by If you’re a hiking lover, then you surely want to go on some of the best hiking trips in the USA. So lace up your boots and get ready for an adventure!
America’s vast wilderness offers some of the best hiking opportunities in the World. From coast to coast, the United States is full of jaw-droppingly beautiful hiking routes.
With dozens of national parks and forests, there’s no shortage of hiking trails to explore. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or a beginner, there’s something for everyone in this country.
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Here are some of our favorite hiking trips in the USA.
1 Half Dome, Yosemite National Park
Elevation: 8839 feet
Difficulty: Strenuous
Best time to Hike: September
Hike length: 14 – 16 miles round trip
Hike time: 10 – 12 hours
Half Dome is one of the most recognizable landmarks in Yosemite National Park. For centuries, this massive granite monolith has captivated the imaginations of explorers and outdoor enthusiasts alike. Today, Half Dome remains one of the most popular hiking destinations in the park, attracting tens of thousands of visitors each year.
The hike to Half Dome is not for the faint of heart, but the rewards are well worth the effort. The trail winds its way up the side of the mountain, providing hikers with stunning views of Yosemite Valley along the way. After reaching the summit, hikers are treated to an unforgettable panorama of some of the most beautiful scenery in the world.
Whether you’re an experienced hiker or simply looking for a unique adventure, a hike to Half Dome is an experience you’ll never forget.
2 Kalalau Trail, Hawaii
Elevation: 800 feet
Difficulty: Strenuous
Best time to Hike: mid-May – early October
Hike length: 22 miles
Hike time: 3-4 days
The Kalalau Trail is one of the most beautiful and popular hiking trails in Hawaii. The trail offers breathtaking views of the Napali Coast, as well as a chance to experience the diverse flora and fauna of Kauai.
Despite its popularity, the Kalalau Trail is also one of the most challenging, with some steep sections and a few river crossings. As a result, it is important to be prepared before undertaking this hike.
In addition to carrying plenty of water and food, hikers should also be sure to wear appropriate shoes and clothes. With proper preparation, the Kalalau Trail can be an unforgettable experience.
3 The Narrows, Zion National Park
Elevation: 4577 feet
Difficulty: Moderate to Strenuous
Best time to Hike: Summer and early Fall
Hike length: 16 miles
Hike time: 5-6 hours
The Narrows is one of the most popular hiking trails in Zion National Park. The trail winds its way through a deep and narrow canyon, with walls that rise to 2,000 feet. Despite its popularity, the Narrows is not an easy hike.
The trail is often slippery and muddy, and hikers must wade through water that can be waist-deep. In addition, the canyon walls provide little shelter from the sun, making the hike even more challenging. However, despite these difficulties, the Narrows is an incredible experience.
Hikers are rewarded with stunning views of the canyon walls and the chance to see a variety of plant and animal life. With a little preparation, anyone can tackle the Narrows and come away with lasting memories of this unique and beautiful place.
Recommended: Most Famous National Parks in USA
Recommended: Best hikes in Southern California
4 John Muir Trail, California
Elevation: 46,700 feet
Difficulty: Strenuous
Best time to Hike: June through September
Hike length: 211 miles
Hike time: Around 3 weeks
The John Muir Trail is one of the most popular hiking trails in the United States. Stretching from Yosemite Valley to Mount Whitney, the trail passes through some of the most scenic areas of the Sierra Nevada mountain range.
Along the way, hikers can enjoy views of towering peaks, crystal-clear lakes, and meadows full of wildflowers. The John Muir Trail is also a great place to see wildlife, including deer, coyotes, and an occasional black bear. Despite its popularity, the John Muir Trail is not an easy hike.
Hikers must be in good shape and well-prepared before undertaking such a challenging hike. However, those who make it to the end are rewarded with one of the most amazing views in all of California.
5 Kesugi Ridge Trail, Alaska
Elevation: 1750 feet
Difficulty: Strenuous
Best time to Hike: June through September
Hike length: 29.2 mile
Hike time: 14 hours 57 minutes
If you’re looking for one of the best hiking trips in the US, look no further than Kesugi Ridge Trail in Alaska. This challenging trail will take you through some of the most beautiful scenery in the country, including forests, mountains, and meadows.
The trail is best navigated during the summer months when the weather is mild and there are fewer mosquitoes. However, regardless of when you go, be sure to bring plenty of insect repellent and bear spray, as both are essential for a safe and enjoyable hike.
With its stunning views and diverse wildlife, Kesugi Ridge Trail is an unforgettable hiking experience that should not be missed.
6 Rim Trail, Bryce Canyon National Park
Elevation: 484 m
Difficulty: Easy
Best time to Hike: March through November
Hike length: 11 miles ( out & back )
Hike time: 4 hours 30 minute
Bryce Canyon National Park is home to some of the most stunning scenery in the world. The trail offers breathtaking views of the canyon, as well as a chance to see some of the park’s most famous landmarks up close. The hike is relatively easy and can be completed in a day.
However, there are a few things to keep in mind before setting out. First, the trail is exposed to the sun for much of the day, so be sure to bring plenty of water and sunscreen.
Second, the trail can be very busy during peak season, so it’s best to start early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid the crowds. Whether you’re an experienced hiker or a first-timer, the Rim Trail is a must-do when visiting Bryce Canyon National Park.
7 Appalachian Trail, Maine
Elevation: 490′-5267′
Difficulty: Easy to Difficult
Best time to Hike: Late spring and early fall
Hike length: 281.8 miles
Hike time: 5-7 months
Spanning over 2,000 miles from Georgia to Maine, the trail traverses some of the most scenic and varied terrains in the country. Many hikers choose to hike the trail in its entirety, but others opt to hike only a section.
Regardless of how much of the trail you plan to hike, spending time on the Appalachian Trail is an unforgettable experience. The trail winds through forests and mountains, offering breathtaking views along the way.
You’ll also have the chance to see a variety of wildlife, including deer, bears, and songbirds. Whether you’re looking for a challenging hike or a leisurely walk in nature, the Appalachian Trail has something to offer everyone.
8 Mount Ida Trail, Rocky Mountain National Park
Elevation: 2465 feet
Difficulty: Strenuous
Best time to Hike: May through September
Hike length: 9.6 miles roundtrip
Hike time: 5 hours 9 minutes
For nature lovers, there’s no better place to hike than Rocky Mountain National Park. With its towering peaks, pristine lakes, and diverse wildlife. The park is a veritable paradise for outdoor enthusiasts.
And of all the trails in Rocky Mountain National Park, the Mount Ida Trail is arguably the best. The trail winds its way through alpine meadows and forested valleys, offering stunning views of the surrounding mountains.
Wildlife is abundant throughout the park, and hikers often spot elk, deer, and bighorn sheep along the trail. The Mount Ida Trail also passes by several waterfalls, making it a truly spectacular hike.
9 Cadillac North Ridge Trail, Acadia National Park
Elevation: 1128 feet
Difficulty: Fairly strenuous
Best time to Hike: year-round
Hike length: 4.4 miles roundtrip
Hike time: 3-4 hours
The trailhead is located at the edge of Cadillac Mountain, and the trail winds its way through pines and hardwoods before reaching the summit of North Ridge. Along the way, hikers are treated to panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and coastline.
The trail is well-marked and relatively easy to follow, making it a great option for all levels of experience for hikers. In addition, the trail is relatively short, making it a good choice for a day hike.
Whether you’re looking for a challenging hike or simply a chance to take in the scenery, the Cadillac North Ridge Trail is worth a visit.
10 Charlies Bunion Hike, Great Smoky Mountains National Park
Elevation: 1640 feet
Difficulty: Strenuous
Best time to Hike: April through October
Hike length: 8 miles roundtrip
Hike time: 5 hours
The Charlie’s Bunion hike is one of the most popular trails in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. The hike takes you to an incredible vantage point with breathtaking views of the park.
The trail is named after Charlie Conner, the first person to hike to the top of the ridge. The hike is considered moderate to strenuous, and it is recommended that you wear proper shoes and bring plenty of water.
There are also a few steep sections, so be sure to take your time and watch your step. The Charlie’s Bunion hike is a great way to see some of the best that the Great Smoky Mountains have to offer.
