Weekend hikes with my energetic beagle: balancing fun and safety

I recently started taking my beagle, Max, on weekend hikes around the local trails. He has tons of energy and loves sniffing everything, but the problem is he tends to dart off the path chasing squirrels or other dogs, which stresses me out. I’ve tried using a longer leash and some training treats to keep him close, but the distractions are overwhelming for him and sometimes for me too. Plus, some trails have steep drop-offs or areas with ticks, so I’m worried about safety when he’s off-leash. I want to find a way for us both to enjoy these hikes without the constant worry. Maybe certain types of harnesses or training techniques could help? Has anyone successfully managed an excitable dog on challenging trails? What kind of gear or strategies have worked to keep your pup safe and happy in the great outdoors?