Top Hiking Trails for Landscape Photographers in National Parks

Sunrise Favorites: Trails Where the First Light Sings

Mesa Arch Loop, Canyonlands National Park

A short, pre-dawn walk rewards patience with the arch’s inner glow as the sun crests the horizon. Arrive early, compose low with sparse juniper foregrounds, and brace for a quick, spectacular burst of light.

Canyon Overlook Trail, Zion National Park

This modest trail leads to a balcony over towers and switchbacks that catch sunrise like a spotlight. Aim for layered telephoto frames, then switch to wide angles as soft light creeps into the canyon.

Cadillac Mountain North Ridge Trail, Acadia National Park

Climb before dawn to watch the Atlantic’s first light wash over pink granite and spruce. Use granite textures for foreground interest, and invite foggy sea stacks into distant frames for moody depth.

Sunset Stunners: Trails Built for Golden Hour and Afterglow

Taft Point via the Pohono Trail, Yosemite National Park

An elegant forest approach opens onto airy fissures and sweeping valley views. Arrive early to claim a safe perch, capture rim light on granite domes, and linger for alpenglow and subtle post-sunset color.

South Kaibab Trail to Ooh Aah Point, Grand Canyon National Park

A firm descent reveals buttes that ignite at day’s end. Frame terraces with a sturdy tripod, respect cliff edges, and start back before darkness to savor sky color from higher, safer switchbacks.

Delicate Arch Trail, Arches National Park

A steady climb over slickrock ends at an amphitheater where sunset paints the arch and surrounding fins. Compose with reflected light in the bowl and stay for the first stars if skies are clear.

Hidden Lake Overlook, Glacier National Park

Boardwalks lead to alpine drama where lingering snow and sapphire waters meet serrated peaks. Seek windless moments for mirror-like reflections, and layer wildflowers or weathered logs to guide the eye into the scene.

Nymph, Dream, and Emerald Lakes, Rocky Mountain National Park

A progressive series of lakes offers lily pads, cathedral peaks, and strong granite foregrounds. Arrive before crowds, bracket exposures for dynamic skies, and use polarizers sparingly to preserve cloud reflections.

Second Beach Trail, Olympic National Park

A short forest path opens onto sea stacks and tide pools that dazzle at low tide. Track tide charts, scout safe routes, and time shots for pastel afterglow shimmering across rippled sands.

Seasons and Weather: Matching Trails to Nature’s Rhythm

Mid to late summer meadows explode with lupine and paintbrush beneath the volcano’s icy flanks. Protect delicate vegetation, step on durable surfaces, and use low angles to place blossoms against dramatic morning backlight.

Seasons and Weather: Matching Trails to Nature’s Rhythm

Granite slabs and coastal views meet a kaleidoscope of hardwood color. Shoot wide for sweeping mosaics, then switch to compressed telephoto abstracts that stitch together crimson ridges and blue Atlantic haze.

On-Trail Fieldcraft: Ethics, Safety, and Gear for the Landscape Photographer

Prioritize stability and versatility: a lightweight tripod, two lenses covering wide to short telephoto, spare batteries, and filters you actually use. Trim extras so your pace and creativity stay nimble.