Introduction: Best Hiking Trails in The U.S.
The United States is home to some of the most diverse and breathtaking landscapes on the planet, offering hikers a lifetime of exploration. Whether you’re seeking the challenge of a multi-day backcountry trek or a day hike with incredible views, there's no shortage of trails to suit your sense of adventure. From towering mountains and deep canyons to ancient forests and rugged coastlines, the U.S. offers trails for all kinds of hikers.
In this guide, we’re highlighting the 10 best hiking trails in the United States. These hikes range from short but strenuous adventures to some of the country’s most epic long-distance trails. Strap on your boots and get ready to be inspired.
Pacific Crest Trail (California to Washington)
Length 2,650 miles
Difficulty: Hard
Best Time to Hike: April to September
The Pacific Crest Trail (PCT) is one of America’s most iconic long-distance hikes, offering a true test of endurance and a once-in-a-lifetime experience for those who attempt the entire trail. Spanning 2,650 miles from the Mexican border in California to the Canadian border in Washington, the PCT takes hikers through an astonishing array of landscapes. You’ll trek through arid deserts, scale the rugged Sierra Nevada range, and weave through volcanic peaks in Oregon and Washington. Whether you’re planning to hike a short section or tackle the entire trail, the PCT delivers unforgettable views of the American West.
For those unable to commit to a full thru-hike, consider popular sections like the High Sierra in California or the volcanic wilderness of central Oregon. The trail offers something new at every turn, with every season bringing different challenges and rewards.
Appalachian Trail (Georgia to Maine)
Length: 2,190 miles
Difficulty: Moderate to Hard
Best Time to Hike: March to October
The Appalachian Trail (AT) is often described as the quintessential American hiking experience. Stretching through 14 states, from the southern terminus at Springer Mountain in Georgia to the northern terminus at Mount Katahdin in Maine, the AT is a long-distance hiker’s paradise. Unlike the PCT, the AT takes hikers through more densely wooded terrain, rolling hills, and historic sites that showcase the eastern U.S.'s natural and cultural heritage.
Hikers can enjoy the AT as day hikers, section hikers, or thru-hikers, with popular sections like the White Mountains in New Hampshire offering jaw-dropping mountain vistas. The Great Smoky Mountains National Park is another highlight, where fog drapes over the ridgelines, creating a mystical atmosphere. Whether you're seeking solitude or camaraderie with fellow hikers, the AT offers both in spades.
Angels Landing (Zion National Park, Utah)
Length: 5 miles (round-trip)
Difficulty: Hard
Best Time to Hike: Spring and Fall
If you’re in search of an adrenaline-pumping day hike, Angels Landing in Zion National Park should be at the top of your list. Known for its steep and narrow ridgeline, this trail is not for the faint of heart. The last half-mile of the hike requires a nerve-wracking ascent along a rocky ridge, where chains are bolted into the rock for safety. However, the reward is an awe-inspiring, 360-degree view of Zion Canyon, with its towering sandstone cliffs and verdant valley below.
While Angels Landing attracts thrill-seekers from around the world, it’s important to exercise caution on this trail. The narrow paths and sheer drop-offs can be dangerous, especially in wet or windy conditions. Despite the challenges, this hike is a bucket-list experience for adventurers who crave both beauty and excitement.
The Narrows (Zion National Park, Utah)
Length: 9.4 miles (round-trip)
Difficulty: Moderate
Best Time to Hike: Summer and Early Fall
For a completely different hiking experience in Zion, consider The Narrows. This trail offers the rare opportunity to hike directly through the Virgin River, with towering canyon walls rising on either side. Depending on the water level, hikers can expect to wade or even swim through sections of the river as they navigate this stunning slot canyon.
The Narrows is one of the most famous "river hikes" in the U.S., and the surreal beauty of the canyon makes it an unforgettable journey. Be sure to check conditions before setting out, as flash floods can make this hike dangerous. With proper preparation, however, The Narrows offers a peaceful and refreshing adventure in one of Utah’s most breathtaking landscapes.
John Muir Trail (California)
Length: 211 miles
Difficulty: Hard
Best Time to Hike: July to September
The John Muir Trail (JMT) is a spectacular trek through California’s Sierra Nevada, named after the famous naturalist and environmentalist John Muir. Beginning in Yosemite National Park and ending at Mount Whitney—the highest peak in the contiguous United States—the JMT takes hikers through some of the most scenic high-altitude terrain in the country.
Hikers will experience soaring granite cliffs, pristine alpine lakes, and ancient sequoia forests. While the trail is difficult, the sense of isolation and beauty found along the JMT is unparalleled. Many hikers consider this trail to be one of the finest wilderness experiences in the world, offering everything from serene meadows to challenging mountain passes.
Kalalau Trail (Kauai, Hawaii)
Length: 22 miles (round-trip)
Difficulty: Hard
Best Time to Hike: May to September
For those seeking tropical adventure, the Kalalau Trail on the island of Kauai is a must. This trail traverses the dramatic Na Pali Coast, offering sweeping views of rugged sea cliffs, lush valleys, and remote beaches. The trail itself is often narrow and slippery, with steep drop-offs, making it a challenging but rewarding experience. The endpoint, Kalalau Beach, is a secluded paradise accessible only by foot or boat.
The trail’s beauty is otherworldly, with waterfalls, tropical plants, and dramatic cliffs plunging into the Pacific Ocean. Keep in mind that this trail requires a permit, and conditions can be dangerous if there’s heavy rain, so plan accordingly.
Half Dome (Yosemite National Park, California)
Length: 14-16 miles (round-trip)
Difficulty: Hard
Best Time to Hike: May to October
Half Dome is one of Yosemite National Park’s most iconic features, and the hike to its summit is nothing short of legendary. This strenuous hike includes a vertical ascent of over 4,800 feet, with the final 400 feet requiring hikers to use metal cables to scramble up the granite face. The panoramic views of Yosemite Valley and the surrounding Sierra Nevada from the top are absolutely breathtaking.
Due to its popularity, permits are required to climb Half Dome. This hike is a true test of endurance, and hikers should be prepared for a long, challenging day. However, those who make the ascent are rewarded with some of the most spectacular views in the country.
The Wonderland Trail (Mount Rainier National Park, Washington)
Length: 93 miles
Difficulty: Hard
Best Time to Hike: July to September
Encircling the massive Mount Rainier, the Wonderland Trail offers an awe-inspiring journey through Washington’s iconic national park. This 93-mile loop features everything from old-growth forests to alpine meadows, with Mount Rainier’s glaciers and snow-covered peak providing a constant backdrop. The trail is remote, wild, and often difficult, but for seasoned hikers, it’s a paradise of solitude and natural beauty.
Multi-day hikers will find a variety of campsites along the trail, and a permit is required for overnight stays. For a shorter adventure, day hikes on sections of the Wonderland Trail still offer stunning views of the park’s unique landscapes.
Grand Canyon Rim-to-Rim (Arizona)
Length: 24 miles
Difficulty: Hard
Best Time to Hike: May to October
Hiking the Grand Canyon Rim-to-Rim is a once-in-a-lifetime adventure that showcases the immense scale and beauty of one of the world’s most famous natural wonders. This 24-mile trek from the North Rim to the South Rim offers spectacular views of the canyon’s multi-layered rock formations and exposes hikers to a variety of ecosystems. The descent into the canyon is steep and grueling, as is the ascent back out, but the journey offers unforgettable experiences along the way, from the Colorado River to the lush greenery of Phantom Ranch.
Due to the extreme temperatures in summer, it’s recommended to hike the Rim-to-Rim in the cooler months of spring or fall.
Mount Katahdin (Maine)
Length: 10.5 miles (round-trip)
Difficulty: Hard
Best Time to Hike: Summer to Early Fall
Mount Katahdin, the crown jewel of Baxter State Park, is the highest mountain in Maine and the northern terminus of the Appalachian Trail. Hiking Katahdin is a challenging and rewarding experience, especially for those who take on the Knife Edge Trail—a narrow and exposed ridge with dramatic drop-offs on both sides. The views from the summit are some of the most spectacular in the northeastern United States, making this a favorite among serious hikers.
Baxter State Park is a rugged, remote area, and hikers should be prepared for unpredictable weather and challenging terrain. The hike up Katahdin is not for beginners, but for those willing to take on the challenge, the sense of accomplishment and the stunning views from the summit make it well worth the effort. Mount Katahdin also holds cultural and spiritual significance for many Native American tribes, adding to the sense of reverence felt when standing atop this mighty peak.
Final Thoughts
The United States offers hikers an unparalleled variety of trails, each with its own unique charm and challenge. From the volcanic peaks of the Pacific Northwest to the lush tropics of Hawaii, the desert canyons of the Southwest, and the ancient forests of the Appalachian Mountains, there is something for every adventurer. Whether you’re seeking an epic multi-day trek or a thrilling day hike with jaw-dropping views, these ten trails represent the very best that the country has to offer.
So, lace up your hiking boots, pack your gear, and set out to explore the incredible natural beauty of the U.S. One of these trails might just become your next great adventure.
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