Hiking is a popular recreational activity that can be relaxing, thrilling, and invigorating all at once. This diversity of experience is why many people enjoy it. As weekends approach, it’s common for people to pack their gear and head to the nearest trail for a hike. The country’s favorable geography and climate during certain seasons contribute to its vibrant hiking culture. Additionally, there are thousands of iconic US hiking trails from which people can choose.
South Kaibab Trail, Arizona
The Grand Canyon National Park offers one of the most scenic hikes in America. The South Kaibab Trail includes a series of steep, exposed switchbacks from which hikers can see the massive depths and heights of the Canyon. Besides that, this trail is filled with breathtaking vantage points and views right from the Canyon Rim to the endpoint. The hiking path is a direct route from Yaki Point in the Canyon Rim to the gorgeous Colorado River.
Hikers are recommended to carry at least 4-5 liters of water in their baggage as hydration is largely unavailable throughout the length of this pathway. Spring and fall are the best times to hike this trail as the heat is more forgiving, and the winter conditions are not harsh.
Superior Hiking Trail, Minnesota
Spanning across 310 miles, this trail is one of the longest and most scenic hikes in America. The tricky terrain and formidable length play their part in the Superior Trail being tagged “moderate to hard” in terms of hiking difficulty levels.
This trail goes along the rocky ridgeline above Lake Superior from Duluth to the Canadian border. Although this trail is incredibly rugged, it offers incredibly beautiful views in the form of Lake Superior, dense forests, and a variety of flora and fauna. This alternative is also one of the most popular US hiking trails with waterfalls. Spring is an ideal time to visit this trail to experience the depth and breadth of its beauty.
John Muir Trail, California
Travelers seeking the surreal views of alpine meadows, steep passes, lakes, and sequoias are likely to fall in love with the John Muir Trail in California. This 211-mile trek traverses the massive Sierra Nevada Mountains from Yosemite Valley to Mount Whitney. Some of its most iconic sights include Vernal Falls, the Ansel Adams Wilderness, and Half Dome.
Apart from being one of the best fall hiking trails in the US, this trek features the highest peak in the continental United States. The difficulty level of this hiking trail is considered “hard,” as even experienced trekkers will find traversing the 14,495ft Mt.Whitney a challenge. Due to the length and steep difficulty levels involved in this trail, hikers will need about 2 to 4 weeks to get through the pathway.
Many tourists to the Yosemite National Park also try out hiking in the John Muir Trail. The best time to visit lies between July and October as the climate is pleasant and mildly sunny in the mornings and afternoons during this time period.
Appalachian Trail, Georgia
This trail stretches along the spine of the Appalachian Mountains from Georgia to the middle of Maine. Clocking in at 2,190 miles, this pathway is one of the longest hiking trails in the world. It passes through a whopping 14 states and is often considered the most popular out of the 3 “Triple Crown” trails in the US. A large portion of this pathway includes difficult terrain, passing through deciduous forests. Hikers will take about 4 to 5 months to complete this trail, meaning that a visit here is a long yet rewarding experience for them.
The best time to visit this trail is during the summer, spring, and fall seasons. During those phases, the plants in this pathway shed their leaves, and hikers can witness the stunning blooming and regeneration among them.
The Long Trail, Vermont
This 272-mile hiking trail is the oldest long-distance trail in the country. It was built in 1930, and it runs from the Massachusetts state line in the south all the way to the Canadian border. Along the way, it follows the crest of the Green Mountains, offering visitors stunning sights of Mount Mansfield and Camel’s Hump as they navigate the peaks and troughs of the trail.
The best time to visit this trail is during late September or early October to catch the prime leaf-changing season in Vermont.
Ocean Trail, Maine
Very few of the top US hiking destinations can also claim to offer incredible coastal hiking trails. One such trail is the Ocean trail, which is one of the more family-friendly hikes in America, as its trekking difficulty levels are relatively easy compared to other alternatives on this list. The Ocean Trail features breathtaking views of the rocky Northeastern coastline, with one of the most picturesque sights being the roaring water tumbles through Thunderhead. Additionally, the numerous ocean vistas along this trail make it worth the visit.
This trail is accessible year-round, but visitors need to be careful during the winter months, as the granite paths may become icy and solid. To navigate these conditions, trekkers are advised to pack their hiking poles to simplify navigation and enhance stability throughout the journey.