Ten of the Best USA Hiking Trails
The United States leaves us spoilt for choice, with a vast array of hiking trails, each offering unique natural beauty and challenges.
Our choice of ten of the best hiking trails in America, chosen for their scenic vistas, varied landscapes, and distance options:
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John Muir Trail, California - A 211-mile trail through the Sierra Nevada mountain range, passing through Yosemite, Kings Canyon, and Sequoia National Parks. No trip to California is complete without walking or visiting something named for the Father of the National Parks.
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Appalachian Trail, Eastern U.S. - Stretching over 2,190 miles from Georgia to Maine, this iconic trail traverses 14 states and offers a variety of landscapes. Whether you hike NOBO or SOBO, it is a life changing experience.
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Pacific Crest Trail, West Coast - Spanning 2,650 miles from Canada to Mexico, this trail crosses through Washington, Oregon, and California, showcasing the stunning diversity of the West Coast.
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Teton Crest Trail, Wyoming - A spectacular 40-mile hike in Grand Teton National Park, offering breathtaking views of the Teton Range. This hike is next on my American hiking wish-list.
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Kalalau Trail, Hawaii - An 11-mile trail along the Napali Coast of Kauai, known for its dramatic sea cliffs and lush valleys.
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South Kaibab to Bright Angel Trail, Grand Canyon, Arizona - A challenging hike from the rim to the river and back, showcasing the grandeur of the Grand Canyon. Not to be taken lightly.
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Wonderland Trail, Washington - A 93-mile loop around Mount Rainier, offering stunning views of glaciers, waterfalls, and alpine meadows.
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Harding Icefield Trail, Alaska - An 8-mile round trip hike in Kenai Fjords National Park, leading to a breathtaking view of the expansive Harding Icefield. I've never been to Alaska, but it is calling
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The Long Trail, Vermont - The oldest long-distance trail in the U.S., stretching 273 miles along the spine of the Green Mountains.
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Angels Landing, Zion National Park, Utah - A thrilling 5-mile round trip hike with steep drop-offs and spectacular views of Zion Canyon.
These trails represent just a fraction of the incredible hiking opportunities available in the United States. Each trail has its own unique challenges and rewards, so it's important to research and prepare accordingly before embarking on any hike.