Hiking the best trails in the USA is a great way to explore the natural beauty all over the country, as the US is full of incredible landscapes. From mountains and deserts to forests, waterfalls, and more, going on one of the best hikes in America will allow you to enjoy all of this amazing scenery and catch some breathtaking views.
Whether you’re a newbie or an absolute pro, there are cool places to hike in the US for everyone. This list includes my personal favorites. I have hiked most of them, but others are on my bucket list! In addition to easy day hikes, I’ve included epic hikes in the US that last several days, so I’m sure you’ll find one that works for your hiking level. No matter which trail you choose, though, always come prepared with the proper equipment. Lots of water and sensible shoes are a must, and trickier trails might even call for poles, gloves, rope, and more.
In this article, I’ll be covering the 20 best hikes in the USA, along with trail details and hiking permit information. Ready to start planning your American hiking adventure? Let’s get into it!
1. Angels Landing Trail, Zion National Park, UT, one of the top 10 hikes in the US
One of the best American hikes is definitely the Angels Landing Trail, a 4.3-mile route in Zion National Park that offers incredible views of Zion Canyon.
We’ve done this trail ourselves and can confirm that it’s an absolute must-do. However, you should keep in mind that the trail can get quite technical. You’ll have to make your way along a steep, narrow ridge and climb some carved steps from Scout Lookout to Angels Landing, so be sure to plan extra time to navigate these tricky areas. A slip would surely turn into a fatal accident at the last section to the edge of the precipice, so take your time!
1. Angels Landing Trail, Zion National Park, UT, one of the top 10 hikes in the US
This top American hike starts at the Grotto trailhead and continues over the Virgin River, which you’ll cross via a bridge. You’ll then cover the first few miles on a paved path before tackling a set of 21 switchbacks known as Walter’s Wiggles, which will take you to Scout Lookout. You don’t need a permit to hike this part of the trail, but you must have a permit to hike from Scout Lookout to Angels Landing.
The hardest part of the trail is this Scout Lookout to Angels Landing section, but it’s absolutely worth it because you’ll be rewarded with 360° views of the park. Because this section is fairly difficult, though, you should avoid hiking it when conditions are wet and/or windy.
Unfortunately, most day trips from Vegas to Zion are not long enough to hike this trail. That is why I recommend booking at one of the places to stay in Zion National Park and spending the night.
- Duration: 1.5 – 3.5 hours
- Distance: 4.3 miles
- Difficulty: Hard
- When to do it: Year-round
- Type: Out and back
- Elevation gain: 1,827 feet
- Permit needed: Yes
2. Half Dome Day Hike, Yosemite National Park, CA, an epic hike in the US
Another one of the best places to go hiking in the US is Yosemite National Park, where you can do the Half Dome Day Hike, a lengthy, 16.5-mile route that should take you between 10 and 12 hours to complete. Since this is such a long and strenuous hike, it should only be attempted by experienced hikers.
Along the trail, you’ll get amazing views of Yosemite’s most famous landmarks, including Vernal and Nevada Falls, Liberty Cap, Yosemite Valley, and the High Sierra. You’ll gain elevation quite quickly by first hiking up a steep path to Vernal Falls and then tackling another steep trail to Nevada Falls. The path levels out for about a mile before you reach a series of switchbacks that go through the forest.
2. Half Dome Day Hike, Yosemite National Park, CA, an epic hike in the US
You’ll then climb some rocky stairs to Sub Dome to arrive at the 400 feet of cables you’ll use to ascend to the summit. These steel cables can cause blisters, so bring gloves to protect your hands and get a good grip. It’s a tough climb to the top, but once you’re up there, you’ll get to take in amazing panoramic views of the park.
This epic American hike requires a permit to reach the Half Dome summit, just like Angels Landing. If you want to stay in Yosemite, you can camp on the way to Half Dome or spend the night in a hotel.
- Duration: 10 – 12 hours
- Distance: 16.5 miles
- Difficulty: Hard
- When to do it: May to October
- Type: Out and back
- Elevation gain: 5,305 feet
- Permit needed: Yes
3. Devil’s Bridge Trail, Coconino National Forest, AZ, another top hike in the USA
One of the best trails in the US for hikers looking for a moderate trail is the Devil’s Bridge Trail. Devil’s Bridge is the largest natural sandstone arch in the Sedona section of Coconino National Forest, and you get to see it up close as part of the hike, hence the trail name!
At 3.9 miles, this is a relatively short trail, but the last section of it includes a steep climb. You’ll start off by following the markers for Devil’s Bridge Trail down a relatively smooth, flat path. Once you reach the base of Devil’s Bridge, you’ll climb some rock steps and get to take in some gorgeous views. Going up another level of stairs will take you right to Devil’s Bridge.
3. Devil’s Bridge Trail, Coconino National Forest, AZ, another top hike in the USA
The Bridge is a popular location for tourists, so try to arrive early so you can beat the crowds. Going in the early morning also gives you a chance to avoid the toasty Arizona heat of the day. If you’re looking for a free and easy way to get to one of the top hiking trails in the USA, the city of Sedona offers a free shuttle service to the trailhead from Thursday to Sunday.
- Duration: 2 – 3 hours
- Distance: 3.9 miles
- Difficulty: Moderate
- When to do it: Year-round
- Type: Out and back
- Elevation gain: 522 feet
- Permit needed: No
4. Navajo Loop and Queens Garden Trail, Bryce Canyon National Park, UT, one of the best day hikes in the US
If you’re looking to see all the major sights in Bryce Canyon National Park, the Navajo Loop and Queens Garden Trail is your best bet. We’ve done this trail, which is one of the most beautiful hikes in the US, and can tell you that the views of the hoodoos are just spectacular.
For this great American hike, you’ll start off on the Navajo Loop Trail and head to Sunset Point, where you’ll get lovely views of the multi-colored canyon. After that, you’ll go along a steep path among the hoodoos called Wall Street and then pass by the Thor’s Hammer and Two Bridges rock formations.
4. Navajo Loop and Queens Garden Trail, Bryce Canyon National Park, UT, one of the best day hikes in the US
You’ll then join the Queens Garden Trail, pass by the iconic Queen Victoria rock formation, and get beautiful views of the Bryce Canyon Amphitheater before returning along the Rim Trail. Fortunately, you won’t need a permit for this gorgeous hike; all you have to do is pay the park entrance fee of $20-$35.
There are plenty of places to stay in Bryce Canyon, but if you have no time to stay overnight, don’t worry! Most tours to Bryce Canyon from Las Vegas include hiking at least a section of this trail.
- Duration: 1.5 hours
- Distance: 3.4 miles
- Difficulty: Moderate
- When to do it: March to October
- Type: Loop
- Elevation gain: 650 feet
- Permit needed: No, just park entrance fee
5. Na Pali Coast (Kalalau) Trail, Na Pali Coast State Wilderness Park, HI
The Na Pali Coast (Kalalau) Trail in Na Pali Coast State Wilderness Park, Kauai, is one of the coolest places to hike in the US. We’ve done this trail and would highly recommend it to experienced hikers who want out-of-this-world views.
You’ll enjoy fantastic views of the Pacific Ocean and mountains as you hike through the verdant jungle. The hike will take you through Hono O Nā Pali Natural Area Reserve and Napali Coast State Wilderness Park on the way to the beautiful Hanakapiai Falls, waiting for you at the end of the trail.
5. Na Pali Coast (Kalalau) Trail, Na Pali Coast State Wilderness Park, HI
Because the trail takes so long to complete and definitely isn’t easy, many people camp for one or even two nights to rest and really enjoy the views. If you do decide to camp, you’ll need a camping permit. Otherwise, hikers who are not from Hawaii must pay the park entrance fee and make an advance reservation online in order to hike.
Be sure to watch out for mud and loose terrain. Many hikers bring trekking poles to give them extra stability.
- Duration: 13 hours
- Distance: 19.8 miles
- Difficulty: Hard
- When to do it: Year-round
- Type: Out and back
- Elevation gain: 6,877 feet
- Permit needed: No, only for camping but you do need to make a reservation to hike
6. Rim to Rim Trail, Grand Canyon National Park, AZ, an iconic American hike
If you’re looking for one of the best American hiking trails, look no further than the classic Rim-to-Rim Trail in Grand Canyon National Park.
This almost 25-mile trail can be done in a single day if you really push hard. However, it’s definitely recommended to spread the hike over at least 2 days, ideally four days. The trail takes you from the North Rim to the South Rim of the canyon, crossing the Colorado River, and offers lots of beautiful sights along the way.
6. Rim to Rim Trail, Grand Canyon National Park, AZ, an iconic American hike
Some of the best locations along this top American hiking trail include Ribbon Falls, a waterfall that’s perfect for taking a cool and refreshing dip; Phantom Ranch, a charming lodge with cabins where you can have a meal or stay the night; Havasupai Gardens, a green oasis of cottonwood trees; and Plateau Point, where you’ll have stunning views of the Colorado River.
If you do decide to make it a four-day hike, there are campgrounds at Cottonwood Camp, Bright Angel, and Havasupai Gardens. You can also stay at Phantom Ranch by the Colorado River – just remember to get a backcountry permit or book at the Ranch!
There are also tons of other places to stay in Grand Canyon NP, if you’d prefer a cozy hotel room once you’re back at the rim.
- Duration: 1 to 4 days
- Distance: 24.6 miles
- Difficulty: Hard
- When to do it: May to November
- Type: Point to point
- Elevation gain: 5,574 feet
- Permit needed: No, only for camping, but there is a park entrance fee
7. The Wave, Vermilion Cliffs National Monument, UT, a cool place to hike in the US
We highly recommend the Wave Trail, one of the best day hikes in the US. We absolutely loved our experience and the incredible red rock views we got to see on this scenic trail.
The trail begins by walking through a sandstone crack and hugging the rocky walls. As you continue on, you’ll see tons of multicolored rock formations, including the Twin Buttes and, of course, the eponymous Wave, a striated rock formation with vivid white, yellow, orange, and red stripes. If you want to get up close to the Wave, just follow the sandy path. You’ll be amazed by the breathtaking beauty around you.
7. The Wave, Vermilion Cliffs National Monument, UT, a cool place to hike in the US
One important thing to note is that it’s best to do this trail in the fall/winter because it gets so hot during the summer. That said, if you do end up doing this American hike during the summer, be sure to bring lots and lots of water. You’ll also need a trail permit no matter what time of year you decide to hike.
- Duration: 3 hours, 10 minutes
- Distance: 6.7 miles
- Difficulty: Moderate
- When to do it: Avoid the summer
- Type: Out and back
- Elevation gain: 1,204 feet
- Permit needed: Yes
8. Coyote Gulch, Glen Canyon National Recreation Area, UT, one of the best trails in the US
There are several different trails you can take to get to Coyote Gulch in the Escalante District of Glen Canyon National Recreation Area, but we did this particular trail and loved it.
On this trail, which offers some of the best hiking in the US, you’ll pass landmarks like Stevens Arch, Coyote Natural Bridge, and Jacob Hamblin Arch. You’ll start from the Coyote Gulch Trailhead or the Water Tank, then descend through Crack-in-the-Rock.
8. Coyote Gulch, Glen Canyon National Recreation Area, UT, one of the best trails in the US
There’s a crucial reason this trail is considered “hard”– you’ll need at least 120 feet of rope to scramble out and exit the gulch by Jacob Hamblin Arch. Sometimes a rope is left for other hikers to use, but it’s always recommended to bring your own. You should also be prepared to get wet since there are parts of the gulch that always have water in them.
Still, as long as you’re pretty confident with climbing/scrambling, go with a hiking partner, and check the weather to make sure there’s no chance of flash flooding, this fantastic American hike is definitely well worth it.
- Duration: 7.5 hours
- Distance: 17 miles
- Difficulty: Hard
- When to do it: March to November
- Type: Loop
- Elevation gain: 3,383 feet
- Permit needed: No, just park entrance fee
9. Waimoku Falls via Pipiwai Trail, Haleakala National Park, HI, one of the best trails in the USA for a day hike
Waimoku Falls via Pipiwai Trail, in Maui, is easily one of the top 10 hikes in the US. This amazing trail can be done at any time of year and is beautiful in all seasons – we did it and absolutely loved it!
There are a lot of features that really make this trail stand out. The first is the fact that you’ll see several waterfalls throughout the hike, including, of course, the gorgeous Waimoku Falls. You’ll also get to see a beautiful banyan tree and walk through the depths of a bamboo forest. You definitely won’t find many trails like this one!
9. Waimoku Falls via Pipiwai Trail, Haleakala National Park, HI, one of the best trails in the USA for a day hike
Keep in mind that if you plan on doing a sunrise hike, you’ll need a permit. Even if you’re not coming to watch the sunrise, you’ll still need an entrance pass.
- Duration: 2 hours
- Distance: 3.4 miles
- Difficulty: Moderate
- When to do it: Year-round
- Type: Out and back
- Elevation gain: 909 feet
- Permit needed: Yes, for sunrise hikes; also park entrance fee
10. Fire Wave Trail, Valley of Fire State Park, NV, a beautiful and easy American hike
The easy but beautiful Fire Wave Trail in Valley of Fire State Park is one of the best hiking trails in America and an absolute must-do. We really enjoyed the gorgeous views of the colorful sandstone when we did this hike.
The Fire Wave, which you’ll get to see for yourself, really does look like a red, pink, and orange ocean wave – it’s absolutely breathtaking up close! You’ll also get to see colorful cliffs and striking sandstone mounds as you make your way to the Fire Wave. The trail is fairly flat throughout; just be sure to follow the trail markers.
10. Fire Wave Trail, Valley of Fire State Park, NV, a beautiful and easy American hike
Something you need to know before you tackle this amazing American hiking trail is that it’s generally closed from May to September because of the extreme heat conditions, so plan to hike it between October and April. Regardless of the time of year, be sure to always bring plenty of water with you when you hike this trail since there’s usually not much shade.
- Duration: 1 hour
- Distance: 1.3 miles
- Difficulty: Easy
- When to do it: October to April
- Type: Out and back
- Elevation gain: 151 feet
- Permit needed: No, just park entrance fee
11. The Beehive Loop Trail, Acadia National Park, ME, some of the best hiking in the US
One of the most beautiful hiking trails in the US, the Beehive Loop Trail, is also a bit of a challenge. However, it’s totally worth doing, as we know from personal experience.
Acadia National Park has lots of great places to hike, and this top trail is one of the park’s most popular for good reason. The views of Maine’s coastline and, during the fall, vibrant foliage, are just stunning. However, keep in mind that if you’re afraid of heights, this trail is not for you! You’ll be climbing steep steps, rungs, and ladders, as well as doing a fair bit of scrambling, to get to the top.
11. The Beehive Loop Trail, Acadia National Park, ME, some of the best hiking in the US
Although you can technically do this trail in either direction, either clockwise or counterclockwise, we recommend going counterclockwise so you can go up the rungs and ladders, which is easier than going down them. Whichever direction you choose to go in, you’re in for a challenging but very rewarding hike.
If you’d like to tackle this top hike in the US with some great company, we usually hike this trail the day after completing our Maine photography workshop in September/October.
- Duration: 3 hours
- Distance: 1.5 miles
- Difficulty: Hard
- When to do it: May to October
- Type: Loop
- Elevation gain: 509 feet
- Permit needed: No, just park entrance fee
12. Cascade Canyon Trail, Grand Teton National Park, WY, one of the top places to hike in the US
Another one of the best hiking locations in the US is Grand Teton National Park, where you’ll find the incredible Cascade Canyon Trail. Wildlife spotting is one of the best things to do in Grand Teton National Park, and this trail gives you the chance to see moose, bears, and more.
To get to the trailhead, you can either take the Jenny Lake shuttle boat across the lake or park in the String Lake Trailhead parking lot. From the trailhead, you’ll head to Hidden Falls and Inspiration Point, where you’ll get stunning views of Jenny Lake and the entire park.
12. Cascade Canyon Trail, Grand Teton National Park, WY, one of the top places to hike in the US
Many visitors choose to turn back after Inspiration Point to keep the hike shorter and more manageable, but continuing on through Cascade Canyon is worth it if you have the energy and want to see great views of Grand Teton, Mount Owen, Teewinot Mountain, and other peaks. Hiking through the canyon will also give you access to lots of other trails for some of the best backpacking in the US.
If you’re looking to stay in the park, there are six different campgrounds, as well as several lodges. Other great places to stay in Grand Teton include log cabins and apartments.
- Duration: 5 – 9 hours
- Distance: 9.1 miles
- Difficulty: Moderate
- When to do it: June to October
- Type: Out and back
- Elevation gain: 1,102 feet
- Permit needed: No, just park entrance fee
13. Upper Geyser Basin and Old Faithful Observation Point Loop, Yellowstone National Park, MT
Catch all the top sights in Yellowstone National Park on the Upper Geyser Basin and Old Faithful Observation Point Loop, one of the best loop hikes in the US. Having done this hike, I can highly recommend it as one of the best things to do in Yellowstone.
This basin hike is a great way to see the iconic Old Faithful Geyser and Morning Glory Pool, along with other geysers and pools. The trail is relatively flat, with a boardwalk around the geysers. The steepest part is the walk to and from the overlook, but you can always skip it.
13. Upper Geyser Basin and Old Faithful Observation Point Loop, Yellowstone National Park, MT
Yellowstone is full of all kinds of wildlife, including bison and coyotes, which you may be able to see on this hike. However, this abundance of wildlife can also mean that this trail is sometimes closed due to bear activity. Be sure to download this map of Yellowstone so you can easily find your way around the park and on this trail.
If you end up staying overnight after a long day of hiking and wildlife spotting, you’ll need to know where to stay in Yellowstone. Luckily, there are plenty of great hotel and campsite options.
- Duration: 1.75 hours
- Distance: 4.9 miles
- Difficulty: Moderate
- When to do it: May to October
- Type: Loop
- Elevation gain: 358 feet
- Permit needed: No, just park entrance fee
14. Hole in the Wall from Rialto Beach Trail, Olympic National Park, WA
A great American hike that’s suitable for hikers of almost all levels is the Hole in the Wall from Rialto Beach Trail in Olympic National Park.
This trail takes you right along the beach, so be prepared to trek through sand and pebbles. You’ll also need to be aware of the changing tides since this trail should really only be attempted at low tide. Along your hike, you’ll see plenty of tidepools, where you should be able to find starfish.
14. Hole in the Wall from Rialto Beach Trail, Olympic National Park, WA
There is also a small creek crossing that is fairly manageable as long as it’s not too slippery. Still, be sure to wear shoes with good traction so you can get a good grip as you cross. At the end of the trail, you’ll be rewarded with views of the Split Rock and Hole-in-the-Wall rock formations, which definitely make this sandy hiking in America feel worth it.
- Duration: 1 hour
- Distance: 3.3 miles
- Difficulty: Moderate
- When to do it: Year-round
- Type: Out and back
- Elevation gain: 108 feet
- Permit needed: No, just park entrance fee
15. Grinnell Glacier Trail, Glacier National Park, MT, a great American hike to do in the summer
Grinnell Glacier Trail in Glacier National Park is one of the best long-distance hikes in the US. You’ll see everything from glaciers, waterfalls, and lakes to alpine meadows, forests, and wildlife along this fantastic trail.
There are two ways to do this top trail for American hikers: you can either start at the Grinnell Glacier Trailhead and hike from there to the glacier or take a boat trip across Swiftcurrent Lake and Lake Josephine from the Many Glacier Hotel, which shortens the hike by about 3.5 miles roundtrip. Of course, another option, which is a great compromise, is to hike to the glacier and take the boat on the way back.
15. Grinnell Glacier Trail, Glacier National Park, MT, a great American hike to do in the summer
Whichever route you take, you’ll be treated to views of Grinnell Lake, Mount Gould, Grinnell Falls, Mount Grinnell, and Grinnell Glacier. Once you reach the Grinnell Glacier Viewpoint, you’ll be able to get a good look at the glacier and see the Garden Wall and Gem Glacier as well.
Like the Upper Geyser Basin and Old Faithful Observation Point Loop, this trail can occasionally be closed due to bear activity, so be sure to check whether it’s open ahead of time.
- Duration: 5 hours
- Distance: 10 miles
- Difficulty: Hard
- When to do it: June to October
- Type: Out and back
- Elevation gain: 2,047 feet
- Permit needed: No, just park entrance fee
16. Misery Ridge and River Trail, Smith Rock State Park, OR, one of the best solo hiking trips in the US
While Misery Ridge and River Trail is a challenging American hiking trail, the hike isn’t quite the “misery” the name implies.
Although the trail is definitely challenging because of the steep climb to the top of the ridge, the beautiful views make the trek worth it. You’ll start from the park’s main entrance and enjoy views of the Crooked River before heading downhill to cross a footbridge over the river.
The climb to the top of the ridge starts after the footbridge. There are some sharp drop-offs along the climb, so be very careful with your footing. Once you get to the top of the ridge, you’ll be able to rest and take some photos of the incredible views.
16. Misery Ridge and River Trail, Smith Rock State Park, OR, one of the best solo hiking trips in the US
You’ll then continue along the ridge and get to take in views of the unique Monkey Face rock formation. After that, you’ll follow a series of switchbacks down to a flat walk along the river, which will take you back to the trail’s starting point.
Many hikers do this tricky American hike counterclockwise (the route described above) so they can tackle the steep ascent first, but you can technically do the trail in either direction. Just be sure to bring plenty of water so you can stay hydrated throughout the steep climb.
- Duration: 1 – 2 hours
- Distance: 3.6 miles
- Difficulty: Hard
- When to do it: Year-round
- Type: Loop
- Elevation gain: 909 feet
- Permit needed: No, just park entrance fee
17. John Muir Trail, CA, one of the best multi-day hikes in the US
One of the most iconic and best backpacking trails in the United States is the John Muir Trail, which stretches across the Sierra Nevada in California and is named after John Muir, an important American naturalist and wilderness conservation activist.
For about 160 miles, the JMT coincides with the equally famous Pacific Crest Trail, a much longer trail that stretches up the West Coast of the United States from the Canadian border to the Mexican border. If you’ve ever seen Wild with Reese Witherspoon or read the book of the same name by Cheryl Strayed, you’ll know all about how difficult the PCT is.
17. John Muir Trail, CA, one of the best multi-day hikes in the US
Because the PCT takes so much time and effort to complete, this shorter version that overlaps with it is a great way to get a taste of the whole trail. In fact, some hikers say that the JMT is the most beautiful section of the PCT. However, this shorter trail is still fairly difficult, so be sure to acclimate to high altitudes and get in good shape before you tackle this hike.
Because this trail is so popular, you’ll need a wilderness permit to hike it. If you’re starting at the trail’s northern terminus, which is how many hikers do it, you’ll get your permit from Yosemite National Park and go through Little Yosemite Valley to Tuolumne Meadows, Lyell Canyon, and the Mammoth Lakes. You’ll then pass through lots of scenic areas, including Ansel Adams Wilderness, Kings Canyon National Park, and Sequoia National Park.
If you’re hiking southbound, you’ll end your epic hike at Mount Whitney, which you can summit. Otherwise, if you decide to hike northbound, you’ll start at Mount Whitney and get your JMT permit from the Inyo National Forest.
- Duration: 15 – 23 days
- Distance: 219.3 miles
- Difficulty: Hard
- When to do it: June to October
- Type: Point to point
- Elevation gain: 46,459 feet
- Permit needed: Yes
18. Appalachian Trail (Shenandoah National Park portion), VA, one of the best backpacking trails in the United States
One of the top places to hike in the US, the Appalachian Trail is also one of the most famous American hiking routes. This challenging trail extends from Springer Mountain in Georgia to Mount Katahdin in Maine and can be hiked in either direction.
Since the trail is almost 2,200 miles long, it takes several months to complete and is, therefore, quite a big time commitment. That said, hiking the AT can be very rewarding, and you’ll see lots of beautiful mountains, lakes, forests, and more along the way. Some of the most scenic spots along the trail include Clingman’s Dome in Tennessee, the Blue Mountains in Pennsylvania, and the Taconic Highlands in Massachusetts.
18. Appalachian Trail (Shenandoah National Park portion), VA, one of the best backpacking trails in the United States
If you don’t have enough time to do the longer trail, which is totally understandable, we recommend doing the Shenandoah National Park portion, which is still one of the best walking trails in the US.
This section of the AT has spectacular views of the Shenandoah Valley. You’ll pass mountains like Mary’s Rock, Hawksbill Mountain, and Stony Man, as well as Powell Gap, Fishers Gap, and Beagle Gap. As you’ll see, Shenandoah is considered one of the most beautiful sections of the AT, so hiking this section is well worth it.
However, just because this portion is shorter than the Appalachian Trail doesn’t mean that it’s an easy hike. This portion will still take you about 8 to 10 days to complete, and you’ll need to hike from shelter to shelter since those are the best places to stay.
|
|
19. Emerald Lake Trail, Rocky Mountain National Park, CO, one of the best permit hikes in the US
The best hike in the US that you can do year-round has to be the Emerald Lake Trail in Rocky Mountain National Park. It’s not super challenging, so it’s suitable for most hikers, especially if you’re looking for a relatively short hike that still packs in a lot of scenic views.
You’ll start at the Bear Lake Trailhead and walk past stunning alpine lakes like Nymph Lake and Dream Lake. You’ll also enjoy views of Flattop Mountain, Hallett Peak, Glacier Gorge, and Tyndall Glacier on your way to Emerald Lake. Once you reach the lake, you’re welcome to take a dip, although the lake water does tend to be quite chilly.
19. Emerald Lake Trail, Rocky Mountain National Park, CO, one of the best permit hikes in the US
This hike gets extremely popular, especially during the summer, so you may want to arrive early to avoid the crowds. If you decide to hike this top American hiking trail during the winter, keep an eye on weather conditions to avoid avalanches. You may also need snowshoes, crampons, or poles to safely tackle this trail in snowy and icy conditions.
- Duration: 1 hour, 40 minutes
- Distance: 3.2 miles
- Difficulty: Moderate
- When to do it: Year-round
- Type: Out and back
- Elevation gain: 702 feet
- Permit needed: No, just park entrance fee
20. Havasu Falls Trail, Havasupai Reservation, AZ, one of the coolest backpacking trails in the USA
The Havasu Falls Trail on the Havasupai Reservation is one of the best backpacking trails in the US, offering absolutely gorgeous views of the red rocks and turquoise falls.
Visitors are required to stay overnight, either at the campground near Havasu Falls or at the Havasupai Lodge in the town of Supai, so keep in mind that this isn’t a day hike. You’ll need to make a campground or lodge reservation in advance.
You’ll start the trail by descending into the box canyon via a series of switchbacks. You’ll then walk along the canyon floor to Supai. Seeing the towering canyon walls on either side of you is an absolutely unforgettable experience.
20. Havasu Falls Trail, Havasupai Reservation, AZ, one of the coolest backpacking trails in the USA
As you make your way to Mooney Falls and the Havasu Falls campground, you’ll enjoy views of multiple waterfalls. If you’re feeling extra adventurous, you can also continue on to the canyon’s confluence with the Colorado River.
After staying overnight, you’ll then be able to hike out of the canyon the next day. Alternatively, you can even stay for two or three nights if you really want to take it slow and enjoy the gorgeous surroundings.
- Duration: Overnight – backpacking 10 miles to the campsite, then backpacking out the same route
- Distance: 24.4 miles
- Difficulty: Hard
- When to do it: September to April
- Type: Out and back
- Elevation gain: 3,665 feet
- Permit needed: No, although you do need a campground or lodge reservation
Hopefully, this list of the best places to hike in the US for hikers and backpackers of all levels has inspired you to start planning your next trek. No matter which trail you choose, you’ll experience beautiful views and a thrilling outdoor adventure, so you really can’t go wrong.
If you’ve checked out any of these top American hiking trails, let us know more about your experience in the comments. Happy trails!
