Another great themed hiking gift for her, a paint by numbers is a wonderful and relaxing gift that doubles as wall art once finished. Another great opportunity to support a small business on Etsy, search for a pain by numbers of her favorite state, national park or town!
A hammock offers the perfect blend of relaxation and adventure, providing a comfortable oasis in the heart of nature. Lightweight and portable, it’s an ideal gift for hikers and outdoor lovers, allowing them to unwind and rejuvenate amidst the wilderness. This hammock is quick and easy to put up and built to withstand the elements!
I love taking some watercolors or drawing pencils and a sketchpad up to the mountains, finding a sunny spot with a view, and doing some art. Being up in nature is so inspirational for me and I even find it meditative. Consider gifting some portable watercolors to the hiker you know to encourage them to explore their artsy/creative side!
The America The Beautiful pass unlocks a world of natural wonders and breathtaking landscapes, granting unlimited access to the beauty and serenity of America’s most cherished outdoor spaces. It’s the ultimate gift for adventurers and nature enthusiasts, offering a year of exploration and unforgettable experiences in the great outdoors. This pass is good for a year of visits, covering entrance and day-use fees at federal recreation sites across the country, including all the national parks.
Elevate her outdoor adventures with the superior optics of the OutlandX Binoculars. Designed for birdwatching, wildlife spotting, and admiring panoramic views, these binoculars deliver exceptional clarity and a comfortable grip. Whether she’s exploring dense forests or wide-open landscapes, these will enhance her hikes with thrilling discoveries and unforgettable sights.
I love taking a rite in the rain notebook with me wherever I go because you never know when inspiration is going to strike! This is a great gift for the adventurers in your life who are always jotting down quotes, notes, ideas, and random thoughts. I often have some of my biggest realizations when I’m surrounded by the peace & quiet of nature. It’s an added bonus that I know everything I write inside will be protected from the elements or even an accidental water bottle spill inside my bag!
This little camera has been taking the internet by storm recently. If you’re looking for the ultimate luxury gift for the outdoor enthusiast, extreme adventurer, or solo travel content creator in your life, look no further than an Insta 360. This powerhouse of a camera captures 360 degrees all at once, from which you can choose which angle you prefer in editing. When used with the invisible selfie stick, you can take magic third-person/drone view footage all by yourself. This is seriously the camera of the future and is without a doubt the coolest luxury gift you can get for all types of explorers.
Rumpl blankets are incredibly cozy, come in tons of cute prints, and are some of the highest-quality outdoor blankets I’ve ever felt. I fell in love with my Rumpl from day one and I never go anywhere without one now! It’s perfect for camping, hiking, traveling, picnics, beach days, and more, and it repels water, dirt, sand, spills, and pet hair. Rumpl blankets are made by adventurers for adventurers! What could be better?
Every hiker needs a pair of quality hiking boots, and there’s truly none better than Xero shoes. The Ridgeway is not just stylish and comfortable; it’s also waterproof, lightweight, and utilizes cutting-edge barefoot-friendly technology. I used to have terrible leg and foot pain after long hikes, but after wearing my ridgeways, that pain is a thing of the past!
For the hiker who loves a good water hike, the same can be said for a pair of sturdy outdoor sandals. These barefoot xero sandals are the perfect combination of protection, comfort, light weight, natural flexibility, durability, versatility and affordability. I’ve gotten so many compliments on my sandals, and had many friends wonder why I was the only one not slipping and sliding all over the wet trails!
Give your hiker the gift of their dreams with a jetboil flash system. There’s nothing better than waking up early for a sunrise hike and making a fresh cup of coffee at the summit while you enjoy the view, and this jetboil java kit lets you do that and so much more! When it comes to portable cooking systems, Jetboil has totally raised the bar. Perfect for hikers, backpackers, campers & car campers, music festival goers, and more, the options are endless!
Quality, efficiency, and reliability are worth every penny when you’re out in the wilderness, and that’s why the Garmin Inreach Mini GPS Satellite Communicator is an invaluable tool for any explorer. The Garmin Inreach enables two-way satellite messaging, allowing your loved one to stay in touch with others and call for emergency help from deep in the backcountry, where cellular service may not be available.
Plus, it’s got GPS tracking, back tracking technology (to help you find your back to the trail if you get lost), weather updates, an SOS function and bluetooth to sync routes, trip plans and more with your phone. Give her the gift of peace of mind, so she can focus more on enjoying her adventures!
Buying gifts for the hiker in your life doesn’t need to be expensive! Buy Secondhand with GearTrade! You can find some awesome products from some of the top outdoor brands at great discounted rates! At the end of the day, it’s not about how much you spent but that you put time and thought into the gift. Plus, your hiker will appreciate that you chose to make a sustainable choice and not contribute to the over consumption that is damaging to the environment!
I know it sounds a little suspicious and odd…but a pee cloth is an excellent gift for the sustainable outdoorswoman in your life! Toilet paper can be quite wasteful and a reusable pee cloth will eliminate the need to bring any onto the trails and lower the amount often being left in nature. Even “biodegradable wipes” take years to degrade and release microplastics. Plus, the witty woman in your life will surely appreciate the brand name of this pee cloth!
Trail snacks are an absolute essential for me, and I always pack mine in one of my stasher reusable bags! Not only are these bags dishwasher safe and reusable, but they’re made out of silicone, which is a much safer alternative to plastic.
Cotopaxi is a certified B corp, and they use only sustainable materials for all their products. This 20L pack is the perfect day hiking bag for the sustainable adventurer in your life.
Seed balls are small balls made of clay, soil, and seeds which are used to help replant areas where natural flora has been destroyed. This is such a fun & eco-friendly gift, and they can even be made by hand for an extra special touch! Gardening Know How has a wonderful post to check out on how to make seed balls from scratch that are native to your hiker’s area. She’ll appreciate the extra effort you put into making them yourself and will find joy in getting to give back to nature in such a special way!
Gifts For Hikers With Dogs
Dog Water Bottle
This water bottle for dogs is a GAME CHANGER for hikers with dogs. I used to carry around those foldable bowls, but my dog wouldn’t always drink all the water in the bowl and even after emptying it I’d still find the inside of my bag would get wet. They were a waste of water and space. This bottle lets you pour out enough water for your pup to drink, and anything they don’t finish can be returned to the container with the press of a button. It’s easy to use, lightweight, leak-proof, sustainable, and dog-approved!
This adjustable two-in-one leash and hitching system is great for the hikers and campers in your life, but especially the trail runners as it offers a hands-free system! This ruffwear leash can be hand-held, worn around the waist, or easily hitched around a post/tree. They thought of everything when they designed this leash, and any hiker, camper, or runner with a pup would certainly be thrilled to receive this gift!
This dog pack is an excellent everyday pack for medium and large-sized dogs! Doggy day packs are a great way to make the most of limited pack space since you can throw all your pup’s essentials into their own little backpack to carry! They’ve got three versions, one for the bare essentials, one for longer or overnight hikes, and one for multi-day adventures. If you’re looking for THE gift to give someone who brings their dogs with them everywhere they go, I cannot recommend this highly enough!
For the backpackers and campers who always bring their dogs along with them, this Happy Trails sleeping bag and pad is the perfect gift! Happy Trails is made here in the U.S. in the Pacific Northwest, and specifically designs lightweight outdoor products for dogs.
No one wants to think about losing their precious fur baby, and thanks to this air tag holder, now you don’t have to! This holder protects air tags from all the elements and keeps them secured to your pup’s collar or harness. This makes an excellent gift for the hikers, campers, and adventurers in your life who’ve got a dog who likes to roam around leash-free!
Consider gifting your adventurer this dog first aid kit so they can be prepared for anything with their pup. I love that this kit includes a pet first aid handbook because, let’s face it, as much as we like to consider our pets our “children” they will need a different approach to first aid than humans!
This iPhone tripod device offers the versatility of a selfie stick with the durability of a tripod and will help your hiker or content creator capture beautiful photos and videos on every adventure. The TONEOF is lightweight and folds up small, making it an excellent choice for carry-on packing travelers, and as a bonus, it comes with a wireless remote.
Peak Design capture clip If you know a hiker who loves to bring their camera on every hike and is always stopping to take it out for photos, this capture clip is going to make their lives SO much easier! This has been, by far, the best investment I made for my camera gear this year (and in the scheme of photography gear, it’s a pretty cheap ‘investment’). The heaviest lens I put on my capture clip is my EF 24-70 2.8, which is about 1.7 pounds. It can take heavier lenses, but you may start to feel it in your shoulder.
Elevate her hiking and photography game with the Zomei carbon fiber travel tripod. Lightweight and compact, it’s the perfect companion for all her adventures, easily fitting into any pack. Despite its featherweight design, it offers impressive stability and will reliably support even her heaviest lens. While it may not be a Peak Design carbon tripod, it’s a fantastic and budget-friendly alternative that will ensure she captures every breathtaking moment along the trail.
I hope this list has given you some inspiration for finding the perfect hiking gifts for her! What are you planning to give to the woman hiker in your life? I’d love to hear any other ideas you think of!
A comprehensive day hiking checklist that includes everything needed for short adventures, including basic gear, clothing, sun protection, safety and more. Free PDF included!
*This guide is meant for short treks not too far from town, if you’re looking for a checklist for long day hikes far in the backcountry, where you’ll need to be more self-sufficient, I’ll be making one for that soon!*
This hiking checklist airs on the over-prepared side, but if you’re just getting started, I recommend starting out bringing everything you think you will need, and then slowly eliminating as you gain experience and figure out what works best for you!
Let’s get into it!
Hiking Gear
Daypack (I use an 18L pack, but anything from a 13L to a 22L is perfect for day hikes)
Trail snacks (I always keep a few snacks in my pack, I don’t often need more than one on a short hike but I like to keep a few in case I get lost or stuck on the trail longer than planned!)
Optional:
Trekking Poles (Especially great if you have any knee issues, I don’t use poles but I have a few friends who use and love these
Map/route description – if your hike takes you along multiple paths, it might be good to take a map (or a screenshot of the trail routes ahead of time) so you don’t get lost
My go-to hiking pack and filtered water bottle
Clothing – These are all mix and match based on the weather and where you live
Birdie Personal Alarm or an emergency whistle (some daypacks have these built into the strap buckle)
Optional:
Bear Spray (for those who hike in bear country. However, it could also certainly come in handy if you run into stranger danger on the trails)
Personal Items & Extras
Credit card/cash & ID
Cell phone – fully charged
Optional:
Camera
Binoculars
Sketchpad or journal (I love bringing one of these up into the mountains and finding a sunny spot to sit, meditate and draw)
Health / Sun Protection
Sunscreen – Tallow & Zinc Oxide Sunscreen in a reusable jar- (code: BEYONDTHESHIRE11 for 10% off!)
Sunglasses
Optional:
Sun hat (I use a baseball cap)
Chapstick with SPF
Insect Repellent (depends on the time of year and where you live of course!)
A few of my hiking essentials for sunny days
Remember that this hiking checklist is a comprehensive starting point, and you may find that you don’t need everything on this for the type/length of hike you’re going on.
I hope this hiking checklist helps you feel empowered to embrace the outdoors and start hiking more often! What are some of your favorite, go-to day hikes?
Ignore the mud.. I took these shots in the middle of a hike!
*This is not a paid review. I am an affiliate with Xero shoes, which means that I may earn a small commission if you click on some of the links and make a qualifying purchase. However, I earn nothing from Xero Shoes by writing this and everything in my review of these Ridgeways is my complete and honest opinion*
Xero Shoes was created in 2009 in Boulder, Co (my hometown!) by Steven Sashan and Lena Phoenix, who strove to create a barefoot shoe that was both environmentally sustainable & respectful, and that helped people move more naturally.
All their shoes use ethically-sourced and sustainable materials and provide your foot with a wider toe-box, minimal padding, and a zero-drop heel for natural, pain free movement.
Moreover, barefoot shoes promote natural foot function. Without the added support and cushioning, they allow you to feel where your feet are landing and adjust accordingly. Over time this leads to better gait mechanics, proper posture and balance and best of all, no more foot, knee or hip pain! Eventually you will be walking the way nature intended and your feet will become healthy & strong again!
What makes a shoe a ‘Barefoot’ shoe?
According do Xero Shoes and Dr. Irene Davis, a genuine “barefoot shoe” has:
A wide, foot-shaped toe box
No arch support (it’s a myth that you need this)
Little or no cushioning (you don’t need this either!)
A flexible sole to allow for proper foot motion
A thin sole to provide proper feedback about what you’re stepping on or in (hence the no cushioning)
The Retro Ridgeways are made with rugged canvas & suede accents. They have a fully seam-sealed inner bootie, gusseted tongue and waterproof membrane that make the whole shoe waterproof.
So far these shoes have really held their own in terms of quality. I’ve trudged them through mud, slush, snow, and even rivers, and have always ended the day with dry, warm socks. As someone with Raynaud’s, keeping my toes warm is very important, so having shoes that keep them dry through all my adventuring is essential.
I found these shoes to be very temperature regulating. As in, when it was chilly out, they kept my feet nice and warm, and when it was hot out, they kept my feet cool and sweat-free.
Colorado recently experienced a cold streak of about -10 degree days, while the rest of my body was rather chilly during my walks, my feet never got cold!
Additionally, I found the material to be exactly what it claimed: flexible yet sturdy. My ankle felt supported but the shoe was still flexible enough for my foot/ankle to bend as needed with the terrain. (More on this in the comfort/size section of the review)
Retro Ridgeways in ‘Insignia Blue’
Comfort
I found these ridgeways to be some of the most comfortable hiking shoes I’ve tried, and thats coming from someone who is generally quite picky about foot comfort. The wide toe box offered by Xero shoes helps relieve the discomfort I usually feel from shoving my wide feet into normal shoes. Also, the upper part of the shoe around my ankle provides support without digging into my skin at all.
Even as an avid hiker, I always find my feet & calves in major pain towards the end of a hike. I used to think this was normal, and simply meant that I had worked super hard and challenged myself…Yay me! I’ve now come to realize how wrong I was about this. Don’t get me wrong, my legs will still be a little sore after a really long or challenging hike, but not nearly the way they did before.
Before I switched to Xero shoes, my legs would throb with so much pain I could barely wait to get to my car to take off my shoes (if I wasn’t wearing my nice wool socks, sometimes I would take my shoes off before finishing the hike)… in retrospect that really should have tipped me off sooner…
These shoes are light and comfortable enough that I’ve actually found myself reaching for these shoes to wear just around town.
A Note On barefoot shoes
On the other hand, if this is your first time trying a barefoot shoe…it is going to hurt the first few times you wear them! BUT! This is NOT due to the shoes itself, but rather due to your foot & ankle muscles being forced to actually do what they were meant to do. Basically, your feet are just sore from their workout, and like any other muscle in the body, they need proper training to get in shape.
Sizing – Ridgeways & all Xero Shoes
Xero shoes’ sizing can be a little tricky to nail down. However, they offer a shoe fit guidefor finding the right fit and seeing if the shoe you want runs true to size, small, or large. If you don’t get it right the first time, U.S orders get a free exchange.
The Ridgeways recommend your usual size, however I ended up going up half a size since you want more toe room in hiking shoes to accommodate thick socks, swelling (like during multi-day hikes) and foot slide when going downhill. I was able to try my moms Ridgeways first (we usually wear the same size, she purchased a size 8, her usual size, and loves them) so I didn’t have to deal with exchanging for a new size, but I’ve heard the process is simple and direct.
Looks
Last but certainly not least…looks! I personally LOVE the style of these shoes. The other hiking shoes offered by Xero look more like a classic barefoot style shoe and I personally prefer the look of a classic hiking boot, which is why I was so excited to try the Ridgeways. I’ve got them in the Camel Brown style. The brown canvas & suede gives off that classic hiker look, and the pops of orange and blue add such a fun retro touch to the shoe.
However, the only downside here is that they only offer two color options: Camel Brown with orange and blue accents & Insignia Blue with yellow accents.
Ridgeways: Overall Take
The Retro Ridgeways have the look and style of super cute hiking shoes with all the flexibility and benefits of a barefoot shoe.
On their site, Xero Shoes makes the promise: If your feet don’t feel as good at the end of the day as they did in the beginning, you haven’t tried the Ridgeway. And so far, these shoes have delivered! Additionally, as an added bonus, I’ve gotten tons of compliments on my Ridgeways out on the trail.
Let me know in the comments if you’ve ever given barefoot shoes a try, or if you have any more questions about them! Want more hiking and travel recommendations? Head over to my gear recs page. Happy Hiking Y’all!
I recently spent three lovely days camping along the New River in the New River Valley of Southwest Virginia. Spoiler alert: It’s not new at all…it’s actually the second oldest river in the world. To put it in perspective, the New River’s water flowed along its winding path long before the Appalachians ever even rose to existence!
It was here that we ventured out for an unassuming hike at Cascade Falls/Barney’s Wall that turned into a day filled with breathtaking views of the new river valley, refreshing swimming holes, a striking waterfall, and loads of mushroom hunting.
This is technically two hikes, but you have to hike Cascade Falls to get to Barney’s Wall starting point, so it’s essentially one hike with two segments.
Location and Overview
Route Type: Out and Back
Total Distance: 4.2 miles for the Falls or 7.6 with Barneys Wall
Total Time: 2 hours for Cascade Falls, 4 hours with Barneys Wall (not including time stopping at the waterfall & New River Valley viewpoint)
Trailhead Location: 2068 Cascade Dr, Pembroke, VA 24136 (search for Cascade Falls Trailhead in maps)
Parking: Parking can be limited. If you go on a weekend or during school breaks in the summer, plan on arriving EARLY to secure a spot. I went at the end of August on a weekday when school was back in session, and the parking lot was almost empty at 10:00 a.m. .… so it really depends on the time of year you go
Fees: $3 (there will not be anyone there to give you change).
Terrain and Trail Directions
The first segment of the hike offers an upper trail and a lower trail to the falls. The lower path (to the right and across the first bridge) is best on your way up, as it hugs the bank and provides endless creek views. I found myself stopping for photos often on the lower trail; The way the light seeped through the trees and danced along the mossy creek seemed right out of a fairytale! The upper path is more of a service road but makes for a quick return to the parking lot.
Lower path terrain: Slightly more diverse, with a few steep rock stairs and a bit more of a slope. The fit or avid hiker will have no issue with this trail, we even saw little kids making their way up it
Upper path terrain: Flat and wide. Great for beginners, strollers, or those with physical disabilities (it even has some benches along the way to rest at)
To continue to the New River Valley Viewpoint:
Head up the wooden stairs to the left opposite the falls observation deck.
Walk about 200 yards to an open area with a signpost showing the Conservancy Trail, a 0.4-mile fire road, at the fork in the road, bear left.
Take another left in about 50 yards at the Conservancy Trail signpost.
There will definitely be fewer people on this portion of the hike. You may even get to enjoy the view at the top all by yourself.
This portion of the hike is more strenuous than the first half, especially if you’re not an avid hiker. However, the view of the New River Valley at the top is absolutely worth it. You may even get a close-up of a Falcon on the hunt.
Mushroom hunting on the way to the New River Valley Viewpoint
Hiking Tips and Preparation
Wear a swimsuit (or clothes you don’t mind getting wet)! – At the waterfall’s base is a large, refreshingly cold swimming hole to splash around in. Bring sandals you can wear in the water to avoid stubbing your toes on the rocks.
Bring plenty of water and snacks – The waterfall’s base offers plenty of dry rock ‘seating’ for lunch with a view (depending on how crowded it is)!
Bugspray – Bugspray is a MUST on any hike on the East Coast (mosquitoes and gnats really thrive in the humidity). If you’ve got summer hiking pants, I’d recommend wearing those to protect your legs. For my health and the environment, I never use bug spray with deet or other chemicals. I buy Grandpa Gus’ Mosquito Repellent and I seriously SWEAR by this stuff. All natural, all plant-derived oils. My friend used deet bug spray and got more bug bites than me…thats how good it is!
Sunscreen – While the majority of the path is shaded, if you want to spend time up at the swimming hole, you won’t have the trees to shade you, so bring some SPF.
Going Solo
This hike is a fantastic choice for those looking for a short solo adventure! Everyone I came across on this hike was incredibly friendly and helpful in guiding me toward the lower trail. There’s no sign labeling it, but cross the first bridge to the right. My explorations in the nearby town were limited to the store, a gas station, and a park situated right across from a fire station. In every interaction, I was met with the genuine warmth of Southern hospitality.
Bonus highlight: Barney’s Wall viewpoint has some sizeable rocks that conveniently double as stable props for your phone, making it effortless to capture photos with yourself in the scenery!
In this post I go through my game-changing adventure hair style, why it work so well and how to do it!
When it comes to adventures, the last thing you want is for your hair to slow you down or make you miss the perfect photo-op.
Lo and behold, I present to you the ULTIMATE adventure hair style that will undoubtedly get you through any and all adventures. From the sweatiest, windiest moments to capturing an Instagram-worthy photo:
The Ponytail Braid
The Ultimate Hair Style
Why is it the perfect adventure hair style?
It’s easy. So easy you could do it in the dark at 4 a.m. or on the top of a windy mountain, & it will always come out flawless.
It stays off your neck & out of your face. No matter how long or thick your hair is, the ponytail keeps most flyaways out of your face, and the braid lifts the hair off your neck, so it always keep you cool.
Hats welcome here! The braid will slip through the ponytail hole in your hat with ease
Tailor it to your preferences: This adventure hair style can be done with a high, mid, or low-rise ponytail, depending on your needs and preference, and certainly looks good either way!
Last but NOT least: Style for ANY occasion. This hair style can certainly be dressed up or down to fit the occasion. For example, I’ve worn it on treks through the mountains and out to dinner with a nice dress on. I felt comfortable & cute in both situations!
Ponytail Braid Hair Tutorial
3 Easy Steps: Put it in a ponytail, create three sections, then braid!
Et Voila! The ULTIMATE hairstyle for every adventure.
I often like to zhuzh (or is it jeuje? The spelling of this word forever eludes me) it up with a scrunchie, especially one from my personal line of sustainable scrunchies (shameless plug…)! Or just keep it simple with some biodegradable hair ties (I’ve linked my favs below).