TOP 10 Charming Hiking Trails in the USA

Vacations in the USA usually have a certain character, most people prefer to visit popular cities like New York, San Francisco, Washington, D.C., etc. The cities of the USA are charming and offer a lot of interesting things. However, if you want to escape the modern city and immerse yourself in nature, this country offers many hiking trails that pass through national parks and reserves. There are more than 300,000 km of hiking trails in the USA, and the American Hiking Society makes efforts to create new hiking trails every year. The most exciting thing about hiking in the USA is that some hiking trails pass through different states and even neighboring countries.

If you are planning an adventure trip to the USA, hiking at least one of the following trails is a must to see and appreciate American wilderness.

1. Bright Angel Trail

Located in the Grand Canyon in Arizona, the Bright Angel Trail is 3 km long and can be strenuous not only because of the steepness but also because of the high temperatures. However, the scenery you will see during the hike is breathtaking and the effort is worth it.

2. John Muir Trail

The John Muir Trail is located in California and stretches from Yosemite National Park to the summit of Mount Whitney. It takes a hiker 205 miles (330 km) to complete the entire trail, which would take almost three weeks. You have to plan a lot in terms of food, water, and shelter (tents are essential) for your trek, and that makes sense if being in the wilderness appeals to you. After all, you’ll find gorgeous scenery, sparkling streams, and silence.

3. Upper Yosemite Falls

If you want to admire Yosemite Falls, which is the highest waterfall in North America, you need to walk 5 km, this path requires you to climb 800 m. The hike is strenuous and difficult, but the view of the waterfall and the surrounding areas will inspire you.

4. Greenstone Ridge Trail

This is a unique trail as it exists on an isolated island in the middle of Lake Superior, Michigan. Located in Isle Royale National Park, the Greenstone Ridge Trail is 40 miles long and is certainly very scenic. Before you start your hike, you must take a ferry from the mainland, which makes this hiking trail interesting in itself. Moreover, hiking the trail allows you to see the wildlife of the national park, including wolves, elk, and deer.

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5. Precipice Trail

Acadia National Park in Maine offers a short 1.5-mile (roundtrip) hiking trail. However, that doesn’t mean it’s easy. The steep trail takes you 1,000 feet up the Champlain Mountains, and you should be prepared for some strenuous climbing. However, once you reach the top, the ocean views are worth it.

6. Kalalau Trail

The Kalalau Trail is a 17 km long trail located on the island of Kauai in Hawaii. During the hike, you will encounter tropical forests, cliffs, and secluded beaches. However, the highlight of the entire hike is the secret beach at the end of the trail, which is perfect for camping. Kalalau Beach is gorgeous, and since few people know about it, you will be able to enjoy the beauty of the sand and surf without any disturbance. Isn’t it the perfect way to spend a romantic date with your partner?

7. The Ice Age Trail

The Ice Age Trail is located in Wisconsin, which is believed to have been under 1,000 feet of ice. Today, hiking the trail will allow you to see some post-glacial features, including lakes, potholes, and boulders. You will likely be traveling along the same trail that was used by mammoths. The trail extends for 2,000 km and covers state parks, wilderness, and back roads. The trail has several campsites and overnight shelters.

8. Grinnell Glacier Trail

Glacier National Park in Montana is home to some of the most breathtaking scenery, and the best way to enjoy it is by hiking the Grinnell Glacier Trail. The trail is 7 miles roundtrip and the hike here is like an easy stroll. The best time to hike this trail is during the summer months (July through September), when the weather is pleasant and the scenery is at its most beautiful.

9. Pacific Crest Trail

One of the best hiking spots you will find in the US is the Pacific Crest Trail. This route covers 4,200 km and runs along California, Oregon, and Washington State. While this trail was on the list of “for the most experienced hikers,” it later became quite popular thanks to the movie “Wild” starring Reese Witherspoon, which chronicled the experiences of writer Cheryl Strayed. This activity can take anywhere from 4 to 6 months to cover the entire length of the trail, and people need almost 6 to 8 months to prepare for the trip. However, only about make the journey each year. But if you are an avid hiker, this is a trail you should try.

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10. Continental Divide Trail

The Continental Drive Trail is one of the best hiking spots in the United States. The trail is 5,000 km long, covering five states of New Mexico, Colorado, Wyoming, Idaho, and Montana, and takes almost 6 months to complete. The trail allows you to admire mountain scenery and plenty of wildlife. Be prepared to encounter some wildlife, especially bears, along the way.