The views are breathtaking, the scenery is serene, and the hike is a journey. Hikes in the USA are as diverse as its culture, with options for everyone from beginners to experienced trekkers. Whether you’re looking for a day hike or a multi-day trail, you can find it here! We have hiker-tested hikes for every state, from easy walks and beginner hikes to challenging hikes that will test your endurance. So if you’re a hiker who loves a good workout but also appreciates jaw-dropping views and serene beauty, look no further. We’ve got a list of America’s best hikes that are perfect for you.
Exploring the USA’s Top Hikes
The US is home to a diverse collection of hiking trails, making it a popular destination for trekkers. From iconic hikes, like the Appalachian Trail and the Grand Canyon in Arizona, to lesser-known trails, there are a variety of hiking options to suit every hiking style and interest. Some of the best hikes in the US include Stacey Leasca’s picks for the best hikes in the US from Maine to California. These hikes offer a range of scenery and activities, from day hikes exploring wildflowers and pristine lakes to multiday trail adventures that take you through national parks and scenic views.
The country is also known for its long-distance hikes, known as the Triple Crown. These include trail challenges such as hiking the Appalachian Trail from Maine to Georgia as well as traversing national parks on foot or by bicycle. Some popular trail challenges include hiking the Continental Divide trail from Canada to Mexico and trekking across Alaska’s glaciers on foot or by dogsled.
As with any hike, it’s important to prepare before heading out. This includes selecting a trail that suits your hiking ability and checking weather and trail conditions beforehand. With a little planning and effort, you can enjoy some of the best hikes in the US.
Appalachian Trail
The Appalachian Trail is a hiking trail that covers 2,190 miles through 14 states in the US. It is one of the “Triple Crown” hiking trails in the US. The trail passes through deciduous forests and is rated as a ‘Very Strenuous’ hike. Most hikers spend most of their time on the trail in this habitat. The trail begins in Georgia and ends in Maine. It can take between 5-7 months to complete the hike. There are hiking options available for trekkers on the trail, with popular sections including Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Shenandoah National Park, and White Mountain National Forest.
The trail’s popularity is due to its diverse scenery and varied hiking experiences. Many trekkers choose to hike it over a period of several months or years, taking day hikes and longer hiking breaks along the way. They carry a backpack loaded with essential items, making sure they have everything they need for each day’s hike and camping trip.
Grand Canyon
The Grand Canyon is a popular hiking destination for many, with many trails of varying difficulty. One popular trail is the Bright Angel trail. This trail descends from the south rim to the Colorado River, a journey of nearly 11 miles. It’s a great way to experience a part of the canyon without hiking too far or too hard. Other popular trails include the South Kaibab trail on the north rim and the North Kaibab trail on the north rim. These routes offer views of beautiful scenery and rocky canyons, respectively.
Another hike offers a circumnavigation of the canyon. It takes hikers approximately 24 miles to complete, but it’s a trek that can be well worth it. The journey can take hikers through secluded valleys and across stunning sandstone formations, allowing them to appreciate the grandeur of this national park firsthand.
The North Kaibab trail on the north rim is a challenging route that leads through lush forests and over sandstone bluffs. It’s a great way to spend a day hiking in the canyon and gain some valuable experience for future hikes.
Yosemite National Park
Yosemite National Park is home to some of the world’s most popular and breathtaking trails, including the Half Dome trail. This trail is a must-visit for anyone who’s hiking in Yosemite. With a climb of 2,700 feet, it’s a long and tiring hike, but the views at the top make it all worthwhile. And Yosemite national park is home to many other popular hikes, like the popular Swinging Bridge trail.
On this trail, you can trek through a serene waterfall-filled canyon and see wildflowers and rock formations as you go. There are also several trails with stunning views, like the Four Mile trail and the Ahwahnee trail. These hikes take you through lush forestry and stunning views of wildflowers and rock formations. And Yosemite national park features over 800 miles of hiking trails across nearly 750,000 acres, offering a variety of hiking experiences for everyone. The John Muir trail is popular among Yosemite visitors due to its length and spectacular views. It takes you from Yosemite national park to mtn. Whitney passing through 13k’ and 14k’ peaks on your way. So if you’re looking for a hiking trail in Yosemite national park that offers a variety of scenery and challenges, there’s no shortage of options!
Superior Hiking Trail
The Superior Hiker Trail is a hiking trail running from Jay Cooke State Park in Canada to the border with Minnesota. It takes hikers on a wild adventure through the forested national parks of Northern Minnesota. The trail is perfect for easy access, moderate terrain, and a forgiving hiking season.
The trail starts at Jay Cooke State Park, a popular hiking destination for its easy hikes and views of Lake Superior. The trail winds its way northward through the national park and skirts the shoreline of Lake Superior. It then heads north into national forest land and reaches OdegaSwift Campground, a scenic camping area with a lake view.
The trail continues north past gorgeous scenery, including waterfalls and alpine tundra ecosystems. The trail ends at the Canadian border, where hikers can connect to other trails or make day trips to popular destinations such as Windigo Mountain or White Earth Nation Park.
The Superior Hiking Trail Association offers maps and a starter kit for hiking the trail. Whether you’re new to hiking or an experienced hiker, there’s no reason not to experience the wild beauty of northern Minnesota through this trail.
Bear Mountain
If hiking Bear Mountain is on your list of things to do in the Pacific Northwest, you’ll find a range of hiking options to explore the trail’s diverse scenery. Easy routes with impressive views of rock glaciers and lakes are perfect for beginners, while more difficult trails traverse alpine passes, offering a sense of adventure and achievement. When exploring Bear Mountain, hikers should be prepared to encounter grizzly bears and should pack bear spray and read up on bear deterrent tactics. Hiking The Continental Divide Trail is a great opportunity for an immersive experience, where they should be aware of potentially dangerous wildlife such as grizzly bears, wolves, and mountain lions. Bear Mountain hikes offer a unique glimpse into the wild without compromising environmental or safety concerns, making them a popular destination for both casual hikers and experienced outdoorsmen.
Sedona
Sedona is a popular hiking destination in the American Southwest. It’s a great destination for anyone who’s passionate about hiking in a stunning desert landscape. The trails in Sedona offer short hikes with great views of redwood trees. Some popular hikes in Sedona are the Devil’s Bridge Trail and the Fay Canyon Trail, which both offer sweeping views of the red rock landscape.
The hiking trail in Sedona is diverse, so you can hike along a variety of routes and experience various things, from sandstone formations to panoramic views. You can also hike among wildflowers and bighorn sheep or even try sandboarding. However, hikers should be aware of the conditions of the desert and take necessary precautions to stay safe.
Angels Landing Trail
If you’re a hiking enthusiast, you must visit Angels Landing Trail in Zion National Park, Utah. The trail is a mile-long trek that takes around three to five hours to complete and is considered a strenuous hike. It features an elevation gain of 1,500 feet and offers beautiful views of the park’s canyon scenery—the best time to trek the trail in spring and fall when the temperatures are moderate. A pass is required to enter the park at the cost of $20 per person, $30 per motorcycle, and $35 per vehicle. You can book a hike on the trail online or through a popular hiking platform such as ClimbBox. Plus, multiple hiking trails in Zion national park are equally worth exploring.
Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument
Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument is a beautiful hiking destination in Utah. This national park covers a large area of sandstone canyons, lush green forests, and alpine tundra. It offers a variety of hiking experiences for everyone, from easy hikes to challenging hikes with slot canyons and views of the rim. If you’re looking for easy hikes, try hiking to popular destinations like Double Arch, Fiery Furnace, and Delicate Arch. Each trail has unique features that make it a fun hike for any age or skill level.
If you’re looking for a more challenging hike, consider hiking to Zebra Canyon or the Escalante River. Both are popular hikes due to their views of the surrounding canyonlands and the nearby river. For a hike with a little less elevation gain, hike to Calf Creek waterfall on the Escalante River Trail. The trail is easy and will give you a view of a waterfall in an alpine setting.
Grand Staircase-Escalane National Monument also has unique accommodation options, such as yurts and tiny homes. These accommodations are an ideal way to experience the Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument without committing to a full day of hiking. They’re also an affordable way to experience this national park’s beauty and wildness. You can find a variety of hiking trails near Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument that will suit your hiking needs and interests. Whether you’re hiking easy trails or challenging trails with views, you’ll find a trail that’s perfect for you at Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument.
Artists Bluff Trail
Located in Franconia Notch State Park, New Hampshire, Artists Bluff Trail is a popular hiking trail known for its stunning views of the ocean of colors during Fall foliage season. It is a 0.5-mile roundtrip hike with an elevation gain of 200 feet and a time of 1.5 to 2 hours. The trail features a variety of scenery, from coastal rock formations to forested areas and views of the surrounding White Mountains. It can be hiked as a short day hike or extended with a loop to Bald Mountain for a longer hike. This trail is easy to access and short, making it an ideal location for photography. It’s a great hike for anyone looking for a unique and scenic experience in New Hampshire.
Cascade Canyon Trail
If you’re looking to explore a gorgeous hike in a national park, Cascade Canyon is a popular choice. Located in Grand Teton National Park, it can be accessed by hiking around Jenny Lake or taking a boat shuttle. The hike begins by walking to Hidden Falls and Inspiration Point and ends with trekking back along the rim of the canyon. Hikers can enjoy a walk to these viewpoints before an out-and-back hike into Cascade Canyon. The trail passes through wildflower-filled meadows, sandstone rock formations, and majestic mountain views. The Pacific Crest Trail is a US west coast long-distance hike from Mexico to Canada and includes the Cascade mountain range. This trail is known for its stunning scenery and dramatic elevation gain, passing through several national parks on its way to the Canadian border.
Black Elk Peak Trail
If you’re a fan of hiking, there’s no doubt that you’ve heard of Black Elk Peak. This trail is a moderate 7-mile hike located in Custer, South Dakota, with an elevation gain of 1,500 feet. It can be completed in 4 to 5 hours and features multiple access points and trailheads along the Appalachian Trail, including the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Shenandoah National Park, and the White Mountain National Forest.
The hike to Black Elk Peak is gradual, picturesque, rewarding, and can be hiked year-round. In addition to its vast views and wildflowers, the hike to Black Elk Peak is a great way for folks of all ages and abilities to experience a bit of adventure on a sunny day. So if you’re looking for a great hiking trail in the states, don’t forget about Black Elk Peak.
Laurel Highlands Hiking Trail
The Laurel Highlands Hiking Trail is a 70-mile trail located in Pennsylvania, stretching from Ohiopyle State Park to Johnstown. The trail passes through state parks, forests, and private lands and includes a variety of terrains, from rolling hills to steep ascents. The trail highlights scenic overlooks, waterfalls, and historical sites like the Flight 93 Memorial.
The trail is best explored in the cooler months due to the terrain becoming difficult in warmer weather. One popular hike is Ohiopyle Falls, a 2.6-mile trek that takes you past several waterfall views en route to a rim view of the waterfall itself. Another popular hike is Panther Mountain, a 9-mile trek that begins and ends at the Flight 93 National Memorial visitor center. Highlights of this hike include views of the surrounding countryside and a panoramic view of the city of Johnstown.
How can I prepare for a hike in different regions of the USA?
When planning a hike in the USA, it is important to be prepared. Here are some tips which will help you plan a safe and successful hike:
- Research the trails in the region you plan to hike. Make sure you understand the trail’s difficulty well so that you can prepare accordingly.
- Before hiking, familiarize yourself with the local weather and terrain of the region and the trail. Check for any local government restrictions, rules, and safety measures related to COVID-19.
- If you plan on staying overnight at a campground, make sure to reserve a spot for at least three nights in advance.
- It is best to start hiking early in the morning because extreme temperatures can occur during midday hours.
- Always carry a hiking trail map in case of an emergency or if you need to switch routes.
- Pack plenty of food and water, plus a first-aid kit.
- Bring appropriate clothing and gear according to the weather and temperature forecast of where you will be hiking.
What safety precautions should I take when hiking in the USA?
Hiking can be a great way to explore nature and provide a wonderful exercise source. However, it’s important always to remain safe and prepared when taking on a hiking trail. Here are some safety precautions that you should take before hiking in the United States:
- Prepare Appropriately: Before setting out on a hike, always make sure that you’ve prepared appropriately for your trek. Check current trail conditions on park websites or by visiting the Visitor Center to ensure that the trail is safe for hiking. Pack necessary gear such as hiking boots, sunscreen, bug spray, and bear spray in areas where wild animals may be present.
- Follow Leave No Trace Principles: When hiking, it’s important to follow the seven principles of Leave No Trace – plan ahead, stay on the trail, pack out what you bring to the hiking trail, properly dispose of waste, leave areas as you found them, minimize campfire impacts, be considerate of other hikers and do not approach or feed wildlife. Respect for nature is key in ensuring that our hiking trails remain unspoiled and beautiful!
- Be Aware of Difficulty Levels & Elevations: It’s also important to be aware of the hike’s difficulty level and elevation gain.
Are there any permits or fees required to hike certain trails in the USA?
Yes, certain trails in the US may require permits or fees for hiking. For example, a permit is required to hike the Wave Trail in Arizona; it can be obtained online or a walk-up permit can be collected from ranger stations. Additionally, some hikes may require a permit for campsites along the trail; ⅔ of the campsites are reserved for walk-up permits.
On the other hand, more difficult hiking destinations in the US, such as Denali National park and Mount Rainier national park, may require additional permits or fees.
It is best to research beforehand as different trails in the US may also require special permits or fees [101, 102, 103].
The Best Hikes In
The Best Hikes In is a website that lists some of the best hiking in the USA. and from around the world. It has valuable information about where they are, easy, medium, and hard trails, as well as the geographical features of the locations you could be traveling to.
Conclusion
If you’re a hiking enthusiast looking for a new trail to trek, look no further. The hikes mentioned above are some of the best hiking trails in the country and have been tried and tested by thousands of satisfied trekkers. They are popular because they’re stunningly beautiful and offer a wide range of scenery, from mountain ranges to desert canyons. So, book your accommodation and get hiking!
