Did you know it is estimated that there are over 200 thousand miles of hiking trails in the United States and approximately eleven thousand miles of it belong to National and State Parks? For the last 6 years, I have been traveling across the United States road-tripping, hiking, and just making my way through some of the best places that this country has to offer so I compiled my top 10 best places to hike in the USA. This is going to be an awesome hiking bucket list and an amazing travel guide.
Best Places To Hike In The USA
The US is full of amazing places to hike, from low desert lands to old, tall forests, and from wide-open views to deep, narrow canyons. I’ve hiked in many great spots all over the world, but I think the US has the most different kinds of places to see and things to find on hikes than anywhere else I’ve been.
Appalachian Trail
First on my list is the Appalachian Trail, the most well-known of the three “Triple Crown” trails in the US and a route that winds across fourteen states. From Georgia to the center of Maine, the 2,190-mile trail traces the spine of the Appalachian Mountains. Along its whole length, there are numerous sections and day hike choices.
Thousands of hikers try a thru-hike every year, which involves hiking the full trail in one go. Although trekking this journey was one of the hardest things I have ever done, walking the entire East Coast from Georgia to Maine will always be a memory.
The Half Dome Day Hike
The 14–16 mile round-trip Half Dome day trek in Yosemite National Park, California, offers hikers an authentic wilderness experience. Here, it’s important to keep in mind that the National Park website advises tourists that this trail is only appropriate for knowledgeable and well-prepared hikers.
This restriction is due to the potentially overpowering nature of the 4,800 feet of elevation rise. Despite my best efforts, I was only able to complete one of our three planned itineraries, so when planning a backcountry trip to Yosemite, make sure you have a backup plan—or two.
Fox River Trail
The Fox River Trail trail is the greatest choice for adventurous hikers, families, cyclists, and outdoor enthusiasts. The route, which is located in Illinois’s Lignin, offers over 40 miles of nonstop enjoyment. You can stop at one of the many picnic areas or pack a lunch and eat on the way at one of the many nearby restaurants.
Bring out the cross-country skis or snowshoes if your bike lacks snow tires. Furthermore, there’s no need to worry about the weather if you’re already taking advantage of the routes as no weather condition is too severe.
Great Falls Park
The Billy Goat Trail is located in Potomac, Maryland’s magnificent Great Falls Park. Roughly fifty thousand individuals come here every year to enjoy the breathtaking beauty that is given. It is 1.7 miles long and surrounded by 1800 acres of breathtakingly beautiful, unending scenery.
This path is not for the faint of heart, with a moderate to difficult rating, but those who are brave will be rewarded with a fascinating trek that will take them two to three hours to finish.
The Adirondack Mountains Trail
With more than 2,000 miles of trails, the Adirondack Mountains in upstate New York boast one of the biggest hiking networks in the nation. Beginners can stroll on different nature routes; those seeking a lengthier trip can tackle one of the 46 Adirondack High Peaks.
Moreover, you can hike the Indian Head Trail near Lake Placid. The expansive vistas of the area’s lakes, ponds, and mountains make the short but steep trails, like Baker Mountain in the Saranac Lake area, well worth the effort.
Olympic National Park
Hikers from all over the world flock to Olympic National Park, which has over 600 miles of excellent trails located on the Olympic Peninsula in Washington. You might get a glimpse of endangered or threatened species while traveling, such as gray whales and northern spotted owls.
Hike at your own pace through the park’s old-growth rainforests, across its mountains covered in glaciers, and down its 70+ mile coastline. Moreover, you can take a leisurely trip on the Hall of Mosses Trail in the Hoh Rain Forest to get a feel for the park’s environment.
Superior Hiking Trail
For hikers seeking easy access, mild terrain, a long hiking season, and the chance to do a “shorter” thru-hike, the Superior Hiking Trail is a great choice. The trail begins at Jay Cooke State Park in Minneapolis and ends at the Canadian border, taking around three hours to complete.
The southern portion is limited to day hikers and stretches for 52.8 miles along the Minnesota/Wisconsin state boundary to the seaside city of Duluth. The northern portion is 269 miles long, with numerous spur routes for hiking and camping that connect Duluth to the Canadian border. The entire trail mostly passes through old-growth forests and may be finished in three to four weeks.
Petroglyph Wall Trail
Many of the walks in Nevada’s Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area are short—many are less than five miles long—but don’t let that mislead you. You can try to see desert animals along the various routes, such as hawks, toads, and lizards.
Moreover, you may discover centuries-old rock art on the 0.2-mile Petroglyph Wall Trail, one of the park’s most beginner-friendly must-do treks. Red Rock Canyon has a lot of walks that are rated as tough. However, a five-mile climb can take up to five hours to finish.
Acadia National Park
Acadia National Park is one of the most visited national parks in the nation, which is not surprising given its rocky coastline, geological wonders, and accessibility. For the best chance of avoiding crowds, you might want to tackle the trails early in the morning, especially from June through September, when Acadia is at its busiest.
Summit climbs that involve rung and ladder climbing, such as the Beehive Loop, or the Cadillac North Ridge Trail, which takes you to the highest point on the Eastern Seaboard, will certainly raise your heart rate. Alternatively, you can take the more relaxed Jordan Pond Path around the coast of the pond.
Joshua Tree National Park
California’s Joshua Tree National Park is the place to go if you want a trekking experience that seems unreal like you’re walking on the moon. This park, which is around 140 miles from Los Angeles, has been used as the setting for numerous films because of its striking scenery.
There are many routes to choose from in Joshua Tree, suitable for all skill levels of hikers. A quick, easy walk of only a quarter mile or a longer, more strenuous journey of up to ten miles are among the options available. The park is a fantastic chance to lose yourself in a unique setting that seems to be a million miles away from the bustle of the city.
Bottom Line
After exploring the vast and varied landscapes the United States has to offer, from the majestic Appalachian Trail to the unique desert landscapes of Joshua Tree National Park, it’s clear that America is a hiker’s paradise. Each trail offers its own unique beauty, challenges, and opportunities to connect with nature. Whether you’re a seasoned hiker or just starting out, these best places to hike in the USA provide something for everyone, promising unforgettable adventures and breathtaking views.
FAQs
What is the best hiking trail in the US for beginners?
Eagle Falls Trail, Larkspur Trail, and Spooner Lake Trail are considered to be the best hikes in the US for beginners.
What are the best hiking places in Texas?
Big Bend National Park, Guadalupe Peak Trail, and Lost Mine Trail are known to be the best places to hike in the United States, Texas.
What are some of the best hiking hikes in North America?
Some of the best hiking hikes in North America are Yosemite National Park, Zion National Park, and Glacier National Park.
What are the top hiking options in Colorado?
Maroon Bells Hikes and The Zirkel Circle trail can be called the top hiking options in Colorado
