Explore the best hiking trails across the United States, from alpine ridgelines and desert canyons to coastal cliffs and glacier-carved valleys. Whether you're a seasoned trekker or weekend adventurer, these trails offer unforgettable views, diverse terrains, and memorable outdoor experiences.
The John Muir Trail, California
Start/Finish: Yosemite Valley/Mount Whitney
Distance: 211 miles (340km)
Duration: 2–4 weeks
Difficulty: Challenging
Best Months: July–September
Best for: Alpine wilderness and long-distance hiking
This legendary trail traverses the Sierra Nevada, linking Yosemite, Kings Canyon, and Sequoia National Parks. Along the way, hikers pass towering granite cliffs, alpine lakes, and remote wilderness. It's ideal for experienced backpackers looking to disconnect and experience California’s high country.
The Kalalau Trail, Hawaii
Start/Finish: Ke‘e Beach/Kalalau Beach (Na Pali Coast)
Distance: 22 miles (35.4km) round-trip
Duration: 2–3 days
Difficulty: Strenuous
Best Months: May–September
Best for: Tropical adventure seekers
Koko Head Stairs on OahuThis epic trail along Kauai's Na Pali Coast offers dramatic ocean views, waterfalls, and lush valleys. It’s one of Hawaii's most famous and rugged hikes, recommended for experienced hikers due to steep drop-offs and unpredictable weather.
Angels Landing, Utah
Start/Finish: Grotto Trailhead, Zion National Park
Distance: 5.4 miles (8.7km) round-trip
Duration: 4–5 hours
Difficulty: Strenuous, with exposure
Best Months: March–October
Best for: Thrill-seekers and red rock views
With its chain-assisted climb and steep drop-offs, Angels Landing offers adrenaline and awe. The view from the top over Zion Canyon is breathtaking and worth the nerve-wracking ascent.
Half Dome, California
Start/Finish: Yosemite Valley
Distance: 14–16 miles (22–26km) round-trip
Duration: 10–12 hours
Difficulty: Strenuous
Best Months: June–September (permit required)
Best for: Iconic Yosemite summit hikes
YosemiteA bucket-list challenge for many hikers, the final ascent to Half Dome involves steel cables and steep granite. It rewards adventurers with one of Yosemite’s most iconic panoramas.
The Appalachian Trail, Eastern U.S.
Start/Finish: Springer Mountain, Georgia / Mount Katahdin, Maine
Distance: 2,190 miles (3,524km)
Duration: 5–7 months (thru-hike)
Difficulty: Challenging
Best Months: March–October
Best for: Long-distance hikers and forest lovers
This legendary route winds through 14 states and countless forested ridges. While few complete the full trek, many enjoy scenic sections throughout the Appalachians.
The Enchantments, Washington
Start/Finish: Stuart Lake Trailhead/Snow Lakes Trailhead
Distance: 18 miles (29km)
Duration: 1–3 days
Difficulty: Strenuous
Best Months: July–September
Best for: Alpine lakes and mountain goats
The Enchantments are a hiker’s paradise, featuring jagged peaks, turquoise lakes, and granite basins. A permit is required for overnight trips, and snow can linger into early summer.
Bright Angel Trail, Arizona
Start/Finish: Grand Canyon South Rim/Colorado River
Distance: 19 miles (30.6km) round-trip
Duration: 2–3 days
Difficulty: Strenuous
Best Months: March–May, September–November
Best for: Canyon views and descent into the Grand Canyon
This well-maintained trail descends into the heart of the Grand Canyon, offering dramatic shifts in climate and scenery. Camp at Indian Garden or the Bright Angel Campground.
Grinnell Glacier Trail, Montana
Start/Finish: Many Glacier, Glacier National Park
Distance: 10.6 miles (17km) round-trip
Duration: 5–6 hours
Difficulty: Moderate to strenuous
Best Months: July–September
Best for: Glacial views and wildlife sightings
This trail delivers stunning views of Grinnell Glacier and the surrounding peaks, often with chances to spot bears, moose, and mountain goats along the way.
Highline Trail, Montana
Start/Finish: Logan Pass/The Loop, Glacier National Park
Distance: 11.8 miles (19km)
Duration: 6–8 hours
Difficulty: Moderate
Best Months: July–September
Best for: Ridge walking and scenic mountain vistas
One of Glacier’s best day hikes, the Highline follows the Continental Divide with sweeping views of valleys and peaks. It’s a great intro to the park’s dramatic terrain.
Mount Katahdin via Knife Edge, Maine
Start/Finish: Roaring Brook Campground
Distance: 10.4 miles (16.7km) round-trip
Duration: 8–10 hours
Difficulty: Very strenuous and exposed
Best Months: July–September
Best for: Rugged peak-bagging
Knife Edge is one of the most dramatic trails in the Northeast, leading to the northern terminus of the Appalachian Trail. The views and adrenaline rush are unmatched.
Skyline Trail, Washington
Start/Finish: Paradise Visitor Center, Mount Rainier National Park
Distance: 5.5 miles (8.9km) loop
Duration: 3–4 hours
Difficulty: Moderate
Best Months: July–September
Best for: Classic Rainier views
This scenic loop trail offers some of the best views of Mount Rainier, wildflower meadows, and possible glacier sightings in summer.
Lost Coast Trail, California
Start/Finish: Mattole Beach/Black Sands Beach
Distance: 25 miles (40km)
Duration: 3–4 days
Difficulty: Moderate to challenging
Best Months: May–September
Best for: Coastal solitude and backpacking
One of California’s most remote coastal hikes, the Lost Coast Trail hugs the rugged shoreline with tide timing a key part of planning your trek.
Franconia Ridge Loop, New Hampshire
Start/Finish: Lafayette Place Trailhead
Distance: 8.6 miles (13.8km)
Duration: 6–8 hours
Difficulty: Strenuous
Best Months: June–October
Best for: Exposed ridgeline hiking
This Presidential Range classic links Mount Lincoln, Mount Lafayette, and Little Haystack for one of the most scenic loops in New England.
Cascade Canyon Trail, Wyoming
Start/Finish: Jenny Lake Trailhead, Grand Teton National Park
Distance: 9 miles (14.5km) round-trip
Duration: 4–6 hours
Difficulty: Moderate
Best Months: June–September
Best for: Classic Tetons scenery
Enjoy lake views, towering peaks, and potential moose sightings on this popular trail into the heart of Grand Teton National Park.
Ice Lake Basin Trail, Colorado
Start/Finish: South Mineral Campground, San Juan Mountains
Distance: 8.3 miles (13.3km)
Duration: 5–6 hours
Difficulty: Moderate to challenging
Best Months: July–September
Best for: Wildflowers and turquoise alpine lakes
Hiking Trail In UtahThis hike is a visual feast with meadows, waterfalls, and high-alpine basins filled with wildflowers. Ice Lake’s surreal blue color is the highlight of the trail.
These stunning U.S. hikes promise more than just steps on a trail—they're your ticket to exploring some of the most extraordinary landscapes in North America. Whether you're gearing up for your first backcountry trip or your next summit, make sure to plan ahead, stay safe, and gear up for unforgettable adventures.
