3 Affordable Christmas Travel Destinations for People Who Love Hiking

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For many people, the holidays are a time for getting good and cozy. But not for you. You’re a hiker, and as soon as you put the out-of-office message up, you’re ready to hit the trails. But finding a new holiday destination where the views and the pathways are as beautiful as the price can be tricky. 

GOBankingRates laced up the hiking boots, grabbed a hiking stick and went in bold pursuit of the best places to go hiking this holiday season — without giving your wallet elevation sickness.

Grand Canyon Hiking 

REI: These three little letters have a big impact in the world of outdoor adventuring. So it shouldn’t be a surprise that the company itself hosts a variety of retreats, including this excursion to the Grand Canyon for hikers of moderate skill. For four days, you’ll get to hike through the majestic Grand Canyon — roughly about six miles a day — in the company of other hikers. As part of your $3,299 package, or $2,999 if you’re an REI member, you also get National Park lodging with canyon views.

Joshua Tree National Park Hiking and Camping

Spend your holidays in the gorgeous Joshua Tree National Park with another REI travel package. During a four-day Southern California sojourn, you’ll get to enjoy a four- to eight-mile hike across a complex variety of desert landscapes, as well as guide-prepared meals. If you’re an REI member, this camping trip will cost $1,799; and if you’re not, you’ll be looking at a price tag of $1,979. 

Zion National Park 

The RunRepeat site calls St. George, Utah, the state’s “warm-weather retreat” and “the perfect winter getaway for those who want incredible mountain vistas without battling frigid temps.” It’s also home to stunning Zion National Park, where you can experience a wide range of trails tailored toward hikers of all levels of experience. A standard pass costs anywhere between $20 and $35, though a yearly pass to the national parks costs only $70. If you’re looking for an overnight trip, you can stay at Zion Lodge or take advantage of ample available camping.