Hey Reader!

Got an extra day off and a case of wanderlust? Here are a few Fourth of July weekend hiking trip ideas to make the most of the long holiday.

If you're like me and loose track of days, the Fourth of July falls on Friday this year—so those of you in the U.S. get a built-in 3-day weekend.

These ideas work for general outdoor lovers at all hiking levels, but if you're looking for a full-blown backcountry itinerary—I can help with that too 😉

📍 California—Mammoth Lakes/ Eastern Sierra

Where golden hour hits just right, temps are warm, and the mountain views are jagged and stunning.​
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• Friday
  • Drive to Mammoth Lakes
  • Hike Parker Lake (short, easy, and vibrant—great bang-for-your-buck lake hike)
  • Cruise the scenic June Lake Loop—swim or paddle if you’re feeling it
    • If you're looking for a new SUP (stand-up paddleboard, I've been loving this one that comes with a carrier)
• Saturday
  • Skip the shuttle system and avoid the crowds—there’s plenty worth hiking without the wait
  • Moderate hike: Duck Pass to Duck Lake (5.6 mi one-way, pass a series of alpine lakes and end at turquoise Duck Lake)
  • Peak-bagger's option: climb Cloudripper from Big Pine Lakes (about 2 hrs south of Mammoth) for a spicy all-day adventure
  • Sunset: Visit Hot Creek Geologic Site for beautiful Eastern Sierra views (don't soak—it's scalding)
• Sun:
  • Morning: Visit Inyo Craters—yup, Mammoth is actually a dormant volcano!
  • Check out the Minaret Vista for Mammoth's classic mountain views
  • Lunch: Pizza at John Works Pizza 🍕
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🔗 Don’t miss my Hwy 395 Road Trip Guide and Ultimate Mammoth Lakes Camping Guide for eats and camping beta!

📍 Colorado—Ouray/ San Juan Mountains

Small-town charm, big adventure energy.

• Friday
  • Drive to Ouray
  • Hike the Perimeter Trail (or a section)
  • Cookie + ice cream stop at Mouse’s
  • Snap your “Switzerland of America” photo
  • Drive the Million Dollar Highway 🏔️
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• Saturday
  • Climb the Gold Mountain Via Ferrata (all levels welcome—epic views + the 2nd longest suspension bridge in the U.S.)
    ➡️ Book here with code followtiffsjourney for a discount
  • OR: Hike Ice Lake + Island Lake (a fan-favorite alpine lake hike—moderate to challenging)
• Sunday
  • Day trip to Telluride (1-hr detour)
  • Explore town, grab a bite at The Butcher & the Baker, and hike Cornet Creek Falls—super short & scenic

🔗 Dive into more ideas in my Things to Do in Ouray Guide​

📍 Wyoming

Not a full itinerary here, but if you're in the Tetons, don’t skip Delta Lake—a jaw-dropping glacial lake with a workout of a hike to earn it and classic Grand Teton views

📍 Utah

Desert magic minus the spring break crowds.

I get it—July in Moab isn’t everyone’s top pick... but if you’re craving red rocks + slot canyons + a cool-down, Professor Creek in Mary Jane Canyon is an underrated gem. Just start early, bring lots of water, and maybe save this one for fall if you don’t love heat.

👟 Need help planning the rest of your summer adventures?

Whether you’re looking for the perfect 3-day backpacking loop, hidden gems away from the crowds, or a full-blown Southwest road trip—I got you.

I’m currently booking Custom Trip Planning Services for July & August! You’ll get a tailored itinerary to match your hiking style, adventure goals, gear recommendations, and snack preferences (yes, that’s a category).

👉 Fill out this form to get started

If you want an epic trip but don’t know where to begin—I’m full of ideas and would love to help you plan a summer you won’t forget.

Happy trails!
Tiff💜