Your Ultimate Guide to the 16 Best Hiking Trails in the United States
The United States offers some of the most diverse and scenic hiking trails in the world, each providing a unique outdoor adventure.
Whether you’re an avid hiker or just looking to explore nature, there’s a trail out there waiting for you.
From towering mountain ranges to serene coastal paths, these hiking spots are perfect for experiencing the beauty of America’s landscapes.
Here are the top 16 hiking spots in the U.S. that promise breathtaking views, thrilling terrains, and unforgettable moments.
Lace up your hiking boots, grab your gear, and get ready to explore these incredible trails.
1. Grand Canyon National Park, Arizona – South Kaibab Trail
The South Kaibab Trail is a popular hiking route in the Grand Canyon, offering sweeping panoramic views of the canyon’s dramatic landscapes.
This 7-mile round-trip hike to Skeleton Point is moderately challenging but offers stunning vistas without the crowds of other trails.
With its narrow ridges and breathtaking vistas, this trail is perfect for hikers looking to experience the grandeur of the Grand Canyon.
2. Yosemite National Park, California – Mist Trail
The Mist Trail in Yosemite National Park is famous for its stunning waterfalls and granite cliffs.
This 7-mile round-trip hike takes you to Vernal and Nevada Falls, where you’ll be surrounded by mist and the roar of cascading water.
The trail’s beauty is unmatched, offering hikers an unforgettable experience that captures the essence of Yosemite’s natural wonders.
3. Zion National Park, Utah – The Narrows
The Narrows is one of Zion National Park’s most iconic hikes, offering a unique experience as you wade through the Virgin River between towering canyon walls.
This hike can be tailored to different skill levels, with both a short and extended version available.
The combination of stunning rock formations and the cool river water makes The Narrows a refreshing adventure, especially during the warmer months.
4. Glacier National Park, Montana – Grinnell Glacier Trail
The Grinnell Glacier Trail is a breathtaking hike that showcases Glacier National Park’s alpine beauty.
This 11-mile round-trip trail takes you past crystal-clear lakes, lush meadows, and towering mountains, with the highlight being the Grinnell Glacier.
The trail is moderately difficult but rewards hikers with unparalleled views and a chance to witness the park’s rapidly disappearing glaciers.
5. Acadia National Park, Maine – Beehive Trail
The Beehive Trail in Acadia National Park offers an adrenaline-pumping hike with iron rungs, ladders, and steep climbs.
This 1.5-mile loop trail is not for the faint of heart but provides incredible views of the Atlantic Ocean and the surrounding forests.
The trail’s challenging nature and scenic vistas make it a favorite among adventurous hikers looking for a short but thrilling trek.
6. Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Tennessee/North Carolina – Appalachian Trail to Charlies Bunion
The Appalachian Trail to Charlies Bunion offers a scenic 8-mile round-trip hike through the Great Smoky Mountains.
This moderate-to-difficult trail winds through dense forests, over ridges, and up to breathtaking viewpoints.
The panoramic views of the Smokies at Charlies Bunion make the journey worthwhile, providing a memorable experience for nature lovers.
7. Rocky Mountain National Park, Colorado – Sky Pond Trail
The Sky Pond Trail in Rocky Mountain National Park is an 8.5-mile round-trip hike that takes you to stunning alpine lakes and waterfalls.
This challenging trail features rugged terrain, steep climbs, and a final scramble to reach the picturesque Sky Pond.
The serene lake surrounded by jagged peaks is a reward for those who make the trek, offering one of the best hiking experiences in the Rockies.
8. Mount Rainier National Park, Washington – Wonderland Trail
The Wonderland Trail is a 93-mile loop around Mount Rainier, offering a challenging yet rewarding experience for avid backpackers.
While completing the entire loop takes about 10-14 days, shorter sections like the hike to Panorama Point provide equally stunning views.
This trail showcases the park’s diverse landscapes, from wildflower meadows to glacial vistas, making it a top destination for serious hikers.
9. Bryce Canyon National Park, Utah – Fairyland Loop
The Fairyland Loop in Bryce Canyon National Park offers an 8-mile hike through the park’s famous hoodoos and unique rock formations.
This lesser-known trail provides a quieter alternative to the more crowded trails while still delivering breathtaking views of Bryce Canyon’s surreal landscape.
Hikers can enjoy vibrant colors, unique geology, and the magic of the hoodoos along this scenic route.
10. Olympic National Park, Washington – Hurricane Ridge
Hurricane Ridge in Olympic National Park offers a variety of hiking trails with panoramic views of the Olympic Mountains and the Strait of Juan de Fuca.
The Hurricane Hill Trail is a popular 3-mile round-trip hike that provides stunning vistas of snow-capped peaks and lush valleys.
This trail is accessible for all skill levels and is perfect for those looking to experience the park’s diverse beauty.
11. Arches National Park, Utah – Delicate Arch Trail
The Delicate Arch Trail is a 3-mile round-trip hike to the park’s most iconic arch, offering spectacular views along the way.
The trail features a steady incline and some rocky terrain, but the reward is a close-up view of Delicate Arch standing against the vast desert backdrop.
This hike is a must-do for anyone visiting Arches National Park and looking to capture a piece of Utah’s natural beauty.
12. Yellowstone National Park, Wyoming – Mount Washburn Trail
The Mount Washburn Trail in Yellowstone National Park provides a moderately challenging 6-mile round-trip hike with stunning panoramic views.
The trail offers breathtaking vistas of the park’s diverse landscape, including the Grand Canyon of Yellowstone and distant geysers.
Reaching the summit provides hikers with a bird’s-eye view of the park, making it one of Yellowstone’s most popular hikes.
13. Shenandoah National Park, Virginia – Old Rag Mountain Trail
Old Rag Mountain Trail in Shenandoah National Park is known for its challenging rock scrambles and breathtaking views.
This 9-mile loop is not for the faint-hearted, as it involves steep climbs and navigating rocky terrain.
However, the panoramic vistas at the summit make it a favorite among experienced hikers looking for adventure and stunning scenery.
14. Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks, California – Rae Lakes Loop
The Rae Lakes Loop is a 41-mile circuit that showcases the beauty of Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks.
While it is a multi-day hike, those looking for shorter hikes can explore segments of the loop to enjoy pristine alpine lakes, towering sequoias, and scenic mountain views.
The trail is a paradise for backpackers seeking solitude and natural beauty.
15. Grand Teton National Park, Wyoming – Cascade Canyon Trail
The Cascade Canyon Trail in Grand Teton National Park is an 11-mile round-trip hike that offers breathtaking views of the Teton Range.
Hikers can enjoy the serene beauty of Jenny Lake, cascading waterfalls, and rugged mountain peaks along the trail.
The trail is moderately challenging but provides stunning vistas that are worth every step.
16. Joshua Tree National Park, California – Lost Palms Oasis Trail
The Lost Palms Oasis Trail is a 7.5-mile round-trip hike through the unique desert landscape of Joshua Tree National Park.
This trail takes hikers through rocky canyons and past towering palm trees, offering a striking contrast to the surrounding desert terrain.
The serene oasis at the end of the trail provides a refreshing and rewarding destination after a scenic desert trek.
