20 Best Hikes in The USA You Shouldn’t Miss

Eat your way through these stunning U.S. hiking destinations! Featuring a selection of both new and well-known trails, this compilation can be enjoyed by trekkers of any experience level from seasoned bushwalkers looking for an epic experience to novices just looking for a gentle walk in the park.

Every hike needs to be taken with preparation. Just make sure to know how hard the trail or activity is and how long it might take you to complete it. Bring with you every day that you will or could need: a bottle of water; a first aid kit, and a flashlight in a neat backpack Park authorities and experienced hikers discourage the practice of solo hikes, but if you still want to do this try to bring along necessary emergency gear and let somebody know of your whereabouts.

All of the parks in this lineup are subject to their own sets of rules, including entrance fees and trail permits in some of the parks. While we try to provide accurate and primitive details, everyone is encouraged to do their own research, prior to travel.

Most of the hikes that are featured cross the National Parks of Costa Rica, adding a park fee for each time you enter one. Nation Parks Pass: for cheap access to several parks during your travels.

20 Best Hikes in The USA You Shouldn’t Miss

1. Devil’s Bridge: A Sedona Must Hike

Take an unforgettable trek along the Devil’s Bridge Trail and discover one of nature’s most spectacular creations in Sedona, Arizona: the famous Devil’s Bridge. Standing as one of the grandest attractions in the region, the delicate, 20 thousand-ton, largest natural sandstone arch in the area draws visitors from near and far.

Located along the trail is an easy hike that everyone from families to first-timers and experienced trekkers can approach at an easy pace. Gently rolling throughout this 1.8-mile roundtrip visit. At the trail fork, adventurers decide: to continue toward a viewpoint at the foot of Devil’s Bridge or take the more adventurous route and scramble out across the arch.

The ascension is barely detectable as we approach Devil’s Bridge and the hike offers a stunning view of Sedona Beauty. Adding on to an already great hike, the hike to the ledge provides an excellent reason to enjoy a great walk across the natural wonder. One of those is Devil’s Bridge Trail, which combines accessibility with amazing views, positioning itself as one of the best hikes in the nation.

2. Decoding the Mysteries of Conundrum Hot Springs

For a challenging and rewarding trek, embark on an unforgettable hike through Colorado’s Maroon Bells-Snowmass Wilderness to Conundrum Hot Springs.

One of America’s best, it is also one of the most strenuous hikes. The trail climbs about 2,400 feet over 8.5 miles one way through creeks as it disappears into the heart of the Rocky Mountains.

For the adventurous at heart who are not fazed by the alternative, it leaves a trail toward a gorgeous oasis: natural hot springs with breathtaking views. Camping near the springs is quite obvious and recommended as the trail to the spring is long and difficult, flashlights are recommended. (Permit required, obtainable only through official channels.)

This is the best and safest opportunity to avail the rafting experience in the peak period that is from June to September. Plan Fittingly To Revel In The Unmatched Splendor Of Conundrum Hot Springs DONE DEVELOPING.

3. The Climb Up Angel’s Landing Is A Bucket List Hike In Utah

Anyone with Utah on their Road Trip agenda is certainly considering a visit to Zion National Park – and for good reason. Sitting amid those wonders is the Angel’s Landing Trail, one of the top hikes in the United States.

Angel’s Landing is somewhat difficult, featuring steep, sheer-drop offs and secured with chains bolted into the face of the cliff. This will be intimidating to those with acrophobia and watch out for Utah’s great diversity of arachnids along the way!

The trip is thus eminently rewarding even if you choose not to venture further than Scout Lookout. Covering 5 miles round trip, plan on spending 4-5 hours on this hike.

The magnificence of Angel’s Landing is more than worth every single step on the trail. On the way, experience breathtaking landscapes and ancient rock formations, surrounded by the grandiosity of nature.

The trail’s namesake and the crown jewel of the hike, Angels Landing, features a rock fin that narrows into a cliff terrace large enough to support a grove of determined trees. At the pinnacle, when you arrive at this viewing point, numerous places offer a chance to rest, wallow, and revitalize in advance of going back down.

4. Mist Trail: One of Yosemite’s Hidden Jewels

Huddled away inside Yosemite National Park is the famed Mist Trail, which climbs to Vernal and Nevada Falls. If you’re on a road trip around the West Coast and you’re not getting a little wet doing Mist Trail, you’re doing something wrong.

This trail will cover a 3-mile roundtrip to Vernal Falls or 7 miles if you also go to Nevada Falls, making it considered as one of the best waterfall hikes in the US.

No matter your route, the path offers remarkable views, earning Mist Trail its spot as a top hiking attraction in the nation.

As a moderate hike to Vernal Falls, Mist Trail is another trail that is crowded enough to make attending a social event on the way up the mountain seem likely. But notably the crowds thin as you go towards Nevada Falls

As you neared it, the hiking became hard and you needed to exert yourself more. Prepare for your hike to last between 2-5 hours depending on the route that you choose. If you just have one day to visit Yosemite, make sure to take this unforgettable trip! These are some of the best Yosemite cabins, be sure to venture out to be fully immersed in your travels.

5. Navajo Loop: Bryce Canyon’s Marquee Trail

The Navajo Loop, nestled in compelling Bryce Canyon National Park, welcomes hikers from Sunset Point through the heart of the amphitheater in the park and is named among the USA’s finest hikes.

This trail is rated moderate, and it is only 1.3 miles roundtrip. You head back down the Bryce Rim, 800 feet lower, squeezing through the narrow confines of ‘Wall Street’ and putting yourself deep in the heart of the park’s unparalleled terrain.

Along the way, the Navajo Trail intersects two other well-known routes, the Queens Garden Loop Trail and the Peekaboo Trail. If you want to see more, add these loops into your adventure either on the way down or on the way back up.

6. Hiking Linville Falls: A Hidden Jewel Off The Blue Ridge Parkway

Down in North Carolina, Linville Falls is positioned right off the Blue Ridge Parkway, offering an excellent trailhead right in the heart of the most beautiful landscapes in that region. Famous for its waterfalls, Linville Falls features three separate trails with different views of the falls spilling into the beautiful Linville Gorge. With its easy access to the Blue Ridge Parkway, this trail is a perfect spot for travelers on a fall road trip looking to see the colors of the leaves along the way.

There is just one trailhead but it leads to all three hikes. The larger double waterfalls are reached on the less-traveled main trail. Crash into the chasm below ( officiated from a viewing platform offering a beautiful view of the moving air bladder and the silent Champagne pool ) Length: 1.6-mile round-trip difficulty: EasyLevel of Effort: Mostly flat

Adventurous hikers hungry for more can hike along the Gorge Trail, a continuation of the Falls Trail that climbs a further 1.4 miles. The payoff is the myriad views of the skyline, and despite the more grueling ascent, the panorama is unmatched. Up top take in the full four tiers of waterfalls, including the river, the double falls further down, the large drop into the gorge, and another big waterfall.

Additional viewing options include the Plunge Basin trail, of moderate difficulty to round out the set of vistas at Linville Falls. From this centralized trailhead, all encompassed due to the countless views branching off from the miles of man-made improvements Linville Falls has been well deserving of this title of primo location for the best hikes in America.

7. Hiking to the Waterfalls in Ricketts Glen (PA)

Take a thrilling walk through the Ricketts Glen Waterfalls Trail in Pennsylvania’s Ricketts Glen State Park near Benton and encounter one of the best hikes in the USA for those in the best shape.

The Ricketts Glen Falls Trail – consisting of a high-intensity 7.2-mile loop around the state forest – adds Ryders to the list. But if the entire loop looks a bit intimidating, hikers have the choice of conquering either the upper or lower portions. Park Rangers caution that anyone not in excellent physical condition and with a good pair of hiking boots should not come in contact with the trail, even in short portions.

The trip is tough, but that makes the rewards that much sweeter. The full loop reveals 21 unique waterfalls that stand as low as 11 feet and as high as an impressive 94 feet. Because the trail goes right by these waterfalls where the mist travels everywhere and creates slippery conditions, there is going to be an added layer of fun.

8. Hiking Swallow Falls Canyon Trail: A Trail with More Than Meets the Eye in Maryland

Take to the Swallow Falls Canyon Trail, a wonderfully diverse hike perfect for any skill level, located in Swallow Falls State Park in Oakland, Maryland.

Be advised that Maryland State Parks charge an entrance fee to enter. From Memorial Day to Labor Day, the fee for in-state residents is $3 per person and $5 per person for out-of-state visitors. When it is not peak season, the fee changes to $3 per car for Indiana residents and $5 per car for out-of-state guests.

With a length of 1.25 miles — and relatively flat terrain — the Swallow Falls Canyon Trail is an ideal walk for striders of all ages. Walk the trail and see the Youghiogheny River meandering along a rocky gorge and rolling through a series of rippling rapids all the way. You are further treated to the beautiful Muddy Creek Falls, falling 54 feet from the rocks.

The dense forest surrounding the trail and gentle river currents make for a serene and picturesque walk that is great for hikers of any skill level.

9. Heading Out on the Secret Lost Mine Trail in Big Bend

Deep in the sprawling landscapes of Big Bend National Park in Texas lies the Lost Mine Trail, one of the best-kept secrets for all who wander on a Texas road trip. Big Bend National Park has many great hikes, but the Lost Mine Trail was frequently mentioned as one of the best hikes in the entire USA.

What makes this trail special is its distinct emptiness in contrast to the rest of other more popular tracks within the park. Perhaps not coincidentally, it is this very solitude that makes the Lost Mine Trail so appealing. But the real treat is the unique, panoramic views you can witness along the trail, which charmingly guide each hiker through their journey.

It is 4.7 miles long and is a moderate difficulty level, so if you find it too tough at any point there are plenty of places to turn back and just cruise on back up. Marked wayside exhibits and trail-markers lure you into skirting discussions on ambient flora and fauna and views of grand House Mountain, Juniper Canyon, and the South Rim as you travel.

Remember that as you get closer to Alt Peak, the difficulty of the hike increases, so take that into account. Start your hike early in the morning and make sure you have enough drinking water considering the desert climate.

10. Hiking Through White Sands on the Alkali Flat Trail

The State of New Mexico has many wonders to offer and a very special place in White Sands National Park, with Alkali Flat being one of the most interesting destinations. One of the most celebrated hikes in the US, this is truly a unique experience and is considered to be a difficult hike. Picture walking mile after mile of soft clean white sand, a beach at its edges but still unequivocally a trail.

Those looking for a more strenuous hike or some increased adventure absolutely must hike the Alkali Flat Trail. These endless white sand dunes that adorn the horizon have to be seen to be believed as this is an otherworldly landscape and an incredibly special place to visit. The trail does have a distinguisher that no other true trail can claim, its La Luz ascent follows the bottom of what was Lake Otero the incredible lakebed that was once submerged beneath the waters of a very sizeable Lake Otero making it truly in a league of its own.

Trekking the Alkali Flat Trail transports you to a place that defies categorization, where the sharp border of what separates reality and fantasy begins to fade. This journey is 5 miles roundtrip and takes about 7 hours in total. As the land is dry desert land early arrival and enough water and provisions to combat dehydration under the desert sun are required.

11. Hiking the Halema’uma’u Trail: Anograec Adventure in Hawai’i

A little (or big) “trek” for the adventure-minded, the Halemaʻumaʻu Trail in Hawaiʻi. This trail is a must-hit whether you’re going for your honeymoon, or just looking to get away, visiting the Big Island of Hawai’i does not count unless you hike along this trail.

What makes this trail so special, though, is the fact that it is within the bounds of Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park — making the trail, unlike any other hiking trail to hike in the country. This is granted by making your way through the last of the world currently experiencing a volcanic eruption – Mt. Kilauea – to discover landslides buried beneath lush rainforests in a world of decimations and rebirth exclusive to Big Island.

The trail comes in two parts Embarking on the initial. An 8-mile hike takes you to the floor of the Kilauea Caldera. Nonetheless, those looking for a slightly easier time on the trail can go on for another 1.3 miles to reach Kilauea Iki and Nahuku (Thurston Lava Tube) to observe the top of the Kilauea Caldera and the luscious rainforest that encases it.

The Halema’uma Trail is a testament to the unspeakable beauty of Hawai’i, and keeps qualifying among the top hikes in the USA, due to these stunning and distinct landscapes, unrepeated anywhere within the fifty states.

12. Backpacking the Grinnell Glacial Trail: A Montana Adventure

A road trip through Montana’s beautiful countryside will take you into Glacier National Park, where you can hike the jaw-dropping Grinnell Glacial Trail. Over a shuttle boat on Swift learn the facts here now Current Lake and Lake Josephine, this trail is going to supply a minute-to-none adventure where people wander into the forestrealm of nature.

Grinnell Glacial Trail — 7.6 miles round tripThis looped trail follows a moderately difficult 7.6-mile path through undulating terrain and is designed for advanced hikers. But the payoff is high, with every curve revealing godly views. From the trail look out over Grinnell Lake perched below the flanks of Angel Wing and Mt. Gould, shimmering amidst glaciers, alpine meadows covered in wildflowers and spray of cascading waterfalls—a truly iconic spectacle that represents the best of USA hikes.

A lot of stopping points have been created from the trail where hikers can halt, and enjoy the panoramic views and some of them even have restrooms. Gallery: This is your route and all the stuff you will need for a day hike. You should also bring bear repellent spray for safety reasons (just in case you happen upon any bears).

13. Point Lobos Loop Trail – California Gem

The spikey plant also goes by its more common, although drastically uncool, name, Chandelier tree and they rise up in a tall, thin column and then with branches wider at the top, like you inverted the perfect Christmas tree to swirl on its tip and defyingly not break. The reserve may not be known as a hiking trail but the Point Lobos Loop Trail has beautiful sights that are second to none for those that simply want to hike their way around.

Ranging in easy to moderate difficulty (depending on mile) into a 6.7-mile trail that spans the natural beauty of the California coastline. The trail provides hikers a variety of options for completing the entire loop or turning back at numerous points—multiple trails also branch off of the main route.

Explore majestic rock formations accompanied by the rhythmic sound of the waves crashing against rock and the seals calling, view sea otters basking in the sun, and indulge experiences in bird watching. This variety is what makes the Point Lobos Loop Trail one of the best and most diverse hikes in the country.

Even though it resides along a popular stop on California’s Highway 1, the reserve’s hiking options usually keep the trail from becoming crowded like its neighbors. Although there is a $10 parking charge within the reserve, there is parking just off the highway too, which could allow hikers to double their hike another 1-2 miles.

14. Hiking to Jade Lake in Rocky Mountain National Park

The one we are covering today is the short and easily accessed Jade Lake Expedition in the Northeastern parts of Rocky Mountain National Park in Colorado. The ideal escape for a chill, long, simple weekend with your friends or family in Colorado – this trail fits any and all hikers from beginners to experts anywhere in between, starting at Bear Lake Trailhead.

Along the way, there are several lovely little lakes (like Nymph Lake, Dream Lake, and Haiyaha Lake), surrounded by alpine meadows abloom with a multitude of wildflowers imported from everywhere else in the world, as well as mountain peaks in the distance.

Emerald Lake — When visitors arrive at Jade Lake they are brought not only to a spectacle of beauty but greeted with the unseen serenade of a distant waterfall, nestled neatly beneath massive stony peaks overlooking the lake.

The Jade Lake Expedition is one of the finer hikes in the U.S., largely because it is so scenic and the terrain is not too difficult to manage.

15. Follow the LabyrinthOne of the Park Hidden Jewels

Explore the Maze Loop Trail, a 5-mile attraction deep in Joshua Tree National Park in California. Rated from moderate to strenuous, the loop provides a unique experience as essentially a wash route with infrequent areas of deep sand as opposed to a standard trail, as is common with many paths in Joshua Tree National Park.

But, do not let them stop you in your tracks. If you have been longing for some truly extraordinary views made up of the most unique landscapes you may ever imagine- a trip out to the Joshua Tree National Park and the Maze Loop Trail is in order. You are now immersed in traditional desert settings filled with cacti, Joshua trees, and rocks values.

The trailhead (located near a small parking area off of Park Boulevard) can be somewhat tricky to find. Start in the cooler, mid-morning hours because….it’s a desert.

However far you venture before turning around, you must be carrying plenty of water and food, especially if (unlike us) you plan to undertake the full circuit. Chillax after your adventure with an overnight stay in Joshua Tree, offered within the one-of-a-kind lodgings!

16. Saint Mary’s Glacier – Glacial Serenity

Idaho Springs is located near Saint Mary’s Glacier — home to an hour’s drive away is a wonderful getaway to experience the wild Rocky Mountains. The easily navigable trails and sweeping views make Loafer’s an excellent gateway hike a little closer to Denver, showcasing some of the spectacular Rocky Mountain beauty.

Saint Mary’s Glacier Trail — Although the round trip of this trail is only 1.5 miles, the majority of it is very user-friendly; the minimal elevation gain is dispersed on a gradual slope of forest road. Though featured sections are slightly uphill the hike is suitable for hikers of any level, both beginners or pros, and is an absolute treat for all. From there, plan to spend a leisurely two hours hiking the trail and taking in all the beauty that it has to offer.

The views of Saint MaryHS Lake – an unregulated alpine lake filled by the annual melt of Saint MaryHS Glacier – accompany you on much of the trail. Plus, the pass snakes its way in and out of lush alpine terrain, just adding to the picturesque flavor of the place.

What makes Saint Mary’s Glacier this unique, propelling it into one of the best places for snowboarding and hiking in the USA is the chance to actually be able to snowboard and ski on the glacier itself. With the glacier still covered in snow in summertime, one can enjoy winter sports in the summer sun here.

17. A Peak at Nature’s Treasure: Diamond Fork Hot Springs

If you happen to be passing through Utah, you definitely should not pass up the opportunity to check out one of the best natural geothermal wonders in the state: Diamond Fork Hot Springs. What makes the hike to Diamond Fork Hot Springs enticing is its accessibility and moderate difficulty, making it a natural choice to fit the widest range of hiker abilities. This trail guarantees you a rich nature exploration for both hiking enthusiasts and novice explorers alike.

The hot springs are only an approximate 700-foot elevation climb along the Sixth Water Creek over the 2.5-mile journey, making for a fairly easy trek that even the youngest hiker will be able to remember and treasure. As you go along this route, you will start to smell sulfur in the air and this smell indicates that the hot water is near to you.

In addition, the color of the creek becomes just as impressive, when you get closer to the hot springs you will realize that the waters of the creek are a stunning cobalt color. Expect to stay planted in the peace and quiet for about an hour until you arrive at the beckoning wading pools. Add in scenic vistas along the way, and the therapeutic appeal of the hot springs, and you get one of the top hiking destinations in the USA.

18. The Cascading Wonders: Trail of Ten Falls

Beneath the undisturbed canopy rests the Trail of Ten Falls, one of the most mesmerizing hikes in the nation, located in Silver Falls State Park Oregon. Each of the waterfalls, ranging from the broad and stately Multnomah to the slender column of Elowah, is a snapshot of time in eons of water working on an Oregonian rock.

Breathe deeply into the captivating Oregon wilderness as you join hikers of all abilities on a moderately strenuous journey along an easy and safe walking path. While the trail does gradually climb towards the falls, any uphill is so slight, it will hardly feel like it! This loop trail is 7.8 miles long, and hikers can opt to hike back along the trail at any point, depending on how far they want to hike.

If you choose to hike the full loop, you will get a stunning view of all ten waterfalls that line the trail With the intimate 27-foot Drake Falls to the towering South Falls, each waterfall has its own beauty. Taking advantage of the loop style, hikers can also break the long-distance journey into individual sections, days, or even hikes to get the full beauty of the experience of visiting these natural wonders.

19. Trail Guide: Hiking the Cascades On Donut Falls Trail

Deep within the surrounding brutal terrain of Big Cottonwood Canyon, an unknown jewel of God’s wonderful development lies waiting – Donut Falls. The trip to This Falls is a relaxing 3.5-mile out-and-back hike, providing a unique opportunity to witness one of the most interesting waterfalls in the entire area.

The trail itself is gentle and wide with nearly no shade or incline at all and would be an absolute breeze for hikers of all levels. In the process, adventurers marvel at the vast Utah trees and towering mountain ranges that offer a grave, tranquil forest setting. Crossing charming little wood bridges traversing lazy streams adds to the natural beauty and makes the destination all the more deserving of anguish — the legendary Donut Falls.

As the name implies, Donut Falls is a point of attraction all on its own with water pouring through a large opening in a huge rock formation, dropping into a quiet pool between the creek. Formed over thousands — perhaps millions — of years thanks to the never-ending rush of water, this geological masterpiece is a fine example of nature’s handiwork and is among the most stunning waterfalls and rock formations across the USA.

20. Hiking the Hagen Canyon Trail at Red Rock

Hidden in the cloves of California’s Red Rock Canyon State Park is the Hagen Canyon Trail — a secluded paradise for those who crave a tranquil hike through some amazing natural features. The trailhead is difficult to locate; take Abbett Drive off Rt 14 for an access road that leads to a tiny parking area and access point for the route.

Hagen Canyon Trail is perhaps one of the easiest hikes in the Red Rock Canyon State Park system, known for its accessibility. At a 1.2-mile round trip, it is a quick one-hour journey through stunning terrain. On the way, hikers see a fascinating variety of rock formations, evidence that the park was once part of an underwater world that existed millions of years ago. These layers of sediment freeze colorful fossils, remnants of times when torrents from the Sierra Mountains tore the landscape.

The hike is short, but the high desert sun in the Mojave Desert will require you to stay hydrated and hit the trail in the early morning to avoid its blistering heat. Therefore, great care should be taken to ensure enough water is at hand, and to hike during the cooler hours, to make sure that the hike is a pleasant one along this scenic trail.