The Best Hiking Trails in the U.S. to Connect With Nature This Season
As the sun shines longer and the weather warms up, it’s the perfect time to lace up your hiking boots and experience the natural beauty of the United States. From serene forest paths to challenging mountain ascents, here are ten remarkable trails that offer a chance to reconnect with nature this season.
1. Appalachian Trail, Eastern United States
Stretching over 2,190 miles from Georgia to Maine, the Appalachian Trail is a legendary path that traverses diverse landscapes and ecosystems. Whether you embark on a thru-hike or explore a local section, the trail offers opportunities to witness the changing seasons and encounter wildlife.
2. Angels Landing, Zion National Park, Utah
If you want a thrilling adventure, Angels Landing in Zion National Park delivers with steep switchbacks and narrow ridgelines. The 5.4-mile round-trip hike boasts panoramic views of Zion Canyon, rewarding hikers with a sense of accomplishment.
3. Half Dome, Yosemite National Park, California
Half Dome is an iconic symbol of Yosemite, and the 16-mile hike to its summit is demanding and exhilarating. The trail features steep climbs like the famous cable section and offers breathtaking waterfall views.
4. Kalalau Trail, Nā Pali Coast, Kauai, Hawaii
The Kalalau Trail along Kauai’s Nā Pali Coast is a 22-mile journey round trip through lush valleys and secluded beaches. This challenging hike demands physical strength and careful planning, but the reward is an immersive experience in one of the state’s most pristine natural settings.
5. Mahoning Shadow Trail, Pennsylvania
Nestled in the heart of Pennsylvania, the Mahoning Shadow Trail offers a peaceful escape along a 15-mile trail perfect for hiking or biking. Winding through woodlands and alongside the creek, it’s ideal for those seeking solitude and a gentle terrain.
6. Teton Crest Trail, Grand Teton National Park, Wyoming
The Teton Crest Trail spans almost 40 miles and offers an alpine adventure through wildflower meadows, rugged peaks and serene peaks. Hikers can expect elevation changes and breathtaking vistas, with opportunities to spot wildlife like marmots and moose.
7. Gorham Mountain Loop, Acadia National Park, Maine
Acadia National Park has countless amazing hiking trails. The Gorham Mountain Loop trail is 3.5 miles round trip and offers excellent views of the coastline. The trail intersects with other scenic paths, so you can choose your own adventure.
8. Skyline Trail, Mount Rainier National Park, Washington
The Skyline Trail is a 5.5-mile loop showcasing the grandeur of Mount Rainier, alpine meadows and waterfalls. During the summer, wildflowers blanket the landscape, making for fantastic photos. It’s a relatively accessible hike that delivers extraordinary views.
9. Bright Angel Trail, Grand Canyon National Park, Arizona
Descending 9.5 miles into the Grand Canyon via the Bright Angel Trail provides an up-close look at the canyon’s vastness. The trail offers rest houses and water stations, making it a more manageable option for those looking to venture below the rim.
10. Pine Mountain Trail, Kentucky
Pine Mountain State Scenic Trail offers various hiking trails with beautiful mountain and forest views. This trail is part of the Great Eastern Trail, which spans 1,800 miles between Alabama and New York. While you explore the trail, be on the lookout for diverse plant life and wildlife.
Ready to Hit the Trail?
Whether you’re looking for a quiet walk in the woods or a challenging climb with sweeping views, there’s a trail on this list that can help you slow down and reconnect with the world around you. Nature has a way of putting things into perspective and summer is as good a time as any to get outside.
