Nov 7 2008
The clubs of the American Volkssport Association host more than 1,700 self-guided trails in the United States. The walks go through a wide variety of areas, from National Parks to quaint towns to exciting cities. I polled a select group of the association's members to learn their favorite walks of 2007. Here are the results:
1. Grand Canyon, Arizona
The grandest walk in the continental United States takes you along the south rim of the Grand Canyon, through Grand Canyon Village. There is an alternate trail to Yavapai Point for more breathtaking views. Lowlanders should take it easy -- the elevation is 7,000 feet, although the route itself is fairly level. Event Number Y1376. Registration for volkssport credit is in Flagstaff.Walk Details | Club Site
Counts for: National Heritage Walk | Riverwalk America
Travel: Grand Canyon Travel
2. Honolulu, Oahu - Waterfront, Hawaii
For the best walk outside of the lower 48, our reviewers cited the tropical views of the bay, mountains, Waikiki, Diamond Head and other beaches as the reason this deserves top status. Sanction YR0600.Club site |Details for 2008
Travel: Hawaii for Visitors
3. West Point, New York
This is one of the oldest year-round walks in the United States, and our reviewers say it has stood the test of time. Walking through the campus, seeing all of the history, and enjoying the views of the Hudson River Valley make it worth the trip. Sanction Y0037.Walk Details
4. World Forestry Center, Portland, Oregon
This is known as the "Crown Jewel Walk," and it is a great immersion in the Northwest. The start is at a forest museum next to the zoo, and you walk through the arboretum to the International Rose Test Garden and the Japanese Garden for spectacular views of the city of Portland. This is mostly on natural trails, so wear hiking shoes and plan for mud. Sanction Y1531.Club site
Travel: Portland, Oregon
5. Garden of the Gods - Colorado Springs, Colorado
The Garden of the Gods walk near Colorado Springs, Colorado takes you into a stunning natural area of fantasy rock formations. The start is at the Garden of the Gods Trading Post, 324 Beckers Lane. The 11 kilometer (7 mile) trail is rated moderate on trails and roads and is at an altitude of 6412 ft. Sanction YR0464.Walk Details | Host Club
Travel: Colorado Springs
6. Virginia City, Montana
Near Yellowstone National Park, this town vividly recalls the Gold Rush days. Guides and re-enactors will even stage a gunfight for you, and you can pan for gold. The walk goes through the fabled Boot Hill cemetery. Sanction Y0105.Walk Details for 2008
Travel: Montana
7. Mackinaw City, Michigan
You could enjoy the walk or bike around picturesque Mackinac Island. This event was voted into the top 10 numerous times. Sanction Y0960.Mackinac Island Walk Overview | Michigan Walks
8. Truckee River Trail, Reno, Nevada
I added my vote to this list, as I enjoyed the Truckee River Trail a few times in the past year. It is a wonderful walk along a pleasant river, with all of the thrills of downtown Reno at the National Automobile Museum start/finish. If I ever move to Reno, this would be why. Sanction Y023.Photos of Walking the Truckee River Trail | Tahoe Trail Trekkers - Host Club
Travel: Visiting Reno
9. Spring Mill State Park, Mitchell, Indiana
This is a lovely hike in southern Indiana. Our reviewers say the walk goes through a virgin forest, along a stream, by sinkholes and caves, a restored pioneer village and grist mill. The walks starts at a charming inn worth a stay. Sanction Y1325.Walk Details
10. Indianapolis, Indiana
Many walkers try to collect walks in all of the state capitals. Indianapolis offers many historic landmarks and late Victorian homes. Sanction Y0259.Walk Details - 2008 | Host Club
Travel: Visiting Indianapolis
How to Walk These Walks
These trails are available by registering at the start point during open hours, taking the map and directions and enjoying the walks at your own pace.Step-By-Step on an AVA Year-Round Walk
