Best Places to Hike in the United States: Iconic Trails and Hidden Gems

From towering mountain peaks to deep canyons and lush coastal forests, the United States is home to some of the most diverse and breathtaking hiking destinations in the world. Whether you’re looking for a challenging multi-day trek or a scenic day hike, the country offers trails for every level of adventurer. With thousands of miles of maintained paths stretching across national parks, state parks, and protected wilderness areas, it’s easy to find a trail that suits your interests and skill level. Here are some of the best places to hike in the United States that combine natural beauty, adventure, and unforgettable experiences.

Yosemite National Park, California

Yosemite is one of the most iconic hiking destinations in the country, attracting millions of visitors every year with its granite cliffs, waterfalls, and ancient sequoia trees. The park offers a wide range of hiking experiences, from leisurely valley strolls to strenuous summit climbs. One of the most famous hikes is the Half Dome Trail, a demanding 14- to 16-mile round trip that includes cable-assisted climbing on the final stretch. This hike requires a permit, but the reward is the unmatched panoramic views of Yosemite Valley.

For something less intense, the Mist Trail leads you to Vernal and Nevada Falls with plenty of opportunities to feel the spray from the cascading water. Glacier Point, accessible by a short walk from the parking area or a longer hike via the Four Mile Trail, offers sweeping views of Half Dome and the valley below. Yosemite’s dramatic landscapes, rich wildlife, and well-maintained trails make it a top hiking destination for both casual walkers and seasoned trekkers.

Zion National Park, Utah

Zion National Park in southern Utah is famous for its red rock canyons, narrow slot passages, and dramatic cliffs. It’s a desert hiker’s paradise with some of the most unique trails in the U.S. The Narrows is one of the park’s most famous hikes, and it’s unlike anything else—you’ll be wading and sometimes swimming through a river that flows between towering sandstone walls. This hike can be done as a day trip or as a more extensive top-down route with a permit.

Another must-do trail in Zion is Angels Landing. Known for its steep drop-offs and narrow ridgeline, this hike isn’t for the faint of heart, but the views from the summit are unforgettable. Chains are bolted into the rock to help hikers on the final section. The park also offers easier hikes, such as Emerald Pools and Canyon Overlook, making Zion accessible to hikers of all levels. The contrasting colors and sheer scale of the canyon walls leave a lasting impression on everyone who visits.

Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Tennessee and North Carolina

Straddling the border of Tennessee and North Carolina, Great Smoky Mountains National Park is the most visited national park in the country—and for good reason. With over 800 miles of trails, it offers a range of hiking experiences through dense forests, high ridges, and peaceful streams. The park is known for its biodiversity, misty mountain views, and historical sites like old cabins and mills.

One of the most popular hikes is the Alum Cave Trail, which offers a moderate 4.6-mile round trip with interesting geological features and scenic views. For a more challenging day hike, Mt. Le Conte via the Alum Cave route is a classic, climbing over 2,700 feet to one of the park’s highest peaks. Clingmans Dome, the highest point in the Smokies, is accessible via a paved trail and provides incredible panoramic views. With its lush, green landscapes and year-round beauty, the Smokies are a top hiking destination in the eastern U.S.

Glacier National Park, Montana

Tucked into the northern Rockies near the Canadian border, Glacier National Park is a hiker’s dream, offering some of the most pristine wilderness and alpine scenery in the United States. The park has over 700 miles of trails that weave through rugged mountains, turquoise lakes, wildflower meadows, and dense forests. You might even spot mountain goats, bears, or moose along the way.

One of the standout hikes is the Highline Trail, which runs along the Continental Divide and offers jaw-dropping views of glacier-carved valleys. For a shorter but equally rewarding experience, the Hidden Lake Overlook is a favorite for its stunning vistas and potential wildlife sightings. More experienced hikers may enjoy the challenging Grinnell Glacier Trail, which climbs past waterfalls and alpine lakes to reach the rapidly receding glacier. Glacier National Park’s remote beauty and uncrowded trails make it one of the best hiking destinations in the country for those seeking solitude and stunning landscapes.

Acadia National Park, Maine

On the rugged coast of Maine, Acadia National Park offers a unique mix of mountain and ocean scenery. It’s one of the few places in the U.S. where you can hike through dense forests, climb granite peaks, and look out over the Atlantic Ocean—all in a single day. The park’s relatively compact size means you can explore multiple trails in one visit without spending hours driving between them.

The Precipice Trail is one of Acadia’s most thrilling hikes, featuring iron rungs and ladders that help hikers climb cliffs with sweeping coastal views. Another popular route is the Jordan Pond Path, an easy loop that provides peaceful views of the pond and surrounding hills. 

No matter where you go, be sure to prepare appropriately—check the weather, bring enough water, wear proper footwear, and follow Leave No Trace principles to keep these trails beautiful for future generations. With the appropriate planning and a curious heart, the best places to hike in the United States are ready to show you their wonders, one step at a time.