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Hurricane Costs: Florence to Cost Hundreds of Billions

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Hurricane costs

Over the years, the overall hurricane costs have increased with each natural disaster. Hurricane Florence will be no different. The storm could cost the East Coast as much as $170 billion in damages and lost productivity. In New Bern, NC alone, more than 4,300 homes have been absolutely destroyed. Wilmington and many other coastal towns are still completely unreachable by car and it may remain that way for days.

Hurricane Costs Reach Hundreds of Billions

While the $170 billion estimates may seem high, flooding from Hurricane Florence has completely cut off access to coastal towns. Towns on the coast often rely on tourists to keep their economy going. Most businesses were forced to shut down completely for evacuation. Not to mention, destroyed homes and at least 23 individuals confirmed dead, with numbers climbing.

Below is a graphic of the most costly hurricanes in U.S. history from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, with Katrina still leading the way. If estimates are correct, Florence will surpass that.

Hurricane florence

Hurricane Flood Insurance Payouts

Katrina led the way with more than 167,000 flood insurance payouts, reaching $16 billion in total cost. On average, each payout was less than $100,000. Estimates of insurance payouts for Hurricane Matthew (2016) range from $1.5 billion to $7 billion. Hurricane Sandy, another high-cost hurricane, led to $18.75 billion in insured property loss.

Personal Cost of a Hurricane

Cost of hurricanes

Outside of the obvious property loss and damage, many of these areas will suffer serious economic impacts in the months to come. Many individuals aren’t able to return home or travel far from home right now. Those who stayed are trapped inside with no stores, gas stations, or restaurants open locally. Individuals who evacuated often have to spend money to stay in hotels.

Because Hurricane Florence came so far inland and many areas are still unreachable, it will still be quite some time before we know the true cost of the storm.

hurricane costs

 

First Person Account of Hurricane Florence

Less than 30 miles down the road from where I live, homes and cars are floating away, a one-year-old child’s life was lost, and people are still without power. Many people will also be unable to go to work due to road access or their place of work being flooded.

Locally (in Charlotte, NC), we’ve been extremely lucky. We have had some trees down and some flooding. Although we’ve been stuck inside with many roads blocked off for a few days, we’re thankful for our safety and how we faired during this devastating storm.

Readers, have you been impacted by Hurricane Florence? Join the discussion on hurricane preparation in the Saving Advice forums. 

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Summer Allergy Update: Homeopathic Remedies for Allergies

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For most of the country, the worst of 2018’s allergy season has come and gone, but that doesn’t mean everyone is out of the woods just yet.

In early June, tree pollen will likely peak in northern New York and into New England, according to AccuWeather.

Furthermore, grass pollen will also increase in the southeast and mid-Atlantic regions. This means allergy sufferers could still be struggling this time of year.

Homeopathic  Remedies for Allergies

While prescription and over-the-counter medications can provide relief, some prefer a more natural route. Luckily, there are a variety of home remedies that can help. Here are some options for keeping your symptoms at bay.

Nasal Irrigation,

Options like neti pots and nasal washes flush materials out of your sinuses, which can reduce your exposure to allergens. Typically, they use a saline solution and purified water to break up mucus and remove irritants, like pollen.

Using a neti pot can feel odd at first, as you have to allow the rinse to enter one nostril and exit the other. Additionally, you need to make sure that you don’t use them with tap water, which can introduce risks.

Butterbur

Butterbur is a plant extract that may reduce inflammation of your airways. One study by Swiss researchers showed it was as effective as two over-the-counter antihistamines (cetirizine and fexofenadine) at reducing congestion and runny noses.

If you decide to use Butterbur, it has to be in an extract form. In its natural form, butterbur has dangerous compounds that can harm the liver, but they’re removed during processing.

Honey

Many praise honey for its health benefits. When it comes to allergies, one of the things honey can do is ease a sore throat. By swallowing a spoonful, it can calm irritation and coat the tissues, providing relief.

Try to source your honey locally, since that might help you build to pollen proliferating in your area. However, it would take time for a tolerance to develop. Note also that research on this topic is sparse.

Hot Showers and Steam

A hot, steamy shower can do wonders for the sinuses. But, for allergy sufferers, the benefits may be twofold.

Not only will you be able to unclog and clear your sinuses but showering also removes allergens from your skin and hair, reducing your exposure. This also decreases the likelihood that you will transfer the allergens to other items, like pillows and furniture.

If you just need the sinus-clearing benefits, you can also try a facial steam. You can use a facial steam device or simply heat some water and put it in a bowl. For the maximum effect, drape a towel over your head to catch the steam. You can also add eucalyptus oil to the water to reduce inflammation. Just be careful not to get too close to the water, or you can get burned.

Tea

Drinking tea can also provide allergy sufferers with relief. Since a hot cup of tea produces steam, that can help open nasal passages.

If you choose peppermint tea, you may also get some decongestant and expectorant benefits. Green tea may also have antioxidant properties that can reduce allergic reactions, albeit slightly.

However, if you are allergic to ragweed, avoid chamomile tea. It can cause a similar allergic reaction, so avoiding it is best.

Air Filters

If you need to make your home a sanctuary, install a high-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filter on your HVAC system. If you don’t have central air conditioning, you can also purchase portable air cleaners that do the same thing.

These filters capture pollen in the air, ensuring it doesn’t circulate through your home. You will need to change the filter regularly to get the most benefit. Refer to the manufacturer’s instructions regarding the replacement schedule.

Pay Attention to Weather Reports

Step up your consumption of weather forecasts to learn about conditions that might exacerbate your allergies — so that you know when it’s best to keep the windows closed or even stay indoors.

Depending on exactly what you’re allergic to, you might find that your symptoms worsen on windy days or those with increased pollution. Conversely, your symptoms might subside after a heavy rain, which tends to reduce the amount of pollen in the air.

Speaking of which, you can obtain more details on local pollen counts by visiting websites like Pollen.com.

Readers, do you or someone you care about suffer from allergies — and what’s your opinion on homeopathic remedies versus traditional pharmaceuticals?

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Lawn Care for Extreme Summer Weather

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<img src=" Lawn Care for Extreme Summer Weather.jpg" alt”housewithfrontyardshowinggrass">

Extreme summer weather can wreak havoc on your lawn if you don’t change the way you care for it. You might actually be forced to do something different: For instance, if you live in an area susceptible to drought, local ordinances on water rationing might actually prohibit you from watering your grass.

In some cases, you may even need to revamp your lawn entirely — that is, replant a different variety of grass that can better changed weather conditions.

Preparing your lawn for the kinds of extreme weather conditions that tend to affect where you live — this usually won’t require much work.

Heat Waves, Droughts and Wildfires

Before summer 2018 even officially started, numerous parts of the country already experienced record high temperatures that qualify as heat waves. All forecasts have called for above average temperatures this season.

High temperatures don’t necessarily indicate that a water shortage will occur, but it doesn’t hurt to plan for that possibility.

For example, allowing your grass to grow a little longer can help it retain water. Plus, it creates some of its own shade, helping to keep the ground cooler and lessening the negative effects of evaporation.

However don’t grow it longer if your area has had wildfires in the past.

You might also want to skip fertilizer in periods of extreme heat, it can cause damage.

Watering Strategies

When you do water, make sure to do so only during the very early morning hours — when it’s cooler out, more moisture can be absorbed.

If your area has experienced droughts in previous years, consider updating your landscaping toward more of a desert look, possibly eliminating as much of the grass as possible.

Otherwise, refer to your local ordinances to find out your watering schedule. Then, follow it closely, watering on all of the days you are allowed.

Ideally, you want to use an irrigation system and not sprinklers. Sprinklers are less efficient, so not all of the water may make it into your lawn.

To minimize the risk of fires, clear out brush as regularly as possible. Additionally, if any of your plants die or turn brown, remove them immediately. You also want to rake up fallen leaves and dispose of them. All of these things add fuel to fires.

Hurricanes, Storms and Floods

Hurricanes, tropical storms, and even floods can quickly lead to soil erosion. As the soil is washed away, it destroys your lawn.

Conversely, if you can take steps to thicken your lawn and make it healthier, that will increase the chance it will survive the onslaught of water.

As early in the summer season as possible, fill any bald patches with additional grass. Also plant roots help keep the soil in place so it won’t erode.

You may also want to allow your grass to grow longer before mowing it. This allows the roots to also grow deeper, providing more stability to the soil.

Lawn Care for Extreme Summer Weather

By following the tips above, you can maintain a healthy lawn regardless of any extreme summer weather conditions.

And by starting now, you may even be able to prepare in advance, giving you a head start this year.

Readers, how has the summer sun been affecting your lawn in recent seasons? Do you have other any tips for protecting your lawn during extreme weather?  

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Bug Repellents for Your Home and Yard

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As temperatures rise and everyone heads outdoors, bugs are also becoming active. While some pests are simply an annoyance, others carry harmful diseases.

For example, mosquitoes can transmit West Nile Virus, multiple forms of encephalitis, Dengue fever, a range of parasites, and more.

Additionally, allergies to bee stings are fairly common, and certain spider bites have the potential to be deadly.

Whether you want to keep bugs away for your own comfort or for health reasons, using a bug repellent may help. However, you need to choose the right options for each pest to get the job done right.

Bug Zapping Lights

One of the most widely used things for dealing with outdoor insects surrounding homes is the so-called bug zapper. It uses UV light to attract flying pests. Once an insect  lands on the board, the light electrocutes it.

Although a bug zapping light does kill flying pests, it isn’t always the best solution. The light actually attracts more bugs, making them more likely to appear in the area. Remedy this by placing the bug zapper some distance away from where you are — to draw the insects away from where you are hanging out.

Another problem with bug zappers: If there’s a breeze, electrocuted insects’ remains can be flung around the area. That’s all the more reason to place the appliance away from where you hang out (and especially eat).

Finally, keep in mind that bug zappers don’t have any effect on mosquitoes, which aren’t attracted by UV light does not attract them.

Candles and Torches

Candles and tiki torch oil featuring citronella can help repel pests, especially mosquitoes.

However, for citronella to work, the air needs to be fairly still — because its odor is what repels the bugs.

Additionally, it might not be very effective in open areas. However, if you have a screened porch, citronella may do the job on a still day.

Orange or Peppermint Oil

Orange and peppermint oils are natural bug repellents. Plus, they are safe for use around people, making them a viable indoor or outdoor solution.

Take a spray bottle and fill it with water. Add around 10 drops of your selected oil and a couple of drops of dish soap. Shake the bottle lightly to combine the ingredients. Then, spray areas where bugs like to gather, such as eaves, outdoor light fixtures, and porch ceilings.

You can also use these sprays indoors in areas like closets. However, if you have pets, it’s best to stay away from peppermint oil.

Cats are particularly bothered by peppermint oil and could develop lung issues after inhaling it. If a cat consumes peppermint, it can cause upset stomach, liver damage, or even lead to central nervous system problems.

Pest Control Sprays

There are a wide variety of commercial pest control sprays available today, including some natural variants. Some target specific pests, like ants or mosquitoes, while others act on a wider range of species.

If you are looking to buy a commercial product, make sure to read the warning and ingredients labels thoroughly. This lets you know where it is safe to use the spray (such as whether it is suitable for indoor use) as well as the risks of accidental exposure.

If you are worried about any of these risks, opt for one of the more natural remedies mentioned in this article.

Sulfur Dust

If fleas, ticks, mites or chiggers invade your yard, consider sulfur powder. This yellow, smelly element can prevent eggs from these species from hatching. It also emits an odor that may drives the adults out of your yard.

Check the weather forecast before proceeding with sulfur dust: You need to sprinkle or sift it during a period when rain isn’t expected for a few additional days. Yes, your yard will smell for a while, but this can do the job.

It is important to note that sulfur is flammable. That means you don’t want open flames or embers in your yard while the powder is sitting. Postpone any outdoor barbecues or campfires until after the powder has dissipated.

Diatomaceous Earth

For ants, caterpillars, and slugs, try diatomaceous earth. This white powdery substance is all natural and will repel a variety of insects.

It’s typically safe to use around people and animals. However, the dust is actually abrasive, so you don’t want to inhale it. Use a mask while applying the powder and give it a chance to settle into the soil before using your yard.

Bug Repellents for Your Home and Yard

Ultimately, any of the approaches above can help you repel pests from your home and yard.

Just make sure to read any warning labels and always follow the instructions for commercial products.

Readers, which types of bug repellents have you had the most success with?  

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5 Summer Home Improvement Projects

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<img src=" 5 Great Summer Home Improvement Projects jpg" alt”alargehome">

Investments in residential remodeling will increase by 4.9 percent over the course of the year, according to the National Association of Home Builders.

Many of these projects take place in temperate weather — so outdoor tasks are easier — but before it gets too hot.

Which home improvement projects you decide to take on depends on your unique situation. However, there are specific options that are worth exploring, especially if some maintenance has fallen by the wayside.

1. Air Conditioner Servicing

Having your air conditioner serviced before summer really heats up is a smart choice. After all, if your air conditioning goes out during scorching temperatures, you’re going to get uncomfortable quickly.

Ideally, you should have your air conditioner inspected, cleaned and serviced every year.

This ensures optimal efficiency, which can keep your utility costs down, and gives you a chance to address problems before they become catastrophic.

2. Clean Gutters and Downspouts

Many homeowners only think to clean their gutters and downspouts in the fall. However, if you live near flowering trees, falling petals can also cause clogs.

Begin by inspecting your gutters and downspouts. Make sure they are firmly attached to your home and fill any gaps with silicone-based caulk.

Then, gather debris out of the gutters and check the base of the downspouts for obstructions. Remove any built up material to ensure water can flow through with ease.

3. Maintain Sprinklers

If you have sprinklers, now is the ideal time for some maintenance. Passing over sprinkler heads with a lawnmower or weed trimmer might cause breakage, so you want to examine them all closely.

Check the sprinkler heads for broken ones that need replacement. Take care of that now so they’ll all be working when you need them most.

You can also clean out clogged sprinkler heads. Just remove the head and basket and rinse both thoroughly with clean water. Then, simply reattach them.

4. Replace Your Thermostat

Installing higher-tech thermostat — also known as a smart thermostat — before summer can be a wise move. Programmable options can help you save big on utility costs, especially if you adjust the temperature for when you’re not at home.

During the summer months, increasing the inside temperature by 7 to 10 degrees when you’re away can result in a savings of around 10 percent.

If you invest in a programmable model, you can set it and forget it. Just choose a higher temperature for when you leave for work and select a cooler one for right before you arrive back home.

Many smart thermostats connect to your home Wi-Fi network. Then, you can access it through an app, giving you the ability to make changes even when you’re away.

5. Clean Dryer Vents

Debris lingering in dryer vents create fire hazards. Nearly 3,000 dryer-related fires occur each year, resulting in a total of $35 million in property loss. Failing to clean the dryer is the leading cause of these fires, accounting for about 34 percent of them.

When you clean your dryer, you need to look beyond the lint trap: The vents in the back can also clog, so check those as well. Additionally, examine your dryer hose and remove any buildup from there as well.

If your dryer hose is damaged, purchase a replacement. Usually, you can find one for just $10. Plus, the replacement process is easy and usually only requires a few basic hand tools to do it right.

Ready Your Home for Summer

All of the summer home improvement projects mentioned above are fairly simple and generally inexpensive, putting them well within reach for most homeowners.

Ideally, you should consider handling them all, ensuring that your house is as ready for the summer as you are.

Have you recently completed any summer home improvement projects? Tell us about them in the comments section beneath this post.

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Mega-List of North America’s Best Hiking Trails

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best hiking trails

Record numbers of people are expected to hit some of America’s best trails this summer — as the number of hikers and backpackers in the U.S. has been steadily rising over the past few years. Here’s an overview of some of the best hiking trails in North America, including costs, where relevant.

Appalachian Trail (Georgia to Maine)

    • Fees: Although it’s free to hike the trail, certain parks along the way charge a fee. For instance, the Great Smoky Mountains National Park charges $20 per person for a hiker permit (even if you’re just passing through). Baxter State Park, also along the trail, charges hikers $15, plus an additional $21 if you stay overnight.
    • Accessibility: The Southern entrance of the trail is two hours northeast of Atlanta and it remains within an easy driving distance of major east coast cities throughout the trail. If you’re planning on hiking a section of the trail, be sure to arrange your pickup ahead of time. Many parts of the trail don’t receive good cell service.
    • Accommodations: Campsites along the Appalachian Trail cost between $5 and $30 per night. If you are looking to rent a campsite in one of the national parks along the trail, it can cost up to $50 per night (or $100 for a private hut rental).

Arches National Park (Moab, Utah)

  • Fees: Because Arches is a national park, there are entrance fees. If you’re driving into the national park, you’ll pay $25 for seven days. Otherwise, the entrance fee for a single person is $10.
  • Accessibility: Most people get o the park via car. If you are flying in, it’s 236 miles southeast of Salt Lake City, Utah.
  • Accommodations: Campgrounds are available in Arches National Park. For a standard campsite, you’ll pay $25 per night. If you’d prefer to camp out, you’ll have to pay for a backpacking permit, which is $7 and is good for up to seven days.

Colorado Trail (Colorado)

  • Fees: Hikers aren’t required to pay a fee to hike the Colorado Trail. However, those traveling through wilderness areas will be required to sign in at a registration station.
  • Accessibility: You can get pretty easy access to the Colorado Trail at Waterton Canyon, near Denver. The trailhead is easily reached using CO-470, Denver’s outer loop freeway.
  • Accommodations: Dispersed camping is free along the trail. Be sure you pitch your tent no closer than 100 feet to the marked trail, as required by Colorado law.

 Columbia River Gorge (Washington and Oregon)

  • Fees: Buy a day pass to hike the Columbia River Gorge for $5. You can buy it online or on-site. Depending on your activities, you may be required to purchase other permits and passes along the trail as well.
  • Accessibility: It is easy to navigate the Columbia River Gorge. Many people drive to the gorge to hike and perform other outdoor activities from nearby cities, such as Portland and Dallesport.
  • Accommodations: Campgrounds along the Columbia River Gorge cost between $15 and $20 per night. However, dispersed camping is allowed and is free-of-charge.

Glacier National Park (Montana)

  • Fees: Single entry into the national park is $15. Cars being parked on the premises will cost an additional $20.
  • Accessibility: Most people visiting Glacier National Park will be driving. If you’re flying into Montana to hike the park’s trails, Kalispell is the closest airport, with Great Falls being the next closest, and Spokane airport about 4.5 hours from the park.
  • Accommodations: Campsites cost between $10 and $23 per night; however, you can get a back-country permit for $7 per night per person. This will allow you to camp wherever you’re able to pitch a tent in the park.

Grand Canyon National Park (Arizona)

  • Fees: Yes, there is a charge to visit the Grand Canyon National Park. Single vehicles cost $30 for a seven-day pass and you will pay $15 per person to enter the park via the Grand Canyon Railway. You’ll also be required to purchase a back-country permit, which is $10, plus $8 per person below the rim and $8 per group above the rim.
  • Accessibility: Depending on whether you are visiting the north or south rim of the Grand Canyon, it is fairly accessible via public transportation. If you’re traveling from farther away, it isn’t far from a major airport in Phoneix.
  • Accommodations: There is free dispersed camping allowed throughout the park. Inquire within the park about any specific restrictions. Whether you’re planning a visit to the north or south rim, you’ll have plenty of accommodations to choose from. On the north rim, many campground sites charge $18 to $25 for the first vehicle and $8 for the second. Sites allow for up to two cars, six people and three tents per party.

Iztaccihuatl (Mexico City)

  • Fees: There are no overt fees for hiking in this area but not many people are hiking the volcano without a guided tour — those cost around $50 per person.
  • Accessibility: You will need to hire a private driver or take a bus to one of the trailheads near the volcano. Outside of getting to Mexico, the Ixtaccihuatl trails are fairly accessible.
  • Accommodations: Because this has become a destination for hikers and tourists, there are plenty of hotels nearby. However, camping is also an option for visitors. You will want to check with locals to get rules and regulations for camping.

best hiking trails and camping in the u.s.

John Muir Trail (Yosemite National Park, California)

  • Fees: You will need to apply for a wilderness permit if you intend on staying overnight along the John Muir Trail in Yosemite National Park. There are only a certain number of permits provided each day, so you will want to plan accordingly. You’ll also pay $15 per person (on foot) or $30 per car to enter the park.
  • Accessibility: There is no public transportation to Yosemite National Park. However, Eastern Sierra Transit provides bus service from Lone Pine to Mammoth Lakes and the YARTS Highway 120 East bus provides service from Mammoth Lakes to Yosemite Valley. Those flying in can fly into Mammoth Lakes, Oakland, or Los Angeles.
  • Accommodations: The wilderness permit mentioned above ($5 per reservation, plus $5 per person) is all you need to pay for to camp in Yosemite National Park. If you’d like to stay on a campground, prices range from $12 to $26 per night.

Killarney Park (Ontario, Canada)

  • Fees: Visitors to Killarney Park will pay up to $20 per day for a parking permit while they are hiking. There is also a walk-in fee of up to $2.
  • Accessibility: Killarney Park is easily accessible and works with Park Bus, a service that brings people to hiking trails, canoe access points, lodges, and campsites. You can take a taxi to Park Bus, which will help you find the best way to get where you’d like to start your hike.
  • Accommodations: Primitive campsites cost $34.47 per night and more advanced campsites, with electricity and showers, cost up to $52 per night.

Long Trail (Vermont)

  • Fees: There are no fees associated with hiking the Long Trail.
  • Accessibility: Driving is the best possible way to reach the Long Trail in Vermont. If you have to fly to get close, it is advised to fly into Burlington or Albany.
  • Accommodations: Dispersed camping is free of charge along The Long Trail, as long as it’s 100 feet from a marked trail and 200 feet from water sources (in compliance with Vermont law). Campgrounds in the area typically cost between $5 and $20 per night, although some might be free during the offseason.

Mountains-to-Sea Trail (North Carolina)

  • Fees: There is no fee to access the trail, but the Great Smoky Mountains National Park (which the trail passes through) does require a $4-per-person nightly back-country permit while you are traveling there.
  • Accessibility: You can get to the trail easily from Raleigh and Greensboro airports. The best trailheads in the Raleigh area can be accessed via Creedmoor Road (NC-50) and Baptist Road (off NC-98).
  • Accommodations:  As with many of the trails on this list, dispersed camping is available free of charge. If you’d prefer a campground, Falls Lake Recreation Area has sites available between $20 and $50 a night.

New River Gorge (West Virginia)

  • Fees: There is no fee to enjoy the New River Gorge or its trails. However, there may be sections of the trail that pass through areas of the national park, where you may be required to pay a fee.
  • Accessibility: New River Gorge is extremely accessible and there are a number of businesses and other access points along the river where you’ll find trailheads and canoe access points.
  • Accommodations: Lodging is available relatively close to New River Gorge if you aren’t interested in camping. Dispersed camping is free of charge at New River Gorge. You’ll also be able to access eight campsites nearby that cost up to $50 per night.

North Country Trail (New York to North Dakota)

  • Fees: There are no fees required to hike the North Country Trail. Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore in Michigan and Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness in Minnesota charge $15 and $16 for back-country permits, respectively.
  • Accessibility: Individuals residing in the northeast or midwest might be within driving distance of this trail. It’s also easy to access via car (or taxi) from the nearest major airport. Superior Trail, a segment of the North Country Trail, would require a flight into Duluth International Airport.
  • Accommodations: Dispersed camping is offered along the North Country Trail at no charge. There is also free camping at Hemlock Glen and Spruce Pond (which are primitive campgrounds along the trail).

Oregon Coast Trail (Oregon)

  • Fees: Some areas of the Oregon Coast Trail may charge fees. For example, a $5 entrance fee is charged at Humbug Mountain State Park.
  • Accessibility: The best way to access the trail is by driving. Those flying to get closer to the trail can fly into Seattle and then continue the voyage by car.
  • Accommodations: As long as you are no within sight of a resident, you can camp on the beach. Tent sites cost $7 per night each. During peak season, it is wise to call ahead and reserve a tent site.

Ouachita Trail (Arkansas and Oklahoma)

  • Fees: Hikers do not have to pay any fees, but are encouraged to register at points throughout the trail.
  • Accessibility: The western terminus of the trail is at Talimena State Park (two to three hours from Tulsa and Oklahoma City). The eastern entrance to Ouachita Trail (Pinnacle State Park) is driveable from Little Rock, Arkansas.
  • Accommodations: Friends of the Ouachita Trail offers free shelters along the entire trail. Many of the campgrounds in the national parks are free as well. However, more popular campsites along the trail may cost anywhere between $8 and $30 per night.

Pacific Crest Trail (California to Washington)

  • Fees: People planning to hike more than 500 miles of the Pacific Crest Trail (PCT) will need to obtain a long distance permit (free of charge ) from the National Forest Service. Although much of the trail is available to hikers without a permit, some areas may require it. Sections of the trail that pass through Yosemite National Park, for instance, cost $5 per reservation, plus $5 per person. You’ll also need to pay $5 for your car if you’re planning on driving it into the park.
  • Accessibility: Many folks living on the west coast can easily drive to the trail within four hours or less. Those flying in can choose where they’d like to land, based on where they’d like to hike. You can easily access segments of the trail by flying into Portland International Airport.
  • Accommodations: As with many other trails, dispersed camping is permitted at no cost. Campsites range in price from free to $21 per night.

Pacific Northwest Trail (Montana to Washington)

  • Fees: There is no set fee for the trail, but certain areas do require fees and permits. The trail passes through Okanagan-Wenatchee National Forest, which requires hikers to purchase a $5 permit each day they are in the park. Backcountry permits in Olympic National Park, also on the trail cost $8 per night.
  • Accessibility: The easiest way to get to the trail is by driving. Those flying will find Spokane International Airport to be the easiest airport to access the trail.
  • Accommodations: Dispersed camping is free of charge along the trail. Overnight camping at organized campgrounds cost between $10 and $23 per site, per night.

Tahoe Rim Trail (California and Nevada)

  • Fees: You are required to have an overnight permit when hiking the Tahoe Rim Trail. It’s $5 per person for one night. For two or more nights, you’ll pay $10. It is rewarded on a quota system. In order to build a campfire, you need to obtain a California campfire permit.
  • Accessibility: Lake Tahoe is fairly accessible. People living in northern California or Nevada can easily drive. It’s an hour from Reno and about three-and-a-half hours from San Francisco. Lake Tahoe is about three-and-a-half hours’ drive from San Francisco and an hour from Reno, so plan to fly into Reno-Tahoe International Airport if you’re flying.
  • Accommodations: Dispersed camping is allowed throughout Eldorado National Forest (except in Desolation Wilderness) free of charge as long as your campsite is at least 100 feet away from marked trails. Campgrounds start at $10 per night.

Hiking remains one of the most affordable ways to experience the outdoors and get a bit of exercise. If your summer plans include checking out any of the trails mentioned above, have a great time.

Readers, have you hiked any of the paths mentioned here, and if so, which one(s)? In the comments section beneath this post, please tell us about your experiences with hiking — including any future plans to check out the destinations in this article.

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