10 Official Forest Bathing Trails in the U.S. Perfect for a Wellness Reset

For those prioritizing mental wellness this year, forest bathing is a simple lifestyle change that prioritize mindfulness, connection, and self-care (and happens to be one I just began practicing). 

What exactly is forest bathing? It's a Japanese practice known as Shinrin-yoku, which is essentially immersing yourself in nature. It is using all five senses to connect with the natural world around you in a more relaxed, slow state—certainly not at the rushed pace many of us tend to move. Research shows that just 10 minutes of mindful time spent outdoors can reduce your stress, lower your heart rate, boost your immunity, decrease inflammation, and enhance your cognitive function. 

Hiking is one of the best ways to spend some time outdoors and offers countless physical and mental benefits. While there are thousands of hiking trails around the U.S. for you to consider, there are also Certified Forest Therapy Trails. These trails are unique as each one has gone through a strict certification process to prove it provides a safe, immersive, and multi-sensory forest therapy experience. Check out 10 certified Forest Therapy Trails in the U.S. that are perfect for some time outdoors this winter and wonderful destinations for slowing down and being more mindful.

1. EcoRecovery Trail - Fish Hatchery Park, Grants Pass, Oregon

• Trail Type: Loop
• Wheelchair Accessible: No
• Fee: $5 parking fee

It’s easy to forget about the stresses of daily life as you walk along the EcoRecovery Forest Therapy Trail at Fish Hatchery Park in Grants Pass. This is not only the first Certified Forest Therapy Trail in Oregon but also in the Pacific Northwest.

Along the trail, you’ll walk through a conifer forest, through beautiful meadows, and next to the Applegate River. Watch for a variety of bird and animal species, and if you wish, free guided forest therapy walks are available every month.  

2. Creekside Nature Trail - Sugarloaf Ridge State Park, Kenwood, California

• Trail Type: Out and back
• Wheelchair Accessible: No
• Fee: $10 day-use fee to access the state park

I couldn’t leave the short-and-sweet Creekside Nature Trail off this list as it plays an important role in forest bathing in the U.S. and is the first place where Forest Therapy Guide training took place outside of Japan and Korea.

This trail is less than half a mile and features easy terrain, making it tempting to rush through. However, because it is a lesser-known trail, it is much easier to find yourself alone with nature's soundtrack. Keep an eye out as you walk along this path—you never know what wildlife may come up and say hello. 

3. Forest Therapy Trail – Silverwood Park, St. Anthony, Minnesota

• Trail Type: Loop
• Wheelchair Accessible: No
• Fee: None

Located in the northeast corner of Silverwood Park in St. Anthony, Minnesota, is the Forest Therapy Trail. This trail isn’t as easy to find as others, but you’ll like it that way as it allows you to more easily get lost in nature.

This trail is short—approximately 0.25 miles—but it features five signs along the way that remind you to stop and stand still, notice the breeze on your face, find an object and notice its texture, etc. With reminders, beautiful views, and a short distance, this is a great trail for forest bathing beginners or for those who only have a few minutes to prioritize mindfulness. 

4. Nature Trails East – Quincy, Illinois

• Trail Type: Out and back
• Wheelchair Accessible: No
• Fee: None

Quincy’s Nature Trails East is a popular trail in the area, but a portion is a bit different than the rest—it’s designed for forest bathing. At the beginning of the trail, you’ll find signs telling you more about the route and the practice of slowing down and embracing the power of nature.

While beautiful all year long, this Certified Forest Therapy Trail in Illinois is particularly gorgeous when wildflowers add color to your path. I also recommend visiting on a weekday, when you are less likely to run into others and be distracted by nearby crowds.

5. Old Forest Trail – Overton Park, Memphis, Tennessee

• Trail Type: Loop
• Wheelchair Accessible: No
• Fee: None

Old Forest Trail is a true gem near Memphis, Tennessee. It is located within the only urban old-growth forest in the Southeast and is home to a 2-mile loop trail that may easily become your favorite place to escape the city.

The trail is easy to follow, and as you walk, you’ll find yourself surrounded by thick, green trees. Plus, if you time your visit just right, you’ll also spot colorful wildflowers, mushrooms, and various creatures that take your entire outdoor experience to the next level. 

6. Trails at Conner Prairie – Fishers, Indiana

• Trail Type: Two loops
• Wheelchair Accessible: The Prairie Trail is paved
• Fee: General admission tickets are required, and guided forest bathing experiences are an additional cost.

Conner Prairie is a living history museum that takes you back to life along Indiana's White River in the 19th century. This museum offers all types of experiences and attractions, including two Certified Forest Therapy Trails: the Prairie Trail and R.B. Annis Vista Trail.

The Prairie Trail is paved, while the R.B. Annis Vista Trail is a bit more challenging, with dirt and gravel terrain. However, both options give you the opportunity to develop a deeper connection to the great outdoors. Self-guided forest therapy options are available, or you may choose a guided forest therapy experience for an additional cost. 

7. Owl Pines Nature Trail – Northwest of Port Huron, Michigan

• Trail Type: Varies
• Wheelchair Accessible: Options may be available
• Fee: Varies based on event or experience

Owl Pines is a bit different than other destinations on our list. It is actually private property designed for people to slow down, immerse themselves in nature, and experience a quiet forest walk. Here, you can't just show up and explore, but you can sign up for a guided walk and forest bathing session to learn how to notice the natural world around you and reap the many benefits of the great outdoors.

Because you must reserve your time in this outdoor space, you likely won’t see large groups of people—it’s just you, the quiet, and the fresh air. 

8. Jackson County Greenway – Cullowhee, North Carolina

• Trail Type: Out and back
• Wheelchair Accessible: Yes
• Fee: None

North Carolina is home to several certified Forest Therapy Trails, and one that you will not want to miss is the Jackson County Greenway. This paved trail is one mile and takes you between the beautiful towns of Sylva and Cullowhee.

It’s a destination with something to mesmerize every sense, from listening to birds up in the trees and the nearby Tuckasegee River to looking closely at the bright colors of wildflowers that may line the path. Stop at the benches along your way, be still, and take a few breaths of the fresh air. This trail is short and easy, but it is certainly not one to rush. 

9. Pinnacle Park Loop Trail – Sylva, North Carolina

• Trail Type: Lollipop style 
• Wheelchair Accessible: No
• Fee: None

Sylvia’s Pinnacle Park is home to a 1,500-acre forest in the Plott Balsam Mountain Range. You’ll find a few hiking trails in this area including the Pinnacle Park Certified Forest Therapy Trail, better known by locals as the Pinnacle Park Trail. You may want your hiking boots for this trek as you’ll hike through the forest on a narrow trail that’s just shy of 0.5 miles.

You’ll have some elevation to climb, but it’s not too challenging. Just be aware of ticks, snakes, and poison ivy. However, this is truly one of the best trails for getting away from the bustle of the world and immersing yourself in nature. You can walk across a bridge, stop for a moment and notice the colors and smells around you, feel the temperature of the water flowing in the nearby creeks, and so much more. 

10. Forest Bathing Trail - Lodge at Woodloch, Hawley, Pennsylvania

• Trail Type: Loop
• Wheelchair Accessible: No
• Fee: Yes

If your ideal forest bathing experience is in complete peace and quiet, you’ll fall in love with this Pennsylvania trail. This is actually a private trail for guests who stay at the Lodge at Woodloch, an adults-only spa resort tucked away in the Poconos. You can be guided by a Certified Forest Bathing expert to learn how to be present and mindful in nature. They can teach you how to receive the benefits of the great outdoors, and you’ll find plenty of unique places to relax along your way like designated sitting areas and hammocks. After your forest bathing experience is complete, you can then participate in one of the many other wellness services and experiences the Lodge at Woodloch has to offer. 

Many of us could benefit from slowing down, removing our mental clutter, and becoming more present in this fast-paced world. Forest bathing is just one powerful way to achieve this. And if you are looking for a little hiking inspiration, check out these 20 iconic hiking trails in the U.S. that deserve a spot on every outdoor enthusiast’s bucket list. Make sure to plan your next outdoor adventure in the U.S. using Only In Your State’s itinerary planner.