Hiking and Trekking

The Best Hiking Trails in National Parks Across the United States

National Parks in the United States offer some of the best hiking trails in the country. With stunning scenery, unique wildlife and breathtaking views, there is something for everyone. Whether you’re looking for a short stroll around a lake or a rugged trek through the wilderness, there are trails to suit your needs. Here are some of the best national parks to explore on foot.

hikers walking in a forest in Yellowstone

Yellowstone National Park, Wyoming

Yellowstone National Park is a great destination for hikers of all levels. The park offers an array of trails, from easy strolls to challenging treks. The most popular trail is the Grand Loop Road, which is a 4-mile loop around the entire park. Along the way, you’ll get the chance to take in the stunning scenery of Yellowstone, such as waterfalls, hot springs, and geysers. For a more challenging hike, try the Bechler River Trail, which is a 22-mile trek into the park’s backcountry. The trail offers stunning views of beaver ponds, meadows, and waterfalls.

hikers walking in a forest with snow covered peaks in the background

Glacier National Park, Montana

Glacier National Park is home to some of the most spectacular hiking trails in the United States. The Highline Trail is the park’s most popular trek, a 12-mile journey along the Continental Divide. Along the way, you’ll get the chance to take in stunning views of alpine meadows, rugged peaks, and glaciers. For a shorter hike, try the Trail of the Cedars, a 3-mile loop through a lush, old-growth forest.

hikers walking along a rocky trail in Yosemite

Yosemite National Park, California

Yosemite National Park offers an abundance of trails for all skill levels. The Mist Trail is one of the most popular trails in the park, a 6-mile hike that takes you to the top of Vernal Falls. Along the way, you’ll get the chance to take in stunning views of the Yosemite Valley, Half Dome, and El Capitan. For a more challenging trek, try the Panorama Trail, a 14-mile hike that takes you to the top of Clouds Rest.

hikers walking along a rocky trail with a mountain peak in the background

Rocky Mountain National Park, Colorado

Rocky Mountain National Park offers some of the best hiking trails in the country. The park is home to over 350 miles of trails, from easy strolls to challenging treks. The most popular trail is the Keyhole Route, an 8-mile hike to the summit of Longs Peak. Along the way, you’ll get the chance to take in stunning views of snow-capped peaks and alpine meadows. For a more challenging trek, try the North Inlet Trail, a 14-mile hike that takes you to the stunning Grand Lake.

hikers walking along a narrow path with a view of a canyon in the background

Grand Canyon National Park, Arizona

Grand Canyon National Park is home to some of the most stunning trails in the country. The South Kaibab Trail is the park’s most popular trek, a 6-mile journey to the canyon’s bottom. Along the way, you’ll get the chance to take in stunning views of the Colorado River, the canyon walls, and the surrounding desert. For a more challenging hike, try the Bright Angel Trail, a 10-mile trek to the canyon’s rim.

hikers walking along a path with a view of a beach in the background

Acadia National Park, Maine

Acadia National Park is home to some of the best hikes in the northeast. The most popular trail is the Beehive Trail, a 1.4-mile loop that takes you to the summit of Beehive Mountain. Along the way, you’ll get the chance to take in stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean, the rocky coast, and the surrounding islands. For a more challenging trek, try the Cadillac Mountain Trail, a 4-mile hike to the summit of Cadillac Mountain.

hikers at the top of a mountain with a city in the background

Hiking in the United States has something for everyone. Whether you’re looking for a short stroll around a lake or a rugged trek through the wilderness, there are trails to suit your needs. National parks offer some of the best hiking trails in the country, with stunning scenery, unique wildlife, and breathtaking views. So grab your hiking boots and explore the beauty of the United States on foot!