If you love to combine vacation time with physical fitness, and you appreciate nature, take a hike on your next trip. Hiking is the best way to see the natural wonders of any state, granting gorgeous views and up-close encounters with plant and animal life.
Whether you’re a seasoned trailblazer or a newbie to the trail, every state in the US has beautiful trails to explore. Here are four must-visit hiking spots around the US.
The Grand Canyon, Arizona
The Grand Canyon is on everyone’s bucket list, and it offers a slew of great trails for hikers. From challenging days-long excursions to short, mild walks, you’ll discover a trail that will take you somewhere you’ve never been before.
The Bright Angel Trail is a popular choice for many, offering a moderately challenging hike that shows the canyon in all its striking and varied colors. Experienced hikers will love the challenge of the Rim-to-Rim hike, which can take 12 hours to complete or even longer. Fully immerse yourself in one of the country’s—if not the world’s—most incredible natural wonders.
Yellowstone National Park, Wyoming
Yellowstone has more to offer than geysers. It’s a favorite hiking location for many. See splendid natural beauty as you tackle easy to moderate trails such as Mammoth Terraces, Tower Falls Trail, or the Trout Lake Loop.
For a bigger challenge, Avalanche Peak and Union Falls Trail will test even seasoned hikers. These trails reward visitors with gorgeous views from tall peaks and less touristy, out-of-the-way waterfalls. Marvel at the sight of native wildlife like bison, elk, and even bears while traversing the park’s diverse terrain.
The Appalachian Trail, East Coast
Not a day hike! Not really a vacation either—but the Appalachian Trail is a memorable and life-changing experience all the same. Spanning 14 states, from Georgia to Maine (or from Maine to Georgia, as some hikers choose to take it), thru-hiking the 2,200-mile-long Appalachian Trail is a quest for serious hikers.
Fortunately, due to its tremendous length, the Appalachian Trail offers shorter sections in those 14 states to explore. McAfee Knob in Virginia presents staggering panoramic views, while Baxter State Park in Maine lets you skip to the end, Mount Katahdin, the northern end point of the trail.
Big Island, Hawaii
Hawaii isn’t just about beaches and tropical drinks. This state offers amazing panoramas and trails that wind through some of the most diverse climates and topography, from rainforests to sparse volcanic landscapes. See waterfalls, climb to the top of a volcano, swim in the ocean, and more.
Pack a jacket as the temps can fall and rise depending on your elevation and location. There are many opportunities to hike in Hawaii, so take a trip and hit the trails!
Whether you’re seeking a quick jaunt to walk off a hearty lunch or a challenge that will push you to your limits, one of these four must-visit hiking spots in the US is sure to satisfy you. Lace up your boots, grab your backpack, and get ready to explore the best hiking trails this country has to offer!
