Hiking Trails in the United States: 25 Top US Hikes
The United States is home to over 50 National Parks, over 10,000 State Parks, and around 200,000 miles of trails. So, where do you start? Start here! I’ve asked my fellow travel bloggers to help me share the top hiking trails in the United States. There’s something for everyone. From long distance to short day hikes, this list of 25 hiking trails in the United States!
With an expansive range of landscapes, from mountain peaks to waterfalls and lush forests to ocean views, the United States is a great place to indulge in nature. So, one of the best ways to experience the beauty of the US is to hit the hiking trails. The following are the top hiking trails in the United States! Be sure to add them to your US hiking bucket list!
Pacific Crest Trail
Also known as the PCT, the Pacific Crest Trail is one of the top hiking trails in the United States. Running roughly 2,650 miles long and covering three states, it is also one of the top hiking trails in the World. Many know it from Cheryl Strand’s Wild, but the Pacific Crest Trail celebrates 50 years as a National Scenic trail this year (2018). And if you plan to thru-hike it, it will take you just as long to plan your hike as it will to hike it. With people usually taking four to six months to hike.
The PCT’s southern terminus is just south of Camp, California, on the US border with Mexico. And its northern terminus is on the edge of British Columbia, Canada’s Manning Park, on the US – Canada border. The trail runs north to south through California, Oregon, and Washington and mostly through National Forest and protected wilderness.
Traversing mountain crests, pristine woodland, and over lakes and streams, the Pacific Crest Trail can be hiked right through or in segments. But one thing is for sure, any time on the PCT will leave you with lasting memories.
Related Post: Top Hiking Trails in Canada
Appalachian Trail – Greg from Chica and Sunsets
FIVE MILLION steps … taken over 2,100 miles … spanning fourteen U.S. states … climbing mountains with elevation gains equivalent to sixteen Mount Everest summits.
These are just a few of the challenges that await the prospective Appalachian Trail thru-hiker. The AT is the most iconic long trail in the United States. Every year thousands of wanderers set out for the five to seven month trek from Georgia to Maine.
Lumbering up and clambering down mountain after mountain, ten hours a day in rain, snow, and intense heat takes its toll on even the hardiest of hiker. Only one in four who start with the intention of completing the entire trek make it.
My wife and I completed the epic journey in 2017 and confirm it was the most difficult accomplishment we have ever achieved – both mentally and physically.
There are many tips to help a potential thru-hiker, but my number one tip is you must remain uninjured in the beginning, to do that start with low mileage. We did not hike over ten miles a day for the first three weeks. Hikers all around us were sidelined with shin splints, blisters, and stress fractures – we just hiked right by.
Stay injury free, pack a sense of humor (and endless tenacity) and you will give yourself the best shot at this elite trail.
Make sure you have everything you need for a great hike! Here’s your hiking must-haves packing list!
Angels Landing Trail, Utah
When I think of bucket list hiking trails Angels Landing in Utah is up there! Located in Zion National Park. While anyone can do the majority of the hike, the final segment is certainly for the brave. The trail is home to steep switchbacks, sheer cliffs, but epic views.
The trailhead for Angels Landing is across from the Grotto Picnic Area in Zion Canyon. While the first section is fairly relaxed along the river it then begins its ascent up the canyon wall. More switchbacks, dubbed Walter’s Wiggles, bring you up ever more. At the top of this section is Scout Lookout offering amazing views. This is a good place to stop if you’re afraid of heights. Because the final half a mile takes you across the ridge, with mind-numbing sheer drop-offs you’ll be thanking your lucky stars for the chains bolted to the cliff. But when you reach the top of Angels Landing, it will all be worth it, as you look around you’ll feel like you’re on top of the world.
Zion Narrows, Utah – Emily from Two Dusty Travelers
To enjoy a unique experience of Zion National Park, grab your water shoes and head for The Narrows trail. You’ll spend most of the hike wading through the Virgin River, dwarfed on both sides by the towering rock walls that make up the narrowest section of Zion Canyon.
There are two ways to enjoy this incredible trail: Most visitors choose to day hike, starting at the shuttle stop at the Temple of Sinawava, hiking upriver as long as they like, and returning the way they came. Day hikers can go as far as Big Spring, a picturesque resting spot five miles into the canyon where waterfalls rush over lush vegetation at the gorge walls. Dedicated hikers can also enter the lottery for a permit to camp inside and take the entire 16-mile hike from the top down.
Start early to beat the crowds! This is one of Zion’s most popular hikes, but it’s absolutely worth the early wake-up call in order to have the trail to yourself. And keep in mind that the water level fluctuates greatly, so check conditions before you set off into The Narrows. On a scorching summer day, with your feet in the Virgin River, the sun reflecting of thousand-foot sandstone walls – there’s no better way to experience Zion National Park.
Navajo Loop Queen’s Garden Trail, Utah – Jamie from Photo Jeepers
The Navajo Loop -Queen’s Garden trail is the most popular hike at Bryce Canyon National Park, Utah because it’s the best way to see the amazing hoodoos up close. The views overlooking the hoodoo-filled Amphitheater along the Rim Trail are spectacular, but the experience of looking up at the hoodoos from the canyon floor is something you must do when visiting Bryce Canyon.
Start at Sunset Point where you begin the descent toward the canyon floor below. At the beginning of the trail you will see Thor’s Hammer, Three Gossips and Thor’s Window. You’ll descend down steep switchbacks until you reach the canyon floor where the trail meanders through a ponderosa pine forest.
In the Queen’s Garden section there is a lightly coloured rock formation that bears a resemblance to the many statues of Queen Victoria found in Europe. To finish the hike you must follow the trail along another set of switchbacks up to the canyon rim near Sunrise Point.
The unique hoodoos and formations you see make the Navajo Loop – Queen’s Garden trail a must-do hike when visiting Bryce Canyon National Park.
Trail Information: Duration: 2-3 Hours – Distance: 2.9 miles – Difficulty: Moderate
Highline Trail, Montana – Maggie from Pink Caddy Travelogue
Glacier National Park is known as the “Crown of the Continent,” and the Highline Trail is the centrepiece gem. Over a million people hike some portion of the trail every year, and it’s not hard to see why!
The total trail length clocks in at anywhere between 7-13 miles, depending on where you end your trip. But no matter how long or short you decide to make your trek, you’ll be rewarded with some of the best vistas in the entire United States. At every bend, there’s another towering snow-covered peak, glimmering glacier, or expansive field of alpine flowers to ogle at. It’s also one of the best locations in the park to see wildlife, with mountain goats, bighorn sheep, marmots, and even grizzly bears frequenting the trail along with the hikers.
The Highline also gives hikers a lot of bang for just a few bucks – the entire trail is relatively level, with very few uphill sections, making it doable for families and non-hikers alike. The trail offers up the majesty of Glacier National Park with very little effort on your part.
Just leave behind your fear of heights and get ready for the hike of a lifetime!
Wapack Trail, Massachusetts – Lindsay from I’ve Been Bit
Just south of the Massachusetts state border lies the southern terminus to an incredible trail. The Wapack Trail is 21.5 miles in length and while it crosses into New Hampshire, you don’t have to do the whole thing in order to enjoy some incredible views. (If you do though, kudos! That’s an epic route!)
Be prepared for a workout as you ascend +500ft along the trail through the Watatic Mountain State Wildlife Area. While the climb will be tough at times, you’ll be distracted by the mature trees of the surrounding forest.
The ample amount of shade makes it a great summer hike but I bet it would be an incredible trail to tackle as fall approaches. Be sure to wear sturdy boots as the terrain can be rough. Be warned: you will be tired and you will be sweaty. However, you will forget all of that as you arrive at the top of Mount Watatic and are greeted by this incredible view!
Related Post: Top 10 Hiking Trails across the Globe
Mt Bierstadt, Colorado – Leigh from Campfires and Concierges
Colorado has 53 “14’ers” which are peaks higher than 14,000 feet. Nearly all of them have epic views for those willing to forego a bit of oxygen! One of the “easier” 14’ers to summit is Mt. Bierstadt. The nearest town is Georgetown, which is 45 miles west of Denver. The proximity to Denver and paved road to the trailhead make this a very popular Colorado hiking trail. The entire Mt Bierstadt trail is above treeline, which means you have outstanding views for the entire hike! Moose and marmots are frequently sighted along the trail as well. The trail is a relatively short 6.9 miles round trip, but you will gain nearly 3,000 feet in elevation. Make sure you are prepared with enough food, water and clothing layers and start early, especially in the summer when afternoon thunderstorms can be deadly for anyone hiking above treeline.
Check out more fun Colorado summer activities!
Hihimanu Ridge Trail, Hawaii – Shannon from Sole Seeking
The Hihimanu Ridge Trail on Kauai, Hawaii, offers incredible views of lush green hilly valleys and the gorgeous Pacific Ocean. A 5-mile round trip to the twin peaks with 1232 feet of elevation, hikers should bring plenty of water and snacks and wear sturdy shoes. It’s also advisable to start the hike earlier in the day, so you have less heat and more time.
This hike starts with the Okolehao Trail, which quickly gets steep and slippery if there have been recent showers. The first lookout over Hanalei Bay comes after about half a mile, and many hikers choose to turn back at this point. If you are fit and curious, however, you won’t be disappointed after continuing on.
Commencing the Hihimanu Ridge is when hikers really enter the jungle, with ropes in place to climb up steep sections of trail. This hike is not for the faint-hearted, “glamorous” traveller: hands will get muddy, legs and arms will be scratched by the bush, thighs will burn, spiders will hang from branches, stomachs may somersault when you look down at some of the sheer drops from the narrow trail, and you may feel inclined to turn back when you see how far away the beacon of a lone tree on top of the first peak remains.
All this is worth it when you reach the top of the first peak and are greeted by the welcoming shade of that lone tree. Make sure you spend plenty of time soaking up the 360 degrees of awe-inspiring views. When you finally get back to the bottom of the trail and look up to squint at that tiny lone tree in the distance, you’ll feel truly amazed by and proud of your accomplishment.
John Muir Trail, California – Jill from Jack and Jill Travel the World
John Muir Trail is one of USA’s most beautiful long-distance trails. It starts in the famous Yosemite National Park (California), then it continues on for 215 miles through 2 more National Parks – Sequioa and King’s Canyon – before ending at the continental US’ highest peak, Mt. Whitney. Along the way you’ll pass views of the some of the state’s most famous landmarks such as Half Dome, Thousand Island Lake and Garnet Lake. You’ll be walking under the shadows of towering granite walls and soaring redwood trees. Most through hikers complete the trail in 2-3 weeks, although even more hikers do it in segments. You’ll need a permit to do JMT. If you start in Yosemite National Park, you’ll be going southbound and you’ll get a permit from Yosemite Wilderness Station. If you start from Mt. Whitney, you’ll need a northbound permit from Inyo National Forest. Regardless of your starting point, the permit is in extremely high demand and a lottery system is implemented. If you’re an outdoor enthusiast and thinking of doing JMT, a word of warning: it will spoil you for the rest. It’s truly a gem of a trail.
Yosemite Falls Trail, California – recommended by ME
One of the top hiking trails in the United States is Yosemite Falls Trail. This strenuous hike will reward you with epic views and a close encounter with a mighty waterfall. Located in California’s Yosemite National park, Yosemite Falls Trail is one of the parks oldest historic trails, dating back to 1877. Running 7.2 miles, round trip, and with an elevation gain of 2,700 feet, it will take you roughly 6 to 8 hours to complete.
Starting out in the Camp 4 area, Yosemite Falls Trail immediately begins to ascend. With switchback after switchback, it is not for the faint of heart. But rising up to Columbia Rock you will be blown away by the stunning views over Yosemite Valley and the iconic Half Dome. But you’re not at the top yet! Just another half a mile will bring you to the top of North America’s tallest waterfall! Here, at the top of Yosemite Falls, you’ll welcome the mist from the falls and enjoy one of the best views in the park.
Castle Rock in Big Bear Lake, California – Sara from Our Kind of Crazy
One of our favourite hikes in California is Castle Rock, in Big Bear Lake, California. It is approximately a 2.6 mile round trip hike that has an amazing view of Big Bear Lake. The climb has a 500 foot elevation gain, so you’re hiking uphill basically the whole way. It is very do-able for children and even dogs, however. There are beautiful spots along the path, and you’ll even see some wildlife around. If you’re brave enough to climb the huge rocks at the top, you’ll get an amazing view that will make the whole thing worth it. You can find this hike about a mile from the dam on Highway 18. We recommend going in the mornings when it’s not too hot. It has become a very popular hike so weekends can be fairly busy. The trail is long enough though, so it never seems super crowded. Climb the rocks at the end…you’ll thank us!!
Trans-Catalina Trail, California – Allison from She Dreams of Alpine
The Trans-Catalina Trail is by far one of the top USA hiking trails due to its diverse terrain and unique island hiking opportunities. Santa Catalina Island, located off the coast of California, offers some amazing hiking and backpacking opportunities all across the island, but the Trans-Catalina Trail is its crown jewel. Hiking the Trans-Catalina Trail will give you the best tour of the island that one can have. The hike starts in the town of Avalon and covers 39 miles across the length of the island, with camping locations all along the coast. The terrain is rugged and sometimes tough, but it is well worth the trouble.
At the end of your hike, you’ll find yourself at another small island town, Two Harbors, where you can wait for your return ferry in style, cold beers and food in hand as a reward for the challenging yet beautiful coastal Catalina Island hike. Depending on your skill level or your desired pace, you can hike the trail in 3 to 5 days, and while the trail has over 8,300 feet of total elevation gain, you will be rewarded with beautiful weather and views of the ocean in all directions. You’ll find solitude on the trail, but you are never too far from the comforts of home due to the trail’s proximity to its island towns. If you are lucky, you might just run into one of the islands free roaming bison on the trail as well. Backpacking the Trans-Catalina Trail has been, by far, one of the best hikes I’ve done in the United States, and I’m willing to bet you would love it too.
Harding Icefield, Alaska – Antonette from We12Travel
The Harding Icefield Trail in Seward, Alaska is one of the most epic trails in the state and leads you up high into the mountains, to an immense ice field. The hike is an 8.2 mile return walk and is not for the faint of heart as it’s steep up across boulders and snowfields, however, once you’ve reached the end of the trail you will notice all the effort was well worth it! The trail starts at the Kenai Fjords National Park visitor’s centre and will take you up along the Exit Glacier. I’ve hiked this trail three times over the past couple of years and along the way I’ve been bears, moose, marmots, all kinds of birds and more. The last bit up leads you through an alpine section where the trail can be hard to follow (esp. in bad weather) but once you have reached the emergency shelter, you know you are almost there!
Related Post: Winter Hiking Tips for Beginners
Maple Pass Loop Trail, Washington – Gemma from Off Track Travel
Washington’s Cascades Range is home to many excellent hikes, one of these being the Maple Pass Loop Trail. The highlight of this 12km loop hiking trail is walking on the ridgeline between the Maple and Heather passes and taking in the panorama of steep granite peaks, azure lakes, delicate alpine meadows and distant snowy mountains. To get here, you can either hike a steep switchback route (clockwise) or via a more gradual ascent (counterclockwise). The latter offers more views on the way up but would be easier on the knees when going down.
Every season offers something different on this trail, with fall being particularly spectacular. The path is lined by heather and huckleberry bushes in warming shades of orange, red and yellow. The lakes sparkle a deep azure and snow still tops the distant mountains. If you time it just right, you’ll see golden larch trees dotting the hillsides. The Maple Pass trail can, understandably, be busy during this season but there’s still plenty of space on the ridgeline to get a private view.
Cascade Pass Overlook, Washington – April from The Unending Journey
The North Cascades in Washington State is a hiker’s paradise. But, there’s one hike that doesn’t require much effort and provides one heck of a payoff. And, that’s Cascade Pass Overlook. Upon arriving at the parking lot, you’re instantly in awe of the scenery. And, it only gets better.
This trails gently makes it way to the overlook via a series of endless switchbacks through an ever-changing forest landscape. Finally reaching the top, you emerge onto a meadow. Suddenly, you have views inspiring you along the last mile of the trail. Arriving at the pass, a spectacular view is filled with glacial peaks surrounding a valley carved by glaciers. Along the way, you may see marmots, deer, or even a black bear.
As a bonus, from the overlook, you can continue upwards for a stunning view of Doubtful Lake and the Sahale Glacier. Though it’s less than a mile from the pass, it’s a workout. But, the meadows of wildflowers and ever-increasing views give you the energy to go on.
Located 23 miles at road’s end of Cascade Loop Road off Route 20 by Marblemount, WA.
Elevation gain: 1,800 feet to pass / Mileage: 6.5 miles round trip
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Breakneck Ridge Trail, New York – Anisa from Two Traveling Texans
Breakneck Ridge is one of the best hikes in the US because it is so challenging. A good portion of the hike is a rock scramble where gloves would come in handy. At times, it’s not easy finding the way up. It may be tempting to just turn around but it will be steep. Power through it and you will be rewarded with some of the best views of the Hudson Valley
It took us a little over 5 hours to do the 3.7-mile loop which included ascending 1,400 feet. I felt a huge sense of accomplishment once I had completed the hike and the views were worth the struggle!
There is a direct train from New York City to Breakneck Ridge on the weekends. After an hour and a half train ride, it’s just a short walk to the trailhead. Try to go early as it is a popular hike and will get crowded!
Garden of the Gods, Illinois – Roxanna from Gypsy with a Day Job
Although Illinois is not typically thought of as a state to experience adventure or natural beauty, the Garden of the Gods Recreation Area in the Shawnee National Forest proves that wrong. Garden of the Gods is one of Illinois best kept secrets and favourite hiking locations, with its sandstone bluffs, unique rock formations, and lush forest canopy.
Many visitors make the drive to Garden of the Gods just to experience the .5 mile Observation Point Trail, or the 2 mile Indian Point Loop. Observation Point Loop is rated as an average difficulty, leading to one of the most iconic viewpoints in the Shawnee Forest. Indian Point Loop is ranked as easy, but passes amazing stone structures and inviting small caves. The truth is that few visitors limit themselves to the trails, and take their time to really explore the sandstone.
There are another 5 miles of trails in the recreation area, and the 160 mile River to River trail also passes through. Backpackers on these trails typically make their way to both Observation Point Loop and Indian Point Loop, as the views are just that outstanding!
Cadillac Mountain, Maine – Kate from Our Escape Clause
While it is possible to drive to the top of Cadillac Mountain, there’s no denying that the best way to experience the tallest (and most famous!) mountain in Acadia National Park is to hike it.
Easily doable as a day hike, the climb up Acadia National Park is accessible to just about anyone who is in moderate hiking shape and wants to experience some of Maine’s nature in an up-close-and-personal way.
While you can simply climb up Park Loop Road (the scenic road that makes the summit of Cadillac Mountain accessible to drivers, it will be far more peaceful to hike up the popular North Ridge Trail or South Ridge Trail instead.
From the summit, the islands surrounding Acadia National Park that stretch toward the Atlantic Ocean will be clearly visible, and it is undeniably one of the best views in the park.
Sunrise and sunset are both popular times to visit Cadillac Mountain, but we recommend hiking up the mountain before sunrise only if you are very experienced and confident!
Knife Edge Trail, Maine – Frank from Nothing But New England
The Knife Edge is a “not to miss” iconic feature on the way to the terminus of the Appalachian Trail atop Mount Katahdin in Baxter State Park, Maine. It draws adventure seeking hikers from all over the world. The Knife Edge trail is usually done as part of a loop with trailheads at either the Roaring Brook, Abol, Hunt Trail or Katahdin Stream Campgrounds. A popular way to go is up the Helon Taylor Trail. The trail will lead to Pamola Peak. From there, you cross Knife Edge Trail to Baxter Peak. After you travel down Saddle Trail to Chimney Pond Trail and back to the campground. It is approx. 9 miles and gets you to 2 peaks.
Knife Edge is a 1.1 strenuous rocky traverse that starts off with a technical climb down and up a “chimney” before rock hopping across a narrow ridge with steep drop-offs on both sides. The 360 degree views are breathtaking and a wonderful reward for the hikers up for the challenge.
Painted Canyon Nature Trail, North Dakota – Margie from DQ Family Travel
Painted Canyon Nature Trail is a short 1-mile loop walking through the Badlands of North Dakota. It is located in Theodore Roosevelt National Park and boasts spectacular views of the colourful canyons. The trail begins at the Visitors Center and takes you on a gradual descent into the canyon. It is pretty steep at the trailhead, yet it is rated easy due to its short length. The landscape on the trail is beautiful. Tall prairie grass, bushes, and desert-like rock formations are visible while you are walking amidst the streaks of colour “painted” on the canyon. You may also encounter bison or prairie dogs during the hike as well. The scenery on this trail is unlike most due to the arid geography, yet quite stunning in its own way. The overlook shows you how grand this land of ours truly is and how small we are in comparison.
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Notch Trail, South Dakota- Ketki from Dotted Globe
When we visited Badlands National Park during our trip to South Dakota, we hiked the famous Notch Trail. This trail is one of the most popular hiking trails in the Badlands due to its short distance and adventurous nature. The round trip hike is just over a mile and is of moderate difficulty level. While the trail is short, it is steep and quickly climbs up the Badlands Wall. The Notch Trail features a long log ladder which is the highlight of this trail.
The trail passes through many interesting geological formations including a narrow ravine, through earthquake fault lines, and Badlands mounds. The trail stops at a ledge on the Badlands Wall and the views of White River Valley from this trail are spectacular.
There is little shade on this trail, so we recommend climbing it early in the morning or late afternoon. You also need to bring lots of water for this hike. The hike is kid-friendly and can be easily done by families with older kids. If you have time for just one hike in the Badlands, I definitely recommend the Notch Trail.
Carlsbad Caverns Self-Guided Trail, New Mexico – Mary from Calculated Traveller
At Carlsbad Caverns National Park in New Mexico, a 1.25 mile (2km) one-way hike through the Natural Entrance to the Big Room main chamber and the elevator waiting to take you back up to the surface is not as easy as it sounds. The distance of just over a mile is nothing. What’s difficult is that the journey back and forth along the switchbacks and up and down steep slopes is equal to walking 79 stories. The dimly-lit trail is steep and slick due to the moisture on the cave floor but hiking inside the largest single cave in North America is one of the most incredible sights.
As you hike, look around and see the cave formations such as drapery, columns, popcorn, soda straws, stalactite, stalagmite and the mirror-like ponds that look like they go down forever but are in some cases mere inches.
Return at dusk and watch the thousands of bats that live in the innermost caves take the same journey out the mouth of the natural entrance to feed every night.
Lost Mine Trail, Texas – Erin form Sol Salute
The most popular hike in Big Bend National Park is the Lost Mine Trail. And it’s no wonder why. The views at the trails end are stunning. If you only have time for one hike in this West Texas national park, hike the Lost Mine trail in the Chisos Mountains. It’s a moderate level hike and is 4.6 miles round trip. It’s a there and back trail, with an uphill hike to the top and a relaxing downhill hike back. You gain 1,000 feet in elevation on this hike, so you do need to be in at least moderately good shape. Bring a drink and snacks to enjoy along with the view at the top, it’s beautiful and worth lingering before rushing back down to leave. The views of the vast green canyon and mountains in the Chisos are jaw-dropping (and unexpected in the middle of the Chihuahua Desert!). There are 150 miles of trails to hike in Big Bend, but these 5 miles are my favourite!
Pilot Mountain, North Carolina – Anna Marie from Pull Over and Let Me Out
Situated just sixteen miles north of Winston-Salem, North Carolina is Pilot Mountain. This craggy elevation with its two distinct peaks is an iconic landmark within Pilot Mountain State Park and offers miles of hiking trails for exploring.
The Grind Stone is a strenuous three-mile trail through the lush forest. The pathway’s gradual incline elevates the heart rate providing a great cardio workout. Grindstone’s rocky path is well marked and connects with other trails, one of which is Ledge Spring Trail.
Ledge Spring furnishes amazing views of the rocky cliff as well as the valley floor below. Its lower loop follows along cliff providing a strenuous 1.6-mile hike. This is a serious upward climb and brutal quad workout; pacing is key along this uphill trek.
However, it’s the easiest trail, Little Pinnacle Overlook, which provides the best views of the Big Pinnacle. Regardless of which trail you travel, there will be climbing but the payoff is the beauty of the cliffs and sweeping views of the valley below when you arrive at the top of Pilot Mountain.
Which of these top hiking trails in the United States is on your bucket list?
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