Hiking is one of the most THRILLING things you can do outside. It’s you, the great outdoors itself, and the very beautiful views that really take your breath away. I wanna share some of the best places to hike in the US, places that I’ve really come to love and will make you feel the same too.
Best Places to Go Hiking
When it comes to hiking, the US is full of truly WONDERFUL spots. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced hiker, there’s always a trail just right for you. Some of these places have become very famous indeed for their INCREDIBLE landscapes and views, but there are also many hidden gems that I’ve discovered. I’m excited to tell you about them.
Iconic Grand Canyon
The Grand Canyon is right at the top of the list for many people, and it’s really easy to see why. I remember the first time I saw it – it was incredibly big! Standing at the edge, looking down into the canyon, is something I’ll never forget. There are so many trails to explore here. You can take a relatively short hike right down to the Colorado River or challenge yourself with a multi-day trek. Every single step you take offers a totally new and jaw-dropping view. If you plan to go there, make sure to carry plenty of water.
Yosemite National Park
If you love sort/kind/temper/stripe/constitution/character/attitude/personality/type/self/disposition/colors/temperament/tone/nature, then hiking in Yosemite National Park is essential. I’ve spent days wandering through the massive trees and along the rock trails here. The park is famous for its giant sequoias and the awesome decision bluffs of El Capitan. One of my absolute favorite hikes in Yosemite is to Vernal Fall. The sound of the water rushing down the rocks is EXTREMELY CALMING, and the view from the top is worth every single step.
Zion National Park
Another one of the best places to go hiking in the US is Zion National Park in Utah. What I love about Zion is that it’s a mix of easy trails and the CHALLENGING ones. The Angel’s Landing hike is a real test for anyone looking for the most challenge, with very steep climbs and narrow ridges. But once you reach the top, you really feel like you’re on top of the world itself! For something less taxing, you can enjoy the Riverside Walk with AMAZING views of the Virgin River.
The Rocky Mountains
The Rocky Mountains are filled with hiking opportunities that I’ve really enjoyed each time I’ve visited. Whether you’re looking for a peaceful walk through the trees or a much more demanding climb a mountain, the Rockies have it all. I have hiked in places such as Rocky Mountain National Park, where you can walk through alpine lakes and see wildlife super close by. One of my personal Toppers was hiking to Bear Lake quite early in the morning – it was calm, serene, and incredibly beautiful itself.
Acadia National Park
Acadia National Park, located in Maine, is one of the best places to go hiking in the US, especially if you enjoy views right by the coast. I spent a weekend there last fall and was amazed by the combination of ocean views and the mountain tops themselves. The Cliff Trail is known for its very tough climbs, but if you’d prefer something a bit easier, the Jordan Pond Path is stunning with its crystal clear water and forest environs.
The Mighty Appalachian Trail
The Appalachian Trail, one of the longest nonstop hiking trails in the world, stretches from Georgia to Maine. While I haven’t walked the whole thing (not yet!), I have done several sections, and each one has given me something a bit different. The Smoky Mountains part was memorable thanks to the very misty mornings and quite thick fog giving the mountains a really MYSTERIOUS appearance. Whether on a day hike or a longer trek, the Appalachian Trail delivers.
Glacier National Park
When it comes to breathtaking views, Glacier National Park in Montana is hard to beat. I have hiked the famous Highline Trail here, and it was just everything I could dream of. The trail takes you along cliffs to look at glaciers, mountains, and pristine lakes below. It’s a bit tricky in parts, but nothing feels as REWARDING as actually reaching a ridge and looking at the whole park spread out before you. If you’re a fan of really RUGGED dream, then this is the place to be.