America’s vast landscapes offer some of the most breathtaking hiking experiences in the world. From towering mountain peaks to deep canyons and lush forests, the United States boasts an incredible variety of trails for every type of adventurer. Whether you’re a seasoned hiker or just beginning your outdoor journey, these trails showcase the country’s natural beauty in ways that photographs simply cannot capture.
The most iconic hikes in the U.S. include the historic Appalachian Trail, the majestic depths of the Grand Canyon, the towering sequoias along the Congress Trail, and the breathtaking vistas of Franconia Ridge Loop. Each destination offers its own unique terrain and natural wonders that have earned these trails their “must-do” status among hiking enthusiasts.
Many hikers spend years creating their bucket lists of trails, carefully planning each adventure to experience the diverse ecosystems and geological formations that make American landscapes so special. From the Wave in Arizona to the rugged paths of Glacier National Park, these hikes represent the perfect combination of challenge and reward.
Top-Rated Must Do Hikes in the U.S.
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America offers some truly spectacular hiking experiences that combine challenging trails with breathtaking scenery. These iconic paths represent some of the most rewarding outdoor adventures available to hikers of all experience levels.
John Muir Trail
The John Muir Trail stretches 211 miles through California’s Sierra Nevada mountains, passing through Yosemite, Kings Canyon, and Sequoia National Parks. This legendary path features some of the most spectacular alpine scenery in North America.
The trail typically takes 2-3 weeks to complete, with elevation ranging from 4,000 to 14,000 feet. Mount Whitney, the highest peak in the contiguous United States, marks the southern terminus of this remarkable journey.
Hikers encounter crystal-clear lakes, vast meadows, and towering granite peaks along the route. The best time to tackle this trail is July through September when mountain passes are generally free of snow.
Permits are required and highly competitive, often needing to be secured months in advance. Many hikers consider the JMT the perfect introduction to long-distance backpacking due to its well-maintained trails and frequent resupply options.
Kalalau Trail
The Kalalau Trail on Kauai’s Na Pali Coast offers 11 miles of the most dramatic coastal hiking in the United States. This challenging trail hugs towering sea cliffs that plunge into the Pacific Ocean.
With over 5,000 feet of elevation change and sections as narrow as 12 inches alongside 300-foot drops, this isn’t a hike for the faint-hearted. The payoff, however, is access to Kalalau Beach—a pristine stretch of sand unreachable by road.
The trail crosses five valleys before reaching the beach, with the infamous Crawler’s Ledge section testing hikers’ nerve. Most backpackers spend 2-3 days completing the out-and-back journey.
Permits are strictly limited and must be obtained well in advance. Hikers should be prepared for rapidly changing weather conditions and potentially dangerous stream crossings during heavy rain.
Appalachian Trail
The Appalachian Trail is America’s most famous long-distance hiking path, stretching approximately
2,190 miles from Georgia to Maine. This iconic trail passes through 14 states and takes most thru-hikers 5-7 months to complete.
The AT, as it’s commonly known, offers a diverse hiking experience through deciduous forests, rocky ridgelines, and small mountain towns. Elevation gain totals around 489,000 feet—equivalent to climbing Mount Everest 16 times.
While thousands attempt a thru-hike annually, only about one in four complete the entire trail. Many hikers opt instead for section hikes or day hikes on popular portions like the Franconia Ridge Loop in New Hampshire. The trail features over 250 shelters spaced roughly a day’s hike apart. These three-sided structures provide welcome refuge for weary backpackers navigating this historic path through America’s eastern wilderness.
Iconic Trails in National Parks
America’s national parks offer some of the most breathtaking hiking experiences in the world. These iconic trails showcase diverse landscapes from thundering waterfalls to narrow canyons, alpine meadows to massive glaciers.
Mist Trail in Yosemite National Park
The Mist Trail ranks among Yosemite’s most popular hikes for good reason. This 7-mile round-trip adventure takes hikers past two magnificent waterfalls: Vernal and Nevada Falls.
The trail earned its name from the refreshing spray that envelops hikers as they climb the stone steps alongside Vernal Falls. During spring and early summer, the mist can be heavy enough to soak clothing – a welcome relief on hot days.
Beyond Vernal Falls, ambitious hikers can continue to Nevada Falls, where panoramic views of Liberty Cap and the back side of Half Dome await. The trail includes approximately 2,000 feet of elevation gain, making it moderately strenuous.
Hikers should start early to avoid crowds and afternoon heat. The best time to experience the full power of the waterfalls is May through June when snowmelt reaches its peak.
Skyline Trail in Mount Rainier National Park
The Mount Fremont Lookout trail, part of the broader Skyline Trail system in Mount Rainier National Park, offers some of the most spectacular alpine scenery in the Pacific Northwest. This 5.7-mile round-trip hike includes 1,112 feet of elevation gain.
Starting from Paradise Visitor Center, hikers traverse colorful wildflower meadows during summer months. The stunning display includes lupines, paintbrush, and avalanche lilies against the backdrop of Rainier’s massive glaciated peak.
The trail provides exceptional views of the Cascade Range, with the possibility of spotting wildlife such as marmots and mountain goats. On clear days, hikers can see Mount Adams, Mount Hood, and even Mount St. Helens in the distance.
Be prepared for rapidly changing weather conditions. Even in summer, temperatures can drop quickly, and fog can roll in unexpectedly. Hikers should carry layers, rain gear, and plenty of water.
Grinnell Glacier Overlook in Glacier National Park
The hike to Grinnell Glacier Overlook delivers one of the most rewarding experiences in Glacier National Park. This 7.6-mile round-trip trail showcases the park’s namesake glaciers, though they’re rapidly receding due to climate change.
The trail begins at the Many Glacier Hotel and passes by crystal-clear mountain lakes – first Swiftcurrent Lake, then Lake Josephine. Hikers gain approximately 1,600 feet of elevation while traversing exposed ridgelines with panoramic views of the surrounding mountains.
Wildlife sightings are common, with the possibility to see mountain goats, bighorn sheep, grizzly bears, elk , and moose. Hikers should carry bear spray and make noise on the trail.
The payoff comes at the overlook, where hikers gaze down upon the remaining ice of Grinnell Glacier, surrounded by towering peaks and the milky turquoise waters of Upper Grinnell Lake. The best hiking window is July through September after snow has melted.
Virgin River Narrows in Zion National Park
The Virgin River Narrows hike in Zion National Park offers a unique adventure where the trail is the river itself. This slot canyon experience takes hikers through towering walls that narrow to just 20 feet apart in some sections while rising up to 1,000 feet overhead. Hikers wade through knee to waist-deep water for much of this 16-mile journey, though many opt for the shorter out-and-back option from the bottom up. The cool water provides welcome relief during hot summer months.
Proper footwear is essential – closed-toe shoes with good grip are recommended for navigating slippery rocks. Hikers should also carry walking sticks for stability in the current. Flash flood danger is real. Hikers must check weather forecasts and avoid the Narrows when rain threatens, even miles away. The best time to attempt this hike is late spring through early fall when water levels are lower and temperatures comfortable.
Adventurous Trails in Unique Landscapes
Precipice Trail in Acadia National Park
The Precipice Trail in Maine’s Acadia National Park delivers an exhilarating climbing experience that’s more of a vertical adventure than a traditional hike. This 1.6-mile trail rises 1,000 feet along the eastern face of Champlain Mountain through a series of iron rungs, ladders, and narrow ledges.
Hikers navigate granite cliffs while enjoying spectacular views of Frenchman Bay and the surrounding islands. The trail is rated as strenuous and requires good upper body strength and comfort with heights.
Due to peregrine falcon nesting, this trail typically closes from March to August. When open, it’s best tackled in dry conditions as the exposed rock faces become dangerous when wet.
Acadia’s unique coastal mountain landscape makes this one of the most beautiful hikes in the U.S..
Box Canyon and Ice Box Canyon
Located in the desert southwest, Box Canyon and Ice Box Canyon offer dramatic slot canyon experiences with stark contrasts between scorching surroundings and cool, shaded passages.
Box Canyon features towering walls that create natural corridors through the landscape. The hike requires moderate scrambling over boulders and navigating occasional water crossings depending on recent rainfall.
Ice Box Canyon, true to its name, maintains significantly cooler temperatures than surrounding areas. This moderate hike challenges visitors with rock-hopping and occasional climbing, rewarding them with seasonal waterfalls after rain.
Both canyons showcase remarkable geology with striped rock walls and unique formations carved by centuries of water erosion. The best hiking times are spring and fall when temperatures are most comfortable.
Torrey Pines State Reserve
Torrey Pines State Reserve near San Diego offers a coastal hiking experience through one of the rarest pine forests in the world. The reserve protects the endangered Torrey pine and features dramatic sandstone cliffs overlooking the Pacific Ocean.
Several interconnected trails ranging from easy to moderate wind through the reserve. The Beach Trail (3/4 mile) descends from the bluffs to the shoreline with stunning ocean panoramas throughout.
Hikers can spot diverse wildlife including migrating whales (December-April), dolphins, and numerous bird species. The rare combination of maritime chaparral, pine forest, and ocean views creates a uniquely beautiful ecosystem.
This breathtaking landscape is accessible year-round due to Southern California’s mild climate, though morning fog often creates mysterious, ethereal conditions that burn off by midday.
Scenic State and Regional Park Hikes
State and regional parks offer some of America’s most breathtaking hiking experiences, particularly in desert landscapes. These parks provide accessible adventures for hikers of all levels with well-maintained trails and unique natural features.
Desert Trails in Joshua Tree
Joshua Tree State Park features otherworldly landscapes where the Mojave and Colorado deserts meet. The park’s namesake Joshua trees create an almost alien backdrop for hikers exploring its terrain.
The Hidden Valley Trail (1 mile loop) offers a perfect introduction to the park’s unique ecosystem. This relatively flat path winds through massive boulder formations and dense Joshua tree forests.
For more adventurous hikers, the Ryan Mountain Trail provides panoramic desert views from its 5,458-foot summit. The 3-mile round trip climb rewards trekkers with stunning 360-degree vistas.
When planning your road trip to Joshua Tree, consider visiting in spring when wildflowers bloom or fall when temperatures moderate. Summer hiking requires extra water and early morning starts due to extreme heat.
Exploring Death Valley
Death Valley National Park holds the distinction of being the hottest, driest, and lowest national park in the U.S. Despite its intimidating name, it offers spectacular hiking opportunities through colorful canyons and salt flats.
The Golden Canyon to Zabriskie Point trail showcases the park’s famous badlands formations. This moderate 4.2-mile trail reveals striking yellow and red rock landscapes sculpted by ancient water flows.
For an easier option, the Mesquite Flat Sand Dunes trail lets visitors wander freely among towering sand formations. The constantly shifting dunes create rippling patterns that are especially photogenic at sunrise or sunset.
When visiting Death Valley, timing is crucial. Winter and early spring (November-April) provide comfortable hiking temperatures, while summer can be dangerously hot.
Hiking Destinations Beyond the Lower 48
The United States offers breathtaking hiking experiences that extend far beyond the continental states. These remote trails showcase unique ecosystems, wildlife, and challenging terrains that differ dramatically from mainland experiences.
Alaska’s Wild Trails
Alaska presents some of the most pristine and untamed hiking opportunities in America. Denali National Park features the spectacular Savage River Loop, a manageable 2-mile trail that offers stunning views of the Alaska Range and opportunities to spot caribou and Dall sheep.
For more experienced hikers, the Harding Icefield Trail in Kenai Fjords National Park delivers an unforgettable 8.2-mile journey. This challenging route climbs 3,000 feet, rewarding trekkers with panoramic views of the 700-square-mile icefield.
The Chilkoot Trail holds historical significance as part of the route used during the Klondike Gold Rush. This 33-mile trail crosses from Alaska into Canada through diverse ecosystems.
During summer months, hikers are treated to spectacular wildflower displays. Alpine meadows burst with colors from lupine, fireweed, and Arctic poppies that thrive in the brief but intense growing season.
Weather conditions in Alaska can change rapidly, requiring hikers to pack appropriate gear and file trip plans with rangers. The hiking season is short but magnificent, typically running from June through early September.
Planning Your Ultimate U.S. Hiking Adventure
Preparing for a memorable hiking experience in the United States requires understanding key factors like trail difficulty, time commitments, and personal preferences. The right planning can transform a good hike into an unforgettable adventure.
Understanding Elevation Gain and Difficulty
Elevation gain is one of the most important factors when assessing trail difficulty. It refers to the total height you’ll climb during your hike, usually measured in feet or meters. A trail with 1,000 feet of elevation gain is typically moderate, while those exceeding 3,000 feet present significant challenges.
Trail ratings often use elevation gain alongside distance to determine difficulty:
- Easy: Less than 500 ft gain, gentle terrain
- Moderate: 500-2,000 ft gain, some steep sections
- Difficult: 2,000+ ft gain, challenging terrain
- Strenuous: 3,500+ ft gain, technical sections
Weather conditions can dramatically affect difficulty. A moderate trail can become treacherous in rain or snow. Always check recent trail reports before setting out.
Fitness level matters too. What’s easy for experienced hikers might be overwhelming for beginners. Be honest about your capabilities when selecting trails.
Backpacking vs. Day Hikes
Day hikes require minimal gear and planning, making them accessible to most people. They typically range from 1-15 miles and can be completed within daylight hours. All you need is water, snacks, appropriate footwear, and weather-suitable clothing.
Backpacking involves overnight stays on the trail, requiring more extensive preparation. Essential gear includes:
- Lightweight tent or shelter
- Sleeping bag and pad
- Cooking equipment
- Water filtration system
- Food for multiple days
- First aid supplies
Multi-day trips offer access to remote areas like the Sierra Nevada in California, where day hikers rarely venture. These experiences often provide greater solitude and deeper connection with nature.
Some popular trails like the Colorado Trail can be sectioned for day hikes or tackled as longer backpacking adventures.
How to Choose the Best Hiking Trails
Selecting the perfect trail starts with honest assessment of your experience and physical condition. Beginners should seek trails under 5 miles with minimal elevation gain, while experienced hikers can tackle challenging adventures like Angels Landing.
Research is crucial. Websites like AllTrails provide detailed information on 74,000+ U.S. trails, including user reviews and current conditions.
Consider what scenery inspires you most. America offers incredible diversity, from waterfalls and scenic views to desert landscapes and alpine meadows. The most beautiful hikes in the U.S. range from short two-mile walks to epic 2,600-mile journeys.
Timing matters significantly. Many high-elevation trails are snow-covered until summer, while desert hikes are best in spring or fall. National Park trails often require permits, especially for popular destinations like bucket list hikes.
Essential Tips and Resources for Hikers
Proper preparation is key to enjoying America’s spectacular trails. Knowing what to pack, how to plan, and which resources to use can make the difference between a memorable adventure and a challenging ordeal.
Road Trip Planning for Hiking Expeditions
Planning a hiking road trip requires careful organization to maximize your time on the trails. Start by selecting a region with multiple hiking destinations within reasonable driving distance of each other.
The 10 essentials of hiking should always be packed, including appropriate footwear, navigation tools, and sufficient water. Keep these accessible rather than buried in your luggage.
Create a flexible itinerary that accounts for weather changes and trail conditions. Build in rest days between challenging hikes to prevent fatigue and injury.
Consider camping options near trailheads to save time and money. Many national parks offer campgrounds, but they fill quickly during peak seasons. Make reservations 3-6 months in advance when possible.
Keep a digital and physical record of important information: permits, reservations, emergency contacts, and detailed maps for areas with poor cell service.
Cross-Border Hiking: U.S. and Canada
Hiking between the U.S. and Canada offers unique experiences but requires additional preparation. Always carry proper identification—a passport or enhanced driver’s license—even for day hikes near border areas.
Research border crossing protocols before your trip. Some trails cross international boundaries without official checkpoints, but hikers are still legally required to report their crossings.
The International Appalachian Trail extends from Maine into Canada, offering spectacular multi-day hiking opportunities. Similar opportunities exist in the Pacific Northwest and Glacier/Waterton Lakes region.
Be aware of different regulations regarding wildlife encounters, camping permits, and trail etiquette. Canadian parks often have different rules than U.S. parks.
Cell service may be inconsistent in remote border areas. Consider renting a satellite communicator for emergency situations when hiking far from populated areas.
Reaching State Highpoints
Conquering state highpoints provides a rewarding challenge for hikers of all skill levels. These range from easy walks to technical climbs, so research the difficulty before attempting each summit.
Professional guides recommend training specifically for your target highpoint’s elevation and terrain. Even accessible peaks like Florida’s Britton Hill (345 feet) contrast dramatically with Montana’s Granite Peak (12,799 feet), which requires technical climbing skills.
Create a “highpointing” plan based on geographic regions to minimize travel time. The Northeast offers several highpoints that can be completed in a single road trip.
Pack accordingly for each summit’s conditions. Many highpoints are exposed and experience sudden weather changes, making proper gear essential. Always tell someone your hiking plans, including expected return time.
Develop an emergency plan for each highpoint attempt, considering the specific risks associated with that mountain’s terrain, weather patterns, and remoteness.
