Exploring America by car? Discover the 17 most stunning trail hikes it offers!
Venture out into nature's splendid playground with our handpicked list of 17 unforgettable US hikes, perfect for hiking enthusiasts of all levels.
Great Smoky Mountains National Park | Tennessee
Pack your gear for an enchanting hiking experience in this fee-free park. With over 800 miles of trails, lush vegetation, and diverse wildlife, the following hikes are must-dos:
- Rainbow Falls Trail: A challenging 5-mile hike offering a grand waterfall to reward your efforts, best tackled early to dodge the crowds.
- Laurel Falls: An easy 2.5-mile trail that navigates through forested landscapes, culminating in a breathtaking waterfall, the park's most popular.
Grand Canyon | Arizona
Experience the thrill of hiking through one of nature's greatest wonders:
- South Kaibab Trail to Ooh Aah Point: A 1.8-mile hike leading to mesmerizing canyon vistas, with the journey downhill making the way back more demanding.
- Horseshoe Bend: A quick 35-minute walk, easily accessible for all, reveals striking turquoise waters and dramatic red cliffs, making for a must-see photo op.
- Antelope Canyon: A 0.6-mile hike lined with iconic light beams and swirling canyon walls, best appreciated under sunny skies. A permit is required, as the hike takes place on Navajo land.
Zion National Park | Utah
Discover the magic of Utah's hiking paradise, featuring canyons, fluid rivers, and panoramic vistas:
- Zion Narrows Bottom Up to Big Springs: A 9-mile trek demands water shoes and poles, taking you through the park's iconic canyon, past flowing rivers, and under awe-inspiring cliffs.
- Angel's Landing: A challenging 4.5-mile hike, marked by steep inclines, chain-assisted sections, and unforgettable views from the summit.
- Emerald Pools: A 3-mile moderate hike delivering beautiful pools, refreshing waterfalls, and various wildlife encounters along the trail.
Joshua Tree National Park | California
Explore the unique ecosystem and rugged landscapes of this desert haven:
- Lost Palms Oasis: A 7.5-mile moderate hike through desert landscapes, leading you to two oases filled with palm trees, providing a tranquil hiking experience.
- Cholla Cactus Garden: An effortless 0.25-mile stroll, taking you through a dense, mesmerizing garden filled with spiky cacti.
- Ryan Mountain: A 3-mile mod-difficulty hike ascending Ryan Mountain, offering a bird's-eye view of Joshua trees and wildlife, including big-horn sheep and rattlesnakes.
Grand Tetons National Park | Wyoming
Prepare for jaw-dropping mountain vistas, serene lakes, and abundant wildlife in the beautiful landscape of the Grand Tetons:
- Delta Lake: A 7.4-mile challenging hike rewarding hikers with scenic mountains, rugged terrain, and a crystal-clear lake nestled in a secluded valley.
- Taggart Lake Loop: A 4-mile easy hike, providing gorgeous views of the Tetons and opportunities for wildlife spotting, such as moose and bears.
- Hidden Falls: A short 1-mile hike ending at a picturesque waterfall, an ideal solution for those seeking a shorter, more simple excursion. Take note, bear sightings sometimes cause the trail to close, so always have a backup hike in mind.
- Bonus: Going-to-the-Sun Road: A scenic drive, rather than a hike, showcasing iconic park landmarks, best enjoyed with a reservation.
Happy trails! Don't forget to protect your adventures with our travel insurance website.
Before embarking on epic journeys, ensure your lifestyle is secure with a reliable travel insurance policy. For those with a passion for exploration beyond hikes, consider home-and-garden insurance to safeguard your haven while wandering the world.
