Hiking is the most popular activity in the United States as it offers the best way to enjoy the surroundings and exploring new terrains. If keen on getting the first-hand experience of this secret cult, you must stick to the best hiking trails in the US for your next adventure trip.
Let's explore the top 10 hiking trails in the USA, which is a gateway to exploring canyons, awe-inspiring waterfalls, and breathtaking natural landscapes.
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Bright Angel Trail is the most popular hiking trails on the South Rim. Although nicely maintained, this Arizonian trail within the laps of the Grand Canyon is not meant for amateurs. Hiking across the dirt and grime generally means experiencing temperatures of more than 110 degrees Fahrenheit. From river to rim, hikers are subjected to some tremendous grind during the trail. Based on the rich experiences of past hikers, things don't get any more intense on a hiking trail than here.
Address: Grand Canyon Village, AZ 86023
Also Read: Top 20 Attractions to Visit in Arizona
The Keyhole Route on the Longs Peak is one of the most popular Rocky Mountain routes. The trail measures 15 miles with a 5000-feet elevation gain. This is an arduous, long ascent that is usually very difficult and even hazardous under inclement conditions. Summer storms could make the trail quite slippery, and several people have had fatal encounters en route. Also when the conditions are not too bad, the hiking population makes descending rocks a genuine threat.
Address: Estes Park, Rocky Mountain National Park, CO 80517
This trail offers a round trip of 4.5 miles with low difficulty levels, making the path suitable for various hiking classes. This is a wonderful hiking route for individuals who like a bit of self-exploration during their Denali National Park visit. If you rest in one of its local lodges, the spectacular Mt. Healy views make the place the perfect spot for a day excursion.
Address: George Parks Hwy, Denali National Park and Preserve, AK
Angels Landing could have been christened for its remote path, but the tough trail is worth a hiker's efforts. Fans of red rocks and hikers with a daredevil attitude would not be able to give this trail a pass.
Address: Angels landing, Hurricane, UT 84737
Also Read: Utah Top 20 Attractions
The well-renowned, 100-mile wilderness of Maine is Appalachian Trail's longest part, which does not cross a paved path. Luckily for northeastern hikers, the first 30 miles of the road exhibits some of the best features of the trail. A mildly rugged terrain, explorers could expect to lock horns with lush maple forests, Lower Wilson Falls, the rustic backwoods of Maine and their panoramic views, and rocky rushing rivers.
Address: Rangeley, ME 04970
The Kalalau Trail generally triggers terror in the minds of most hikers, thanks to the dramatic coastline. The trail is crumbly and narrow, and quite a few have either plummeted off the trail or seen others in unfortunate incidents. With abundant rainfall, the trail becomes even more treacherous. Despite these dangers, several visitors and locals continue to hike this 11-mile trip to Kalalau.
Address: Kapaa, HI 96746
Also Read: Top Tourist Attractions in Hawaii
With trails of 700 miles and above, the Glacier National Park presents its visitors some breath-taking scenery - the Highline Trail being one among them. The trail starts at Logan Pass and continues north for close to 7.5 miles along the cliffs' partially exposed ledges.
The trail later opens to hillsides above the path close to the Garden Wall. This trail section provides hikers with great views and the right spot for observing wildlife, which includes mountain goats, bighorn sheep, and some occasional grizzly bears.
Address: Along Garden Wall, Glacier National Park, MT
On the John Muir Trail, hikers can hike for two or three weeks without having to cross a road. The 211-mile trail stretches from Yosemite Valley to Mount Whitney, the highest point in the lower 48 states. Being the best Pacific Crest Trail section, the trail crosses some of the best attractions, including Ansel Adams Gallery, Sequoia National Park, and Kings Canyon. In short, the trail is most often considered a hiker's heaven.
Address: John Muir Trail, Lakeshore, CA 93634
The Andrews Bald trailhead is located at the Clingmans Dome parking spot, which is the park's highest point. Due to the elevation, the temperatures could be 15-25 degrees cooler than lower terrains. The trail is the best hiking destination for the hikers seeking great panoramic views of the Smoky Mountain Highlands.
Address: Gatlinburg, TN 37738
Extending into Florida Bay, this trail is a straightforward 1.6-mile path, which brings hikers close to exotic birds, tropical trees, and big alligators. With the trail gazing out into Florida Bay, hikers ride along with continental America's southernmost point. Pitching a hammock or tent while the alligators slip in the underneath water remains an unforgettable experience for most hikers.
Address: Flamingo, Everglades National Park, FL
Also Read: Florida Top 20 Attractions