The United States is home to some of the best and most beautiful hiking trails in the world.
There are literally thousands of beautiful places in the US for hiking and trekking. That makes the USA an awesome playground for hikers. If you are travel and hiking savvy, exploring these breathtaking and spectacular places should be on both your travel and hiking bucket list.
It would take forever to visit all of them. But you can definitely start with the most epic hikes.
To make your life easier, I would like to present the best collection of the most beautiful hikes in the US that exists on the internet. In this list, you will find all kinds of hikes, from adrenalin-pumping adventures to peaceful sojourns.
These hikes are featuring incredible natural wonders, from majestic mountains to pristine lakes, sparkling waterfalls, hidden beaches, active volcanoes and erupting geysers.
Lace up your hiking boots! Time to get outside!
The stunning sandstone curve, The Wave
THE WAVE TRAIL – WHY IT’S ONE OF THE BEST HIKES IN THE US
Hiking The Wave in Arizona is one of the most extraordinary experiences in the world. It’s so extraordinary that it doesn’t even feel real. Here, you will feel that you are on another planet.
It takes a lot of time and effort to get the permit but the reward for that is a truly exceptional once-in-a-lifetime experience.
The Wave is basically a sandstone rock formation. It’s called The Wave because it looks like a rising wave.
The Wave is not a typical hiking trail. There is no actual hiking path there. You can basically catch the vast landscape of this unique place in all directions. But you have to use a map, compass, or GPS.
Moreover, Thanks to the strict visiting regulations, there is no crowd. Thus, The Wave is pretty much all yours.
And it’s not only The Wave! There are many more otherworldly places all around The Wave, such as the Dinosaur Track, the Boneyard, the Sand Cove, and the Second Wave. They consist of fascinating, colorful U-shaped troughs, sandstone curves, and dramatic cliffs.
If you are still up for more adventure after hiking, very near the Wave is Lake Powell, one of the best places to kayak in Arizona.
WHERE TO STAY
The closest camping option is the Stateline Campground. It’s only a few miles away from the Wave. There are no hotels close to the Wave. The nearest ones are around 30 miles away at Lake Powell. The most unique option there is the Under Canvas Lake Powell-Grand Staircase offering luxury tents in the wilderness.
Explored by Diana from The Globetrotting Detective
The stunning sandstone curve, The Wave
ANGELS LANDING TRAIL – WHY IT’S ONE OF THE BEST HIKES IN THE US
Angels Landing Trail is the most famous trail in Zion National Park and one of the most popular hikes in America. It is a real beast. It is steep intimidating but absolutely gorgeous.
The very beginning of the Angels Landing trail is really easy. The first challenge is a series of long and steep switchbacks. But it’s all worth the effort. The view of the basin below is priceless on the way up. It features the sparkling Virgin River and a mix of multicolored stones.
Following this part, you can enjoy walking in a shady canyon, the Refrigerator Canyon.
After the canyon, comes another challenging part, a more strenuous and steeper switchback than the previous one called Walter’s Wiggles. This switchback takes to you the Scout’s Lookout from which you will have a magnificent vista of Zion Canyon.
A lot of people hike up to only this point as the final stretch of the trail is the most difficult part of the way. To be honest, this part is actually too scary. You will be walking on an extremely narrow and rocky ridge. The insane deepness on your left and right might make your heart miss a beat.
But after possibly the scariest experiences of your life, once you are on the summit, you can take your time to catch your breath and enjoy a stunning and unforgettable 360-degree view of Zion Canyon. The magical view will definitely blow your mind.
You can visit the trail all year long. If you want to hike the trail in winter, make sure you read this winter guide for the Angels Landing Trail.
If you want to know more about other scary hikes, read this guide on how to survive the most dangerous hikes in the US.
WHERE TO STAY
There are two drive-in campgrounds and an in-park lodge where you can stay in Zion National Park. The only in-Park Lodge is the Zion National Park Lodge. If you are more into hotels, stay in Springdale where you can find gorgeous hotels surrounded by awe-inspiring scenery. Some of those lovely hotels are the Flanigan’s Inn, Hampton Inn, and Springhill Suites by Marriott.
Explored by Diana from The Globetrotting Detective
Napali Coast from the Kalalau Trail
KALALAU TRAIL – WHY IT’S ONE OF THE BEST HIKES IN THE US
The NaPali Coast is one of the most beautiful hikes in the USA, and the Kalalau Trail is the only way to access this part of the island. The full trail length is 22 miles (or 35.4 km); however, the full trail is one of the top 10 most dangerous trails in the world and requires overnight camping. Therefore, most visitors take a day hike out to Hanakapiai Beach, which is a much easier hike.
Starting at Ke’e Beach, which is one of the best spots for sunset in Kauai, the trail immediately starts to climb. The first lookout over Ke’e Beach and the NaPali Coast is truly stunning! After all, it’s one of the most stunning coastlines in all of the world.
Navigating the switchbacks through the lush, Hawaiian forest is as muddy as it is scenic. Peeks of the coastline tease hikers making their way to Hanakapiai Beach. Just before reaching the beach, hikers must cross the Hanakapiai River. Small rains can turn the river into a deadly, rushing river so it’s only recommended to cross when the river is calm.
Accessing the Hanakapiai Beach is safest when the surf is low. Hikers should be sure to watch the waves for at least 10 minutes to ensure the surf is low and breaks far in the distance before walking the beach. Once on the beach, the NaPali Coast is in immediate view with its majestic peaks jutting out of the powerful Pacific Ocean!
WHERE TO STAY
While planning a trip to Kauai, it’s fairly easy to navigate the island within an hour’s drive by staying in Poipu. A plethora of hotels and resorts welcome visitors. However, to be nearest to the Kalalau Trailhead, a few accommodations can be found in the nearby Princeville.
Explored by Nikki from She Saves She Travels
Magnificent view over the Coconino National Forest
DEVIL’S BRIDGE TRAIL – WHY IT’S ONE OF THE BEST HIKES IN THE US
Arizona is a state full of surprises and it is a paradise for outdoor lovers. There are a lot of beautiful places to visit for thrilling landscape views and epic hikes, especially in Sedona.
One of the best hikes in Sedona, is the Devil’s Bridge Trail.
The Devil’s Bridge is the largest sandstone arch in Sedona, is considered one of the most beautiful hikes in the United States. The stunning arch has the shape of a bridge, created by wind and weather erosion.
The hike leading to the Devil’s bridge is fairly short but jaw-dropping. During the hike, you will pass incredible sceneries of the red rocks.
Take a few moments to sit and enjoy the view: the Devil’s Bridge right in front of you with red rock cliffs in the background and a seemingly endless lush valley below you. Reward yourself for a hike well done. The most magical moments of your experience will be when the rock formations are glowing brilliantly in reddish and orangish colors as the setting sun illuminates them.
The hikers should expect to wait in a queue to take photos on top of the bridge. You are allowed to walk on the bridge, but be safe and use precaution if you do so, avoiding the narrow sides and never step down to a lower portion of the bridge.
Explored by Paula from Paula Pins The Planet
Phenomenal view of Haleakala crater covered in clouds
SLIDING SANDS TRAIL – WHY IT’S ONE OF THE BEST HIKES IN THE US
The Sliding Sands Trail in the Haleakala National Park on the island of Maui is one of the best and most otherworldly crater hikes not only in the USA but in the world.
The Haleakala National Park, which is the only national park on the island of Maui, got its name after Haleakala which is a dormant (sleeping) volcano on Maui.
This place will make you feel like you are a star of a magical sci-fi fantasy. The major highlight of this hike is the crater of Haleakala.
This is a hike that you start from the top and you need to walk down to the crater, then hike up to the summit on the way back. That’s why the way down is easy and the way back is difficult.
If you wonder where else you can see similar volcanic landscapes, check out Etna in Italy.
WHERE TO STAY
There are two campgrounds in the Haleakala National Park. One of them is close to the summit area and the Kipahulu Area. Alternatively, you can stay in wilderness cabins.
If you need more comfort and luxury, try this gorgeous resort, the Kula Lodge.
Explored by Diana from The Globetrotting Detective
ICE LAKE TRAIL – WHY IT’S ONE OF THE BEST HIKES IN THE US
Ice Lake Basin in the San Juan National Forest is touted as one of the most beautiful hikes in Colorado.
The trail features some of the most jaw-droppingly gorgeous and idyllic mountain scenery in the United States, so strap on your hiking boots and hit this trail to get to two of the most gorgeous alpine lakes in the country.
Hiking Ice Lake is no easy feat, but with a little effort, you’ll immerse yourself into one of Colorado’s most iconic landscapes.
Plus, there is plenty of beauty to keep you distracted, so you’ll have tons of excuses to stop to catch your breath and take in the views!
Aside from the beautiful alpine lakes that will get your jaw right on the ground at the end of the trail, this beautiful hike features stunning high alpine meadows with streams running through them, waterfalls dropping from nearby cliff sides (summers), and a delightful cirque of 13,000-foot peaks.
Once you reach Ice Lake, you can continue the adventure by making your way over to the nearby Island Lake (about 30 minutes up) to get even more insane vistas of yet another alpine lake and the epic scenery that surrounds it.
The best place to stay nearby is the town of Ouray, where you’ll find plenty of activities to wind down after the hike, quirky eateries, and an array of hotels.
The breathtaking colors of the Ice Lake in Colorado
The State of Colorado has several beautiful national parks. Check out more gems in Colorado for more unique hikes.
WHERE TO STAY
A great accommodation option is the Box Canyon Lodge, which also boasts a set of hot springs to relax your muscles after the hike. If you’re feeling up for it, however, you have the option to camp inside San Juan National Forest. Along Forest Road 7, there are five different campgrounds offering basic amenities (note these all work on a first-come, first-serve basis).
Explored by Meg from Fox in the Forest
Bryce Canyon from the Queen’s Garden Trail
QUEEN’S GARDEN TRAIL – WHY IT’S ONE OF THE BEST HIKES IN THE US
The Queens Garden Trail is one of the most popular trails in Bryce Canyon because of its ease of access as well as the amazing views of the amphitheater.
Although wandering along the Rim Trail does give you an overview of the incredible hoodoos that Bryce Canyon is famous for, it’s not until you head down into the canyon that you truly appreciate their size and beauty.
The Queens Garden Trail is an out and back trail that begins at Sunrise Point along the Rim Trail, and leads down along the edges of cliffs through the otherworldly landscape.
Many of the best and most unique views of the park are along this trail, including several tunnels and Queen Victoria Hoodoo. But, make sure to save some energy, as the entire return hike is uphill.
If you’re looking for something a bit longer, try adding the Navajo Loop which joins up near the turn-around with the Queens Garden Trail, and will lead past Thor’s Hammer or up Wall Street.
WHERE TO STAY
The Lodge at Bryce Canyon is a great option as it’s the only place to stay within the park, offering easier access to all of the sites.
Moreover, there are two traditional campsites available within the park, North and Sunset Campgrounds. Last but not least, just outside the park entrance is the sprawling Ruby’s, which has both a campground and motel.
Explored by Kristin from Snorkel and Hike
Breathtaking view of the Grinnel Glacier Lake
GRINNELL GLACIER TRAIL – WHY IT’S ONE OF THE BEST HIKES IN THE US
Glacier National Park is home to incredibly beautiful lakes. One of the most beautiful and gorgeous lakes in this national park is the Grinnell Lake fed by the Grinnel and Salamander glaciers.
The hiking trail leading to the dreamy Grinnell Lake is mostly in the woods. On the way, you can admire and take epic shots of two scenic subalpine lakes, name Swiftcurrent Lake and Lake Josephine, and you will walk through sparkling waterfalls.
Diverse wildlife is an essential part of the Glacier Lake area. On the hiking route, you might walk together with horses or see moose noshing loud. If you are lucky, you can also see grizzly bears, mountain goats, beavers, and bighorn sheep.
The opaque turquoise Grinnel Lake with the towering walls of Mount Gould, the Garden Wall, and Mt. Grinnel in the background at the end of the trail will take your breath away. There is also a long cascade toppling down the mountain slope on the far end of the lake.
Summers, you can also go into the water wading. But for swimming, the lake is too cold.
WHERE TO STAY
There are awesome campgrounds and hotels in Glacier National Park. The most epic accommodation option is the Under Canvas Glacier which offers luxurious Safari tents
Explored by Diana from The Globetrotting Detective
The Lone Star Geyser erupting
LONE STAR GEYSER TRAIL – WHY IT’S ONE OF THE BEST HIKES IN THE US
Lone Star Geyser Trail is one of the best things to do in Yellowstone. Most people visit the geysers that are easily accessible by car. Therefore, Lone Star Geyser Trail is the ideal choice when you want to escape crowds. The trail takes about 2-3 hours. However, if you want to wait for an eruption, it might take a little longer. The trail closely follows the Firehole River through a forest. This mostly paved path is also suitable for bikes.
Lone Star has one of the largest cones in Yellowstone (10-foot high) and erupts about every 3 hours. You can look forward to seeing 45-foot (14 meters) high eruptions. Look for the logbook, which is nearby to see if previous visitors noted the time of the last eruption. The eruptions last about 5 minutes and are followed by a loud steam phase – you can hear the noise a mile away.
The trail finishes at the junction with the Howard Eaton trail (which is part of the Continental Divide Trail). From there you can continue to Shoshone lake (which would be a whole day trip) or go to the other side of the Old Faithful Village. There are several hot springs between the Lone Star Geyser and the junction.
It’s a very nice short hike, but keep in mind that you are in the bear country so always follow bear-safety rules!
WHERE TO STAY
Yellowstone offers accommodation for all kinds of travelers. Yellowstone is a huge park where you can find amazing campgrounds and lodges. To decide where to stay in Yellowstone National Park, I recommend this guide this Yellowstone lodging guide.
Explored by Adriana from Czech the World
DEVIL’S GARDEN TRAIL – WHY IT’S ONE OF THE BEST HIKES IN THE US
The Devil’s Garden Trail is broken into three distinct sections. It starts with an easy hike to Landscape Arch, the longest single-span arch in North America. There is a short side trail to see Pine Tree Arch and Tunnel Arch.
From Landscape Arch, you can return to the trailhead or continue up the top of a narrow ‘fin’ or ridge and on to Double O Arch. A side trail takes you to Navajo Arch, hidden around a corner, and Partition Arch. You can look through the arch and see people at the base of Landscape Arch below, and enjoy a panoramic view of the park.
The trail is moderately difficult, but it does cross a couple of narrow ridges with steep drop-offs, so is not great if you have a fear of heights. This section ends at the beautiful Double O Arch. Climb through the lower “O” and walk a little higher for the best view of the arches.
From there, you can return the same way or take the primitive trail back, making a loop. This part of the hike is challenging, with scrambling, walking on narrow edges, and even wading through water at some times of the time of year.
The trail is difficult to follow at times, so look for cairns and logs. This section is incredible, though, as it traverses through the beautiful Fin Canyon. A side trail takes you to Private Arch.
The Double O Arch is beautiful beyond belief
WHERE TO STAY
The only accommodation option inside Arches National Park is the Devil’s Garden Campground, which is conveniently located near the trailhead deep within the park. Other accommodations are available in Moab, five miles from the park’s entrance. A great option is Hyatt Place Moab.
Explored by James from Parks Collecting
DIAMOND HEAD CRATER HIKE – WHY IT’S ONE OF THE BEST HIKES IN THE US
Diamond Head, located on the Hawaiian island Oahu, is without a doubt one of the most beautiful hikes in the USA, mostly thanks to the spectacular views it offers all along the trail and at the summit. The best part about it is that it takes only around 40-60 minutes to reach the summit, even though there are definitely some steep sections to get through.
At the beginning of the trail, green hills make up most of the view as nicely paved walkways guide you along. Soon after, though, the path becomes more rocky and uneven, so make sure to have proper footwear. The trail will then lead you to some steep stairways. Even though these can be exhausting to climb up, the view of the sea and surrounding greeneries only keep getting better and better the higher you climb.
After the stairways, you’ll be passing through two pretty long tunnels where you might need your phone’s flashlight to guide you through. After that, it’s only around 99 steps to the summit. There are tons of gorgeous lookout points the closer you get to the summit, so be sure to take frequent breaks to soak in the stunning views along the way.
Of course, the most jaw-dropping view of all awaits you at the top of the summit, where you can see the gorgeous coast of Waikiki as well as Koko Head far in the distance.
Splendid view of a volcanic tuff cone, the Diamond Head
WHERE TO STAY
The Diamond Head State Monument is only a 15-minute drive from Waikiki Beach, which is bustling with fantastic beach resorts. One of the best ones is Hilton Hawaiian Village Waikiki Beach Resort, which is located right on the shores. This hotel offers rooms with ocean views, five different swimming pools, as well as Waikiki’s longest waterslide.
While there are several campgrounds in Oahu, they’re all pretty far from Diamond Head, so staying at a hotel is definitely a more convenient option.
Explored by Jiayi from The Diary of a Nomad
Breathtaking view of the No Name Lake
BROKEN TOP TRAIL DESCRIPTION
Not far from the town of Bend, Oregon is one of the state’s best hikes, Broken Top. This hike is one that requires a bit of preparation and planning, as it is nearly 15 miles round trip. Plus, with 2,815 feet elevation gain, it’s not for the faint of heart. But with proper gear and skills, it is a trek to be remembered.
The Broken Top hike begins near beautiful Todd Lake. The beginning is relatively flat and winds through forests and past streams lined with wildflowers.
Eventually, the forest opens up to a wide-open space that grants views of what is about to be climbed. The incline begins, and it can be quite challenging at times. It’s also worth noting that during the later summer months, this trail can be very dusty, so it’s important to wear proper hiking shoes.
The reward for the elevation gain is a spectacular view of No Name Lake, which sits in the basin of the stratovolcano known as Broken Top. This is a great place to stop with a snack and enjoy the view. However, there is still more trail ahead! Continue on for an additional mile to reach the summit, which offers sweeping views over Bend Glacier and of the Three Sisters Mountain Range.
WHERE TO STAY
The best place to stay nearby is in the town of Bend, which is just a 40-minute drive. There are numerous hotels, but one of the closest options is LOGE, which is known for its proximity to world-class mountain bike trails. Staying here will give you the opportunity to hike and bike in one epic trip. Alternatively, there are lots of nearby camping options along the Cascade Lakes Highway, but most need to be booked in advance on Recreation.gov.
Explored by Katie & Ben from Two Wandering Soles
Staggering summer beauty
MIST TRAIL DESCRIPTION
Yosemite National Park is home to some of the most impressive waterfalls in California.
Two of these natural features can be accessed by foot using the Mist Trail, a hike following the Merced River.
When the waterfalls are at, or near, maximum flow, they fill the adjacent area with tiny water droplets. Hence, the name “Mist Trail.” It is advisable to bring a rain poncho to avoid getting soaked. Non-slippery footwear is essential as well.
The nice thing about this trail is that hikers can go as far as they feel comfortable. There are several spots to take a break.
After a moderate walk, hikers will find themselves face to face with the powerful Vernal Fall. It is possible to safely get closer to the bottom of the fall for extraordinary pictures.
The trail continues to the top of Vernal Fall (through a 600 steps stair) from where an emerald pool and valley formed by the river are observable. Most visitors make it to this point before going back to the trailhead.
Those who have the stamina walk another mile and a half to Nevada Fall, yet another impressive natural feature in the park.
Park visitors are encouraged to embark on this adventure (at least to the base of Vernal Fall). The power of these falls may be the highlight of a trip.
WHERE TO STAY
The Yosemite View Lodge is a good option for those who want to stay close to Yosemite’s El Portal entrance. Budget-conscious travelers can opt to stay at the Yosemite Westgate Lodge.
Staying inside the park is possible. There is a variety of lodges, hotels, traditional cabins, and canvas-sided tent cabins. Find more information here.
When it comes to camping, the National Park Service operates several campsites in the Yosemite Valley, north of The Valley and south of The Valley. Find exact information here.
Explored by Katie & Ben from Two Wandering Soles
Awe-inspiring view of the Ann Lake
HEATHER-MAPLE PASS LOOP DESCRIPTION
One of the most beautiful hikes in the USA and the best things to do in North Cascades National Park is Heather-Maple Pass Loop, which features mountain views, blue lakes, and wildflower fields.
Heather-Maple Pass Loop begins at the Rainy Pass trailhead and gradually ascends to the Lake Ann junction, where the trail splits left to lake Ann or right to Heather Pass. After the trail junction, Heather-Maple Pass Loop becomes steep as it travels through wildflower fields until it reaches Heather Pass. Heather Pass offers stunning views overlooking the North Cascades.
Heather-Maple Pass Loop continues ascending switchbacks until it reaches the ridgeline, offering stunning views of Black Peak, Stiletto Peak, Frisco Mountain, and Goode Mountain.
The trail follows along the ridge before reaching Maple Pass and the iconic viewpoint overlooking Lake Ann. Heather-Maple Pass Loop descends gradually off the ridgeline and towards Rainy Lake.
Before the trail ends, it intersects with the Rainy Lake Trail, which splits right to an easy and paved path to a beautiful blue lake and left to the parking lot.
WHERE TO STAY
As for the accommodation, you can opt for staying at an epic mountain lodge such as the Freestone Inn & Cabins or the Sun Mountain Lodge. Camping is also possible. The best campground nearby is the Colonial Creek Campground.
Explored by Nichole from Nichole the Nomad
Sparkling autumn colors in the Acadia National Park
THE BEEHIVE LOOP TRAIL DESCRIPTION
The beehive loop is one of the most famous hikes in Acadia National Park and it is for a good reason. A trip to New England is not complete without visiting this park and climbing up to the Beehive summit.
Before you start the hike, take some time for admiring the gorgeous Sand Beach.
The path starts in between the trees. And shortly after this part, you climb up to the top of the mountain. The way up involves walking on exposed edges and climbing on metal ladders.
In some places, it’s quite steep. That makes the trail difficult for some visitors. There are a few places to stop on the way and enjoy the gorgeous views of the coastline of Maine; however, the best views are from the top. As you reach the summit, find a place to sit, relax and enjoy the panorama around you.
Past the summit, the trail starts descending in an easier path. It first leads to the Bowl – a small pond hiding between the mountains, which is another excellent point for a short break.
The trail continues along the south side of the bowl, and then turns left into the woods which is the end of the trail.
WHERE TO STAY
The nearby town of Bar Harbor is fun and inviting to stay in before and after your hike. The Bluenose Inn is recommended – it is located on the road between downtown and the park’s entrance, about 3-5 minutes drive to each side.
Explored by Moshe from The Top Ten Traveler
Incredible vista featuring the breathtaking Havasupai Falls
HAVASUPAI FALLS HIKE DESCRIPTION
One of the most breathtakingly beautiful places in Arizona is Havasu Canyon and the Havasupai Falls. It’s in a remote part of Arizona not far in distance from the Grand Canyon, but several hours apart driving time.
The Havasupai Native American Tribe are the “guardians of the blue-green waters” and you enter their land with permission by purchasing a permit. It’s not easy to get one, but it’s well worth the effort.
Head into the canyon early in the morning to watch the sun light it up in a stunning palette of color. You’ll start seeing pops of the stunning turquoise blue color when you get close to the Supai Village, and then you’ll see the first two waterfalls.
A couple of miles later, arrive at the campground and one of the most stunning of the waterfalls, Havasu Falls. It’s an impressive 100-feet tall (around 30 meters). The blue-green water spills from gorgeous red rocks and it is stunning.
A half-mile further is the equally impressive Mooney Falls, also close to 100-feet high. You need to climb down through a narrow passageway carved through the rocks and hold onto metal footholds to get to the bottom of these falls. It is an exhilarating climb but worth it for the views!
If you’re interested, you can hike another two miles to Beaver Falls. They are much smaller than Havasu Falls and Mooney Falls, but much fewer people go to see them. You may get them to yourself!
Getting to see the stunning turquoise Havasupai Falls in this gorgeous canyon is a bucket-list-worthy adventure everyone should do at least once in their life. Tickets go on sale every February!
WHERE TO STAY
Campground reservations are $100 per person on weekdays and $125 on the weekends (including Friday, Saturday, and Sunday). Reservations are required for a minimum of 3 nights. The total cost will be between $350 and $425 depending on your dates.
The Havasupai campground is very rustic and peaceful with lots of shade from mature trees. The only facilities are a few composting toilets and a freshwater spring that pours from a rock. You’re very much off-the-grid in this stunning oasis.
Explored by Sam from My Flying Leap
Sunset in the Joshua Tree National Park
HIDDEN VALLEY NATURE TRAIL DESCRIPTION
This hike, one of the first trailheads you’ll hit upon entering the Joshua Tree National Park from the western entrance, is the perfect introduction to the Mojave Desert.
The flat trail leads around a stunning desert valley, where you’ll see the park’s famous trees, beavertail cacti, and California juniper, in addition to other beautiful desert plants.
It will also be impossible to miss one of the most fascinating aspects of the trail- the enormous monzogranite boulders scattered around the valley. While there’s plenty of boulders for even the most novice climbers to play on, this trail is an awesome place to catch advanced climbers scaling those massive rocks.
Before leaving this trail, consider having a picnic at the area close to the trailhead, for some epic mountain views and for some much-needed midday shade!
WHERE TO STAY
For your trip to Joshua Tree, consider staying at the Skylark Hotel or the Ace Hotel and Swim Club in nearby Palm Springs. Alternatively, if you’re interested in camping, Joshua Tree is one of the most permissive national parks for backcountry camping, allowing you to camp in most areas that are not designated as day-use only.
Explored by Jessica from Uprooted Traveler
Stunning view on the way on the South Kaibab Trail
SOUTH KAIBAB TRAIL HIKE DESCRIPTION
Arizona’s extraordinary Grand Canyon National Park is one of the most awe-inspiring and immense landscapes on Earth. In order to day hike into the Grand Canyon, hikers must first descend before climbing out of the vast canyon.
The steep, dusty and heavily trafficked South Kaibab trail drops steeply around cliff walls, over smooth plateaus and down zig-zagging switchbacks. Unimaginably spectacular views of rugged buttes and cracked valley floors are never-ending.
Ooh Aah Point, Cedar Ridge and Skeleton Point represent turnaround points for each level of hiker. Sandy, dramatic and relentlessly exposed to the sun, hiking the steep South Kaibab trail is a true Grand Canyon South Rim adventure.
WHERE TO STAY
Limited camping and lodging are available at Phantom Ranch / Bright Angel campground on the canyon floor. Otherwise, stay in Mather campground or Grand Canyon lodges on the Rim.
If you want to stay in a hotel, the closest options are in Tusayan where the most popular hotels are the Grand Hotel and Best Western.
Explored by Mark and Kristen from Where Are Those Morgans
TETON CREST HIKE DESCRIPTION
When hikers step to the top of Hurricane Pass overlooking the Grand Teton and Middle Teton, they come to understand why the Teton Crest Trail was named one of the best, and most scenic hikes in the United States.
When it comes to panoramic views, this hiking trail in Grand Teton National Park has it all: crystalline lakes, towering granite peaks, rich pine forests, pocket fields of wildflowers, and an alluring variety of wildlife.
The Teton Crest Trail traverses Grand Teton National Park, the Jedidiah Smith Wilderness, and two national forests: Bridger-Teton and Caribou Targhee. While millions of hikers will just experience the surface of the Grand Teton Mountains, you’ll be fully immersed in its wild wilderness, away from crowds.
Mile for mile, this backpacking route will keep on delivering, beginning with the most beautiful parts of this trail: Hurricane Pass, Alaska Basin, and the infamous Paintbrush Divide.
This 3-6 day hike leaves hikers speechless as they filter water underneath jagged peaks and sparkling streams, jump into frigid lakes, challenge their grit and determination up the mountain passes, and watch for bears, marmots, mule deer, and moose around each corner and through every meadow.
At the top of Hurricane Pass on the Teton Crest Trail
WHERE TO STAY
In order to complete this trail, you’ll need to camp at designated campsites along the trail with a permit. Online permits open the first Wednesday in January. Although they book within minutes, the park reserves ⅔ of the campsites for walk-up permits.
For a walk-up permit, go to the Jenny Lake Ranger Station the day before you intend hiking to secure a camping permit. The campsites that boast the best views are Death Canyon Shelf, North Fork Cascade Canyon, Alaska Basin, Holly Lake, and Marion Lake!
Explored by Aaren from What Do You Sea
Upper Antelope Canyon in the Navajo Reservation
PEEKABOO & SPOOKY SLOT CANYONS TRAIL DESCRIPTION
Peekaboo and Spooky Gluck hike, located in Utah is one of the most incredible slot canyon hikes in the world.
From the parking lot, it starts off as an easy flat stroll overlooking the canyon. In about a mile, you’ll need to descend into the valley on a very steep slope. In the valley, the hike goes through the dry gulch up to the entrance of peekaboo.
At the entrance, you’ll scramble up shortly on sheer rocks. That’s where the magic begins. The rest of the hike is through narrow canyons.
After the Peekaboo Canyon, you’ll again walk on flat open space to get to Spooky Canyon. The spooky Canyon is extremely narrow at times, there’s only enough space for your skinny self to get through, without the backpack. So, only carry what you need.
While the hike is not strenuous, it’s challenging because of the terrain and high risks. You’ll have great memories if you’re well prepared. Do not go there if there is a chance of rain for miles around the area, the canyons get flash floods that are lethal.
WHERE TO STAY
The region is one of the wildest and most remote in the country. You can stay in Escalante to enjoy hikes in Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument and the National Parks around it. The town offers many unique accommodation options, including tiny homes such as the Escalante Escapes, camping, yurts, hotels, inns, cabins, and more.
Explored by Jyoti from Story at Every Corner
Whether you’re casually hiking to a waterfall or conquering a difficult summit, wearing the most suitable clothes and boots is unquestionably crucial. Also, having the best photography gear is also important in order to make your best hiking experiences go on record.
Pop Up Tents: If you love camping, it’s important that you have a tent that is very easy and quick to set up. Check out the best pop up tents on the market today.
Hiking boots for female hikers: Ladies, the most important hiking gear is definitely your hiking boots. Make sure you know about all the factors you need to consider when choosing the most suitable hiking boots for yourself and buy one of the best women’s hiking boots!
Hiking backpacks for female hikers: Whether you are new to hiking or you’ve been hiking for decades, check out and buy the best hiking backpacks for women that are available on the market today.
Waterproof jacket: Choosing the right weather jacket for hiking is absolutely critical. There are quite a few things to consider when choosing the best and most suitable waterproof jacket for your next adventure. This normally takes a lot of time. To save time, check out this guide on how to find the best weather jacket for your hiking vacation featuring the best weather jackets on the market.
Instant cameras: They are one of the most trendy cameras these days. The biggest advantage of having an instant camera when hiking is that you will immediately be able to see the outcome and share it with your hiking buddies right away.
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If you are a hiking junkie, you might be interested in inspiring hiking quotes from outdoorsy storytellers.
To leave out the Redwoods is nothing short of a sin.