20 Epic U.S. Hiking Trails That Take You Way Off the Beaten Path
The U.S. is home to thousands of hiking trails, but not all of them are famous. Some remain hidden gems, waiting to be discovered by adventurous hikers who crave something new. This list reveals 20 of the most unique, lesser-known trails that offer unforgettable experiences.
Whether you’re looking for surreal landscapes, quiet solitude, or a new challenge, these trails are worth lacing up your boots for. Get ready to hike beyond the beaten path!
Maah Daah Hey Trail (North Dakota)
This 144-mile trail in the badlands of North Dakota offers rugged terrain, sweeping views, and solitude. It’s perfect for those seeking a long-distance hike far from the crowds.
It winds through dramatic landscapes, making you feel like you’re on another planet.
Wheeler Peak Summit Trail (New Mexico)
New Mexico’s highest peak stands at 13,161 feet. This trail offers alpine meadows, forested switchbacks, and breathtaking views.
Climbing to the summit gives hikers a panoramic view of the desert below and distant mountain ranges.
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Kalalau Trail (Hawaii)
For tropical beauty, this 11-mile trail along Kauai’s Napali Coast is a stunner. It’s challenging, with steep cliffs and narrow paths, but the views of lush valleys and the Pacific Ocean are unbeatable.
The end destination, Kalalau Beach, feels like a hidden paradise.
Enchanted Valley Trail (Washington)
Located in Olympic National Park, this trail is a 13-mile journey through a magical valley. Giant moss-covered trees, waterfalls, and foggy forest scenes create a fairy-tale atmosphere.
Wildlife sightings are common, adding to the trail’s remote charm.
Pinnacle Mountain Trail (Arkansas)
This short but steep 1.5-mile trail offers views that will make the climb worthwhile. The rocky ascent requires some scrambling, but the panoramic view of Little Rock and the Arkansas River below is spectacular.
It’s a hidden gem for those who love a quick but rewarding climb.
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Big Schloss (Virginia)
Tucked in the George Washington National Forest, this 4.4-mile trail leads to a rocky outcrop. The views of the Shenandoah Valley are epic, and the trail is not as well-known as some others in the area.
Perfect for a peaceful weekend escape.
Lost Coast Trail (California)
This trail winds along California’s most rugged and undeveloped coastline. It’s a 25-mile adventure with sandy beaches, cliffs, and the sound of crashing waves as your soundtrack.
Few trails in the U.S. offer such a wild and remote coastal experience.
Kisatchie Hills Wilderness Trail (Louisiana)
Louisiana isn’t known for hiking, but this 10.5-mile trail surprises hikers with its scenic pine forests and rocky terrain.
It’s a quiet, off-the-beaten-path trail that shows a different side of the state.
The peaceful surroundings make it ideal for those looking to escape the noise.
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Hickman Bridge Trail (Utah)
Located in Capitol Reef National Park, this 2-mile trail leads to a massive natural arch.
The hike is relatively easy, making it accessible for most hikers.
Along the way, you’ll see desert canyons, ancient rock formations, and stunning red rock scenery.
Superior Hiking Trail (Minnesota)
Stretching over 300 miles along the north shore of Lake Superior, this trail offers endless opportunities for exploration.
Lakes, waterfalls, and thick forests line the path, making each section unique.
It’s a perfect choice for those who love water views and lush green landscapes.
Crest Trail (New Mexico)
This 25-mile trail runs through the Sacramento Mountains and is rarely crowded.
It offers stunning views of desert valleys below, mixed with forests and grassy meadows.
Wildlife sightings and mountain vistas make this trail a real treat for nature lovers.
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Blood Mountain Trail (Georgia)
The highest peak on the Georgia section of the Appalachian Trail, Blood Mountain is a 4.3-mile hike full of history and beauty.
The rocky summit offers incredible views of the Blue Ridge Mountains. This trail is steeped in Cherokee legend, adding a cultural layer to the experience.
Garden of the Gods Wilderness (Illinois)
In southern Illinois, this 5.5-mile loop offers otherworldly rock formations and sandstone bluffs. It’s a lesser-known trail in the Midwest, ideal for hikers looking for a unique landscape without traveling far.
The quiet, rugged beauty makes it a hidden treasure.
Mount Monadnock (New Hampshire)
This 4.2-mile hike may be short, but the views are unforgettable. It’s known as one of the most frequently hiked mountains in the world, yet it offers peaceful solitude if you visit at the right time.
You’ll be rewarded with panoramic views of New England’s rolling hills.
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Matanuska Glacier Trail (Alaska)
Hike right up to the edge of a massive glacier on this 2-mile trail. The terrain is rough, but the chance to see the blue ice up close is worth it.
Few trails offer such an immersive experience with Alaska’s stunning glaciers.
Devil’s Backbone Trail (Colorado)
This 4-mile trail offers impressive views of rocky ridges and wide-open landscapes.
The unique “backbone” rock formations are a geological wonder that can’t be missed.
It’s a great trail for those looking for something different from Colorado’s typical mountain hikes.
Narrows Rim Trail (New Mexico)
A hidden gem, this 4-mile trail in El Malpais National Monument offers views of lava fields, cliffs, and ancient landscapes. It’s quiet, remote, and feels like a step back in time.
If you love a good view and an uncrowded path, this one’s for you.
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Eagle Rock Loop (Arkansas)
This 26.8-mile loop in the Ouachita Mountains is a challenging but rewarding hike. With rivers, rugged hills, and dense forests, it’s one of the toughest trails in the state.
The solitude and beauty make it perfect for experienced hikers seeking adventure.
Hoh River Trail (Washington)
This 17.3-mile trail takes you through the heart of a temperate rainforest in Olympic National Park. Moss-draped trees, misty air, and the rushing river make this trail feel like another world.
The lush scenery offers a peaceful, serene hiking experience.
Rattlesnake Ridge Trail (Kentucky)
Don’t let the name scare you! This 7-mile trail offers stunning views of rolling hills and forests. It’s a lesser-known Kentucky trail, perfect for those seeking solitude and scenic overlooks.
The ridge walk gives hikers a panoramic view of untouched wilderness.
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