The United States is home to some of the most spectacular hiking trails in the world, offering a variety of landscapes from towering mountain ranges to serene coastal paths. Whether you’re an experienced hiker or a novice, there’s a trail for you. Here are some of the best hiking spots in the U.S.:
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1. Appalachian Trail, Eastern United States
Stretching over 2,190 miles from Georgia to Maine, the Appalachian Trail is one of the longest continuously marked footpaths in the world. It traverses through 14 states and offers hikers a diverse range of landscapes, including dense forests, rolling hills, and rugged mountains. Highlights include the Great Smoky Mountains and Shenandoah National Park.
Facts:
- Approximately 3 million people hike a portion of the trail each year.
- The trail is maintained by 31 trail clubs and multiple partnerships.
Things to Do:
- Visit the Appalachian Trail Conservancy Headquarters in Harpers Ferry, West Virginia.
- Explore the Nantahala Outdoor Center in North Carolina for white-water rafting and other outdoor activities.
2. Pacific Crest Trail, Western United States
Running from the Mexican border in California to the Canadian border in Washington, the Pacific Crest Trail covers 2,650 miles of breathtaking scenery. Hikers will experience everything from the arid desert landscapes of Southern California to the snowy peaks of the Sierra Nevada and the lush forests of the Pacific Northwest.
Facts:
- The trail passes through 25 national forests and 7 national parks.
- Only about 700 people attempt to hike the entire trail each year.
Things to Do:
- Visit Crater Lake National Park in Oregon.
- Explore the John Muir Trail segment in the Sierra Nevada.
3. Zion National Park, Utah
Zion National Park is renowned for its stunning red rock formations and deep canyons. The park offers a variety of trails, but Angel’s Landing is perhaps the most famous. This strenuous hike is not for the faint-hearted, as it involves steep climbs and narrow ridges, but the views from the top are absolutely worth it.
Facts:
- Zion was Utah’s first national park, established in 1919.
- The park covers 146,597 acres.
Things to Do:
- Hike The Narrows, a slot canyon hike through the Virgin River.
- Take a scenic drive along the Zion-Mount Carmel Highway.
4. Yosemite National Park, California
Yosemite is a hiker’s paradise with its towering granite cliffs, cascading waterfalls, and giant sequoias. The Half Dome hike is a challenging yet rewarding trail that takes you up to the iconic rock formation, offering panoramic views of the valley below. For a less strenuous option, the Mist Trail to Vernal and Nevada Falls is equally spectacular.
Facts:
- Yosemite covers nearly 1,200 square miles.
- It was designated a World Heritage Site in 1984.
Things to Do:
- Visit Yosemite Valley to see famous landmarks like El Capitan and Bridalveil Fall.
- Take a drive up to Glacier Point for a stunning overlook of the park.
5. Rocky Mountain National Park, Colorado
Home to over 355 miles of hiking trails, Rocky Mountain National Park boasts breathtaking alpine scenery, including crystal-clear lakes, towering peaks, and abundant wildlife. The Bear Lake to Emerald Lake Trail is a popular choice, offering stunning views of the park’s signature landscapes.
Facts:
- The park covers 415 square miles.
- Longs Peak is the highest point in the park at 14,259 feet.
Things to Do:
- Drive the Trail Ridge Road, the highest paved continuous road in the U.S.
- Visit the Alpine Visitor Center, the highest visitor center in the National Park System.
6. Grand Canyon National Park, Arizona
The Grand Canyon is one of the most iconic natural wonders in the world, and hiking its trails offers a unique way to experience its grandeur. The Bright Angel Trail and South Kaibab Trail are two of the most popular routes, taking hikers deep into the canyon and providing incredible vistas along the way.
Facts:
- The canyon is 277 miles long and up to 18 miles wide.
- It receives nearly 6 million visitors annually.
Things to Do:
- Take a mule ride down to Phantom Ranch.
- Visit the Skywalk at the West Rim for a glass-bottomed view of the canyon.
7. Mount Rainier National Park, Washington
Mount Rainier is an active volcano and the highest peak in the Cascade Range. The park offers numerous hiking opportunities, but the Wonderland Trail is a standout. This 93-mile loop circumnavigates the mountain, offering diverse ecosystems, from lush forests to alpine meadows, and stunning views of Mount Rainier itself.
Facts:
- Mount Rainier stands at 14,410 feet.
- The park was established in 1899 as the fifth national park in the U.S.
Things to Do:
- Visit Paradise, the most popular area in the park, known for its wildflower meadows.
- Take a scenic drive on the Sunrise Road, offering views of the eastern side of the mountain.
8. Glacier National Park, Montana
Known as the “Crown of the Continent,” Glacier National Park features rugged mountains, pristine lakes, and diverse wildlife. The Highline Trail is a must-do, offering spectacular views of the park’s glaciated peaks and valleys. The Grinnell Glacier Trail is another favorite, taking hikers up close to one of the park’s remaining glaciers.
Facts:
- The park spans over 1 million acres.
- It is home to more than 130 named lakes.
Things to Do:
- Drive the Going-to-the-Sun Road, a 50-mile scenic drive through the heart of the park.
- Visit the Many Glacier area for prime wildlife viewing opportunities.
9. Acadia National Park, Maine
Acadia offers a unique combination of ocean views and forested trails. The Precipice Trail is one of the park’s most challenging hikes, featuring steep climbs and iron rungs to help navigate the rocky terrain. For a less daunting but equally beautiful hike, the Jordan Pond Path provides stunning views of the surrounding mountains and crystal-clear water.
Facts:
- Acadia was the first national park east of the Mississippi River.
- The park covers 49,000 acres.
Things to Do:
- Drive the Park Loop Road for scenic coastal views.
- Visit Cadillac Mountain, the highest point on the East Coast, to watch the sunrise.
10. Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Tennessee/North Carolina
As the most visited national park in the U.S., the Great Smoky Mountains offer a plethora of hiking options. The Alum Cave Trail to Mount LeConte is a popular route, taking hikers through old-growth forests and past stunning geological formations. The Appalachian Trail also runs through the park, offering longer hikes for those looking to explore further.
Facts:
- The park covers over 500,000 acres.
- It is home to more than 1,500 black bears.
Things to Do:
- Visit Cades Cove, a popular area for wildlife viewing and historic buildings.
- Explore Clingmans Dome, the highest point in the park at 6,643 feet.
