30 Most Beautiful Hiking Trails in the US

America is home to some pretty amazing hiking trails, considered some of the best in the world. If you’re looking to get a glimpse at the quintessential American landscapes, we compiled a list of the 30 most beautiful hiking trails in the US. Since America is so diverse and has an amazing number of stunning landscapes, we decided to divide the list equally across the US.

10 Most Beautiful Hiking Trails In West US

The popular hiking trails in the western United States cover everything from short and sharp to long but satisfying. There are landscapes and challenges to suit every hiker, from beginner to expert. Whether it’s Grand Canyon hiking trails or something less obvious, there’s plenty to choose from.

#10: Pacific Crest Trail

Some trails become so famous that they get their own movie, which is precisely what happened with the Pacific Crest Trail. Cheryl Strayed wrote her memoir Wild, which was later made into a film about her long journey on the trail from the Mexican to Canadian borders. Commonly beginning in spring, most hikers go from south to north and spend around five months on this fantastic journey to the Pacific Crest Trail.

#9: Tahoe Rim Trail, California

Lake Tahoe is considered one of America’s best hikes. If you’re headed to the area of the San Diego hiking trails, you can experience something a little different with the Tahoe Rim Trail. This trail will take around two weeks to complete. So, it’s best for those with intermediate hiking skills. Because it’s a high-ride route, you’ll have to give yourself time to acclimate to the altitude change. Once on it, though, you’ll experience America’s largest lake from a completely different view.

#8: Hoh River Trail, Washington

If you have a few days to spare and want to see what a temperate rainforest looks like in the United States. The Hoh River Trail will amaze you because fairly easy to follow and flat for the most part. It’s great for beginners ready for their next challenge after a one-day hike. The old-growth forest is unlike anything you’ve seen before. You’ll get a good glimpse of local wildlife like deer and elk.

#7: Barker Dam Trail, Joshua Tree

Many travel to the Mojave Desert for a different perspective on life, and the Barker Dam Trail is one of the best ways to get it. This short journey suits hikers of all skill levels and really lets you enjoy everything that this wonderful scenery has to offer. The main point of this trail is the dam, which is over 100 years old and reason enough to go on the adventure.

#6: Simpson-Reed Trail, California

Found in Jedidiah Smith Redwoods State Park, this amazing hike will give you an up-close and personal look at the astonishing trees growing in the area. Many hikers like to pair this with a camping trip that lets them enjoy the surroundings even longer. It has blissful weather for a hike any time of year. The vast coastal redwoods that line the path will shock you with their stature.

#5: Weaver’s Needle Trail, Arizona

When you’re looking for a simple hike to take your four-legged friend, it has to be Weaver’s Needle Trail. This 6.6-mile hike will give you a good workout and a chance to see the beautiful wildflowers that grow native to the area. You can expect some light traffic if you head out on the weekend. This proves just how beautiful the local landscape is on this moderate skill-level trail.

#4: John Muir Trail, California

Situated in the Sierra Nevada Mountains is the John Muir Trail, named after the famous preservationist. This is a backcountry backpack hike that shows off the mountain scenery that this country is known for. You’ll need about three weeks to get it done but will likely want to spend even longer enjoying the scenery and getting acclimatized. This trail ends at the highest peak in America, Mount Whitney, with a staggering 14,505-foot peak.

#3: Oregon Coastal Trail

If you’re a hiker and want something different from your standard forest hiking trail, the Oregon Coastal Trail is the one for you. This Oregon hiking trail can take around a month to complete. But you’ll experience the coast like never before. Making your way primarily on the shoreline, you will find native wildlife, crashing ocean sounds, and plenty of relaxing and idyllic places to set up camp.

#2: Ewoldsen Trail, California

The famous Big Sur is the long stretch of coastline that Californians know and love. According to hikers, the Ewoldsen Trail is the best way to see it. You’ll only need to commit three hours to this amazing journey and be rewarded with first-hand views of the stunning coastline and a fresh breeze on your back the entire time. The Ewoldsen Trail takes you through redwood forests and creeks and to the best viewpoint of the ocean. So you’ll get to see it all on this one trail.

#1: Half Dome, California

Yosemite hiking trails deserve to be on the list, but if we had to pick the best, it would be the Half Dome trail. This trail will take the average hiker around 12 hours, but you should be prepared to put in the work.

As rewarding as it is, hundreds of people are rescued from this trail each year because they weren’t up to the task. Those who are will see a virtually untouched part of American history and ascent the famous Half Dome cables.

10 Most Beautiful Hiking Trails In Central US

If you want to explore America’s nature further, you’ll want to head straight for the center and walk in any of these best hikes. With everything from the hiker’s dreamland of Colorado to Arkansas hiking trails, we’re counting down the 10 most beautiful hiking trails in Central US.

#10: Ouzel Falls, Rocky Mountains

This family-friendly hike gives you a quick glimpse of how amazing the Rocky Mountain National Park Hiking Trails can be. It might pique your interest to try something even more challenging. Hiking to this fantastic rocky mountain trail will take you to three separate waterfalls spanning just three miles. You can even jump in and cool down if the weather is right. If you prefer to stay close to civilization, there are plenty of amenities, including bathrooms and a ranger station.

#9: Deer Valley Loop, Arizona

If you’ve ever wanted to see a cactus in the flesh, then Arizona is the place to be, and more specifically, so is the Deer Valley Loop hiking trail. This trail is relatively short, but the sights are unique. You can have the best views of a sweeping cactus forest that will blow your mind. Located in the Saguaro National Reserve, you’ll see protected landmarks. This includes Native American petroglyphs, which add much history and wonder to this trail.

#8: Porcupine Mountain, Michigan

Known as one of the more popular Michigan hiking trails, Porcupine Moutain allows you to experience some of the area’s great lakes. You’ll witness everything from Carp River Valley to Lake of the Clouds on your journey, with a slight change due to the elevation change. At just four miles, you can take your time to enjoy this one and soak up the sights that Michigan wilderness has to offer.

#7: Superior Hiking Trail, Minnesota

The proof is in the name of this one, and the Superior Hiking Trail certainly delivers what it promises. Situated at Lake Superior, one of the country’s most beloved bodies of water, this long-distance trail will take around a month to complete. However, you’ll be rewarded with constant views of greatness with sweeping lake overlooks, scenic rivers, gorges, and local wildlife. This is a great spot to get a snapshot of what Central America offers, with a little bit of everything to see.

#6: Windows Loop, Utah

Arches National Park is one of the most impressive visual sights you can witness in Central America, and a great way to see it up close and personal is on the Windows Loop hiking trail. This trail takes you along the red rock formations, and there are three sandstone landmarks to enjoy. If you’re a hiker who likes to take some snaps along the way, there will be plenty of chances for amazing sights and snapshot moments when you’re on this short hike.

#5: Colorado Trail, Colorado

Colorado is home to some stunning mountain vista views. The best way to see them all up close and personally is on the Colorado Trail. This is a great choice if you’re looking for hiking trails near Denver or just something to take you through the mountainous state. You’ll need to commit about six weeks to the hike, but there are so many picturesque places to set up camp. Just make sure you pack for colder weather.

#4: South Rim Trail, Texas

There are plenty of great hiking trails along the Mexican border, but none stand up to the South Rim Trail in Texas. Give yourself a full day to complete this one. Although it’s not that long, it can get high, reaching a peak of around 2,000 feet. This gain in elevation will be evident in your legs. But you’ll soon forget it once you reach the top and are rewarded with the view. You’ll see the sweeping desert of Mexico like never before, making the climb worthwhile.

#3: Four Pass Loop, Colorado

There are many great Colorado hiking trails, but the Four Pass Loop is the best. Located in the Maroon Bells Wilderness, you’ll spend days amongst some of the most stunning scenery you’ve ever seen. There are fields of wildflowers, deep and blue alpine lakes, and gushing waterfalls, so there’s no shortage of views over the journey. You can expect to spend four days on this hike unless you want to soak up the scenery and camp even longer.

#2: Yapashi Ruins Trail, New Mexico

This is an amazing hike with a lot of history. If you’re into learning more about Native American culture, this is a spot you have to check out. The Yapashi Ruins were once home to an ancient people. And you’re still able to see how they lived with a monument that was four stories high when it was in use. The trail surrounding the area takes about two days to complete and allows you to explore the ruins in person.

#1: Continent Divide Trail

For the most epic hiking trail in Central US, nothing beats the glory of the Continent Divide Trail. This arduous hike runs between the Mexican and Canadian borders. If you want to complete the whole thing, you’ll have to give yourself around seven months. You’ll witness the rugged backcountry of five states, giving you more than you need and taking you through landmarks such as the Rocky Mountains and Yellowstone National Park.

10 Most Beautiful Hiking Trails In East US

The Eastern United States is home to some truly spectacular landscapes, and what better way to discover them than with a good hike?

If you’re wondering where exactly the best hiking trails near NYC are or where you can find hiking trails in Georgia, this is the place to be. We’re counting down the 10 most beautiful hiking trails in the Eastern part of the nation for you to get out and enjoy.

#10: Jack’s River Trail, Georgia

As one of the more remote parts of the east but spectacular to hike, not many people know about Jack’s River Trail. This trail is part of the Cohutta Wilderness in Georgia. It will give you a glimpse at some impressive waterfalls and babbling brooks. At only 16 miles long, you can get this one done in a day or camp overnight and soak it up.

#9: The Long Trail, Vermont

If you want a hiking trail that offers a piece of history and a bit of alone time, the Long Trail is the one for you. Known as the oldest hiking trail in the US, it’s the perfect mix of rugged terrain and calming flat landscapes, and you’ll also cross over the Appalachian Trail. Give yourself a month to complete this one, and do so in the fall for spectacular foliage views.

#8: Ocean Trail, Maine

For those hikers who love a picturesque look at the ocean as they hike, you’ll want to check out Maine’s Ocean Trail. This wonderful trail is perfect for hikers of all skill levels, and you might even want to bring the kids along, too. You’ll witness views of the ocean as well as hidden coves along the way. This is the spot if you like to tie in some rock climbing with your hike.

#7: Santa Rosa Ocean Beach Hike, Florida

People are too quick to dismiss Florida hiking trails, but many gems can be found there. Santa Rosa Ocean Beach Hike is a lighthearted hike that your entire family can enjoy, and it’ll give you a history lesson in the process. With trails that lead to Fort Pickens, which was built in 1934. You can make your way along an ocean beach for a hike with a difference.

#6: Bushkill Falls, Pennsylvania

It’s a state covered almost completely by mountains, making it ideal for hikers. However, if you seem to be chasing waterfalls when you go out into the wilderness, then you won’t want to miss this. As one of the most scenic hiking trails in PA and America, you’ll get to see eight different waterfalls. You even camp in the area to truly appreciate everything it offers.

#5: Mount Cammerer Trail, Great Smoky Mountains

There are over 800 trails in the park alone, but the Mount Cammerer Trail in the Great Smoky Mountains always comes up as a favorite. It takes about six or seven hours to complete, and you’ll need to be experienced enough to tackle it, as the mountains contain some of the highest peaks in the USA. Mountaintop meadows, babbling streams, hardwood forests, and amazing wildflowers delight your senses.

#4: Presidential Traverse, New Hampshire

This serious trail is only intended for the physically fit and mentally strong. It totals around 23 miles but has a lot of elevation. As one of the highest peaks in New England, the Presidential Traverse hike in the White Mountains has a gain of nearly 9,000 feet. For some, this could be considered high-altitude hiking. So you’ll need to be prepared and ready because most of the path is above the tree line. You’ll be rewarded with a sky-high landscape view of this amazing part of the country, so it’s worth the challenge.

#3: Rocky Top Trail, Tennessee

Rocky Top Trail is another trail with some history behind it. It’s said to be where the University of Tennessee’s fight song was penned. You’ll see why it represents a rough and ready attitude, though, as it’s seriously strenuous and has much elevation. Once at the top, you’ll have a 360-degree view of your surroundings. This includes lakes, coves, and fields that make up the gorgeous area of Tennessee. Be warned, the trail can get a little busy during peak season, so be prepared to share the view.

#2: Art Loeb Trail, North Carolina

This trail was made as a tribute to a local mountaineer who loved the area, and it’s a trail that’s been designed for fellow mountain lovers. With 30 miles to cover, you should prepare for a bit of a hike. However, you’ll witness spectacular local wildlife and flora at the summit. There are plenty of places to stop and enjoy the panoramic views, and you can set up camp when you find somewhere particularly pleasing. Remember, this trail is best suited to those with plenty of experience.

#1: Appalachian Trail

The biggest and best trail that the Eastern US has to offer is the Appalachian Trail. You can complete it if you have a spare six months or so. This trail is on every hiker’s wish list, and once you get started on it, you’ll see why. You’ll make your way through 14 states and witness everything from Mount Katahdin in Maine to Shenandoah National Park in Virginia, giving you a glimpse at life on the East Coast.

Resources:

NPS
DCNR
The Guardian
US News
Quora