Planning and Booking Affordable Hiking Trips
Are you looking for bucket list-worthy views, but Machu Picchu, Peru, Spain, Italy and Iceland aren’t in the current budget? With MidAmerica St. Louis Airport (BLV), you can travel to your dream hiking trip destination right here in the USA — in an affordable way.
Make the Most of National Parks
With 63 National Parks spread across the country, there is something for desert-lovers and forest-enthusiasts alike. In a choose-your-own-adventure-book way, travelers can decide between scaling mountainous terrain or admiring a lake view from flat ground. Many national parks are free to enter, with others charging a fee that ranges between $5-$35. Visitors can also purchase annual, senior, military, fourth grade and lifetime passes, which grant the holder discounted or free admission. For frequent explorers, this may be a budget-friendly option to consider. Passes can be purchased in-person or online through the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) store.
For adrenaline-seeking travelers flying from MidAmerica St. Louis Airport into Las Vegas through Harry Reid International Airport (LAS), the Grand Canyon sits four hours east in Arizona and features rugged cliffs and gurgling rivers to explore. With a wide range of hiking opportunities — from short rim walks to multi-day backpacking trips into the canyon — hikers at every level can venture out to popular trails such as the Bright Angel Trail, South Kaibab Trail and Hermit Trail that offer different levels of difficulty and breathtaking views. Gain a birds-eye view from the top of the Grand Canyon’s 6,000-foot structure, take on the trails or rest your feet with the free shuttle system provided. The trip to Yosemite is another worthwhile hiking adventure in itself. Depending on your route, the drive from Las Vegas can be between roughly 330 and 560 miles long, providing unforgettable views of sequoia groves and tall waterfalls for those willing to take the extra time to get there.
If you’re planning a trip to McGhee Tyson Airport (TYS) in Knoxville, Tennessee, you won’t want to miss the stunning natural beauty of the Smoky Mountains. In fact, the Great Smoky Mountains National Park is ranked USA’s most visited national park, having welcomed more than 12 million visitors in 2024. With soaring trees and diverse animal life, it’s no wonder this is a bucket list item for all who visit. Pitch a tent and set up your campsite for a multi-day adventure or partake in a short-day hike. With close proximity to the city of Knoxville, the parks and trails nearby offer a flexible itinerary for those wanting to experience the best of both nature and city life.
Exploring the Trails
MidAmerica St. Louis Airport proudly offers seasonal nonstop flights to Savannah/Hilton Head International Airport (SAV). Close to the history-filled city of Savannah lays miles of winding paths through Spanish moss and marshy wetlands — a perfect day trip for those looking to escape the busy city. Skidaway Island State Park showcases the natural beauty of trails that wind through sandy paths, stretch across long boardwalks and offer sweeping views of serene salt flats, making it the perfect hiking destination to enjoy a wide range of scenery. 
For more experienced or dedicated adventurers who prefer trekking through the backcountry, adventure travel can be found at Pine Mountain Trail in F.D. Roosevelt State Park in Georgia. Nestled deep in the woods, this 23-mile hiking experience crosses creeks, trees and waterfalls and comes highly recommended to those who enjoy backpacking. Georgia is also home to part of the Appalachian Trail, which staggers over mountain ranges and offers breathtaking scenery. It is considered one of the best hiking trails in the USA due to its length, diversity of terrain and stunning views, especially from the mountain peaks along the trail.
When you picture hiking destinations, wooded trails and forest landscapes may come to mind. Less than 10 miles away from the Gulf Shores International Airport (GUF), however, is a state park where swamp meets dunes and vegetation. The Hugh S. Branyon Backcountry Trail in Gulf State Park in Alabama is a 28-mile paved system of paths that links nine ecosystems for hikers to enjoy. The park also offers guided hikes, such as the hike to the park’s highest point.
Walking tours are another low-cost way to explore on a budget. Tours can be self-guided with the aid of checking a map, reading historic plaques or listening to audio stories to follow along. Guided hiking is also an affordable way to uncover hidden insights and stories that go far beyond what you see on the surface of the park. A professional guide can provide input on where to go (or avoid), the significance of a location and share helpful tips throughout the journey.
Free Experiences and Budgeting Tips
Make the most of your budget-friendly trip by taking advantage of free experiences and affordable options as well. Instead of bringing your own bike, look for low-cost rental services that offer great value without the hassle of traveling with extra gear. As long as you have your fishing license, you can also cast your line for a chance at reeling in a big catch. If cooling off in the water is more your speed, remember to pack an innertube from home to splash in the creeks or float down the river.
Of course, some of the most unforgettable — and completely free — moments of any trip are watching the daily sunsets and sunrises. These one-of-a-kind experiences leave a lasting impression long after gift shop souvenirs are forgotten. 
Looking to save more money on your hiking trip? Consider borrowing camping or hiking gear from family, friends or local Facebook Groups instead of buying it new. Splitting accommodations and utilizing public transportation are also great ways to stretch your travel budget even further.
Hiking trips can be even more affordable when bringing and preparing your own food. Restaurants, markets and camp stores often charge extra for basic essentials, so it’s better to pack everything you might need — from first aid kits to s’mores supplies. Even if you’re not going backpacking, your bags may be as full as someone who is. Make the most of campsite grills and fire pits, or prep sandwiches and meals in advance to keep things simple and budget friendly.
Whether you’re on your way to Nevada and California, or Georgia and Tennessee, MidAmerica St. Louis Airport is here to help you get one step closer to your next low-cost hiking experience. Grab your Patagonia reusable water bottle, roll up your sleeping bag and get ready for your next adventure. You don’t have to venture all the way to Alaska, Australia, Canada, France, South America or even Switzerland to see stunning views and make once-in-a-lifetime memories. With BLV and these budget-friendly tips, you can find your dream hiking destination, all without crossing an ocean.
