When is the best time to hike to avoid crowds?
Time of day and week
Start at sunrise or earlier. Most day hikers arrive mid-morning, so you'll have the trail to yourself for a few hours. On popular trails, aim to be descending by late morning while others are still going up. Weekdays are far less crowded than weekends, especially Mondays through Thursdays.
If you can't avoid weekends, go very early or late in the day. Some parks have evening programs or night hikes that are less crowded. Check park websites for real-time trail conditions and crowd alerts.
- Early morning: before 8 a.m.
- Weekdays: Monday–Thursday
- Late afternoon: after 3 p.m.
- Avoid holiday weekends
Season and location
Shoulder seasons—spring and fall—are generally less crowded than summer, but weather can be unpredictable. Winter offers solitude but requires more gear and experience. Popular national parks see peak crowds from June through August, especially in July and August.
Choose lesser-known trails or wilderness areas. Even in busy parks, crowds thin out beyond the first few miles. Research alternative routes and avoid iconic landmarks during peak times.
- Spring and fall: fewer people
- Winter: solitude but cold
- Avoid July–August in national parks
- Go beyond the first mile or two
Common mistakes
- Assuming all trails are crowded; many less-known areas remain quiet even on weekends.
- Hiking on a holiday weekend and expecting solitude.
- Starting at 10 a.m. on a Saturday, when most people hit the trail.
