hiking trip bucket list

Hiking Bucket List: 25 Best Hikes & Backpacking Treks in the World

Hiking is not only an excellent way to challenge yourself physically, it’s beneficial even mentally. From hiking the Inca Trail in Peru to trekking Mount Kilimanjaro in Tanzania, t he world is littered with bucket list worthy routes and trails that’ll take you to some of the most gorgeous spots of nature out there. While hiking isn’t everyone’s favorite choice of activity, it’s undeniable that sometimes it’s simply what’s needed to get to the magnificent destination awaiting you at its end–and that it’s 99.9% of the time totally worth it! 

On this list I’ve included the 25 best backpacking treks and hikes in the world that you ought to go on; it’s a combination of bucket list worthy locations and strenuous challenges that’ll make you feel on top of the world upon completion. They may not be easy, but they will be rewarding.

The Best Backpacking Treks and Hikes in the World

1. alamere falls, point reyes, california.

Alamere Falls are beautiful and dramatic waterfalls, with its water cascading right onto the south end of Wildcat Beach. Hiking here is considered tough, as it is at minimum 13 miles (20 kilometers) round trip, on top of which the trail is not a nicely maintained one, requiring extreme caution on your part as you juggle through the terrain of eroding cliffs, poison oak, and ticks, not to mention lack of cell service in case something goes awry. Nevertheless it remains a popular trail to hike thanks to the reward of the beautiful falls that await you at your destination. 

Most people complete the journey in one day, bringing a picnic lunch to enjoy at the falls.

2. Alta Via 2, Dolomites, Italy

Alta Via 2, located in the Dolomites of Italy, one of the most dramatic mountains Europe has got, is another hike deemed a rather physically demanding one. There are a lot of changes in altitude – both gain and loss – along with steep slopes and narrow rocky portions to navigate through, complete with long sections of climbing paths equipped with cables, iron rungs, and ladders.

Alta Via 2 is also a long hike, possibly taking you as much as 2 weeks to complete; although most of the hike does come with incredible views of the Dolomites, with huts for food and campsites for rest along the way. 

3. Angel’s Landing Trail in Zion Wilderness, Utah

Although a rather short hike relative to the most of the others on this list (about 5 miles), Angel’s Landing Trail in Utah is thought to be one of the most unforgettable one you could go on. While it does offer its hikers some steep zig zagging and nearly vertical drop offs, this trail should be doable for anyone in average physical health and above. The gorgeous and ancient views of the Zion Canyon are not to be missed, making this trail one of the best backpacking hikes out there – and you’ll get to have a super light backpack when you go on this one! 

4. Appalachian Trail United States

In its entirety, the Appalachian Trail extends all the way to 2,200 miles (3,500 kilometers), existing between Georgia’s Springer Mountain and Maine’s Mount Katahdin, going through 14 states as a whole. Along this trail you can find forests and other types of wild lands, but also farms, roads, and towns.

This hike is epic due to its lengthiness, as well as the amount of states it passes through, which is why the amount of thru-hikers (those who intend on hiking the trail from beginning to finish in one singular season) attempting to conquer this massive trail keeps increasing each year. 

5. Arctic Circle Trail Greenland

The Arctic Circle Trail in Greenland, which is 160 kilometers long at full length, is likely the best way to explore Greenland. It’s a beautiful trail to discover, filled with gorgeous nature and wildlife. By hopping onto the Arctic Circle Trail, you’re also taking yourself properly off the beaten track.

6. Bartolomé Island, Galapagos

For some of the best views on Galapagos, you’ll want to get to the top of Batolomé Island. The hike isn’t a lengthy one, and the peak isn’t as high up as many other trails on this list, but the 360-degree lunar-like lanscape surely take your breath away—in more ways than one!

You can read up on my personal experiences doing this hike right here :   Bartolome Island in the Galapagos

7. Camino De Santiago Spain / France / Portugal

Originally Camino de Santiago , a medieval trail taking you through three European countries, was an important pilgrimage, starting from Spain’s Galicia. But today it’s considered even more than that, it’s considered one of the best backpacking hikes you can take in your life, and not just if you happen to be religious. Scattered along the trail are numerous historic sites, monuments, and showcases of culture, with the terrain including mountains and vineyards, and even hamlets.

For inspiration read The Walk of a Lifetime: 500 Miles on the Camino de Santiago or purchase some wonderful spiritual and walking guides written by my friend Stacey Wittig.

8. Cinque Terre Hike, Italy

Cinque Terre consists of a group of five towns existing right next to each other on the coastline of Northern Italy. All of the towns can easily be visited by various public transportation, but they’re close enough to one another that for the best experience you’ll want to hike through them. All in all the trail is 11 kilometers long and is perfectly possible to get through in a day—although you might be inclined to spend more time than that in each of the gorgeous towns! 

9. Dana to Petra on the Jordan Trail, Jordan

Dana to Petra covers a specific section of the Jordan Trail , often considered to be one of the most breathtaking parts of the trail. It has even received the honor of being listed as one of the top 15 best backpacking hikes in the world by National Geographic! The Dana to Petra trek is an 84.5 kilometer portion of the  675 kilometers total Jordan Trail length. It is an incredible hike of both valleys and mountains, various climates, and rich ecosystems, complete with dramatic backdrops along the way. 

Other Bucket List Experiences Nearby

• Explore Petra Archaeological Site in Jordan
• Float in the Dead Sea in Jordan
• Spend the night in Jordan’s Wadi Rum Desert

10. Everest Base Camp, Nepal

A classic among hikes, trekking the Everest Base Camp will make you feel like you’ve reached the top of the world. The camp, resides at 5545 meters above sea level, even without tackling the magnificent and deadly Mount Everest itself.

On this hike you’ll pass through the Sagarmatha National Park, and its tiny Sherpa villages and Buddhist monasteries, with gorgeous wintery mountainous nature to immerse yourself in with every step you take. From the start to reaching the base camp, it’ll take approximately 11 days (the entire trek is 80 miles/130 km) round trip, though thankfully only a fraction of that time is to get back down.

11. Grand Canyon Rim-to-Rim

Hiking Grand Canyon Rim-to-Rim is certainly the most epic and bucket list worthy way you could visit the world famous natural marvel. It’s a 24 mile hike one the way, and certainly considered a tough one to accomplish. But if you feel up to the challenge, and you’d be among the 1% of all the visitors to Grand Canyon who would be, you absolutely would not regret taking yourself through such a strenuous hike. The views and environment around you are surely some of the most fascinating ones you could be laying your eyes on. 

The Grand Canyon is on the US National Parks Bucket List: 61 Beauties to Visit in America !

12. Hadrian’s Wall Path England, United Kingdom

Taking you coast to coast in England, Hadrian’s Wall Path is a hike that passes through some awesome ancient sites and places. A 7-day hike of 135km, you’ll get to take in the beautiful rolling hills and rugged lands, combined with the buzzing cities of Newcastle and Carlisle. Hadrian’s Wall Path is also one of the easiest hikes on the list, with clearly marked routes and not overly difficult terrain to trek through. 

13. Half Dome, Yosemite National Park, California

Located at Yosemite Valley’s eastern end, Half Dome is a famous granite dome that got its name from its unique shape. At 8,800 feet above sea level, Half Dome offers a dramatic and challenging hike that many love to take on as an adventure, thanks to it only taking 10 to 12 hours to complete the entire thing.

And yes, there is a section with cables, so if Half Dome is of any interest to you, better start getting mentally prepared right now!

14. Inca Trail, Peru

Leading you to the magnificent Machu Picchu, the Inca Trail is filled with culture and history, taking you through ruins, mountains, and even cloud forests. Even if it may feel too strenuous at points (I’m talking to you Dead Women’s Pass!), getting the first glimpse of the ancient Machu Picchu after 3 to 5 days of hiking will be your reward. 

And even if the hike itself may not be on your bucket list, Machu Picchu absolutely has to be! It was named one of the new 7 wonders in the world (alongside of Petra, which you’ll reach on the Jordan Trail mentioned above) and it truly is breathtaking.

Before heading out, don’t forget to read my Insider Tips to Conquering Peru’s Classic Inca Trail to Machu Picchu Hike .

15. Kalalau Trail Kauai, Hawaii

Going along the Kauai coastline, the Kalalau Trail is a 11 mile hike that starts from Ke’e Beach and leads you to the secluded Kalalau Beach; in fact, hiking this trail is pretty much the only way you even can reach this jaw dropping gorgeous part of Kauai. On your way you’ll cross through and above valleys and sea cliffs, as well as the beautiful Hanakapi’ai Falls. You’ll need a permit to do the hike all the way to the Kalalau Beach, as well as be prepared for the fact there’s only two camping spots along the route, one of them being the beach itself.

16. Kungsleden (The King’s Trail) Sweden

A world famous hike in Northern Sweden, the Lapland region to be specific, Kungsleden takes you approximately 440 kilometres (270 mi), through the dramatic and diverse landscape of Sweden’s Lapland’s mountainous area between Abisko and Hemavan. Passing through four national parks as a whole, there are different sections of Kungsleden that you can choose from, or them all in about a months time.

17. La Ciudad Perdida (Lost City Trek), Colombia

Complete with a dramatic name, the hike of La Ciudad Perdida is a difficult and adventurous route that’ll take you to a sacred site that’s far older than Machu Picchu. And while La Ciudad Perdida does not take you to the highest altitudes, the 44 kilometer hike is challenging due to its combination of heat, humidity, and jungle environment. Oh, not to mention there’s a lovely little finish of 1200 steps before you can finally get to the lost city, definitely marking this trek as one that’s not for the faint hearted. But it will be one of the most incredible things you’ll ever put yourself through if you’re tough and fit enough for it. 

18. Laugavegur-Skogar Trail, Iceland

From black volcanic ash to frozen liquid lava, the Laugavegur-Skogar Trail won’t have to show you much to take your breath away and absolutely convince you it’s one of the best backpacking hikes in the world to go on. This seven day trek will take you through some of the most stunning landscapes Iceland has to offer, with you coming across gullies, canyons, valleys, glaciers, and even waterfalls along the way.

19. Mount Kilimanjaro, Tanzania

At 5,895 metres (19,341 feet) above sea level, Mount Kilimanjaro is the tallest free standing mountain in the world, an intriguing combination of volcanic cones and glaciers, complete with wildlife sightings and pristine nature. Because it’s way more than an easy hike, taking on Mount Kilimanjaro is assuredly an ambitious task. Nevertheless, it is actually one of the easier big mountains to ascend (you don’t even need specific mountain climbing equipment!), but it will take five to eight days to complete.

20. Pacaya Volcano Hike in Guatemala

Another incredible hike I’ve had the opportunity to go on , Pacaya Volcano is a popular active volcano to tackle for the adventurous. It’s fairly safe to hike up, though, with an option to roast marshmallows along the way. Beware however that, while it only takes you 2 or so hours to get to the top, it is a fairly strenuous ascend.

Just like skiing and mountaineering is a part of the culture of the Swiss Alps, volcano hiking is huge chunk of the culture in Guatemala. The country has 37 officially named volcanoes, three of which that are still active. And you can hike up one-the  Pacaya Volcano . What makes this experience even more bucket list worthy is that once you’re at the top, you can toast marshmallows with the heat from the volcano!

Just like skiing and mountaineering is a part of the culture of the Swiss Alps, volcano hiking is a huge park of the culture in Guatemala. The country has 37 officially named volcanoes, three of which that are still active—and you can hike up one of them.

The Volcano of Pacaya is one of the most accessible volcanoes in Guatemala, which makes it very popular. You will be sharing the trail with many others. This, along with the food stands that you will find on different segments of the trail and the marshmallows you will get to toast on the heat of the volcanic rock, make the experience much more fun. Bring some graham crackers and chocolate if you want to make your marshmallow a s’more!

FYI: while it only takes you 2 or so hours to get to the top, with the incline and altitude it is a fairly strenuous ascend.

21. Panorama Ridge Garibaldi Provincial Park, Canada

The Panorama Ridge hike is short (only 12km), but sweet. From Panorama Ridge you’ll get a full panoramic view of the jaw dropping gorgeous Garibaldi Lake below you, a treasured sight of turquoise waters with a mountainous backdrop. Not that you have to wait until you get to the top to enjoy some natural beauty! While it’s possible to do the hike in a day, it is time consuming enough you might enjoy it more by making a camping trip out of it instead.

22. Teton Crest Trail, Grand Teton NP

Teton Crest Trail is seen as a difficult 40+ mile hike, but also one of the most beautiful ones in the States. It offers hikers diverse and stunning views all the way, from canyons to lakes, you’re touching on several ecological zones, and may even be lucky enough to spot some moose and bears along the way.

23. The Great Ocean Walk Victoria, Australia

This 8-day and 100 kilometer walk will take you through the legendary coastline of the Great Ocean Road, which you may have thought could only be added on your bucket list as a trip traversed by car – think so no more! Consisting of various landscapes, from forests to rocky shores, this incredible 100km journey will take you to some rarely visited, remote parts of Victoria. And of course you’ll get to take in sights such as Wreck Beach and Twelve Apostles as you tackle the Great Ocean Walk. 

24. Tiger’s Nest Hike Bhutan

The Tiger’s Nest Monastery, a group of buildings standing perched off a cliff at 900 meters above ground, is an architectural marvel that should totally be scribbled down into your bucket list already! The hike there and back makes for a magnificent day trip, being easy enough to complete even if you’re nowhere near a professional athlete. Mind you, though, that while the hike itself will be relatively effortless, getting to Bhutan is not quite so, as Bhutan is only slowly opening itself up to tourism and, at least for the time being, requires a daily fee from every tourist coming into the country. 

25. Tongariro Alpine Crossing New Zealand

Having been given the honor of the best 1-day hike to go on in New Zealand, this 19,4 kilometer trail is both gorgeous and vicious. It’ll take you through glacial valleys and volcanic landscapes, not to mention the vivid crater lakes along the way! Although tough and challenging, Tongariro Alpine Crossing is also incredibly picturesque. 

26. Torres del Paine W Circuit, Patagonia, Chile

The most famous of trails in Torres del Paine, the W Circuit takes you to the granite towers after which Torres del Paine was named—you’ll also get to see other iconic highlights and sites of Patagonia along the four to five day route. You can camp each night, but there is also the option to stay in shared dormitories, if you choose. You can finalize your amazing trek with some horse riding or kayaking, among other activities. 

27. Tour du Mont Blanc France / Italy / Switzerland

Known to be one of Europe’s most famous trekking routes, this 170 kilometer trail takes you around Mont Blanc’s highlands, passing through three countries while doing so. You get to enjoy views of mountain tops, valleys, glaciers, and even numerous animals as you conquer the route. Warning: be prepared to switch between ascending and descending at multiple points of the hike!

28. Trolltunga Hike, Norway

Finally, there is the hike in Norway that takes you to one of its most mesmerizing places: the Trolltunga Cliff. Hovering over Lake Ringedalsvatnet makes the cliff a sight to see even from below, but you’ll get the best views from the top, which can be hiked to and back in 8 to 12 hours. The route there is considered rather demanding, so you’ll want to be in shape by the time you go conquer it! 

Whether its a multi-day backpacking hike or one that takes a few hours, spending some time active in nature will surely reward you in many ways. Sure, some of the best hikes in the world are viewed so in part because of how demanding they are, but a day’s worth of hiking can sometimes be all you need to get to a truly bucket list worthy location. From Camino de Santiago to Mount Kilimanjaro to Tiger’s Nest, there is a legendary hike out there for any type of a traveler to go on. For even more options check out National Geographic’s 100 Hikes of a Lifetime.

This post may contain affiliate links. If you make a purchase through my links, I earn a commission that helps to keep this blog running—at no extra cost to you. For more information read my full disclosure .

More bucket list adventures.

Travel Bucket List: 100 Best Places to Visit & Destination Ideas Insider Tips to Conquering Peru’s Classic Inca Trail to Machu Picchu Hike Guatemala’s Pacaya Volcano Hike: What to Expect Hike to the top of Bartolome Island in the Galapagos

19 thoughts on “Hiking Bucket List: 25 Best Hikes & Backpacking Treks in the World”

A great list. I’ve done two of them – the Inca trail and the Pacaya volcano. It looks like I have a lot more to check off my list. One of my favorite treks is the Nyiragongo Trek in the DRC. Have you heard of it before?

My husband and I hiked Angels Landing in Zion NP a few years ago and it was epic. Honestly, the zig-zagging and shear cliff drop-offs near the top were pretty thrilling. I can’t wait to get back to Utah for some more great views.

I’ve done a few of these with my kids including Laukevegur and the Inca Trail but then one that has me nervous is Angel’s Landing. Those heights!

I’m not much of a hiker but the lure of the end is sometimes irresistible, I’ve hiked the Cinque Terra trail in one day before the landslides and thoroughly enjoyed it. I am intrigued by the Camino Santiago and have read so many books about it and am tempted. I’m Australian and am also interested in the Great Ocean Walk in Victoria. As Aussies still can’t fly from Australia, that might have to be top of my list at present.

That sounds like you have a good plan. Hope you can go hiking again soon. :)

I feel I have done loads of hiking but I have only done 3 of these, though I have done parts of a few of them!! Quite a few are on my bucket list like Norway, Kilimanjaro and some I will be adding to the list!! I have to say though I think the appalachian trail is just out of my league and not something I will ever attempt, though I have a friend doing it now and he is posting some amazing pics from it. Thanks for sharing and I can’t wait to be back out, hiking around the world.

This list is incredible! Thanks so much! Our favorite hike ever was into Havasu Canyon, Arizona to Havasupai Falls!

The Milford Track in New Zealand’s South Island is recognized as one of the best hikes in the world and is one of the “10 Great Walks of New Zealand.” Do add it to your hiking ‘bucket list’ if you’re heading to New Zealand. It is just super stunning!

Oh, I will. :)

There are some epic hikes here – happy to see you’ve got a UK one in the mix too!

Panorama Ridge hike is short (only 12km)

This list has me itching to jump on a plane with hiking boots in tow! Just got back from 4 nights spent hiking gorges in the amazing Karijini National Park in remote Western Australia – definitely one for the bucketlist for many Australians. Great to see the Great Ocean Trail making the list too.

Oh! Sounds like a fun experience.

Greetings, there this is an extraordinary travel post that is truly shareable to all amateurs who are keen on the contributing to a blog industry. Truly writing for a blog is an extraordinary method to travel Thank you for sharing the post.

We have only done Trolltunga out of all the awesome hikes in the world. I wish to take on Inca Trail sometime soon. Sad to see that no hiking trails from India made it to the list :(

I’ve done (at least part of) 2 of them. I was excited to see the Cinque Terre on there. What a beautiful countryside… Thanks for this epic list of hikes!!

The Hooker Valley Track (short but stunning) near Mt Cook or the Abel Tasman Coastal Track in New Zealand are both absolutely incredible!

I am glad that you addad Everest Base Camp Trek to your list too… The list you have given for best hikes and backpacking trek in the world above is amazing.

Thank you for your feedback! I’m delighted to hear that you appreciate the addition of the Everest Base Camp Trek to the list. It’s truly one of the most iconic and awe-inspiring treks in the world.

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25 Best Hikes in the World to Put on Your Bucket List 2024

• Hiking / Outdoors / Popular
• 53 Comments

Have you added these amazing hikes to your hiking bucket list?

We are far from hardcore hikers. In fact, my friends used to call me “indoorsy” before I started training for our Inca Trail hike five years ago. We do, however, like to get out and explore, knowing some places you can only access on foot.

We’ve compiled a list of the best hikes in the world, including the distances and best times of the year. So far, we’ve completed two of these hikes plus sections of others. 

We hope to get our bodies in shape so we can hike them all in our lifetime. If an indoorsy person like me can do it, you can too!

This post may contain affiliate links, where we receive a small commission on sales of the products that are linked at no additional cost to you. All opinions are always our own. Read our full disclosure  for more info. Thank you for supporting the brands that make Local Adventurer possible.

Last Updated: February 16, 2024

− − Content Menu

• 25 Best Hikes in the World
• More Hikes + Park II

Map of the Best Hikes in the World

Frequently asked questions, planning checklist, more resources, 25 best hikes in the world to put on your bucket list, 1. inca trail →.

Location:  Peru Distance:  26 miles Time:  4 days Best Time to Go:  May to September

One of the most popular hikes in the world, the Inca Trail takes you through 26 miles of grueling inclines and declines. You get a chance to explore ruins, jungle, and beautiful mountain scenery, and of course, end the hike at Machu Picchu.

Inca Trail Alternates: Check out  The Ancascocha Trail, Lares Valley Hike, or Salcantay Trek  if you’re looking for less crowded alternatives. With each, you still get amazing views and you can easily add a day to explore Machu Picchu as well.

See More: How to Hike the Inca Trail in 4 Days + What to Pack for Your Inca Trail Hike

2. The Torres Del Paine W Circuit →

Location:  Torres del Paine National Park, Patagonia, Chile Distance:  37-50 miles Time:  4-6 days Best Time to Go:  Popular from October and April. We preferred July (their winter).

The popular route that follows the letter “W” takes you through the wondrous Torres del Paine National Park. You get a chance to see volcanic peaks, glaciers, and beautiful lakes.

You can also do the longer longer “O” circuit that encompasses the “W”.

If you want to beat the crowds,  try the hike in their winter . It’s probably not as cushy as the summer trek, but during our hike we only saw one other person with a guide vs 800-1000 people who are on the trail every day during their summer. It’s unreal to have the park to yourself.

Here are some posts we wrote to help you plan your trip:

• How to Hike the W Circuit in the Winter
• W Circuit Winter Packing List
• Summer Packing List for the W Circuit

See More: Ultimate Guide to Torres del Paine National Park

3. Appalachian Trail

Location:  Georgia to Maine, United States Distance:  2,180 miles Time:  5-7 months Best Time to Go:  Year Round

This hike is one of the longest  continuously  marked footpath in the world and is not an easy feat. It takes you through 14 states and takes careful planning and execution if you want to do it one go. Check out REI’s guide here .

4. Kilimanjaro →

Location:  Tanzania, Africa Distance:  roughly 35 miles Time:  7+ days Best Time to Go:  January, February, or September

Africa’s highest peak (19,340 feet) is widely popular and still on most people’s bucket list. With a wide range of climbing routes, most travel with a guided tour to reach the spectacular view above the clouds. This is the next major hike we want to do.

Guides: If you’re seeking a reliable Kilimanjaro outfitter, we highly recommend considering Altezza Travel. This company offers supremely serviced Kilimanjaro climbing expeditions and is highly rated, securing the #1 spot on TripAdvisor. With over a decade of experience in the field, Altezza Travel is a trusted choice for your adventure.

5. Kungsleden

Location:  Sweden Distance:  65 miles Time:  3-5 days Best Time to Go:  August to Early September

Kungsleden, or “The King’s Trail,” is a 275-mile traverse, but get a glimpse of this amazing landscape with a shorter hike. See the amazing Arctic landscape, open tundra, big glaciers, and brush up against Sweden’s highest peak, Mount Kebnekaise.

6. Everest Base Camp Trek →

Location:  Nepal Distance:  70 miles Time:  16 days Best Time to Go:  March to May, September to November

This trek is becoming popular as you get the opportunity to experience the people and culture that makes their home at these elevations. You also get to be face-to-face with the highest point on Earth.

7. SNowman Trek

Location:  Bhutan Distance:  200+ miles Time:  25+ days Best Time to Go:  April or October

Some say this is the most challenging trail on the planet, and many cannot finish because of unpredictable weather in the high Himalayas. Traversing 11 passes, most of which are more than 16,000 feet, you can only do this hike with a guided tour.

8. Grand Canyon Rim-To-Rim Hike

Location:  Arizona, United States Distance:  44 miles Time:  1-2 days Best Time to Go:  March to May, September to November

This hike gives you an in-depth look at on of Earth’s greatest features. Not only does it help you appreciate its vastness physically, the views and scenery that you get by being up close and personal with it will be more rewarding than any view point you’ll get by a quick stop.

See More: 17 Breathtaking Things to Do at the Grand Canyon

9. Pacific Crest Trail

Location:  California, Oregon, and Washington, United States Distance:  2,650 miles Time:  6-7 months Best Time to Go:  April to October

Trek through 7 national parks and numerous national forests, state parks, and wilderness areas on this hike. Along the way, you will experience the Mojave Desert and also reach heights of over 13,000 feet. After reading Wild, I kept thinking if she can do this, maybe we can too!

See More: 21 Best Hikes in the Columbia River Gorge

10. Yosemite Grand Traverse →

Location:  California, United States Distance:  60 miles Time:  6-7 days Best Time to Go:  Mid-July to Mid-September

This trek takes you through some of the best of Yosemite National Park (our favorite NP!), part of the John Muir Trail, and the Cathedral Range. You hike through waterfalls, granite basins, sprawling meadows, and even ascend Half Dome via the Cable Route.

See More: 11 Scenic Hikes in Yosemite National Park

11. Chilkoot Trail

Location:  Alaska and Yukon Territory, United States and Canada Distance:  33 miles Time:  3-5 days Best Time to Go:  Late June to Early October

This hike lives up to its name with routes like the Golden Stairs, the Stone Crib, and the Scales. Its rich gold miners’ history brings you amazing views of Alaska and Yukon Territory and helps you experience the wildness and vastness of this area.

See More: 17 Unforgettable Things to Do in Denali National Park

12. Tonquin Valley

Location:  Alberta, Canada Distance:  27 miles Time:  3-5 days Best Time to Go:  July to September

Ansel Adams traveled to Tonquin Valley to take photos of the beautiful scenery and landscape. And a quick Google search will convince you that getting into the valley is well worth the experience and effort.

13. Bay of FIres

Location:  Tasmania, Australia Distance:  16 miles Time:  4 days Best Time to Go:  October to May

This hike takes you to endless beaches of white sand, boulders covered in blood red lichen, and alongside turquoise water. You can do this hike on a guided trip or on your own, but the scenery makes it one of the best hikes in the world.

See More: 25 Things to Do in Melbourne for First Timers

14. Queen Charlotte Track

Location:  New Zealand Distance:  44 miles Time:  3-5 days Best Time to Go:  Year Round

Located on the north end of the South Island, this trek takes you through sunny hills, next to beautiful blue waters, and gives you plenty of options on how to take this journey.

See More: 10 Day Guide to New Zealand’s South Island

15. Mountains of the Moon

Location:  Ruwenzori Range, Uganda Distance:  38 miles Time:  6-7 days Best Time to Go:  December to March

These peaks make up the highest range in Africa at over 16,000 feet. Besides the views, this enchanting place also brings you face-to-face with high-altitude glaciers and elephants in the same place.

16. Kalalau Trail

Location:  Kauai, Hawaii, United States Distance:  20 miles Time:  2-4 days Best Time to Go:  May to September

This stunning coastal hike takes you on steep trails and tropical heat as you trek through jungle, waterfalls, and the mile-long arc of Kalalau Beach.

17. Tour Du Mont Blanc Trek

Location:  France, Italy, Switzerland Distance:  105 miles Time:  Around 10 days Best Time to Go:  Anytime from July to mid-September

Experiencing a Mont Blanc holiday  gives you a chance to hike through 3 countries and trek through mountain passes, alpine meadows, glacial valleys, and the base of the highest mountain in Western Europe. Check out REI’s guide here .

18. The Long Range Traverse

L ocation:  Newfoundland, Canada Distance:  25 miles Time:  3-6 days Best Time to Go:  July to September

Less of a trail and more of a frolic through the Gros Morne National Park. This hike takes you to a land that seems untouched. You will trek over the tundra and explore hidden lakes, and you may even share campsites with moose, caribou, or black bears.

See More: 25 Amazing Things to Do in Newfoundland

19. Laugavegurinn / Fimmvörðuháls Pass

Location:   Iceland Distance:  50 miles Time:  4 days Best Time to Go:  June to September

Taking you through volcanic landscapes, lichen-covered rocks, and amazing views of rhyolite peaks, this hike packs in more variety in its 50 miles than most hikes. You can also have a 15-mile add-on to start or end at the 200-foot-high Skogafoss waterfall.

See More: Your Iceland Winter Road Trip Guide + 5 Epic Day Trips from Reykjavik

20. Sierra High Route

Location:   California , United States Distance:  195 miles Time:  Around 13 days Best Time to Go:  Summer or Early Fall

Keeping you between 9,000 and 11,500 feet, most of this hike runs parallel to the Join Muir Trail but gives you more scenery and solitude.

21. Routeburn Track

Location:  South Island, New Zealand Distance:  20 miles Time:  2-4 days Best Time to Go:  November to April

Fiordland National Park has fantastic hiking options. Although Milford Track is the most popular hike in the park, the Routeburn Track allows you to see equally spectacular views with fewer people on the trail.

See More: Photo Diary of Fiordland National Park

22. Scottish National Trail

Location:  United Kingdom Distance:  470 miles Time:  5-6 weeks Best Time to Go:  April and May

Opened in 2012, this trail is Scotland’s first end-to-end walking route. Giving you views of the most amazing landscapes in the country, this hike becomes more difficult as you go. If time is an issue, you can also break this journey into four sections.

23. Fitz Roy Trek →

Location:  Patagonia, Argentina Distance:  26 miles Time:  4-7 days Best Time to Go:  February to March

This takes you through Los Glaciares National Park, which by the way is the size of Delaware, and gives you views of beech forests, open plains, glaciers, waterfalls, and the iconic Fitz Roy Massif.

24. Trek to Petra

Location:  Jordan Distance:  roughly 50 miles Time:  5-9 Days Best Time to Go:  October to April

This is considered one of the best hikes in the Middle East and takes you through gorges, ridges, and rocky terrain. You end this epic hike exploring the temples and tombs of this fascinating city.

25. Cinque Terre National Park →

Location:  Italy Distance : Varies Time:  Varies Best Time to Go:  Mid-March to Mid-October

Much less crowded than the Amalfi Coast, the Ligurian coast in Cinque Terre National Park offers spectacular views of the rocky coastline. Two of the most popular hikes are Alta Via or “High Path,” which is 22 miles and Sentiero Azzurro or “Blue Path,” which is 7.5 miles. 

We explored each of the five towns and the Blue Path a couple of years ago but could only hike parts of the trail because a flood destroyed much of it. We hope to go back now that the trail has fully reopened.

See More: Hiking Via Dell’Amore + Essential Tips for Visiting Cinque Terre

Best Hikes in the World Part II + Readers’ Favorites

• Abel Tasman Coast Track, New Zealand
• Boiling Lake, Dominica
• Cordillera Huayhuash Trek, Peru
• Fish River Canyon, Namibia
• Great Himalaya Trail, Nepal
• Larapinta Trail, Northern Territory, Australia
• Whale Trail, South Africa

See More: Best Hiking Trips in the World Part II

Recap of the Best Hikes in the World

• Torres del Paine W Circuit
• Appalachian Trail
• Kilimanjaro
• Everest Base Camp
• Snowman Trek
• Grand Canyon Rim-to-Rim
• Pacific Crest Trail
• Yosemite Grand Traverse
• Chilkoot Trail
• Tonquin Valley
• Bay of Fires
• Queen Charlotte Track
• Mountains of the Moon
• Kalalau Trail
• Tour du Mont Blanc
• The Long Range Traverse
• Laugavegurinn / Fimmvörðuháls Pass
• Sierra High Route
• Routeburn Track
• Scottish National Trail
• Fitz Roy Trek
• Trek to Petra
• Cinque Terre National Park

How many miles should a beginner hike?

A beginner hiker should start with hikes that are 5 miles or less in length. These hikes should have a moderate elevation gain and be on well-maintained trails. As the hiker gains experience, they can gradually increase the distance and difficulty of their hikes.

What is considered an extreme hike?

An extreme hike is a hike that is challenging due to its length, elevation gain, technical difficulty, or environmental conditions. Extreme hikes often require a high level of fitness and experience.

What is the most famous hike in the world?

The most famous hike in the world is the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu in Peru. This 4-day hike takes hikers through the Andes Mountains to the ancient Inca city of Machu Picchu.

What is the most intense hike in the world?

The most intense hike in the world is the Annapurna Circuit in Nepal. This 21-day hike takes hikers through the Himalayas and is considered one of the most challenging hikes in the world.

What are the Big 3 US hikes?

The John Muir Trail in California, the Pacific Crest Trail in California , Oregon , and Washington , and the Appalachian Trail in 14 states from Georgia to Maine.

What is the world’s scariest hiking trail?

The world’s scariest hiking trail is the Trolltunga in Norway. This hike takes hikers to a rock formation that juts out over a 700-foot cliff.

What is the most iconic hike in the US?

The most iconic hike in the US is the Half Dome in Yosemite National Park , California . This hike is challenging but offers stunning views of Yosemite Valley.

What is the hardest hike in the US?

The hardest hike in the US is the Denali Peak in Denali National Park , Alaska . This hike is over 20 miles long and has an elevation gain of over 18,000 feet.

What is the hiking capital of the US?

The hiking capital of the US is Colorado . Colorado has over 300 fourteeners (mountains over 14,000 feet tall) and over 500 hiking trails.

What is the deadliest trail in national parks?

The deadliest trail in national parks is the Angels Landing Trail in Zion National Park , Utah. This hike is 5.4 miles long and has an elevation gain of over 1,400 feet. There have been over 30 deaths on this trail since 1990.

What is the hardest day hike?

The hardest day hike in the US is the Mount Whitney Trail in Sequoia National Park , California. This hike is 22 miles long and has an elevation gain of over 14,500 feet.

What state has the most hiking?

The state with the most hiking is California . California has over 10,000 hiking trails, including the John Muir Trail, the Pacific Crest Trail, and the Yosemite Valley Loop.

• Get comprehensive insurance for your trip.
• Download these helpful language apps .
• Arrange a rental car for your trip.
• Get airport lounge access .
• Buy a travel charger to keep your devices charged.
• Get a new backpack for your trip.
• Pack the appropriate shoes for your trip.
• Don’t forget your in-flight essentials .
• Lightweight Hiking Journal
• Backpacking Essentials List
• Thru-Hiking Will Break Your Heart: An Adventure on the Pacific Crest Trail

Do you keep a hiking bucket list? Which of these have you done? Are there any other best hikes in the world that we’re missing?

Did you enjoy this post? Pin it for later

SEE More Best Hikes in the World by Region

11 HARDEST HIKING PERMITS TO GET IN THE US

25 BEST HIKES IN THE WORLD PART II

15 AMAZING DAY HIKES IN THE US

BEST WILDFLOWER HIKES IN THE PACIFIC NORTHWEST

21 BEST HIKES IN THE COLUMBIA RIVER GORGE

“Discovery consists not of seeking new lands but in seeing with new eyes ” – M. Proust

Esther + Jacob

Esther and Jacob are the founders of Local Adventurer, one of the top 5 travel blogs in the US. They believe that adventure can be found near and far and hope to inspire others to explore locally. They explore a new city in depth every year and currently base themselves in Las Vegas.

Follow on Instagram (E + J) , YouTube , TikTok , and Pinterest.

The expert's ultimate backpacking bucket list

Jan 7, 2020 • 6 min read

Gabby shares her expert tips from many years of backpacking © Gabby Beckford / Lonely Planet

Backpacking is an exciting, budget-friendly way to travel that allows you to connect with local communities and the world around you. And the best part about backpacking is it’s the most diverse way to travel! Warm or cold climates, islands or mountain tops, solo or part of a group; here are Gabby Beckford of Packs Light ’s best destinations and experiences to tick off your backpacking bucket list.

Live the legend at Tiger Leaping Gorge, China

This hike will suit those starting out or looking for a more relaxed adventure. In Tiger Leaping Gorge you’ll walk along the famous Jinsha River for roughly 10 miles. One of the deepest river canyons in the world, this trail attained its name in typical Chinese-folklore fashion: legend says that a tiger was being chased by a hunter when it escaped by making a daring leap across the 30m wide river.

Be slightly haunted by a shared accommodation experience

Hostel/shared accommodation life is standard on long-haul backpacking trips. It’s practically an initiation rite to stay in a dorm and see something you can never unsee. Ask me about the guy in Georgia who drunkenly brought a stray cat into the room in the middle of the night to sleep in his bunk…

Appalachian Trail, USA

Passing through my home state of Virginia , the Appalachian Trail hosts some of the most beautiful autumn colours you will ever see. The entire trail takes around five to seven months to complete so this isn’t a simple walk in the park – but it could include a pass through Shenandoah National Park , as well as 13 other states, Civil War battlefields, interesting rock formations like McAfee Knob , and many small mountain towns.

You might also like: How to pack like a pro for a backpacking trip

Everest Base Camp, Nepal

Climbing Mt Everest in the Himalayas is a dream of most avid outdoor adventurists. A much more affordable, attainable, and safe option is to hike to Everest Base Camp , which can be reached from both Tibet and Nepal . The 5000ft ascent hosts incredible views and the opportunity to experience Sherpa culture via experienced guides.

Make instant best friends with a fellow backpacker

You know how it is. You stop to rest and someone else is already there. You get to chatting and next thing you know you’re laughing and sharing trail snacks like you were best friends in the third grade. You both know it’s temporary, as short as that snack session, but there’s no denying the energy! That ability to instantly connect is one of the best aspects of backpacking.

Cinque Terre, Italy

You’ve likely seen these colourful stacked buildings everywhere from Instagram to magazines. The coastal villages are connected by a network of trails worth exploring, the most popular of which is the Sentiero Azzurro . Some may come to Cinque Terre for the photos and Aperol spritzes, but those who take the time to backpack the trails have a special experience of ‘The Five Lands’.

The Avenue of Volcanoes, Ecuador

At the Avenue of Volcanoes in Quito you’ll experience the turquoise-green waters of Lake Quilotoa , the hardened lava from the chain of volcanoes linking Chimborazo to Cotopaxi . With all of the beautiful natural landmarks you’ll encounter, the friendly locals will be the cherry on top of your backpacking experience. 

Collect money from every country you visit

Magnets are a cliché, clothes take up too much space, and postcards get crumpled. Money is an effortless (often accidental) trip reminder to keep hold of that has historical, cultural and monetary value from the respective country. And, of course, it can simply be fun to compare the different art and colours between each country’s currency!

GR-20, France

Corsica , France is the ideal location for those wanting a classic romp through the French countryside. GR is shorthand for Grand Randonnee , meaning ‘great trek’ – this trail isn’t afraid to toot its French horn. GR-20 ’s 112-mile hike is not for beginners, but rewards those who scale the 7300ft elevation with snowy peaks, vast craters, lakes, and forests.

Simien Mountains, Ethiopia

This underrated 83-mile trek takes travellers through Ethiopia’s Simien Mountains National Park , a Unesco World Heritage site. Plan to spend around 10 days soaking in the diverse landscape with a local guide and, if you’re lucky, see a few primates in their native habitat.

Forget something extremely important

Oh, you’ve just set out on a three-week backpacking trip and realised you’ve forgotten to pack socks? Or toilet paper? It’s inevitable – just sigh and take it on the chin. By the end of your trip, you’re guaranteed to be more resourceful than when you set out.

Path of the Gods, Italy

From personal experience, I can tell you that Path of the Gods has earned its name. Sentiero degli Dei will make you feel that you’re walking on Mt Olympus from ancient Roman mythology. Walking through fields of cairns left by fellow trekkers (please don’t participate in this, it disturbs the environment!), past walls of bougainvillea, lemon trees, and a few stray goats and cats. Maybe it was the altitude, but I swore I could hear Nessun Dorma playing in the breeze.

Overland Track, Tasmania

Cradle Mountain to Lake St Clair, this six-day-ish path is one of the best in Australia . Looking to extend your backpacking trip? The Overland Track has multiple side trips to explore and stay overnight in huts. 

Experience summer in Laugavegur, Iceland

This trail was my first backpacking experience! For my fellow newbie trail chasers, it’s best to tackle the Laugavegur Trail in the summertime. Despite its name, Iceland has an impressively varied landscape that time of year. I went in August and recall ice fields, glacial paths, geothermal pools, obsidian rock piles, mossy hillsides, thick brush, and of course, the occasional sheep.

The West Coast Trail, Canada

One of the more difficult trails in Canada , the West Coast Trail will take you through 75km of rainforest, beaches, mud, rivers, and up more than 100 ladders. Expect to take five to seven days to finish this trek around the southwestern edge of Vancouver Island . The work is worth the views – and bragging rights!

Almost reach your breaking point

You’ll know you’ve had a successful career of backpacking if you’ve come close to or actually quit a trip completely. Maybe an illness hit you out of nowhere, or maybe you bit off more than you could chew as you were trudging completely soaked in 30°C weather with 15 more miles to go that day. It’s all a necessary part of the journey, and those stories end up being just as fun to tell as the successes later on.

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24 Best Hikes in the USA to Add to Your Bucket list

Written By: The Planet D

Adventure Travel , United States

Updated On: February 9, 2024

We’ve been writing a lot about hiking all around the United States this past year, so we thought it was high time we round up all of the best hikes in the United States in one place. We love creating a bucket list of experiences . Wouldn’t it be cool to be able to say you’ve conquered all of these amazing trails? People might be staying closer to home for the next couple of years as the world figures itself out, so why not start exploring all of these great outdoor destinations in the USA .

Table of Contents

Best Places to Hike in the United States

1. tongass national forest – alaska.

Let’s start off our best hikes in the USA in the final frontier of adventure travel, Alaska! Making a base in Juneau Alaska, the Tongass National Forest is filled with hiking trails. There are 700 miles of hiking trails as a matter a fact. If you don’t have backcountry experience, you should hire a guide.

This is wild America with bears, glaciers, and caves to be found along almost every trail. If you take a small-ship Alaskan cruise you’ll have plenty of opportunities to hike in Alaska. The Nugget Falls trail is a popular hike leaving from the Mendenhall Glacier visitors center. Mendenhall Glacier is one of Alaska’s most iconic glaciers.

Plan your hiking trip in Alaska with these Resources:

• The Best Places to Visit in Alaska
• 28 Amazing Things to do in Juneau, Alaska
• Best Things to do in Alaska
• How to Pack for an Alaskan Cruise

2. Yosemite National Park – California

Yosemite National Park is another American gem that is full of incredible hiking trails. Yosemite National Park is huge at 1200 square miles (3,027 km²). However, most of the great hikes of Yosemite are situated around the Yosemite Valley. The Half Dome Hike is the most popular hike in Yosemite NP.

This 14-mile round trip hike takes about 10 – 12 hours to hike and goes up 5000 feet above the Yosemite Valley floor. Be prepared for using cables during the final 400 feet which allows hikers to summit without climbing equipment. Read more: Things to do in Yosemite National Park

Plan your trip to Yosemite with these Resources:

• Things to do in Yosemite National Park
• The Half Dome Hike in Yosemite: Your Complete Guide
• 15 Best Hikes In California – Inspiration To Get Outdoors
• The Ultimate California Road Trip Itinerary

3. Mount Whitney – California

Located in California, Mount Whitney is on every hiker’s bucket list. Climbing 6,656 foot elevation gain to 14,494 feet, this 22.5 mile out-and-back trail can believe it or not be climbed in a single day, but we recommend a multi-day backpacking adventure.

This challenging hike takes you through gorgeous mountain peaks, lakes and valleys with spectacular lookouts. Reaching the summit is a true feat. Read all about how to climb Mount Whitney Here by Guest writer Jenna of UpAndAwayMag.

Hiking Resources for California

• 12 Things To Know Before Hiking Mount Whitney from UpAndAwayMag

4. John Muir Trail – California

One of the most iconic hikes in America is the John Muir Trail. This massive hike is 220 miles long and goes through some of America’s most  famous national parks including Yosemite National Park , Ansel Adams Wilderness Area, Sequoia, and Kings Canyon National Park.

I know what you are thinking, we have a lot of California hikes on our USA hiking trails list. Well, that’s because there are so many national parks and amazing trails! So much so that it requires an entire post of its own: 15 Best Hikes in California – Inspiration to Get Outdoors

John Muir Hiking Tips

• Tips for Hiking the John Muir Trail

5. Smith Rock

Oregon has a ton of hiking trails that take you through mountainous landscapes, dense forests, and rugged coastlines. With 361 state parks and 11 national forests, Oregon is a hiking mecca in America. The Pacific Crest Trail runs through Oregon and you can hike a part of this mammoth trail that runs from Mexico to Canada but there are plenty of choices within the state.

We are choosing Smith Rock’s Misery Ridge trail as it’s one of the more famous hiking trails in America. At just 3.5-miles it is short and sweet, but it is steep and spectacular. High on Misery Ridge, you’ll see rock formations like The Monkey Face Rock, sheer granite rock faces, and calm mirror lakes.

Plan your Hiking Adventure in Oregon

• Smith Rock State Park – Misery Ridge Hike
• 12 Best Hikes in Oregon That Will blow Your Mind
• 21 Awesome Places To Visit In Oregon
• 26 Fun And Adventurous Things To Do In Bend, Oregon
• Best Things to do in Portland, Oregon

6. Pacific Crest Trail

Since we mentioned it above, The Pacific Crest Trail is most certainly the bucket list hike of the United States. It is 2650 miles (4265 km) long and lets you see the complete gamut of North America’s landscape as you traverse it from south to north from the border of Mexico to Canada.

Of course, most people aren’t going to be doing the full hike into the northern territory, but it’s romantic to think about doing so just the same. You might know The Pacific Crest Trail from the popular book Wild by Cheryl Strayed that was turned into a movie starring Reese Witherspoon. See details about hiking the Pacific Coast Trail at  Discover the Trail .

Planning on doing a lot of hiking and backcountry in the future? Check out these tips:

• 8 Tips to Staying Safe on a Hiking Adventure
• 25 Camping Tips and Hacks for Happy Campers
• The Ultimate Camping Gear List
• The Best Travel Gear and Travel Accessories
• 5 Winter Layering Tips to Dress for the Deep Freeze

7. Appalachian Trail

Since we mention it above, we should include the Appalachian Trail. Another mammoth of US hikes to add to the bucket list. It passes through 14 states from Georgia to Maine on the East Coast of the United States. It is a huge undertaking to try to trek this hike in one season. Most people tackle a little at a time. Another cool thing about this trail is that the International Appalachian Trail goes into Canada up to Newfoundland.

8. Continental Divide Trail

To round off the Triple Crown of Hiking in the United States, we must include the Continental Divide. What is the Triple Crown you ask? The Appalachian Trail, the Continental Divide Trail, and the Pacific Crest Trail. The Continental Divide Trail Coalition is one of those cross-country trails spanning 3,028 miles (4,873 km). It runs from Mexico to Canada up to the center of the country following the great divide of the Rocky Mountains.

9. Joshua Tree National Park

For surreal lunar-like landscape hiking in the US, make your way to Joshua Tree National Park in California. It is located 140 miles from Los Angeles and you’ll recognize it from many a Hollywood movie. There are several hikes to choose from in Joshua Tree with hikes ranging from just a quarter-mile to 10 miles long! Check out all the best hikes in Joshua Tree National Park here.

Plan your California Hiking Adventure

• Best hikes in Joshua Tree National Park
• Top 10 Best Places To Camp In California

10. Badlands National Park

Don’t write off South Dakota when it comes to hiking. Badlands National Park is not only beautiful, but it also offers a lot of opportunities to get out of the car. There are several easy hikes in Badlands National Park that can be explored from the short hikes at Notch Trail, Fossil Trail, and Cliff’s Shelf Trail, to the longer 10-mile hike through Castle Trail and the 22-mile loop of the Sage Creek Wilderness Area. Whichever trail you choose, you can guarantee beautiful scenery.

Plan your South Dakota Hiking Adventure

• Badlands National Park Hikes And Things To Do
• Things To Do In South Dakota – 10 Not To Miss Attractions
• Crazy Horse Memorial, South Dakota

11. Grand Canyon

The Grand Canyon is the mother of all destinations in the United States. Who doesn’t want to visit the Grand Canyon and being able to get out and hike along the rim? This is at the top of every traveler’s list. You can actually hike from the South Rim of the Grand Canyon to the North crossing the Colorado River to boot!

The Rim Trail is one of the most popular hikes in the Grand Canyon. It goes from the South Kaibab Trailhead to Hermit’s Rest for 13 miles (20 km) taking you through the Grand Canyon visitor center, Grand Canyon Village, Mojave Point, Monument Creek Vista, and finally Hermit’s Rest. If you really want a challenge take the Bright Angel Trail to the North Kaibab Trail where you can hike all the way to the North Rim.

• The Absolute Best Things To Do In The Grand Canyon
• Where to Stay At The Grand Canyon: Best Hotels And Areas For Every Budget
• 15 Fun Facts That You Need to Know About the Grand Canyon

12. Glacier National Park

Glacier National Park was made for hiking. Located in Montana on the Canadian border, it shares its landmass with Waterton Lakes National Park in Alberta . Getting outdoors at Glacier National Park is a must and the best way to do that is to explore its 700 miles of both short hikes and long hikes.

Take note that you will need to keep an eye out for cougars and bears. We’ve come across a cougar on the border in Waterton and they can be dangerous. So be sure to always hike in pairs and keep on talking to let wildlife know you are there.

• 9 of the Best Glacier National Park Hikes

13. Bryce Canyon

Imagine hiking through fairy chimneys, amphitheaters, and beautiful pink and orange rock. That is exactly what it is like hiking in Bryce Canyon. There is a reason that Bryce Canyon is on everyone’s list of the best places to hike in the U.S. It is filled with hiking for all levels, from beginner to seasoned hikers.

With short and long hikes, you could spend a summer exploring the hiking trails of this national park. The Rim Trail is one of the best hikes in Bryce Canyon for landscape views and gives you a true appreciation for this wonder of Mother Nature. At 11 miles long (out and back), it’s a good distance offering some of the best views of the rock formations.

• 12 Bryce Canyon Hikes That Will Blow You Away

14. Zion National Park

Located in Utah, Zion National Park offers hiking around 250 million-year-old rock formations. There are several great hiking trails here, but the West Rim Trail makes for a great multi-day hike with camping along the route. Another great trail is the Angels Landing hiking trail as it offers views of so many different formations in Zion. There is so much exploration to be done in Zion that is good to plan more than one day here.

• 10 Best Hikes in Zion National Park, Utah

15. Rocky Mountain National Park

Located in Colorado, Rocky Mountain National Park has iconic status as one of the best hiking places in the USA. No matter what part of Rocky Mountain National Park you travel to, you’re treated to 360 degree views that will blow your mind.

The Continental Divide Trail runs along Rocky Mountain National Park all the way  up to Canada  and all the way down to Mexico. It is just over 3000 miles long and is a mix of wild and developed trails. You don’t have to hike the entire trail though, you can hop on a portion of it here at Rocky Mountain National Park and see why this is a premier hiking destination.

Plan your Colorado Hiking Adventure

• 15 Best Hikes in Rocky Mountain National Park
• 15 Best hikes in Colorado to Enjoy the Great Outdoors
• The Best Winter Activities In Colorado

16. Haleakala National Park, Hawaii

Located on the island of Maui, Haleakala National Park houses a volcano, bamboo forest, colorful eucalyptus trees, and waterfalls. If you are looking for a diverse place to hike in the United States that is filled with beauty, this is it! A beautiful hike is located at the end of the Hana Highway .

The Pipiwai Trail takes you to some of the most scenic attractions on Maui including a walk through a bamboo forest out to the 400-foot high Waimoku Falls and the Seven Sacred Pools. Another spectacular hike here is to go up to the crater rim of the Haleakala volcano for sunrise.

Tips for planning a Maui Vacation

• 22 Unique Adventures In Maui
• Where To Stay In Maui – The Best Hotels
• 26 Best Things To Do In Maui
• The Best Road to Hana Stops In Maui

17. Point Lobos – Big Sur

Big Sur may be more famous as an iconic California road trip than a hiking destination, but believe me, there are plenty of places for incredible hiking along Big Sur . One of the most popular places for hiking in Big Sur is Point Lobos, State Park. The Bird Island Trail takes in views of the picturesque China Cove and it takes you to gorgeous cliff views where you can view sea lions basking in the sun.

Point Lobos (Punta de los Lobos Marinos) was named for all the sea lions that hang out on the rocks by Spanish explorers. Read more: Best Stops on 17 Mile Drive

Read: The Best Beaches in California

18. Grand Teton

Grand Teton will completely surprise you! Located in the heart of beautiful landscape in Wyoming, you will find some of the best places to hike in the USA. One of the most popular hikes in Grand Teton is The Jenny Lake Trail. It is an 8-mile long fairly flat trail with a 623 foot elevation gain letting you really take in the scenery of Grand Teton.

A big reason it is so popular is that it hooks up with the Hidden Falls hike, Inspiration Point hike, and the Forks of Cascade Canyon hike allowing you to experience several different trails at once.

• 15 Best Hikes in Grand Teton National Park

19. Lake Tahoe

Lake Tahoe has some beautiful hikes and scenic views, but if you are looking for one of the best hikes in the USA, the famed Rubicon Trail is a 22-mile long trek that takes you through a valley floor and up a rocky climb. It may be long, but there are campsites along the trail. Be prepared for major switchbacks and ledge after ledge of difficult climbing. Isn’t that a hikers dream?

• Things to do in Lake Tahoe in Winter

20. Yellowstone

No article mentioning the best hiking in the US would be complete without including Yellowstone! America’s first national park is famous for its geysers and volcanic activity plus it too is a hikers paradise.

Located in Wyoming, Montana, and Idaho, Yellowstone spans more than 2.2 million acres with hiking trails galore. The North Rim Trail is known as the Grand Canyon of Yellowstone National Park. The  7.6 Mile long hike lets you see Upper Geyser Basin Falls, Cascade Creek, and Crystal Falls as well as Firehole River which runs through Upper Geyser Basin.

• 12 Best Hikes in Yellowstone National Park
• Where to Stay in Yellowstone National Park – Guide to the Best Hotels
• 27 Things to do in Yellowstone – Plus Tips for First-time Visitors

21. Pictured Rocks Michigan

Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore is one of the most beautiful  places to visit in Michigan . With 100 miles of trails to explore, one could spend days camping at Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore. It has extraordinary sandstone cliffs.

• Read more: Fun and Unique Things to do in Northern Michigan
• 8 Reasons You Must Visit Michigan’s Upper Peninsula

22. Great Smokey Mountains

North Carolina (And Tennessee) is home to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. There are many amazing trails to hike within its 200,000 acres including 500 miles of hiking trails. 101 miles of the Appalachian Trail runs through this park so you can hop on that for a bit to feel what the people hiking the entire route are putting themselves through.

Another not-to-miss hike includes Cascade Falls which takes you to a thunderous 20-foot waterfall in E.B. Jeffress Park. Read more: 15 Great Road Trips in America

23. Red Rock Canyon Nevada

Our favorite part of visiting Las Vegas was getting out to Red Rock Canyon. If you find yourself growing tired of the crowds and excess of Las Vegas, head out to Red Rock Canyon. Located just 25 minutes west of the Las Vegas Strip, Red Rock is one of the most popular outdoors spots in Nevada.

There are a number of trails that are suitable for beginner, intermediate and advanced hikers. It is also one of the top destinations in the United States for rock climbing, and it’s not uncommon to see rock climbers hanging off the bright orange cliffs around the park. Read more: Off the Strip – Things to do Outside Las Vegas

24. Crater Rim Trail – Big Island

Another great Hawaiian Hike is The Crater Rim Trail at the Kilauea Volcano Caldera. It is the longest loop trail on the Big Island and can take about 8 hours. This unique hiking trail takes you to see lava cinders, lava tubes, steam vents, and evidence of lava flow. Kilauea Volcano had an eruption in 2020 that dried out a water lake and a massive lava lake that has since solidified but is quite an incredible sight. Read more: Big Island Of Hawaii: 15 Best Things To Do

• Book this  volcano tour  where you’ll take a guided hike across the lava flow to the new black sand beach while learning of the Lava flows and history of the Big Island.

And these are some of the best hikes in the USA. Of course, there are hundreds of more hikes in the United States to see and do. We can’t get to them all, but as the famous travel quote says – I haven’t been everywhere, but it’s on my list! So are more hikes in America for us!

• 21 of The Best Treks in the World
• 32 of The Tallest Mountains in the World by Continent
• All You Need to know about the Top 10 Best Hikes in South America
• Beautiful Isolated Places on Earth – In Photos
• Bucket List Travels – 52 Places to Visit in Your Lifetime
• 15 Great Road Trips in America
• Route 66 Road Trip – Cruising The Main Street of America
• Best National Parks – USA Edition
• United States National Parks in Photos

Travel Planning Resources

Looking to book your next trip? Why not use these resources that are tried and tested by yours truly.

Book Your Flights: Start planning your trip by finding the best flight deals on Skyscanner. We have used them for years and have found that they have the best flight deals.

Book your Hotel: Find the best prices on hotels with these two providers. If you are located in Europe use Booking.com and if you are anywhere else use TripAdvisor.

Find Apartment Rentals: You will find the cheapest prices on apartment rentals with VRBO . 

Travel Insurance: Don't leave home without it. Here is what we recommend:

• Safety Wing - Occasional Travelers.
• Medjet - Global air medical transport and travel security.

Book Your Activities: Looking for walking tours, skip-the-line tickets, private guides, and more? Then we recommend Get Your Guide.

Need more help planning your trip? Make sure to check out our Resources Page where we highlight all the great companies that we trust when we are traveling.

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3 thoughts on “24 Best Hikes in the USA to Add to Your Bucket list”

This is just a list of National Parks – nowhere to hike with dogs.

If you click through to the posts with all of the hikes in each area, you will find plenty of hikes that allow dogs 🙂

Every single one is amazing. I love hiking near a river, the sound keeps me going

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How to Plan a Bucket-List Backpacking Trip

Secure permits before they sell out, convince your boss to give you time off work, make a foolproof meal plan, and more..

Heading out the door? Read this article on the new Outside+ app available now on iOS devices for members! >","name":"in-content-cta","type":"link"}}'>Download the app .

Once-in-a-lifetime backpacking trips are just that: once in a lifetime. So when the opportunity to plan one arises, don’t miss a beat. Use these tips to get organized for a memorable trek.

Snag a Permit Early

Choosing your destination requires more attention to detail than throwing a dart at the map, and if you’re aiming to backpack in a national park, that’s doubly true. Not every area in these parks is popular enough to warrant securing a permit as early as possible, but if you’re planning a life-list trip, chances are you’ll want to work fast to make sure you get the campsites you’re chasing. Walk-up permits are a good backup but never a guarantee; use this guide for some of the most popular national parks to determine how soon you need to start preparing. Dates for established backcountry campsites in these parks may change year to year, so always do some research well ahead of time.

• Yosemite National Park (Including the John Muir Trail southbound): Apply for a lottery at least 168 days (24 weeks) in advance.
• Zion National Park : Backpacking permits open at 10 a.m. MST on the 5th of the month before your trip (i.e. for a trip in April, apply on March 5). Permit systems vary for canyoneering routes.
• Grand Canyon National Park : Snag a permit between the 20th day of the month 5 months before your trip and the 1st day of the month four months before your trip.
• Rocky Mountain National Park : Reservations begin March 1 at 8 a.m. MST for camping between May 1 and October 31.
• Glacier National Park : Submit applications for a lottery on March 15 for groups of eight or fewer.
• Yellowstone National Park : Submit applications for a lottery between January 1 and March 31.
• Mt. Rainier National Park : Submit applications for a lottery between February 21 and March 7.

Get Specific

Once you’ve decided where to hike and gotten permits, it’s time to figure out your boots-on-the-trail plan. Pull up the Gaia GPS app and get started:

Map your route.

At home, open Gaia on your phone or computer. Do a quick search to track down your trailhead, then use the “Create Route” tool to plot your hike. The route you create will automatically “snap” to the trails already plotted on the Gaia topo maps. Plot your route from start to finish and save it.

Choose your campsites.

Look at your total mileage and divide it by the number of days you want to spend hiking. If you’re on your computer, access your route and move your cursor over the elevation plot—an indicator will track on the map in correlation with the elevation profile. Poke around near your divided-mileage points for established campsites (represented by tent icons), flat areas, and water sources. (Tip: Flip to the satellite maps to get a sense of the vegetation).

Mark promising spots with waypoints.

Think about the what-ifs. Even with a plan, backpacking is unpredictabl e. Build in contingency options: different routes you can take if your goal is impassable, bailouts in case of injury, backup campsites, places to find water, etc. Mark notable spots with labeled waypoints.

Save it for later.

On your phone, select your route, choose “More,” and click “Download Maps.” Pick the resolution and any additional layers you want to have access to in the field. We like Gaia Topo, NatGeo Trails Illustrated, and, if your trip is on national forest land, forest service maps (marked USFS 2016 in the app). Satellite maps can also be handy. Then click “Next” and download the maps for when you’re outside of cell coverage.

Menu Management

Maybe the most important question before any big trip: What are you going to eat? While the details of setting a menu are limitless, there are two majordirections you can go with your food: dehydrated or the real deal. Here’s how to pick what’s best for you.

Dehydrated meals are easy: Just boil some water, pour it into the pouch, seal it, and wait. You can even make it without a stove by cold-soaking, if you’re willing to wait. If you’re eating in an area without much clean water, dehydrated meals are the way to go because you won’t have to use more of your water to clean any dishes. They’re also lighter, calorie for calorie, than cooking fresh. The downside: Dehydrated meals are a little pricier than fresh ingredients. You have to decide if the convenience is worth the cost. Not sure what meals to buy? We’re finding the best dehydrated meals in our series “ Pouch Wars ,” so you don’t have to waste money and tastebuds on rehydrated slop.

If you’ve got some chops in the kitchen or you just want to save money, then you should prepare fresh meals at your campsite. If you’re a picky eater, you can cook what you actually want instead of forcing down an unappetizing dehydrated meal. These meals don’t have to be multi-course smorgasbords, you can start with simple meals like burrito bowls or mushroom and pea orzo . The downside to fresh meals: Needing to do dishes after a long day of hiking, setting up camp, and cooking can be pretty inconvenient.

How to Get Time Off

Perhaps the most difficult part of planning a big trip is getting enough vacation time for it. For the majority of people, figuring out how to balance backpacking with a career is a roadblock to dream adventures. But it’s not impossible. We surveyed a collection of real people with real jobs (i.e. not professional athletes, travel writers, or digital nomads) to put together some strategies you can use for talking to your boss.

• Tweak your schedule. “I’m a master at rearranging a schedule for a four-day work week, which makes for some great long-weekend adventures.” —Military engineering contractor
• Think ahead. “Start talking to your boss a year in advance. They’re a lot more likely to make accommodations for you when you’re not surprising them.” —Software developer
• Negotiate. “If you’re good at your job, odds are your boss wants to keep you (and keep you happy). Talk to them about what you’re hoping to do. Bosses are people, too, and the good ones get it.” —Occupational therapist
• Foster trust. “If you want to do a month-long trip every year, good luck. For me, it was about framing it as an opportunity that I won’t have again. Ultimately, it was a matter of my boss trusting me, which is something I spent my career building.” —Green energy asset manager
• Cover your bases. “You have to convince them that they’ll barely know you’re gone. Spend a lot of time beforehand making sure all your work is taken care of while you’re away.” —Software salesperson
• Game the system. “Plan your trip around a national holiday so you can use fewer PTO days.“ —Backpacker editor

Get Your Body Ready

Being physically prepared for a trip is just as important as packing all your gear and organizing your food, says personal trainer and 2018 Pacific Crest Trail alumnus Lee Welton. As the owner of Trailside Fitness , Welton trains hikers for big trips. “We’d all rather enjoy the journey than endure it,” he says. Enjoy the views more and “avoid the negative self-talk that comes with being out of shape and not training or preparing for this trip,” as Welton puts it. Training also helps you avoid injuries like shin splints, plantar fasciitis, stress fractures, and knee and ankle overuse injuries.

Use this eight-week training plan from Welton—don’t be afraid to customize it for yourself—to prep your body for a weeklong backpacking trip with moderate elevation gains.

WEEKS 1 THROUGH 4

Complete three sets of each of the following circuits three days per week.

• 15 Goblet squats | Squat with a 20-pound kettlebell or dumbbell held to your upper chest.
• 15 Front step-ups (per leg) | Start with a 4- to 6-inch step; if you have good control through the movement, increase the height, maxing out at 8 to 10 inches.
• 15 Calf raises | Starting with your feet shoulder-width apart, raise onto your tippy toes, then slowly lower.
• 10 Incline push-ups | Elevate your hands on a bench or chair, then push up as normal.
• 10 Single-arm rows | Lean over a bench with one hand on the top and the other dangling to the side. Pull a dumbbell or other weight into your chest with the hanging arm.
• 10 Bird dogs | Start on all fours and slowly extend your right arm and left leg, staying balanced. Repeat with your left arm and right leg.
• 15 Glute bridges | Lie on your back with your knees bent and raise your hips to create a straight line from your knees to shoulders. Hold for 20 to 30 seconds.
• 15 Dead bugs | Lie on your back with your arms up and knees above your hips at right angles. Lower your left arm above your head and extend your right leg straight out. Repeat with your right arm and left leg.
• Plank | On your elbows, hold for as long as you can.

WEEKS 5 THROUGH 8

Add weekly 6- to 10-mile hikes with at least 1,500 to 2,000 feet of elevation gain to gauge your progress. “If your quads are really sore after the training hike, you might want to spend a little more time doing step-down exercises, for example,” says Welton. Do three sets of each of the following three days per week.

• 15 Reverse lunges (per leg) | Step backward with one leg, lowering your back knee until the front is bent 90 degrees.
• 15 Lateral step-ups (per leg) | Instead of stepping onto something in front of you, place it to your side.
• 15 Single-leg deadlifts (per leg) | Holding two dumbbells, stand on one leg and lean forward until your lifted leg is parallel to the floor. Return to standing.
• 10 Inverted rows | Lie beneath an unweighted barbell racked on a Smith machine or squat rack. Gripping it at shoulder-width, pull yourself up to the bar.
• 10 Shoulder taps (per arm) | From a push-up position, touch one hand to the opposite shoulder, then reverse.
• 10 Single-leg glute bridges (per leg) | Just like regular bridges (see left), but with one leg—the other should point skyward.
• 12 Step-downs (per leg) | Just like step-ups, but reversed.
• 15-foot Heel walk | Walk on your heels, taking small steps.
• Side plank | On your elbow, hold for as long as you can.

Can I Bring That?

Packing for a long trip is a game of what stays, what goes, and what TSA is going to make you chuck in the trash can. Camping gear is unique—make sure you pack it the right way and know what to leave at home when traveling by plane. While these are the official guidelines, it’s up to a TSA officer to make the final determination about what makes it through security.

Camp Stoves

Checked: OK | Carry-on: OK Stoves themselves are fine—just make sure there’s no fuel or vapors coming from them. Leave the lids off of empty fuel bottles. And leave the fuel at home—you’ll have to purchase more canister or liquid fuel at your destination.

Pocket Knife

Checked: OK | Carry-on: NO Generally, you’re not permitted to travel with anything sharp on your person, for obvious reasons.

Checked: OK | Carry-on: MAYBE For the most part, food is fine to carry with you, especially in sealed packages. Expect some questions if you have jerky or nuts running loose in your bag (and keep in mind, customs may take issue with food if you are traveling internationally). Gels or liquids need to be less than 3.4 ounces and fi t into the same 1-quart resealable bag that your toothpaste and other liquids fit in.

Trekking Poles

Checked: OK | Carry-on: NO Pointy enough to be a threat, apparently.

Tent Poles and Stakes

Checked: OK | Carry-on: NO These are too sharp for your carry-on, but they’ll be fine in checked luggage. Cover them up so no one gets poked when they’re inspecting your bag.

Lighters and Matches

Checked: MAYBE | Carry-on: OK The TSA prefers you carry disposable and Zippo lighters with fuel on your person—you can leave them in your checked bag, but only if they’re emptied of fuel or in a DOT-approved case. You’re allowed one book of safety (non-strike anywhere) matches in your carry-on.

Rocks or Sand

Checked: OK | Carry-on: OK When traveling domestically, the FAA specifically says this is OK, and we didn’t even have to ask.

Checked: OK | Carry-on: MAYBE No aerosols in the cabin, but they’re OK in your checked bag as long as they’re not labeled as hazardous. Non-aerosols under 3.4 ounces and packed with the rest of your liquids are OK.

Checked: NO | Carry-on: NO Never, ever. Buy some at your destination and find a local used gear shop to consign it to after your trip.

Checked: OK | Carry-on: MAYBE Technically you can take these in your carry-on, but we can’t say definitively that they won’t be taken away.

OK, now you’ve got everything into a bag. Aside from making sure your checked luggage meets the weight and size requirements of your airline, make sure there’s nothing that could cause your belongings to stand you up at baggage claim:

• Depending on the size and shape of your backpack, you might have an easier time packing everything (including your pack) into a duffel for the plane.
• If you do pack everything into your backpack, eliminate any dangling straps or buckles that could get caught on something in transit. Consider using a sack or even a big trash bag (similar to what airlines might give you) to keep everything contained. Tighten down shoulder and hip straps as much as possible.
• Make sure your bag ticket is tied to something solid and can’t slide or pull off. Otherwise it’s going to be a while before you see that pack again.
• Stow everything inside your backpack, including gear you might normally hike with outside your pack (like a foam sleeping pad, water bottles, etc.).

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11 Backpacking Trips in the U.S. That Should be on Your Bucket List

Posted by Sarah Lamagna May 17, 2022 Updated December 18, 2023

Being in the wild is dope, and so is keeping it clean for future generations. If you’re hiking, camping or backpacking, you can minimize your impact on the environment with Leave No Trace principles and ensure everyone has a good time with basic trail etiquette tips. Now let’s get wild.

Forget the crowded viewpoints and roadways — experience the wonder and solitude (most of the time) of the nation’s most epic trails!

Americans have been walking across our country’s beloved public lands for decades. The Long Trail in Vermont (although not on our list below) holds the title for the oldest long-distance trek in the country — it was completed in 1930. The record for the longest hike (which, surprisingly isn’t the Long Trail) goes to two trails: American Discovery Trail and Great Western Loop, both of which are 6,800 miles each! There are also the most famous trails like Pacific Crest Trail, Continental Divide Trail, and Appalachian Mountain Trail.

These are all great treks throughout the nation but not everyone has the time, money, or even desire to do a thru-hike . Instead, most outdoor enthusiasts like the idea of finding a bit of solitude without having to log the mega miles. Because the United States is home to thousands of trails to backpack, the list below narrows down your best choices. Whether you’re looking for a quick jaunt during a long weekend or weeks-long adventure, there’s something on this list for everyone.

Best Backpacking Trips in the U.S. – Our Top Picks

As a reminder, backpacking should be taken seriously and isn’t the same as going for a long day hike. Make sure you have the proper gear (for some cheaper options, check this out ), are in shape to carry upwards of 50 pounds (depending on the length of your trip), and are well-accustomed to outdoor excursions. Regardless of if you are backpacking solo or backpacking with your kids , or with your friends, it’s always imperative to be prepared.

1. Pemigewasset Loop

Why you should go: it traverses one of the most incredible ridgelines — Franconia Ridge.

• Location: White Mountain National Forest, New Hampshire
• Distance: 31 miles
• Elevation gain: 10,000 feet
• Recommended number of nights: 1 to 2

When most people think of epic backpacking routes, the White Mountains of New Hampshire likely don’t show up in your head. The Pemigewasset Loop (known affectionately by locals as the “Pemi Loop”), though, is one of the hardest hikes in the country with strenuous elevation gain and some of the worst weather in the country. It traverses the western half of the Pemigewasset Wilderness and climbs over eight 4Kers (mountains above 4,000’ above sea level and on the AMC’s 4000-footer list ).

You can add other peaks that are not on the AMC’s list to add a total of eleven mountain summits! Many people have done this as a brutal day trip, but it’s not recommended.

Pro Tip: stay in one of the AMC huts (either Greenleaf or Galehead ) where you won’t have to worry about trudging uphill with a tent in your bag. Plus, dinner and breakfast is included in the fee for the night.

Related Read:   8 Epic Camping Spots in White Mountain National Forest

2. Cracker Lake

Why you should go: experience Glacier National Park without the crowds.

• Location: Glacier National Park, Montana
• Distance: 12 miles
• Elevation gain: 1,300 feet
• Type: out-and-back
• Recommended number of nights: 1

Backpack to the brilliant turquoise waters of Cracker Lake . You’ll camp at the base of Mount Siyeh whose towering cliffs rival those in Yosemite. The trail to this alpine lake is not as popular as other backpacking routes in the Glacier National Park but you shouldn’t miss out on this one.

Skip the Highline Trail and having to battle your way through the hordes of tourists that make the trek every year. Instead, enjoy a relatively moderate hike to a quieter part of the Park. Bonus: the lake has a pit toilet!

Pro tip: go during peak wildflower season. Just do it.

Related Read:   Crown Jewels: 14 Majestic Hikes in Glacier National Park

3. 100-Mile Wilderness

Why you should go: get all the glory of hiking the Appalachian Trail without having to walk the full 2,180 miles.

• Location: 100-Mile Wilderness, Maine
• Distance: 93 miles (weirdly not 100)
• Elevation gain: 15,000 feet
• Type: point-to-point
• Recommended number of nights: 7 to 10

The Appalachian Trail is hiked by hundreds of thru-hikers every year. Most argue that the hardest part is the last 100 miles before the summit of Mount Katahdin — known as the 100-Mile Wilderness. It is a true wilderness experience and one that should not be your first foray into backpacking.

The backcountry of Maine woods is unforgiving at best and deadly at worst so take heed when attempting this. But if you do decide to do this trek, it’ll bring you through some of the most spectacular and remote places in the entire country.

Pro tip: avoid hiking in early June as it happens to be black fly season and they are the literal worst.

Related Read:   14 Best Hikes in Maine for Exploring the Great Outdoors

4. Roan Highlands Section of the AT

Why you should go: considered by most thru-hikers to be the prettiest part of the Appalachian Trail.

• Location: Pisgah National Forest, Tennessee/North Carolina
• Distance: 22 miles
• Elevation gain: 5,000 feet

If you’ve ever wanted to know what the undulating trails are like in the Scottish Highlands, look no further than the Roan Highlands (coincidence?) section of the Appalachian Trail.

The 22-mile trek traverses over grassy, bald summits and through the world’s largest rhododendron garden. The 360-degree views from the several summits will leave you breathless — although that might also be from the elevation gain.

Pro tip: if you go around the third week of June, the rhododendrons will be in full bloom and are spectacular.

Related Read:   10 Can’t-Miss Glamping Sites Near Great Smoky Mountains National Park

5. Greenstone Ridge Trail

Why you should go: where else can you take a seaplane to your trailhead?

• Location: Isle Royale National Park, Michigan
• Distance: 42 miles
• Elevation gain: 4,000 feet
• Recommended number of nights: 5 to 8

The Greenstone Ridge Trail allows you a glimpse into the diverse landscape of the upper Midwest. From sweeping vistas, orchid-filled bogs, wildflowers galore, and more lakes than you can count, the ecosystems are endless.

Most begin their journey at the Windigo trailhead which is accessible by boat or seaplane. You end your hike at the Hidden Lake trailhead where you can hop on ferry or charter another seaplane for your return journey.

Pro tip: grab a satellite messenger since cell reception is spotty at best.

Related Read:   Traveler’s Guide to the Best Michigan National Parks

6. Wonderland Trail

Why you should go: never-ending views of Mount Rainier.

• Location: Mount Rainier National Park, Washington
• Distance: 93 miles
• Elevation gain: 25,000 feet (it’s a doozy)
• Recommended number of nights: 8 to 12

One of the most exclusive backpacking trails in the country also loops around one of the most famous volcanoes. The Wonderland Trail is a strenuous backpacking excursion that travels through a diverse array of ecosystems.

If you’re lucky enough to snag a wilderness permit to attempt the hike, you’ll be rewarded with incredible views at almost every turn. You won’t need mountaineering experience (that’s left for those wanting to summit Mount Rainier) but you should be a practice backpacker before attempting this trip.

Pro tip: have flexibility with your dates since permits for the trail are highly coveted.

Related Read:   14 Jaw Dropping Hikes in Mount Rainier National Park

7. Olympic Coast Trail – North Route

Why you should go: moody beaches but happy campers.

• Location: Olympic National Park, Washington
• Distance: 20 miles
• Elevation gain: 3,000 feet

The hike from Rialto Beach north to the Ozette trailhead is more than just a walk on the beach. It’s home to some of the most rugged coastline and unforgiving weather. Don’t let that deter you from a backpacking trip. You can combine the South Route with this hike, but the North Route has the better views and landscape.

Although you’re mostly walking on the beach, there are many headlands that can only be rounded at low tide. Sometimes there are ropes to aid during non-low tide times but not always.

Pro tip: always have a tide chart on this trip to plan out when you need to take the overland/headland trails.

Related Read:   13 Outdoorsy Things to Do on the Washington Coast

8. Four Pass Loop

Why you should go: see a side of the Maroon Bells the tourists don’t usually experience.

• Location: Maroon Bells – Snowmass Wilderness, Colorado
• Distance: 27 miles
• Elevation gain: 7,800 feet
• Recommended number of nights: 2 to 3

Coined as the most popular backpacking trip in Colorado, the Four Pass Loop traverses (you guessed it!) four passes all above 12,000’ above sea level.

If you’re coming from sea level, you might need to give yourself a few extra days ahead of time to acclimate. Once you’re satisfied with your lung capacity, enjoy the majestic maroon peaks and incredible alpine scenery on the trek!

Pro tip: do the loop in a clockwise direction as the trail up West Maroon Valley is easier to climb with a full pack.

Related Read:   5 Spectacular Backpacking Destinations in Colorado

9. Buckskin Gulch

Why you should go: probably the most iconic slot canyon ever.

• Location: Paria Canyon – Vermillion Cliffs Wilderness, Utah
• Distance: 21 miles
• Elevation gain: 3,400 feet

It doesn’t get much better than Buckskin Gulch if you’re in the mood for some spectacular slot canyon hiking. The permits to get into Buckskin are highly competitive, but that also means you’ll have solitude for your trip. For those lucky enough to grab one, you’ll be hiking in one of the longest (if not the longest) continuous slot canyon in the entire world.

Flash floods are a real concern here, as with any slot canyon hiking. Make sure to always check the weather for the surrounding areas. If there is even the slightest chance of rain, do not attempt this hike. Avoid hiking during the summer months as monsoon season occurs during this time and the slots can be dangerously hot.

If you can’t snag one of the permits, you can always head to Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument and try one of these hikes .

Pro tip: there is only one escape route once you reach Buckskin Gulch and is aptly-named the Middle-Out Escape Route.

Related Read:   The 20 Best Backpacking Trips In Utah

10. Cirque of the Towers

Why you should go: easily accessible and no permits are required.

• Location: Wind River Mountain Range, Wyoming
• Distance: 24 miles

You won’t find much solitude on the Fremont Trail to Cirque of the Towers . Due to its accessible trailhead and absolute stunning scenery, it’s a popular trail. However, Wyoming has got some big sky so even if you have company on the trail, you’ll be spread out. Most go in a clockwise direction as that will leave the best views for last.

You’ll pass through alpine meadows, around the edge of nine lakes on the path ,and over two mountain passes (one of which is named Jackass Pass). The first views of the Cirque begin when you hit Texas Pass and they just get better from there.

Pro tip: go as late in the summer as possible to avoid the atrocious amounts of mosquitos on the trail. Or bring a bug net otherwise.

Related Read:   8 Gorgeous Backpacking Trails In The Wind River Range

11. Sawtooth Wilderness Loop

Why you should go: it’s as remote as you get in Idaho so way less people.

• Location: Sawtooth Wilderness Area, Idaho
• Distance: 70 miles
• Elevation gain: 12,500 feet
• Recommended number of nights: 4 to 6

Basically jumping from lake to lake, the Sawtooth Wilderness Loop brings you on an epic journey through one of the most underestimated states. Idaho is usually passed over for the more epic Rocky Mountains or the Pacific Northwest. But you’d be wrong to turn a blind eye to this incredible wilderness area.

The trail navigates through dense forest, alpine lakes, and even some burn areas. Downed logs are fairly common across the trail since trail crews don’t get back into this remote area as much as more popular areas. Nothing is too hard to overcome, though. Just come with some sturdy pants and a good attitude and you’ll be all set.

Pro tip: it’s imperative to bring a bear-resistant canister (or hang your food) and bear spray as this is prime grizzly bear habitat.

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Seen in: Backpacking , Destinations

Posted by Sarah Lamagna

Sarah is an ecologist-turned-freelance writer specializing in the ecotourism and slow/sustainable travel industry. Her bylines include The Denver Post, 5280 magazine, VeryWellFamily, Matador Network, and was an expert on NPR’s The Takeaway for her work on the wildfires in Colorado.

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The Ultimate Bucket List Of Hiking Trips You Need To Try

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We’ve been going on a lot of hiking trips over the last 3 months. It’s actually the perfect activity for during a pandemic! Even on our family vacation (socially distant and visiting family out West) we went hiking. Here are just a few of the best hikes in the world that I’m adding to my own bucket list. Let me know if you’ve been on any of the following hiking adventures!

Looking to plan a unique family travel destination? Get ready to experience challenging terrain, views like nothing you’ve seen before, and remarkable sites that are only visible on foot from the trail. These are some of the best hikes around the world that have earned themselves bucket list status.

Don’t miss out on any of the other hiking adventures on Seeing Dandy!

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Hiking Trips Bucket List In The Great Outdoors

Some are even perfect for family travel!

Grand Canyon Rim-to-Rim Hike in Arizona, United States | 48 miles

Experience one of the greatest wonder in the world that’s located in one of the most beautiful parks in the U.S. Be prepared for the challenge, along with the mesmerizing views. The best time to go on this hiking trip is May to June and September to October.

Everest Base Camp Trek, Nepal | 80 miles

This is one of the best treks in the world, giving you a glimpse of the highest mountain on Earth. You can even visit the ancient monasteries Tengboche and Thami, and get to know the Sherpa people. The best time to go in this hiking trip is March to May and September to December.

West Coast Trail, British Columbia, Canada | 47 miles

This beautiful trail includes waterfalls, bogs, moss-covered ladders, forests, beach treks, and more! You’ll get to hike in the footsteps of the ancestors of the First Nation, while supporting eco-friendly tourism. The best time to go on this hiking trip is May to September.

North Drakensberg Traverse, South Africa | 40 miles

Hike on one of the most famous trails, that leads you to the edge of the escarpment of the Drakensburg. This trek is challenging and remote, but includes a wide variety of wildlife and rich vegetation, along with ridges, buttresses, gorges, spires, and more! The best time to go on this hiking trip is October to April.

Snowman Trek, Bhutan | 217 miles

This trek is one of the most difficult in the world, it’s a truly memorable adventure if you finish it. The Snowman Trek has six mountains that are over 23,100 ft. and nine passes that are over 15,850 ft., making it one of the highest altitude treks. You’ll get to pass through Buddhist monasteries, small villages, and learn about the traditions and cultural heritages of Bhutan. The best time to go on this hiking trip is October.

Arctic Circle Trail, Greenland | 99 miles

This trail is perfect to get you in touch with nature and way from the chaos. The only towns that are near this trail are at the beginning and at the end of it. Enjoy this backcountry hike by doing the things that your heart desires- like taking pictures of the reindeer and foxes, or catching trout for dinner, or anything else! The best time to go on this hiking trip is June to August.

Mount Kailash Trek, Tibet | 32 miles

This trek is extremely popular among visitors and is treated as a pilgrimage, it’s sacred to many religions. Despite not being able to climb the mountain due to religious reasons (it’s considered a mortal sin), you’ll be rewarded by the trek with gorgeous lakes, lush valleys, and snow-capped summits. The best time to go on this hiking trip is May to October.

La Ciudad Perdida (Lost City Trek), Colombia | 46 miles

Get to experience this northern Columbian trek, by adventuring through the tropical jungles and ancient ruins of the indigenous city, Teyuna (The Lost City). Along this stunning trek you’ll get to experience the wonder of the jungle scenery, learn about the indigenous communities, and swim in the invigorating Buritaca river. The best time to go on this hiking trip is December to March.

Now to start planning that family vacation in the great outdoors! The hiking trips outside of the United States will need to be put on hold for a while until foreign travel opens back up. I’ve always wanted to go to British Columbia which is closer than some of the hikes. And I’m not at all sure why I’ve never done the Grand Canyon. I guess that’s why it’s called a bucket list!

Be sure to check out the other hiking adventures on the blog HERE .

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The ultimate backpacking bucket list for California

Wilderness as far as the eye can see.

By: The Outbound Collective + Save to a List

Did you know that California is home to over 14 million acres of wilderness. You read that correctly. Over 14 million! Even the most driven explorer with all the time in the world couldn’t hike every trail in California in a single lifetime. But that doesn’t mean you can’t try. If you’re able to carve out the time for one of the classic thru hikes like the JMT or the PCT, then get after it! For those of you who can only make time for a long weekend trip, this list of 50 backpacking trips in California is just what you need to fuel your next adventure to the backcountry.

Northern California

From the rugged Pacific coast to the dense redwood forests to the summit of Mt. Shasta, Northern California has no shortage of diverse backcountry terrain. Tackle the Lost Coast or spend a couple days relaxing in Redwood National and State Parks...you can’t go wrong.

1. Backpack Devil’s Punchbowl, Six Rivers National Forest

Photo: Joshua Contois

8.33-mile out-and-back with about 1660 feet of elevation gain

This adventure offers spectacular views of the rugged Siskiyou mountain range. The range is considered one of the most biodiverse coniferous forests in the world. Plus, you’ll get to pass by a breathtakingly blue glacial lake in the mountains known as Devil’s Punchbowl.

2. Climb Mt. Shasta via Clear Creek Route

Photo: Daniel Sherman

11.43-mile out-and-back with nearly 7615 feet of elevation gain 

At a high elevation, this adventure has potential for snow activities like skiing, snowboarding, and glissading. The hike begins with a tall red fir forest. There are plenty of camping areas along the way if you choose to make this an overnighter.

3. Hike to Etna Mountain Summit

Photo: Greg Balkin

6-mile out-and-back with about 800 feet of elevation gain

Make your way to the summit and be rewarded by incredible sunrises and sunsets. At the top, you’ll also delight in a pristine Mt. Shasta backdrop. The final stretch of the hike requires some rock scrambling, but the views are well worth it as well as the solitude.

4. Backpack the Sky High Lakes in the Marble Monutains

Photo: Chaney Swiney

11.88-mile out-and-back with approximately 2070 feet of elevation gain

You might be surprised by the handful of scenic lakes that sit in the Marble Mountains. You'll also be surrounded by forests and caves (unmarked). Dive right into the wilderness and explore the geologically diverse range of peaks and ridges on this hike.

5. Backpack Redwood National and State Parks

Photo: Austin Trigg

4.41-mile loop with about 1043 feet of elevation gain 

This adventure offers the unique opportunity to view and explore some of the tallest trees in the world. And far away from light pollution, the area is the perfect spot for some amazing night photography. There are campsites along the creek for you and some buddies to spend the night.

6. Backpack to Canyon Creek Lakes

Photo: Dan Loch

14.35-mile out-and-back with roughly 2605 feet of elevation gain

Look no further if you’ve been craving exploration in some of the most wild and pristine terrain in the West. Trinity Alps boasts over 55 alpine lakes and an abundance of additional rivers, streams, creeks, swimming holes, and camping spots. Note: Wilderness Permits are required, but are free and can be obtained at any of the ranger stations.

7. Backpack the Lost Coast: Mattole to Black Sands Beach

Photo: Whitney Whitehouse

A 25.05-mile point-to-point with about 653 feet of elevation gain 

This is an extensive stretch of Northern California’s coastline that does not disappoint with its spectacular coastal vistas. There are campsites and easy access points to the water along the way.

8. Backpack the Stuart Fork Trail to Emerald and Sapphire Lakes

27.06-mile out-and-back hike with approximately 4213 feet of elevation gain

This adventure takes you through pristine Northern California wilderness. You’ll find excellent fishing opportunities, an abundance of wildlife, and beautiful wildflowers in bloom during the warmer months.

Living around the Bay Area is ideal for anyone who wants to live a city life but needs to have quick access to the wild. You can drive anywhere from 1-3 hours from San Francisco and find some truly stunning landscapes. Beach camping, epic summits, and more redwoods await.

9. Backpack to King’s Peak from Shelter Cove

Photo: Aja Pete

30.85-mile loop with nearly 6204 feet of elevation gain

Follow the coastline on this gorgeous hike and camp overnight at Buck Creek. Note that parts of the beach may be impassable at high tide, so time your travels appropriately. Find peace among the sounds of rushing mountain streams and the crashing ocean. You may also get the chance to view otter pups playing in the water!

10. Backpack to Pt. Reyes Coast Campground

Photo: Josiah Roe

4.02-mile out-and-back hike with roughly 633 feet of elevation gain

This is a great hike for ocean lovers. You can spend the night above the coast of Pt. Reyes and later make your way down to the beach and tide pools below.

11. Backpack the Glen Camp Loop via the Palomarin Trailhead

Photo: Jeff Driscoll

15.72-mile loop with approximately 3091 feet of elevation gain 

This is the perfect coastal and lush green forest adventure, featuring steep hillsides, gorgeous overlooks, and mountainous terrain.

12. Backpack to Point Reyes Wildcat Camp

Photo: Miranda Leconte

11.19-mile out-and-back with about 1926 feet of elevation gain

This is an ideal backpacking trip to camp out on a wide open meadow situated on a bluff overlooking breathtakingly blue ocean water. Note that permits are required. You’ll also need to make a reservation if you want to spend the night at the Wildcat Camp.

13. Backpack Sam McDonald Park

Photo: Ashley Chang

12.19-mile loop with nearly 2192 feet of elevation gain 

This is a great escape into Sam McDonald Park’s redwood forest-- just a quick drive from San Francisco. You’ll need a permit to stay overnight, which you can obtain from the ranger station. Find peace grounded in nature on this forest adventure.

14. Backpack the Bear Valley to Coast Camp Loop

16.18-mile loop with roughly 2818 feet of elevation gain

This is a great adventure for camping enthusiasts who want to spend time among stunning coastal mountains and meadows. If you plan on staying overnight, note that having a permit is required. Keep your eyes peeled for whales just off the coast during the Humpback Whale migration season!

15. Backcountry Camp at Big Basin Sunset Trail Camp

Photo: Christian Arballo

9.46-mile out-and-back with about 2146 feet of elevation gain

This is a beautiful cascading waterfall adventure where you can wander among redwoods and across creeks. Note that Big Basin’s backpacking sites are only open from May 1st to November 1st, so be sure to plan accordingly.

16. Backpack to Redfern Pond

7-mile out-and-back with approximately 1263 feet of elevation gain 

This adventure in Gilroy, California is open year-round with thousands of acres of wide open grassy land to explore. There are a number of well-marked trails to set foot on for all skill levels to enjoy. Permits are required.

17. Backpack to Pat Springs

Photo: Max Berger

13.18-mile out-and-back with about 3645 feet of elevation gain

This is a beautiful adventure into the rugged Ventana Wilderness that features campsites overlooking Big Sur and the San Lucia Mountains. Pack ample water, especially if you plan on camping.

18. Backpack the Pine Ridge in Big Sur, North Coast Ridge Loop

Photo: Chris Diantonio

33.45-mile loop with nearly 11388 feet of elevation gain

This is a longer adventure that will give you the opportunity to spend several or more days in the Ventana Wilderness section of Los Padres National Forest located in Big Sur, California. This trip features primitive camping sites, ample water sources, and incredible coastal ridge line views.

19. Backpack to the Ventana Wilderness’ Sykes Hot Springs

Photo: Blake Maitoza

18.96-mile out-and-back with about 7339 feet of elevation gain

This adventure features hot springs situated adjacent to the Big Sur River. Visit in the off-season for more seclusion.

20. Climb Cone Peak in Big Sur, Sea to Sky Route

19.72-mile out-and-back with roughly 7484 feet of elevation gain

Located in Big Sur, California, this adventure is less than 3 miles from the ocean, offering spectacular seaside views. You can also camp near an old fire lookout at the summit to extend your time taking in the surreal scenery.

21. Backpack to Goat Camp in Big Sur

Photo: Andrew Conway

8.03-mile out-and-back with approximately 3320 feet of elevation gain

Take in the immaculate beauty of Big Sur with fewer crowds on this lesser-known trail. Though steep on the way up, the ocean views are a great reward.

The Sierra Mountains

The mighty Sierra are a major draw for people around the world. Early explorers like John Muir and Ansel Adams had obsessions with these mountains and made them famous with their writing and photos. But even the best writers and photographers can’t do these mountains justice...you need to see them for yourself.

22. Backpack to Ropi Lake

Photo: Emily Kent

4.87-mile out-and-back with about 1581 feet of elevation gain

Take an adventure to the serene and secluded Ropi Lake. On the way, you’ll pass by incredible waterfalls with Pyramid Peak providing a top-notch backdrop in the distance.

23. Backpack to Leavitt Lake in Stanislaus National Forest

Photo: Jake Young

7.44-mile out-and-back with nearly 1385 feet of elevation gain

Located on the eastern edge of the Emigrant Wilderness, Levitt Lake is an ideal backpacking opportunity in the Sierra Nevadas. The lake is a great spot for fishing with potential to catch species like brook and rainbow trout.

24. Backpack to the Waterfall Camp in Desolation Wilderness

10.5-mile out-and-back with about 840 feet of elevation gain

This is a breathtaking adventure in Desolation Wilderness featuring over 50 waterfalls! Do this as a day hike or choose to camp overnight. Note that an overnight wilderness permit is required and can be obtained at one of the ranger stations.

25. Backpack to Middle Velma Lake

9.18-mile out-and-back with roughly 2251 feet of elevation gain

Located in the heart of Desolation Wilderness, Middle Velma Lake is the perfect backpacking trip for some solitude and fantastic views of Jakes Peak. It’s a great escape from the usual crowds of South Tahoe.

26. Backpack to Susie Lake in Desolation Wilderness

7.96-mile out-and-back with approximately 1496 feet of elevation gain

This adventure is located in Tahoe, California and features forest, lakes, the Old Glen Alpine Springs Historical Site, and breathtaking mountain views.

27. Backpack to Gilmore Lake in Desolation Wilderness

8.66-mile out-and-back with about 1919 feet of elevation gain

In Desolation Wilderness, soak in the beauty of a stunning alpine lake. Along the way, you’ll also get the chance to see Modjeska Falls, Soda Springs, and the historic Glen Alpine Resort built in 1884.

28. Hike and Climb to Mt. Conness

Photo: Alex Souza

19.03-mile out-and-back with roughly 5400 feet of elevation gain

This is a great adventure for the opportunity to see a series of beautiful small lakes situated among mammoth granite canyon walls. It also features panoramic views of the High Sierras– not a bad place to wake up if you plan on making this a multi-day camping trip!

29. Backpack to Vogelsang and Merced Lake High Sierras Camp

Photo: Julie & Brian

27.07-mile point-to-point with about 4596 feet of elevation gain 

Explore the remote high country of Yosemite. Get excited for the unique opportunity to glamp in the mountains at the High Sierra Camps! Right in the secluded wilderness, you’ll be treated with perks like a bed to sleep in and breakfast ready for you in the morning. Note that reservations for the camp are made through a lottery system.

30. Backpack Tuolumne Meadows to Yosemite Valley

Photo: Kevin Abernethy

 30.82-mile point-to-point with approximately 6109 feet of elevation gain

Though a long expedition, the work you put in will be well worth it. Along the way, you’ll see several iconic Yosemite landmarks in the secluded backcountry. This is a truly incredible route with stunning scenery at every turn, part of the historic John Muir Trail. This adventure is nothing short of spectacular and a huge accomplishment.

31. Backpack Cathedral Lakes

Photo: Addison Klinke

9.04-mile out-and-back with about 1100 feet of elevation gain

Experience captivating views of Cathedral peak, lush green meadows, and a high alpine lake. It’s a true nature lover's paradise.

32. Backpack atop Donohue Pass

27.56-mile out-and-back with nearly 2953 feet of elevation gain

This adventure allows you to take in sweeping views across the Eastern Sierra all the way down through Lyell Canyon. Spend the night above the tree line and enjoy some spectacular star gazing.

33. Backpack Lower & Upper Relief Valleys and the East Flange Rock

21.6-mile out-and-back with about 3600 feet of elevation gain

Take a trip into Yosemite’s backcountry to explore stunning alpine lakes and peaks like Granite Dome and the East Flange Rock. This is a great adventure for those looking to escape some of Yosemite’s typical crowds.

34. Backpack Sunrise Lakes to Clouds Rest

Photo: Nathaniel Polta

18.93-mile loop with roughly 1775 feet of elevation gain

Do this epic hike for 360 degree views of both Yosemite Valley and Little Yosemite Valley from Clouds Rest. You’ll also be able to see the iconic Half Dome. Be sure to bring plenty of water and snacks for ample energy on this longer expedition.

35. Backpack to Duck Lake

Photo: Sierra Joy

9.29-mile out-and-back with approximately 1880 feet of elevation gain

This is a breathtaking adventure with lakeside camping and swimming opportunities in clear waters. This trek also features beautiful wildflowers, patches of forest, and extensive peak views. Note that to stay overnight you will need a backcountry permit.

36. Backpack Agnew Meadows to Tuolumne Meadows

30.14-mile point-to-point with roughly 4593 feet of elevation gain

This hike between Mammoth Lakes and Yosemite is part of a famous stretch of the John Muir Trail. Though it’ll require several days to complete this stretch of trail, you will find the adventure a rewarding one as you’ll encounter beautiful blue lakes, mountainous terrain, and lush treetops along the way. You’ll want to soak in the sights every step of the way.

37. Backpack Ansel Adams’ Garnet Lake

14.46-mile out-and-back with about 2717 feet of elevation gain

On your way to Granite Lake, enjoy incredible vistas overlooking impressive granite peaks. Night photographers will delight in the low light pollution in this area, making for some stunning night shots!

38. Backpack to Ediza Lake

Photo: Tobin Akehurst

13.54-mile out-and-back with approximately 1804 feet of elevation gain

Take in marvelous sunrises and sunsets at Ebiza Lake– a sight you likely won’t ever forget. If you wish to extend your adventure, take a few days in the area to camp, fish, hike some more, or do some mountaineering! Come prepared for whatever your inner explorer may be craving.

39. Backpack to Crater Lake, Sierra National Forest

Photo: Emily Rudger

8.4-mile out-and-back with roughly 2100 feet of elevation gain

This hike features incredible views of an isolated lake and the expansive mountain ranges of the John Muir Wilderness. Set up camp by the water once at Crater Lake and kick back with some friends or take in the natural beauty of the surroundings in peace and quiet.

40. Backpack from Onion Valley to Mt. Whitney

47.35-mile point-to-point with nearly 11745 feet of elevation gain

This is a nature lover and explorer’s dream. You’ll get to soak in the full majesty of the High Sierras while making your way to the highest peak in the lower 48 states. From mountains to lakes to treetops and grassy fields, you’re sure to see it all! If you’re searching for that on-top-of-the-world feeling… this is the expedition for you! Be sure to secure the appropriate permits in advance to ensure all is set for your trip.

41. Backpack the Rae Lakes Loop

Photo: Kevin Kaminski

39.08-mile loop with roughly 7316 feet of elevation gain

Located in Sierra, California, this adventure takes you through the stunning Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks. It’s considered one of the most popular hikes in the Sierras– with good reason. You’ll explore diverse mountainous and forest terrain with incredible views of waterfalls, lakes, and beautiful meadows along the way.

42. Backpack to Mount Silliman, Sequoia NP

Photo: Debra Alison

11.24-mile out-and-back with about 4449 feet of elevation gain

In Sequoia National Park, delight in feeling small among giant Sequoias and Redwoods on your way to the Mount Silliman summit. At the top, you’ll be able to see down the mountain to Twin Lakes.

Southern California

Explore the desert expanse of Joshua Tree and Death Valley National Parks or charge the trails on the sunny California coast. Down south, the water is warmer and beach camping is that much better...not sold yet? Check out these adventures.

43. Backpack to Panamint Dunes

Photo: Sarah Eichstedt

7.23-mile out-and-back with around 935 feet of elevation gain

A secluded gem, this is one of the least visited large sand dunes in Death Valley, making for an exciting opportunity to swerve crowds and connect with the natural landscape in peace. Explore during the day and enjoy some spectacular stargazing at night. Permits are required for overnight stays.

44. Backpack the Boy Scout’s Trail in Joshua Tree

Photo: Ian Buchanan

16.12-mile out-and-back with approximately 1539 feet of elevation gain

On this diverse trail, experience expansive Joshua Tree forests to Mars-like terrain. Backcountry camping is permitted in designated wilderness zones. In addition to hiking and camping, try out rock climbing or bouldering if you’re up for the challenge!

45. Backcountry Camp in Joshua Tree

Photo: Lauren Shusterman

2-mile out-and-back with varied elevation gain depending on desired trail or campsite

This backpacking excursion is a great way to experience the beauty of the desert. Note that it can be easy to lose your way while in the desert, so be sure to prepare ahead of time and use landmarks to help with navigating.

46. Beach Camp on Santa Rosa Island

Photo: Michael Wigle

16-mile out-and-back with about 50 feet of elevation gain

Located in Ventura, California, visit California’s least visited national park for a unique camping experience on a secluded part of Pacific Ocean beach. Expect to see wildlife from Torrey Pines to a rare native fox species. On your way back, don’t forget to check out the sea caves along Santa Cruz’s volcanic north coast.

47. Backpack Mt. Williamson from Shepherd Pass

Photo: Jack Brumbaugh

26.66-mile out-and-back with roughly 10653 feet of elevation gain

Located in Seven Pines, California, climb to the second highest peak in the state! There’s plenty of wildlife, water access, and incredible scenery if you’re prepared to challenge yourself for these rewards! With climbing and rock scrambling involved, know your preparedness and experience level before embarking on this trip.

48. Backpack Eaton Canyon to Idlehour

Photo: Alan Leung

10.99-mile out-and-back with about 3291 feet of elevation gain

In the heart of Pasadena, California, check out a secluded campground where you can listen to the sounds of babbling brooks and wildlife in the background. On your way, take moments to look through breaks in the vegetation to get glimpses of downtown LA and Catalina Island.

49. Backpack the Trans-Catalina Trail

Photo: Drew Robinson

36.67-mile point-to-point with approximately 8189 feet of elevation gain

This adventure is perfect for viewing the entire Santa Catalina Island. You may get to see wildlife like bison and the island fox with a guarantee of beautiful ocean views along the way.

50. Backpack Zaca Ridge

6-10-mile out-and-back with roughly 2200 feet of elevation gain

Located in Los Olivos, California, soak in the great beauty of the San Rafael Wilderness. This is one of the best stargazing spots in Southern California, making it an ideal adventure for night photographers. Visit in early Spring for breathtaking sunsets that span across the Santa Ynez Valley to the ocean.

Add these backpacking trips to your bucket list and let us know how you do. The truth is, this list only scratches the surface of the wealth of amazing backpacking you can find in California. But just because you’ve been told you can’t explore all of California’s wilderness in a lifetime, doesn’t mean you shouldn’t try.

Cover photo:  Josiah Roe

We want to acknowledge and thank the past, present, and future generations of all Native Nations and Indigenous Peoples whose ancestral lands we travel, explore, and play on. Always practice Leave No Trace ethics on your adventures and follow local regulations. Please explore responsibly!

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These 20 Iconic Hiking Trails Must Be On Every Outdoor Enthusiast's Bucket List

Sarah McCosham

I write like it's my job - because it is! I have a Master's in English and love words: crossword puzzles, Scrabble games, Wordle, and, of course, good, old-fashioned books. I'm a writer and editor at OnlyInYourState, and a contributing writer at Cincinnati Magazine. I love the Great Outdoors and am endlessly awestruck by this beautiful country of ours. Coffee keeps me going, yoga keeps me sane, my kids keep me grounded, and my writing keeps me inspired.

More by this Author

There’s no better way to revel in the resplendence of America the Beautiful than to immerse yourself in it, out on the trails. From coast to coast, there are hikes all across the U.S. that offer unrivaled beauty and adventure.

We’re talking about next-level hikes that traverse some of the most splendid scenery in the country: waterfall adventures, journeys through old-growth forests, expeditions up majestic mountains, and odysseys through literal grand canyons . These are the iconic places in the U.S. that belong on every outdoor enthusiast’s bucket list, and here are the best hiking trails that will put you right in the middle of it all.

Mountain Hiking Trails

Canyon hiking trails, forest hiking trails, waterfront hiking trails, not your average bucket list – podcast episode.

Our travel experts and Not Your Average Bucket List podcast hosts, Sara and Marisa, dig deeper into their favorite hikes from this list, plus some essential hiking safety tips we all should know before we go. If you’re up for an audio adventure before reading below, this is your chance to get some pro tips about these iconic hiking trails in the U.S.A. Click below!

“The mountains are calling, and I must go.” If you’ve ever felt the pull of the marvelous, majestic mountains, you know there’s only one way to satisfy this particular type of wanderlust: on the trails. Whether you’re looking to scale some seriously high peaks or looking for a short-and-sweet trek that puts you there , these mountain hiking trails across the US are all worthy of your bucket list:

• Location : Mount Rainier National Park, Washington
• Length & Difficulty : 9.4 miles, challenging
• Where To Stay Nearby : Accommodations abound in the area, including this cozy A-Frame !

• Location : Smith Rock State Park, Oregon
• Length & Difficulty : 3.3 miles, moderately challenging
• Where To Stay Nearby : Check out this pet-friendly cabin with sweeping mountain views !

• Location : Yosemite National Park, California
• Length & Difficulty : 14- to 16 miles, extremely challenging
• Where To Stay Nearby : Accommodations abound in the area, including this luxury VRBO with spectacular views of Half Dome and El Capitan!

• Location : Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Tennessee
• Length & Difficulty : 8 miles, moderately challenging
• Where To Stay Nearby : Accommodations abound in the area, but nothing quite compares to the views from LeConte Lodge . The highest guest lodge in the eastern United States, the views from this cozy lodge are so stunning, it often books up months in advance -- so RSVP now!

• Location : Porcupine Mountains Wilderness State Park, Michigan
• Length & Difficulty : 8.4 miles, challenging
• Where To Stay Nearby : For some of the best views of this breathtakingly beautiful region, check into this Luxury Scandinavian-Style Lake House . Swoon!

• Location : Harpers Ferry, West Virginia
• Length & Difficulty : 6.6 miles, moderately challenging
• Where To Stay Nearby : For some of the best views of Harpers Ferry, this charming guest house is a total treasure.

• Location : Acadia National Park, Maine
• Length & Difficulty : 4.2 miles, moderately challenging
• Where To Stay Nearby : Accommodations abound in the area, but we're partial to West Street Hotel , a boutique experience in one of the country's most ruggedly resplendent national parks. Open seasonally starting in May, West Street Hotel is home to Maine's only rooftop infinity edge pool, from which guests can gaze out at a panorama of postcard perfection: Acadia, Frenchman’s Bay, and the outer islands.

There’s nothing quite like standing at the precipice of a canyon, gazing out at the immense expanse stretching endlessly into the horizon. It’s a momentous moment that anchors you in the here and now, and something you really must experience in person — and you will, along these incredibly beautiful canyon hiking trails in the US.

• Location : Canyon National Park, Utah
• Length & Difficulty : 10.7 miles, moderately challenging
• Where To Stay Nearby : You'll find lots of lovely accommodations in the area, including this cozy cabin just outside of the national park.

• Location : Page, Arizona
• Length & Difficulty : 1.5 miles, easy
• Where To Stay Nearby : Make this expansive vacation home the "home base" for your Arizona adventures!

• Location : Grand Canyon National Park, Arizona
• Length & Difficulty : 13 miles, challenging
• Where To Stay Nearby : Nothing, nothing beats the views afforded at the acclaimed El Tovar Hotel . Located literally on the rim of the Grand Canyon, Arizona's El Tovar Hotel first opened its doors in 1905; over a century later, El Tovar is as enchanting as ever, offering guests unparalleled views of the Grand Canyon -- without stepping foot outdoors.

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• Location : Big Bend National Park, Texas
• Length & Difficulty : 1.7 miles, easy
• Where To Stay Nearby : A glorious expanse in the heart of Texas, Big Bend National Park stretches across 800,000 acres along the U.S.-Mexico border. It is among the most remote, and least visited, national parks in the Lower 48; a place perfect for getting away from it all. At the threshold of Big Bend National Park, Lajitas Golf Resort offers rustic luxury amid the wilds of West Texas that's pure rustic luxury.

There is a peace beneath the forest canopy that can only be experienced. Immersing — or “bathing” — in the forest is guaranteed to fill your bucket, and whether you’re in the lush landscape of one of the country’s temperate rain forests or venturing into the rugged wilderness of the Badlands or one of the country’s remote national parks, the following forest hiking trails offer so much more than mere mileage.

• Location : Olympic National Park, Washington
• Length & Difficulty : 1.1 miles, easy
• Where To Stay Nearby : Accommodations abound in the area, though nothing compares to the lovely Lake Quinault Lodge , a perfect getaway for nature lovers!

• Location : Glacier National Park, Montana
• Length & Difficulty : 11.2 miles, challenging
• Where To Stay Nearby : The largest hotel in Glacier National Park, Many Glacier Hotel is located in the northeastern corner of the park, colloquially referred to as the "Switzerland of North America." This secluded and stately five-story hotel has 200 guest rooms and, while rustic, provides some of the most epic, jaw-dropping views in the country.

• Location : Superior National Forest, Minnesota
• Length & Difficulty : 2.3 miles, easy-to-moderate
• Where To Stay Nearby : Stay in a real-life cabin in the woods at this luxury lakefront home in Minnesota!

• Location : Shenandoah National Park, Virginia
• Length & Difficulty : The entire Appalachian Trail stretches nearly 2,200 miles across 14 states, including over 100 miles in Virginia, however, most hikers tackle smaller segments of the trail with varying distances and challenge ratings.
• Where To Stay Nearby : Accommodations abound in the area, including this darling cabin in the woods !

For those whose wanderlust leads them to the water, there are some truly extraordinary trails that offer jaw-dropping views and a wholly wondrous waterfront experience. Lace up your boots and be prepared to get a little wet on these waterfront hiking trails for your bucket list:

• Location : Point Lobos State Natural Reserve, California
• Length & Difficulty : 7.5 miles, moderately challenging
• Where To Stay Nearby : If you dream of staying on the water, you'll be delighted by the sheer number of waterfront accommodations in the area, including this oceanview suite in a restored barn !

• Location : Cumberland Falls State Resort Park, Kentucky
• Length & Difficulty : 1.8 miles, moderately challenging
• Where To Stay Nearby : Accommodations abound in the area, though we're partial to the cabins available through Red River Gorgeous -- they even have treehouses!

• Location : Chesapeake and Ohio Canal National Historical Park, Maryland
• Length & Difficulty : 4.7 miles, moderately challenging
• Where To Stay Nearby : There are lots of wonderful attractions in this scenic and historic area, including this renovated C&O Canal House !

• Location : Tongass National Forest, Alaska
• Length & Difficulty : 2 miles, easy
• Where To Stay Nearby : Live like a local in this cozy cabin that's pure rustic luxury!

• Location : Ha'ena State Park, Hawaii
• Length & Difficulty : 22 miles, extremely challenging
• Where To Stay Nearby : Hawaii is not lacking in amazing accommodations, including this stunning luxury home on Kauai's North Shore .

Lace up your boots and get ready for a soul-filling, scenic adventure when you tackle these iconic hiking trails in the U.S. Awe and wonder await.

To learn even more about some of the amazing hiking trails on this list, you can also watch our Not Your Average Bucket List podcast episode on YouTube !

OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.

More to Explore

Best hiking in the u.s..

Where can you find the best hiking in the United States?

"Best hiking" in the United States is totally subjective, but most outdoor enthusiasts will agree that the following areas are among the top, most bucket-list-worthy placers to hike in the US:

• The Colorado Rockies. The Rocky Mountains span 3,000 miles from British Columbia and Alberta in Canada through Idaho, Montana, Wyoming, Colorado, all the way down to New Mexico. This massive mountain range is known for its dramatic scenery and abundant wildlife, and nowhere is this more true than Maroon Bells . Part of the Elk Mountains, a sub-range of the Rockies, Maroon Bells is the ultimate nature postcard: a startlingly blue lake, abundant meadows, and two 14,000-foot peaks.
• The Smokies. Most people know the park as a partial home to the famed Appalachian Trail, but hiking routes abound throughout the park, offering views of sprawling meadows, ancient forests, and blooming wildflowers throughout the year. The highest point in the park is Clingmans Dome, and Cades Cove offers myriad of historic buildings and educational opportunities, too.
• The Adirondacks.  Surrounded by unbelievable landscapes and full of attractions that you won’t find in other areas of the Empire State, the Adirondack Mountains are a place of beguiling beauty. The region is flush with pristine lakes, glorious waterfalls, and scenic splendor, making for some truly exceptional hiking in the US.
• Hawaii . There's really no place more beautiful than The Aloha State, a place where mountains met ocean and lush forests, wondrous waterfalls, smoldering volcanoes, and stunning sand beaches cover the landscape. Some notable places to hike in Hawaii include Akaka Falls State Park, Haleakalā National Park, Waimea Canyon, and the Na Pali Coast.

What is the longest hiking trail in America?

The longest hiking trail in the U.S., the   American Discovery Trail is a 6,800-mile route that travels from coast to coast across 15 states and boasts the longest distance of any U.S. trail. Along this epic trek, you'll encounter numerous points of interest including national parks and rivers, historic monuments, and American icons, including:

• Cape Henlopen State Park
• Chesapeake Bay
• Blackwater Falls
• Great Serpent Mound
• Bob Kerry Pedestrian Bridge
• Fort Larned National Historic Site
• The Garden of The Gods - both Illinois *and* Colorado!
• Pikes Peak Cog Railway
• Great Basin National Park, and, of course
• The Golden Gate Bridge

For those who don't feel like taking on a nearly 7,000 mile hike (guilty!), you can pretty much cater the trail to suit your needs, with numerous lodging and scenic options wherever you choose to trek.

What are the best mountain hikes in the United States?

While the United States might not lay claim to Kilimanjaro or Everest, our country is nevertheless home to some of the best and most magnificent mountains in the world, including, of course, some truly amazing mountain hikes :

• North Cascade Mountain Range . Referred to the "Alps of America," hiking abounds in this #pnwonderland.
• The Sawtooths. One of the country's most photographed ranges , the Sawtooth Mountains of Idaho are a true treasure. The wilderness area is home to 40 trails that total over 350 miles. Used for day hiking, backpacking, and horseback riding, there's abundant adventures to be had in the Sawtooths.
• The Tetons. While Yellowstone tends to steal the spotlight in Wyoming, the Grand Tetons are nothing short of extraordinary -- and absolutely bucket-list worthy . The park's headliner, of course, is the Teton range; and to view these mountains there are myriad trails and accessible summits that don't require advanced hiking skills. However, in the interest of safety, it's best to tackle the Tetons with a guide ; Exum Guides lead hikes and climbs in the park and can help you determine the best summit for your skill level and time constraints. And for advanced climbers, the adventure outfitter even offers a a climb of the legendary Grand Teton itself.
• Guadalupe Mountains. There's something for every skill level, from short-and-sweet nature walks to the strenuous, 8.5-mile trek to the eponymous Guadalupe Peak, commonly referred to as the "Top of Texas." Reaching the incredible Guadalupe Peak is quite an arduous journey, as the trail climbs 3,000 feet through a lush conifer forest.

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12 Hiking Destinations You'll Want to Add to Your Bucket List

By Audrey Bruno

The best travel advice always comes from people with firsthand experience—and that's especially true when it comes to hiking trips . When you're going to be deep in the woods or summiting a mountaintop, most likely without cell service, you want to make sure you have tips from people who've walked the walk and can tell you exactly what to expect when you're out there.

With summer rolling around, we've got active, nature-filled vacations on the brain. Now's the perfect time to go do some outdoor exploring, after all. So we decided to go straight to the source and asked 12 expert hikers, adventurers, and explorers to tell us about their favorite awesome, potentially underrated hiking destinations that are worth checking out—and how to make the most of your visit.

From waterfalls in South Carolina to international trails in Myanmar and Nepal, here are some of the picturesque hiking destinations seasoned trailblazers swear by. Add these trips to your travel bucket list and prepare for some Instagram-worthy adventures.

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"Summit Lake is relatively close to Seattle and makes for a great half-day or overnight backpacking trip. From the top of the ridge above the lake, there are stunning views of Mount Rainier and the Carbon River Valley 3,000 feet below. Because [it's] located outside the national park, it's a great place to enjoy Mount Rainier without having to deal with fees, reservations, or permits required for many of the hiking and camping facilities at the park. I always recommend checking the Washington Trails Association website for trail reports before heading out on any trail in Washington State. The trail reports often include recent photos and current trail and road conditions."

—Jess Dales, explorer, @jesswandering ; photo by Christian Schaffer, @christianschaffer

"I love hiking all over Arizona and the Southwest, but one of my favorite hikes has been at Devil's Bridge. The scenery in Sedona is unrivaled, and the red rocks and good energy sets this hike apart from the rest.

"For an adaptive hiker like me, it isn't heavily trafficked by other wheelchair users, and that might be because, frankly, it's not wheelchair accessible at all. [It's] an amazing adventure because I'm willing to get a bit creative. I rely on a friend to piggyback me up the tough parts and strangers on the trail to carry my wheelchair and gear. I hiked Devil's Bridge on the weekend, because I knew there would be more traffic and I anticipated that I'd need more help on this trail. It's all about anticipating your needs and planning for them."

—Brenna Bean, certified therapeutic recreation specialist and adaptive hiker, @brennambean

"There's so much to love about Turner Falls, but the beautiful turquoise water, the stunning waterfalls, the natural pools, and hiking areas are my personal favorites. The difficulty varies based on the trail you decide to take, but you don't need any hiking experience to enjoy them. Many visitors also rock-climb and kayak in the area, and the park also offers ziplining for those who don't want to hike.

"My biggest tip to anyone interested in visiting Turner Falls is to avoid holiday weekends—the crowds can take away from the experience."

—Farran Manuel, photographer and adventurer, @farranweezy

By Katie Camero

By Jenna Ryu

By Erica Sloan

"In my opinion, this trail has some of the best views of Yosemite—I absolutely prefer them to the ones from Yosemite Valley. Unlike other destinations, it has solitude, which in Yosemite is extremely difficult to come by. The trail is very (very) easy, which makes it hard for me to understand why it's so quiet—not that I'm complaining. It's about a half mile long and completely flat. Anyone can do it.

"If you are looking to venture here, there are two trails to Parson's Lodge. Most people take the trail from Lambert Dome parking area, but this one begins at the visitor center area. It's unmarked, so keep your eyes out for it or you very well may miss it."

—Christina Adele, photographer and park ranger, @christinaadelephoto

"Here you'll find stunning views of rivers, canyons, green plateaus, snow-capped mountains, and many of the intricate rocks that make Dinosaur National Monument so unique. You'll also be able to find dinosaur bones—great for kids. And it's highly unknown—it has none of the crowds of Yellowstone or the Grand Canyon.

"The trail is very easy and accessible. It's a two- to three-hour drive from the nearest interstate, so it's not a roadside attraction you might stumble upon, but that's what makes it so special."

—Mikah Meyer, road trip and national parks expert, @mikahmey

"I recently trekked to the very remote Sherpa Village in Eastern Nepal, where few tourists have been. There were spectacular views of Mount Everest from a remote hilltop, without any crowds! The trail is very hilly and at times on loose rocky terrain so you do need to have a reasonable level of fitness. You don't need lots of trekking experience but you do need to have the right equipment as it is very remote. At minimum, I would recommend a good sturdy pair of boots, a lightweight tent, and good thermals and waterproofs as the weather can change quickly. For anyone looking to explore here, fly to Phaplu, trek to Biteahkarka and Jambre and beyond. I'm also running a trekking expedition this November with more details here ."

—Holly Budge, Everest summiteer and hiking expert, @hollybudge

"I love this trail because it offers something for everyone. If you want to do a long backpacking trip or an ultra-run, you can do the entire trail within one to three days. If you want to hike a piece of it for a day trip, you can do that too. It circumnavigates Mount Hood, an active volcano in Oregon, and I guarantee that the views of the mountain will be some of the most beautiful you've ever witnessed.

"When I plan my trip, I make sure to bring enough food, hiking poles, a headlamp, a paper map, and a light jacket because the weather on this mountain can change in a heartbeat. If you're planning to check this trail out, I would recommend chatting with the Mount Hood Ranger Station—they can give you updates on the trail and let you know about any river crossings that might pose a problem."

—Alex Borsuk, M.S., R.D., mountain athlete, @alexborsuk

"This trail was once prohibited, so not many tourists had been there for a very long time. When I was there, it felt so different from anything I've ever wandered through. It's full of golden dry fields, desert landscapes, large Bnyan trees, red earth—the experience was a rare one.

"It's not a strenuous, high-altitude trek—in fact, it's a walk in the park compared to other treks. Though I wouldn't recommend doing this, I didn't have proper walking shoes so I just used my flip-flops. You'll be wandering only several hours each day for three to four days. I booked my trek with a friend at a tour agency in Kalaw."

—Stephanie Dandan Sartori, writer and photographer, @stephanie.dandan

"Not only does the hike bring you to an amazing waterfall, but it also leads you to the wild and scenic Chattooga River. You really lose yourself in the wild back there. Other people aren't usually around, and if they are, they're probably boating. It's moderate to strenuous at time, and I think most people should have some hiking experience under their belt before trying to take on this trail. To someone wanting to hike it, I'd suggest planning to spend a full day hanging around Chattooga—maybe even book a yurt and a rafting trip to see it from both angles."

—Ashley Manning, outdoor guide and hiker, @ashleysadventures

"[This destination] has hidden lagoons you can swim in, waterfalls, and a bunch of arches that are just as big as the famous ones, but with way fewer people. The trail is pretty flat and sandy, except for the parts along the river. The hardest part is getting to the gulch itself. You can either tie a rope at the top and rappel down (which you can find out how to do here ) or walk in a sandy wash to get to the start, which usually requires at least two days of hiking and an overnight in the canyon. A beginner to hiking, camping, or even rappelling could certainly do this [if they were properly prepared]. I did it by myself!"

—Kristin Addis, CEO of Be My Travel Muse, @bemytravelmuse

"[This trail] is peaceful, not too long, and the autumn view is breathtaking. And it's not crowded. It's easy to access and not many people are on it because they are hiking the popular destinations in the park. You will pass hikers coming off of the Beehive trail but little do they know, there is beauty at the Bowl! I recommend going toward the end of summer and beginning of fall (the earlier the better). Keep a look out for current photos and foliage reports to make sure you're getting the best views."

—Gina Danza, photographer, @wildginaa

"This hike is relatively unknown except to people in the area. It has fantastic sheer drop-offs overlooking the valley and some of the brightest stars I've ever seen. The trail is fairly easy to moderate with switchbacks gaining about 1,200 feet of elevation. It's mostly shaded by large pine forests and the trail is well worn so anyone with a basic level of fitness can enjoy it. The trailhead starts after a long 9-mile dirt road. Also, expect some snow even in the summer months."

—Chelsea Yamase, explorer, @chelseakauai

Quotes have been edited and condensed for clarity.

SELF does not provide medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Any information published on this website or by this brand is not intended as a substitute for medical advice, and you should not take any action before consulting with a healthcare professional.

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Lita of the Pack

US National Parks, Van Life & Travel Tips!

in Hiking , USA · May 21, 2024

15 Bucket List Hikes in the USA

W ander through arid deserts, over rugged mountains, and through old growth forests to see just some of the wonderful landscapes in this country! Explore challenges like Angels Landing or easy strolls in National Parks. Get your complete guide to the 15 bucket list hikes in the USA.

I’ve been to all 50 states and throughout my travels I’ve been on over 200 hikes throughout the US. 🚗 We’ve done some of the most iconic and also plenty of hidden gems. Along the way, we’ve wandered through forest, trudged through deep sand, and climbed mountains.

Now, I’ve created the ultimate USA hiking bucket list that you must do! These trails are in a variety of different ecosystems, but the one thing they all have in common is that they are mesmerizing. 🤩 There are challenging, moderate, and easy hikes to choose from. So, get ready for an incredible adventure!

Please remember to Leave No Trace , follow all regulations, and be a respectful visitor on these trails!

You Might Also Like These Posts:

• The 5 Best Grand Teton Hikes
• Best Road Trips in the USA

Disclaimer: There are affiliate links in this blog post. I may make a small commission at no extra charge to you. Thanks for your support!

Table of Contents

Bucket List Hikes in the USA

Read this post to find out a great list of trails to add to your explorations of the US! This post includes details like trail length, difficulty, and great tips for your visit. Make sure to bookmark this post for later.

Challenging Bucket List USA Hikes

Are you up for a tough trek? 💪🏻 These trails are on some of the most challenging hikes in the USA. They are on this list because they are tough. Either they gain a lot of elevation, they have various obstacles, or they are a long distance . But, the one thing they have in common is that they are all worth the difficulty in completing them!

1) Half Dome- Yosemite, CA

Half Dome is one of the most iconic hikes in the US . In order to reach the top of this famous granite rock, you’ll need to climb up 5000 feet, use chains, and walk at a 45 degree angle to the top! 😮 Along the way you’ll pass gushing waterfalls and some of the prettiest views over Yosemite valley.

Walking up the chains is not for the faint of heart or for people who have a fear of heights. ⚠️ My husband and friend did not make it to the top. But, I have never felt as proud of myself as I did getting to the top of Half Dome! I sat at the top and just took in the views for a while.

In order to hike Half Dome , you will need to win permits to do the chains section. Apply here !

Half Dome Hike Info:

Distance:  16.5-18 miles Elevation:  5300 Feet Type:  Out and Back or Loop Length:  12-15 hours

2) Enchantments- Leavenworth, WA

Hiking the Enchantments may be one of the hardest things I’ve ever done, but it was so worth it! This trail traverses up 5000 feet into the mountains in Washington. But, once you get to this point you’ll get to explore the Core Enchantments Zone , which is known for having a plethora of stunning alpine lakes. 💙

Some of the most challenging parts include hiking 2000 feet up in just three quarters of a mile on Asgaard Pass 🥵 or descending down 7000 feet! It’s quite a feat to explore this insanely beautiful area in Washington.

This hike is a point to point trail, so you’ll need to use two cars or get a shuttle ticket!

Enchantments Hike Info:

Distance:  18-20 miles Elevation:  4900 Feet and 7000 feet decline Type:  Point to Point Length:  13-17 hours

3) Angels Landing- Zion, UT

Although it’s nice to find a hidden gem, many of the best hikes are talked about for a reason . Angels Landing is no exception. 😇 You’ll start this hike down in Zion’s canyon, continuing over relentless switchbacks known as Walter Wiggles, and then use chains over narrow cliffs to reach the top. But, at the end you’ll have spectacular views over Zion!

I have done this trail three times now and I would do it again. Although it can be scary at points, if you take your time and focus on your footing, you will be fine . It’s one of those hikes that you will be so glad you completed!

Permits are required to hike the chain section, but if you don’t get them you can still make it to Scout Overlook!

Angels Landing Hike Info

Distance:  4.5 miles Elevation:  1800 Feet Type:  Out and Back Length:  2.5-4 hours

4) Old Rag- Shenandoah, VA

I completed Old Rag for the first time in the seventh grade and ever since then it has had a special place in my heart. 💕 But, I have gone back multiple times in recent years and I would love to do this trail every year . This hike in Virginia will surely win your heart.

You’ll climb up into the Shenandoah mountains, climbing over boulders, and over rock scrambles until you get to gorgeous panoramic views over Shenandoah Valley. It’s one of those tough treks that is also so fun! It’s going to win you over for sure.

You need day use permits to hike Old Rag , you can apply for them here .

Old Rag Hike Info

Distance:  9.5-12 miles Elevation:  2600 Feet Type:  Loop Length:  6-10 hours

5) Harding Icefield- Kenai Fjords, AK

Climb up until you’re standing over the largest icefield in the US! This trail in Kenai Fjords National Park is one that you cannot miss on your trip to Alaska. As you traverse this mountain you’ll pass by Exit Glacier and continue on until you are just steps away from this vast area of glaciers and ice.

Luckily, if you don’t want to complete the entire trail , you can stop early . There are a bunch of fantastic views throughout that make for good turnaround spots including Top of the Cliffs and Marmot Meadows. 📸 You’ll still be wowed by this unbelievable landscape.

Harding Icefield Hike Info

Distance:  8.5 miles Elevation:  3200 Feet Type:  Out and Back Length:  4-7 hours

📍Are you looking for other amazing places in the US?

Get my Google map of the US that has over 1000 locations including hiking trails, free campsites, and unique destinations!

I have been to all 50 states and I’m constantly adding new locations to the map!

Moderate Bucket List USA Hikes

If you’re someone that isn’t looking for something horribly difficult, but you also want to do something more than an easy stroll, I’ve got you covered. All of these trails are 6 miles or less and climb up less than 1000 feet. So, these are great options for family vacations or just a weekend adventure!

1) Avalanche Lake- Glacier, MT

Many of the hikes in Glacier are stunning, but incredibly difficult. Luckily, Avalanche Lake is much more accessible and it’s still one of the prettiest lakes I’ve ever seen . This trail follows the forest until it opens up to this clear lake with fantastic reflections of the mountains above! 🏔

This is one of the areas of the park that opens first in the late spring, which means it’s more accessible. Plus, If you’re lucky, you might even see a bear on your journey from a far enough distance. 🐻

Timed Entry permits are required for the Going to the Sun Road in the summer!

Avalanche Lake Hike Info

Distance:  6 miles Elevation:  760 Feet Type:  Out and Back Length:  2-4 hours

2) Beehive Loop- Acadia, ME

Beehive Loop is one of the most incredible and memorable trails in the country. Although it’s fairly short, you will have to use rungs to climb up the mountains in Acadia. Once you get to the top, you’ll feel like you can see over all of Mount Desert Island.

If you are afraid of heights, you might want to avoid this trail!

This hike is on my list, both because of the uniqueness and the incredible vistas . We completed this trail after work during our first week of living in a van. It felt like we had finally made it! 🤗

Beehive Loop Hike Info

Distance:  1.5 miles Elevation:  500 Feet Type:  Loop Length:  2-3 hours

3) Hurricane Hill- Olympic, WA

Hurricane Hill is a fabulous hike in the Hurricane Ridge area of Olympic National Park. You’ll walk up a paved pathway until you get to incredible 360 degree views over the mountains, the Strait of Juan de Fuca, and over to Canada! 🇨🇦

I love this trail because while it’s very family friendly, it also still feels like a challenge to reach the top! But, there’s nothing better than having an incredible payoff at the summit. It’s worth adding to your Olympic itinerary for sure.

If you want another challenge you can also try the Mount Storm King hike !

Hurricane Hill Hike Info

Distance:  3.5 miles Elevation:  825 Feet Type:  Out and Back Length:  2-4 hours

4) Emerald Lake- Rocky Mountain, CO

Is there anything better than seeing a gorgeous alpine lake in the mountains? How about getting to see four gorgeous hikes in just under 3 miles ! If that sounds ideal to you, than you need to add the Emerald Lake trail to your next vacation to Rocky Mountain National Park .

You will need a timed entry permit to Rocky Mountain National Park if you plan on visiting in the summer!

Although this hike is one of the most popular in Rocky Mountain , it’s still worth it! I highly recommend getting to this trail early so that you have it to yourself or visiting in the shoulder season. We did it in April and loved walking over the frozen lakes. 🧊

Emerald Lake Hike Info

Distance:  3.2 miles Elevation:  725 Feet Type:  Out and Back Length:  1.5-3 hours

5) Navajo Loop & Queens Garden – Bryce, UT

If you only have time for one hike in Bryce , then make it this one! You’ll travel down into the hoodoos until they’re rising up on either side of you. But, one of the very best views is down into the switchbacks. There’s something captivating about the contrast between the orange rocks and the blue sky!

Watch the sunrise at Sunset Point and then venture down onto this trail!

I love how this trail is even accessible in the winter time ! We did it in February and the snow on the hoodoos just added to the magic. ❄️ You’ll fall in love with this wonderful area of Utah.

Navajo Loop & Queens Garden Hike Info

Distance:  3 miles Elevation:  650 Feet Type:  Loop Length: 1.5-3 hours

Easy Hikes in the US

Despite loving a challenge, I am also a huge fan of a trail that’s an easy stroll for a fantastic reward . The list below includes bucket list hikes in the USA that truly blew me away 🤯. All of these are less than 4 miles and gain less than 500 feet of elevation in total. They’re fantastic to add to any itinerary and are often family-friendly hikes.

1) Fire Wave- Valley of Fire, NV

Located just 90 minutes from Las Vegas is the incredible Valley of Fire State Park . When you drive through this park, you’ll feel like you were transported to Mars. 🪐 But, one thing you can’t miss is a short hike to the Fire Wave!

You can add the Fire Wave onto the Seven Wonders Trail or just do it on its own!

This trail takes you to an incredible rock formation that literally looks like a wave made out of red sandstone. Get to the top of it and you can take in a bunch of other wild areas throughout the park. It’s one of my favorite state parks in the country.

Fire Wave Hike Info

Distance:  1.3 miles Elevation:  150 Feet Type:  Out and Back Length:  30 minutes – 1 hour

2) Congress Trail- Sequoia, CA

Walk among some of the tallest trees in the US and feel small. 🌳 Congress Trail begins at the tallest tree in the world, General Sherman, before continuing through a gorgeous forest of Sequoias.

Along this hike you’ll find various groves of Sequoias including the House, the Senate and the lone President . It’s so fun to compare these trees to people, but it’s even more enjoyable to just look up and gape at the towering giants. We’ve done this trail twice now and I love it!

Generals Highway closes during the winter sometimes, so check the park website for updates! ⚠️

Congress Trail Hike Info

Distance:  3 miles Elevation:  480 Feet Type:  Loop Length:  1.5-2.5 hours

3) Taggart Lake- Grand Tetons, WY

Taggart Lake is a stunning trail in the Tetons year round! This hike is a fantastic snow-shoeing adventure or a wonderful place to go for a dip during the summer. I’ve done this hike in both the summer and winter and I don’t even know which I enjoyed more, it’s simply wonderful!

Although this is a longer hike than many of the others, it is fairly flat the entire way to the lake and back. So, it’s a great place to go for a longer stroll. You may even get lucky and see a moose nearby as you hike! This is one of the best family-friendly trails in the US.

You can add Bradley Lake to make this a longer hike!

Taggart Lake Hike Info

Distance:  3.8 miles Elevation:  425 Feet Type:  Loop Length:  2-4 hours

4) Gorge Trail- Watkins Glen, NY

Walking through the Gorge Trail in Watkins Glen , New York truly feels like you’re starring in a fairytale . ✨ Water cascades over the cliff walls and creates a magnificent picture. It may be arguably one of the most beautiful places in the US to visit in the Fall!

Take the trail as it winds it’s way through the gorge and you are surrounded on both sides by the tall cliffs. It’s one of those places that you have to see in person to truly believe!

The Gorge Trail closes in the winter, so you will not be able to access it then.

Gorge Trail Hike Info

Distance:  2.2 miles Elevation:  480 Feet Type:  Out and Back Length:  1.5-3 hours

5) Backcountry Trail- White Sands, NM

Walking over the gypsum sand fields in White Sands National Park will have you feeling like you’re on a different planet. The Backcountry Trail is a fantastic way to see these gorgeous dunes without trekking deep into the dunes. ⏳

White Sands gets incredibly hot, so wear sun protection and bring plenty of water!

The Backcountry Trail is a great short hike to do with friends, practice your photography, or just take in the wild landscape that surrounds you. Another plus is that White Sands is dog friendly and they will love running around these dunes!

Backcountry Trail Hike Info

Distance:  1.7 miles Elevation:  6 Feet Type:  Out and Back Length:  1-2 hours

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoyed this incredible list of some of the most scenic hikes in the USA! It’s truly a joy to travel and experience this gorgeous country. Let this post inspire you to get out and see more of the wonderful landscapes throughout it! 🇺🇸

Let me know in the comments if you enjoyed this guide!

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11 Spectacular Bucket List Hikes in the USA to Conquer in 2023!

March 18, 2024

Paula Martinelli

If you are searching for the top bucket list hikes in the USA, you are in the right place! The United States is a dream destination for hikers, and it offers some of the most-epic hiking destinations in the world, from hiking from rim to rim on the largest Canyon in the world – the Grand Canyon, to hiking one of the most challenging and long hikes such as the Pacific Crest Trail. Get ready to see the top hand-picked hiking in the USA to add to your bucket list in 2023!

Here you can find some of the best hikes in the world . Among them are some of the most scenic and fun, but also, some of the hardest hikes . With so many options and variety to choose from, no one can deny that here you can find some of the most breathtaking and best hiking trails in the world.

With so many incredible National Parks to choose from, fascinating wildlife, breathtaking views, and well-maintained hiking trails, the US is certainly the most desirable hiking destination in the world! There are even some short hiking trails in the USA if you’re looking for a less taxing experience.

Here you can find the top 11 breathtaking bucket list hikes in the USA, and all the helpful tips and information on permits required to go hiking the best trails in the country. The adventure is about to start!

11. DELTA LAKE

10 Essentials Tips Before You go on Your Bucket List Hikes in the USA

Before we get started on this amazing list of the top 11 bucket list hikes in the USA, let’s remember to always travel safe:

• No Cell Phone Service: Cell phones do not work in most places in the backcountry and GPS is sometimes unreliable – Consider carrying a Satellite Phone with Maps and GPS Navigation
• Do not hike at night: If you are camping, plan to get to your campsite before dark.
• Make sure you have your hiking Permit: For many of the hiking in the US you will need a permit. Some of them you need to request in advance, some use a lottery system, and some you can get upon arrival. For each hiking listed here, you will also find information for permits.
• Difficult Hiking Trails: “Difficult Hiking Trails” are characterized by steep elevations, increasingly difficult terrain, and longer distances. Only experienced hikers should attempt these trails
• Be physically prepared:   Many of these hikes are easy and can be done by anyone. A couple of the hikes are epic and I recommend following a 9-Steps to train for a hike prior to attempting any long or challenging hike.
• Consider the high altitude: Many of the places listed here, are at a high altitude. Make sure you acclimate before you start your hiking, train for a high altitude hike , and pack an Altitude Sickness Relief.
• Bring plenty of water: Remember you will be outdoors in the sun you will need to drink a lot of water. My LifeStraw Filtered Water Bottle  has been my lifesaver for all my trips. I can refill this bottle anywhere and it comes with a carabiner to connect it to my daypack .
• Pack Your Food: Make sure you pack healthy high energy food for your hike , because as fun as it is, hiking is also a draining activity.
• Check the Weather:  Check the current  weather forecast  and be prepared for quickly changing conditions.
• Leave no Trace: Be a responsible traveler , it is all about enjoying nature and ensuring you help to preserve the environment.

Top 11 Bucket List Hikes in the USA

1. denali national park.

Let’s start this list of the bucket list hikes in the USA with one of the most extraordinary places to go hike in the country. Also, it is the largest National Park in the United States – Denali National Park . It is a very popular destination for any  Alaska itinerary ,  and it deserves to have at least 2-days reserved just to explore the hiking trails.

Located about halfway between Anchorage and Fairbanks , Denali National Park and Preserve can be reached via the Parks Highway (Alaska Route 3), air services into McKinley National Park Airport, or the Denali Star Train.

Denali National Park is known for its wild nature, wildlife encounters, and fascinating views of the tallest mountain in North America, Mount Denali. Expect to see caribou, moose, bears, and wolves still roam the park and smaller animals like foxes, coyotes, and resident birds. 

The park offers a large variety of hikes for all tastes and adventure levels. If you are short on time, you can hike the Denali National Park near the park entrance. One of the best hikes is the Horseshoe Lake Trail, a moderate loop hike around Horseshoe Lake, with great views and a chance of spotting wildlife. 

If you plan to spend more time in the park, you can hike the Denali backcountry, and you will need to take the bus to enter the park. Savage Alpine Trail is one of the most beautiful hikes, with 4-miles considered strenuous with an elevation gain of 1,500 ft. but offering vistas of the boreal forest and tundra.

Plan Your Hike: The entrance fee to the park is $10 per person, and it is valid for 7 days. If you are planning to camp you need to reserve a campsite and purchase a bus ticket. Private vehicles are just allowed along the first 15 miles of the paved road. Advanced reservations are recommended for riding a bus or camping, check more details here.

2. PACIFIC CREST TRAIL

If you are really serious about a hiking bucket list in the USA, this is for you! The  Pacific Crest Trail  (PCT) is an epic long-distance trail that stretches for over 2650 miles (4265 km) in the western United States. The path begins at the Mexican border and hugs the spine of the Sierra and Cascade mountain ranges until finally crossing into Canada at Manning Park.

One of the few hikes designated as a National Scenic Trail in the USA, the PCT spans three different states. Highlights of the trail include the stunning Sierra Nevada mountains in California, Crater Lake National Park in California, and the spectacular Goat Rocks Wilderness in Washington.

There are many ways to experience the beauty of the Pacific Crest Trail. Some hikers explore small sections of trail on a series of day hikes. Other hikers choose to tackle longer segments on wilderness backpacking trips. Still, others go for the entire trail all at once in a single season.

Those who attempt the entire trail in one summer are called thru-hikers. This is a challenging undertaking and usually takes 5-6 months to complete. There is a narrow window of time each year when the trail is not covered in snow, so thru-hikers must pay careful attention to the seasons and weather when attempting this feat.

Plan Your Hike: Some sections of the PCT require permits and others do not. Day hikers and section hikers should contact the local land management agency for more information. Thru-hikers should apply for a long-distance permit from the  Pacific Crest Trail Association . The PCT permits are free however, a full thru-hike costs around $5,000 in food, supplies, and stopovers.

3. THE APPALACHIAN TRAIL

This is another hike on the USA bucket list if you are looking for a long-distance hike! Located in the eastern United States, the Appalachian Trail is widely considered one of the world’s most epic and challenging hiking trails. It requires extreme physical and mental stamina and quite a bit of dogged determination.

Stretching more than 2,000 miles from Springer Mountain in North Georgia to Baxter State Park in Millinocket, Maine, the trail includes roughly 515,000 feet of elevation over the total length of the trail. So the 6 to 8-month journey required to tackle the entire length is like hiking up Mount Everest from sea level and back 16 times.

Still, around 3 million people hike at least some portion of the Appalachian Trail every year, though only 3,000 people or so attempt a thru-hike (and only 25% of them actually complete the entire trail).

It’s far more common for people to day-hike smaller sections of the trail, which offers a more accessible way to explore the majestic mountains, waterfalls, wildlife, and far-reaching scenic vistas this vast wilderness is known for.

The  Appalachian Trail in Georgia  and North Carolina are especially beautiful, with warmer weather and more spectacular scenery than some of the trail’s northern sections. From Blood Mountain and Springer Mountain in Georgia to Clingmans Dome and Max Patch. Also, while you are in the area make sure to check the best things to do in Bryson NC.

Day-hiking the southernmost stretch of the AT offers excellent opportunities to see the highest mountains in the eastern US without making a 6+ month commitment!

Plan Your Hike: The Appalachian Trail crosses through 14 states and extends 2,193 miles from Georgia to Maine. You don’t need permits, however, note that certain national and state parks along the route require permits or camping fees. You can check here for permits, fees, and regulations.

4. THREE RIDGES WILDERNESS

The 15.0-mile loop hike across Three Ridges Wilderness in Virginia wows with cascading streams, mountain vistas, overnight shelters, and steps along the white-blazed Appalachian Trail. Tackle this hike in one day or break it up into two days with a camp-out at the Harpers Creek Shelter.

The  Three Ridges hike  begins just off the Blue Ridge Parkway, at the Reeds Gap parking area. Pick up the southbound Appalachian Trail that meanders through the George Washington National Forest. From the start, you are climbing. The total elevation gain for this hike nears 4,000 feet.

On this hike, you are rewarded with west-facing views before the 1.0-mile mark, but the real treat comes at the 3.7-mile mark when you arrive at spectacular mountain views at Three Ridges. Get ready for more scenery when you reach Chimney Rock at the 6.2-mile mark.

Pause for a water break or overnight at the Harpers Creek Shelter to rest up for the next day’s climb on the Mau-Har Trail. In this section, there are some cascades, but it’s mostly a steep climb. You will reach the Maupin Field Shelter at the 13.0-mile mark. From here, it’s less than 2.0 miles to the parking area.

Plan Your Hike: Bring at least three to four liters of water, as well as a water filter and purifier to re-fill at Harpers Creek. If you opt for two days, there are lots of campsites with fire rings all around the Harpers Creek Shelter. You can download the map here with all the details you need to go on this hike

5. BRIGHT ANGEL TRAIL

Bright Angel Trail is the main trail leading from the south rim of the Grand Canyon all the way down to the Colorado River at the bottom.  There is no better way to appreciate the enormity and grandeur of the Grand Canyon than to see the sides towering high above you on both sides of the canyon floor. 

This is definitely a hiking bucket list in the USA for any adventure seeker or hiker lover!

The entire trail is 11 miles each way and is too intense to be done down and back in one day.  To experience the full trail, therefore, you will need to stay in one of the few campgrounds in the canyon. Reservations are hard to get, but even if you aren’t successful, it is still definitely worth it to hike at least part of the Bright Angel Trail. 

The trail starts near Bright Angel Lodge in Grand Canyon Village and after passing through a tunnel cut into the rock, starts down a series of switchbacks traversing the steep sides of the canyon. 

Halfway down is Indian Garden, which is the last turning back point for day hikers.  The trail continues down and eventually crosses the river over a narrow suspension bridge and finishes at Phantom Ranch.  There is a huge elevation change, so take your time and enjoy being below the rim (and take plenty of water!)  Grand Canyon is most easily reached from Flagstaff, where there is an airport, car rentals, and shuttle buses to the canyon.

Plan Your Hike: If you are making the full trial, you will need to spend the night, so you will need to make a reservation at Phantom Ranch .  The “ranch” is a collection of rustic cabins and dorm buildings set among groves of trees, not far from the river. For the permit, you can apply here .  If hiking during the summer months, avoid hiking between 10 am – 4 pm when temperatures in the shade exceed 100F.

6. JOSHUA TREE NATIONAL PARK

This is another top hiking bucket list in the USA. Joshua Tree National Park may not be among the biggest and best-known parks in America, but it is certainly one of the most unique national parks I’ve ever visited, anywhere.  

It’s one of the favorite examples of incredible nature in the world, and believe it or not, it is located roughly two hours outside of one of the biggest cities in the United States; Los Angeles.

Joshua Trees are actually oddly shaped yucca plants, and they range from small to towering, dotting many areas in the 800,000-acre park (hence the name).  Joshua Tree National Park spans both the Mojave and Colorado deserts and covers multiple altitudes and ecosystems throughout the park.  With the strange plant life and bulbous rock formations, it’s easy to see why so many movies and television shows were filmed here. 

As a frequent desert hiker of the American Southwest, what I appreciate most about this park is how distinctly alien it feels.  It is truly a desert escape and hosts a multitude of hikes for many levels, ranging from under a mile to a whopping 35-mile trek. 

My most memorable hiking moment in the park was on the Fortynine Palms Oasis Trail, which is a moderate in-and-out 3-mile hike over rocky peaks filled with green barrel cacti.  All of a sudden, when you reach what truly is a natural desert oasis, green palm trees rise unexpectedly out of the reddish-brown earth, and if you’ve made it that far, you may as well climb all the way down to the small pool of water and shade.

This hike is truly spectacular and anyone who enjoys the desert should experience Joshua Tree National Park at least once in their life.

Plan Your Hike: A permit is not required for day hiking in the backcountry. To backcountry camp, you must park and register at a  backcountry registration board . There is no fee. Your registration is your permit.

7. BIG BEND NATIONAL PARK

This hiking bucket list in the USA wouldn’t be complete without adding the South Rim Trail in Big Bend National Park . This small national park is hard to get to in the stark West Texas desert, but the drive and stunning hiking trails are worth every minute of the many hours spend in the car to reach it. 

This is the only national park in the United States that houses an entire mountain range within its borders and some of the best hikes in Big Bend are here in the Chisos Mountains. The South Rim is one of these mountain trails. It’s a strenuous trail 12-mile loop trail that culminates with an epic view of the southern rim overlooking Mexico below. 

Sitting on the edge of the cliffs with our picnic lunch and watching three separate thunderstorms pour down over Mexico’s Chihuahua Desert below us was an experience I’ll never forget. 

If you enjoy camping, pack your gear to take advantage of these trails and many backcountry campsites, and sleep under the milky way. If the trail is too strenuous, hike a portion of it like the shorter Pinnacles or Laguna Meadows trails. There’s truly something for everyone here! 

Plan Your Hike: A backcountry permit is required for ALL backcountry camping in Big Bend National Park. This includes backpacking and primitive roadside campsites. Backcountry permits are also required for river trips and stock use. Check here for all you need to know before you go hike the Big Ben National Park.

8. ANGEL’S LANDING

The best hiking bucket list in the USA can be found in Zion National Park.  Hiking in Zion is a special experience.  There are so many stunning hikes in Zion to choose from but the most popular is Angel’s Landing.

Angel’s Landing is a difficult hike that includes using chains to pull yourself up to the top but the views are worth it.  All of the most popular hikes in Zion are rated as difficult but there are easy  hikes in Zion  as well such as Canyon Overlook and Timber Canyon Overlook.

No matter which hike you go on in Zion you will enjoy the beauty and nature that can be found at Zion.  Zion has definitely increased in popularity recently and is very busy.  The best time to visit Zion is between October and March.  In the peak summer months, you can wait up to 90 minutes for a shuttle and the trails are full as well.

Plan Your Hike: You must have a permit to hike any portion of Angels Landing. Permits are available by two lottery processes. The seasonal lottery application periods occur quarterly. Additional permits are issued in day-before lotteries. You should check here to require your hiking permit.

9. THE WAVE

The wave is one of the best hikes in Arizona , and also, a bucket list hikes in the USA for many. Hiking among the beautiful red and orange wave-like sandstone formations. It’s absolutely amazing.

But hiking here is not that easy. You must be the lucky winner of the permit lottery to be able to hike to this epic spot. Each day, 64 people are allotted permits to hike there – 48 through the online lottery, and 16 through the walk-up lottery.

This hiking is hands down the premier photographic destination in the US Southwest, offering such unique and spectacular rock formations. The Wave is best photographed from mid-morning to early afternoon so as to minimize the extensive shadows; the other areas listed above are best photographed mid-late afternoon.

A six-mile round trip hike is required to get to The Wave. Since there is no trail to The Wave you should be able to use a map and compass or GPS to help with navigation. If you are not sure about your navigation skills I strongly suggest you hike in with a guide or a friend with these skills.

Plan Your Hike: This permit is required to visit the Coyote Buttes North permit area, which features “The Wave” and you check more information here to acquire your permit. I highly recommend  hiring a local guide  (like Dreamland Safaris) to do the hike with if you aren’t super skilled with route-finding. The best place to stay while hiking the Wave is at Page –   Check Hotel Deals on Page

10. BIRTHING CAVE

All hikes in Sedona are amazing! Sedona is one of the most unique and scenic areas of Arizona, and one of the best destinations for hikers looking to spend time outdoors exploring the red rocks and scenic canyons.

In addition to the incredible views, other highlights include a natural bridge, rivers and streams, wildlife, and even energy vortexes. One of the best hikes in Sedona is hands down the Birthing Cave – besides being an easy and short hike, this is a hiking bucket list in the USA for many hiker lovers.

The trailhead is only 15 minutes from Sedona and you reach it via Long Canyon Trailhead. This is pretty easy as you start at Long Canyon Trailhead and go straight for about .6 miles until there is a fork in the road, and then you go left.

Once you make it inside the cave, take some time to turn around and soak in a classic Sedona vista. The green valley with red towers jutting up in the distance! It is absolutely stunning, and this is the reason it makes to the bucket list hikes in USA!

Plan Your Hike: It is recommended to wear proper hiking shoes, you will need the extra traction while you are climbing up into the cave and on the cave ledges. Note that a Red Rock Pass is not required for this hike in Sedona. If you are planning to visit Sedona, one of the best accommodations is Sedona Real Inn a family-owned and pet-friendly with outstanding views.

This is the last but not least bucket list hikes in the USA! The Delta Lake Hike is a partially unmaintained trail that leads past lakes, towering pine trees, and epic mountain views to a jaw-dropping alpine lake with robin’s egg blue waters. To reach this gorgeous sight, you’ll start from the Lupine Meadows trailhead and make your way along a deceptively easy trail through a tranquil forest.

 Before you know it, you’ll start heading up several steep switchbacks, with sweeping views of the azure waters of Bradley Lake, wildflowers, and beyond, the Jackson Hole valley. After trudging up six switchbacks, you’ll notice a dirt path that leads downhill from the main trail- this is the official start of the trail to Delta Lake! 

Over the next mile, you’ll need to follow cairns, scramble your way up and over several boulder fields, and climb up (potentially even on your hands and knees!) an extremely steep gulch. This portion of the trail is not maintained by the U.S. National Park Service, so you may find downed trees or other obstacles to navigate around and you won’t find the trail on the park’s official maps. 

All of these challenges will be worth it, though, when you reach the vibrantly-colored Delta Lake and beyond, a dramatically jagged mountain peak.

Plan Your Hike: Because of Jackson Hole’s high elevation, the trail is buried in snow for much of the year and is best accessed from July through mid-October. Jackson Hole is known for its brutal winters, so if you’re visiting during the fall, be sure to check the weather reports to make sure you’ll have a pleasant (and safe!) experience exploring Delta Lake.

Bucket List Hikes in the USA | Essential Packing Gear

• Backpack: If you are planning to carry a backpack during your hiking, I have compiled a very detailed review of the Best Backpacks for Travel in the market today –
• Portable water bottle: Remember to bring and drink a lot of water and if you need to refill, have a LifeStraw Filtered Water Bottle is the best option.
• First-aid kit: Always remember to pack a first-aid kit for your hikes.
• Day-Backpack: I love my day-backpack and it is very handy for any hiking.
• Headlamps:  Carry a flashlight or headlamp even on a day hike. If you have trouble on the trail, darkness may fall before you can finish your hike.
• Wear sturdy shoes for hiking: The most important thing is to protect your feet and avoid twisting your ankle and getting injured. I recommend investing in a good hiking boots brand such as Teva, Salomon , or even Keens .
• Moisture-wicking clothing: These clothes help to pull the sweat away from your body and stay cool and dry during your hiking such as light hiking pants & long sleeves shirts .
• Warm-Layers: Early morning or late night can get cold so it is important to bring layers, a lightweight puffy jacket is a must!
• Hiking Leggings: Another great item for your hikes is to invest in a good pair of leggings for hiking
• Packing for winter hiking: During winter make sure to have a good quality hiking jacket and pack a warm pair of pants for your hike.
• Wear a hat and sunglasses: It is always important to protect yourself against the sun. Bring a hat with a good face cover like this one and don’t forget to pack a pair of polarized sunglasses
• Bring along some food or snacks: It’s a good idea to pack trail mix or cereal bars to munch on during your hikes.
• Bring your Camera: You will see some incredible views during your hiking, so don’t forget your camera, or check some great value options here

Bucket List Hikes in the USA Conclusion

And with these 11 incredible bucket list hikes in the USA, we conclude this amazing list! The United States offers some of the best hikes opportunities in the world. From incredible National Parks, and multi-day hiking to also easy day hikes that offer incredible and unique views and experiences. Here you can find a hiking trail for everyone to explore.

Choose the hiking trail that better fits your needs and adventure level. And the most important thing, keep active and safe travels, everyone!

If you are enjoyed this guide, you will also love:

• 9 Easy Steps to train for a hike
• How to train for a high altitude hike
• Best Hikes in Arizona
• 11 Bucket List Hikes in the USA
• 20 Best Hike in Denali National Park in Alaska
• Hardest Hikes in the World
• 150+ Funny Hiking Quotes that will make you laugh
• 150+ Trekking Captions to Fuel Your Wanderlust

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The Bucket List for Hiking Trips

• By Jessica Sanders

As an outdoors enthusiast, finding a new and exciting trail is high on the priority list. Cover some serious ground with these hiking trips. If they're not already on your bucket list, they should be.

Escalante Route

If you're looking for an excuse to sleep under the stars, you just found it. This five-day, 33-mile trek through the Grand Canyon will leave you wondering what comes next. From crawling through slot canyons to plunging from the rim to the river, an intermediate hiker will find this one challenging, yet rewarding. Take in the stillness and solace as your days quickly go winding by on this magnificent hike. Trail Tip: Be prepared for a 30-foot cliff near the Hance Rapids, which you will need to climb.

John Muir Trail

Hiking at a consistent elevation of 8,000 feet means hikers on this trail experience the very best that the Sierra Mountains have to offer. The higher elevations allow you to experience mountain lakes, granite cliffs, and breathtaking views with each and every step. Trail Tip: Be sure to hike between June and September; the high elevations see a significant amount of snow the rest of the year.

Hut to Hut Presidential Traverse

As one of the most classic hiking trips, this trail takes you from the Madison Hut to the Mizpah Spring Hut for a total of 25.5 miles; a bucket list item for nearly every hiker, experienced or not. Over the course of 3 to 4 days, you'll visit some of the major New England summits, including Mt. Madison, Mt. Jefferson and Mt. Washington. Hiking above the tree line consistently provides you with awe-inspiring views of glacial cirques, alpine plants and horizon sunrises like you've never seen before. Trail Tip: Choose one or two summits to ascend instead of trying to reach all of them; hiking at such a high elevation will afford you incredible views the entire way.

Appalachian National Scenic Trail

This trail, which can be picked up in a number of states including Pennsylvania, New York and Virgina, is the ultimate rustic hiking adventure. There are a number of ways you can travel this trail--from end to end or start in the middle. No matter where you start, or how far you go, the Appalachian Trail is one of the most diverse hiking trips in regards to the flora you'll see along the way. Trail Tip: With a number of remote areas on the trail, always be aware of the people around you or anything suspicious. You can go miles on the trail with no cell service or rangers so heightened awareness is critical. This thru hike requires advance planning and, depending on how far you go, food and water drops. Be sure to plan accordingly.

Neusiok Trail

If you're not up for the 900-mile Mountains-to-Sea Trail hike, this is a perfect substitute. This 20-mile bucket list hiking trip starts on the sandy beaches of the Neuse River, and leads you through a variety of landscapes, from swamps and coastal bogs to hardwood ridges with longleaf-pines. Relatively easy, this hike is perfect for the beginner backpacker looking to experience hiking at its most diverse. Trail Tip: Rectangular aluminum pieces are nailed to trees on the trail marking the right path. If you don't see these markings, you've likely gone off route.

Zion Narrows

You can't begin to imagine the scenery you'll be privy to on one of the best canyon hiking trips in the world. Sixteen long miles are made up of 60 percent water and 40 percent land, making it a unique hike for even the most experienced backpacker. There are multiple routes you can take; if hiking from the top-down, however, you'll need a permit from Zion National Park. Trail Tip: Be sure to check on water levels before heading out, as hiking is not permitted when the Virgin River is too high.

Teton Crest Trail

Breathtaking scenery, diverse wildlife and great campgrounds make this one of the most delightful bucket list hikes. Don't forget to document the trip while you look down on Death Canyon from a whopping 8,000 feet up. This 40-mile, strenuous hike is for serious and experienced backpackers only. Trail Tip: Varying wildlife includes black bears, wolverines, moose and marmots. Be prepared to see them, and know basic safety measures in the event that you do.

The Needles Traverse

Wildflowers, mining ruins and multiple steep passes are just some of the reasons why this hike should be on your hiking trips bucket list. Traveling 50.5 miles south to west, you'll experience some of the most rugged trails the Rockies have to offer. And, if you've never seen a fourteener, you will on this trek. Trail Tip: You'll be travelling through many miles of remote wilderness with minimal signage so bring a map, and make sure you know how to read it.

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9 Stunning Backpacking Trips in the U.S. You Should Know About

This article on the best backpacking trips in the U.S. is brought to you by Gregory , the makers of hiking backpacks that are tough enough for day hikes, weekend trips and thru-hiking adventures.

Backpack camping—an approach that involves hiking to your campsite, usually carrying a hefty backpack of gear with you—isn’t for everyone. The KOA North American Camping Report of 2019 supports that statement; while camping popularity in the U.S. has overall reached new heights among a wider audience of households in recent years, those new campers are generally drawn to car camping, glamping, and the more convenient destinations. Which means that backpacking continues to offer an escape from the crowds.

Venture out on a backcountry trail in any crowded national park and you’ll find the crowds all but disappear, just a few miles in. If you bring your camping supplies with you, a secluded, quiet camping experience awaits you in the wilderness.

The best backpacking trips in the U.S. span a range of experience levels. Once you’ve collected your gear (with some help from our backpacking checklist ), it’s time to pick a trail.

9 Bucket List Backpacking Trips in the U.S.

Photo Courtesy of William Saunders

This list of backpacking trips in the U.S. offer a range of accessibility depending on your skills and experience. No matter the experience level required, they’re all stunning and enjoyable. Researching this backpacking resource definitely made us want to get away from our computers and hit all of these trails.

1. The Lost Coast Trail —Northern California

Length: 24 miles Elevation Change: 1,542 feet Days: 2-4 Trailheads: Mattole Beach, Black Sands Beach

California’s Golden Coast gets visitors galore, with hotspots mostly south of the Bay Area. But head north, beyond the hillside mansions where the famous Pacific Coast Highway disconnects from the coastline, and you’ll find the Lost Coast Trail along the state’s King Range National Conservation Area. As a wilderness trail along some of the state’s rockiest beach terrain, this backpacking trip is relatively short, but the rock scrambles and sand dunes along the way make challenge and rewarding option for beginners.

Backpacking this trail requires an overnight permit from the Bureau of Land Management, available online from Recreation.gov. The trail is best done via a shuttle service between the two trailheads, as either route is point-to-point.

2. The North Coast Route —Olympic National Park,Washington

Length: 20 miles Elevation Change: 200 feet Days: 2-4 Trailheads: Rialto Beach, Ozette Campground

Positioned along the coastal portion of Washington’s Olympic National Park, this 20-mile backpacking trail is an ideal entry point for inexperienced backpackers with a penchant for seaside views. Backpackers will find a relatively flat shoreline and fair weather seasonally along this trail, ideal for a long weekend backpacking trip on the Olympic Peninsula. With one of the lowest elevation gains on this list, hikers looking to test their distance-per-day will find a perfect path ahead.

Camping along the trail is done at established campgrounds between the trailheads, and no permit is needed for the hike itself. Keep your eyes peeled for tidepools teeming with life, as much of the coast’s rocky shore plays host to underwater life.

3. Lake Aloha Trail —Central California

Length: 12 miles Elevation Change: 1,873 feet Days: 2-3 Trailheads: Echo Lake Trailhead

The Lake Aloha trail, on the southern end of California’s Lake Tahoe, is seemingly custom built for entry-level backpackers interested in a postcard-worthy view. A hike along this 12-mile loop trail takes you along a number of alpine lakes in the Desolation Wilderness, and brings you up 1,800 feet in total. Take a leisurely pace to make the incline portion much easier, and after a long sweaty hike, take a swim in Lake Aloha, where there’s dispersed camping along a ridge nearby.

Since this is one of the best backpacking trips in the U.S., snagging a reservation for camping in the area can be tough—look to plan this trip early in the off-season, and expect to check online regularly for openings. Campfires are never allowed in the Desolation Wilderness, and campers should check out safety tips from the Lake Tahoe Basin Management Unit .

The Timberline Trail

4. Mount Sterling Loop Trail (Via Low Gap) —Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Tennessee

Length: 28.5 miles Elevation Change: 8,110 feet Days: 4-5 Trailheads: Low Gap Trailhead, Big Creek Trailhead

Situated in the country’s most visited national park, the Mount Sterling Loop Trail offers an intermediate-level backpacking trip to the peak of one of the tallest points in the park. Hike from the Low Gap trailhead in Crosby, NC and pass through old growth forests—crossing state lines into Tennessee on your way. You’ll follow the Big Creek to the summit of Mount Sterling, where you’ll come across a firetower, built during the 1930s by the Civilian Conservation Corps—perfect for getting sweeping views of the misty mountains. Continue on from the summit and you’ll complete a loop around the mountain, circling back to the Low Gap Trailhead. The total 8,000+ elevation gain is subtle on the majority of the trail, although some points climb sharply via switchbacks as you begin to circle the mountain.

As part of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park , backcountry camping on this trail requires a backcountry permit from the park office, alone with reservations made in advance for campgrounds/shelters along the way. More information on reservations and permits can be found from the park’s Backcountry Office at 865-436-1297.

5. Timberline Trail —Mount Hood National Forest, Oregon

Length: 38.3 miles Elevation Change: 9,000 feet Days: 4-5 Trailheads: Timberline Lodge

Mount Hood is one of Oregon’s Seven Wonders, an active volcano just about an hour outside of Portland. While many make a point to visit the mountain’s cozy Timberline Lodge, backpackers looking for a more scenic view of this monolith can venture out on the Timberline Trail which circles the mountain. Start from the parking lot of Timberline Lodge and head east or west on the trail to get started; you’ll traverse roughly 9,000 feet of elevation change over about four days. The loop will circle you back to Timberline Lodge, where you should relax apres-hike with a warm drink indoors.

This trail involves a decent amount of trail merges, so be careful when navigating that you don’t make a wrong turn on to various off-shoots. The Timberline Trail can be dangerous when inclement weather is present, as with any instance of high-elevation hiking, you should feel confident that your backpacking skills match the worst weather scenarios you might face. No permits are needed for the hike.

6. Cottonwood Marble Canyon Loop Trail —Death Valley National Park, California

Length: 26-28 miles Elevation Change: 5,613 feet Days: 3 Trailheads: Stovepipe Wells

With terrain and scenery pulled straight from Mars, hiking around Death Valley National Park (or the Mojave desert in general) is as interesting as it is intense. The Cottonwood-Marble Canyon Loop Trail takes backpackers through a dry and stark terrain, and requires more planning than a typical backpacking trip. The trail, running close to 30 miles in a loop, will connect from the Stovepipe Wells trailhead, and can take about 3 days. As with most desert backpacking, you must plan your trip around water resources—this trail offers a few natural streams at some campsites but water is scarce for the majority of the hike. Along with plenty of water, be sure to bring a water filter to refill when available.

Getting to the trailhead requires a 4WD vehicle at all times of the year, but no pre-planning for a permit is needed. Permits are available for free at visitor contact stations across the park. The challenge of this trail lies mainly in the difficult conditions of the desert, so be sure to read Death Valley National Park’s tips on planning this hike in advance.

The John Muir Trail

7. The John Muir Trail —California

Length: 221 Miles Elevation Change: cumulative 47,000 feet Days: 20-30 Trailheads: (Southbound) Happy Isles, Sunrise Lakes, Glacier Point, Lyell Canyon

Cutting more than 200 miles through central California’s Sierra Nevada mountains, the John Muir Trail is as legendary as it is scenic. Plan for close to a month of hiking, camping, and exploring part of the state’s rocky, snow-spotted terrain, with an elevation gain more than 1.5 times the height of Mount Everest.

Getting yourself a backpacking permit for the John Muir Trail might be one of the hardest parts of this trip. Hikers should plan to enter the online lottery system as early as possible, about 24 weeks before your planned trip, or possible chance a first-come, first-served permit available from the ranger station. As well, hikers should plan out resupply stops at certain campsites and vantage points along the way.

8. The Wonderland Trail —Mount Rainier National Park, Washington

Length: 93 miles Elevation Change: cumulative 22,000 feet Days: 12-14 Trailheads: Fryingpan Creek Trailhead

With so many amazing mountains to climb and trails to backpack in the Pacific Northwest, it’s hard to think there could be one trail that stands above the rest. At least in elevation, the Wonderland Trail around Washington’s Mount Rainier does just that, circling the PNW’s only mountain over 14,000 feet.

The trail itself isn’t as lengthy as other advanced backpacking trips, but serves as a short-but-tough alternative to many other trails. Climbing over 22,000 feet in cumulative elevation gain along the Wonderland Trail, you’ll enjoy dense evergreen forests and snowy peaks year-round.

The trail’s high elevation is a serious consideration as thin air can wear on hikers who aren’t used to these conditions. Take caution when beginning and ending the trip, as acclimation might be necessary for a comfortable hike. While specific permits aren’t required to thru-hike the trail, a general wilderness permit is required for backcountry camping along the way.

9. The Long Trail —Vermont

Length: 272 miles Elevation Change: cumulative 69,000 feet Days: 20-30 Trailheads: Appalachian Trail Vermont/Massachusetts, Journey’s End Road

While it may not rival some of the more scenic trails in the western U.S., Vermont’s Long Trail offers hikers a look at a stunning variety of nature along one of the greenest states east of the Mississippi River. Stretching 272 miles from the southern border with Massachusetts to the Canadian border to the north, the oldest thru-hiking trail in the United States spares no view of the Green Mountain State throughout. What this hike lacks in dramatic views akin to the western U.S., it makes up for in greenery and ease‚ with a relatively balanced elevation incline throughout. While trail conditions can get muddy starting in the late summer and early fall, hiking through the New England fall foliage is one of the most popular attractions for the backpacking trip. Finishing the trail from north to south or south to north earns you the title of “End-to-Ender,” a boast-worthy epithet you can share at the breweries along the trail .

Planning for this hike is pretty simple; no permits are required for hiking or camping along the way. The Green Mountain Club has maintained the trail since its establishment in 1930, and offer tips and guidebooks online and in print for hikers planning ahead.

This post was brought to you by our pals at Gregory . 

From small day hiking backpacks to top-of-the-line backpacking backpacks — Gregory has you covered!

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Kevin Johnson

Kevin is the Assistant Editor for The Dyrt, with bylines in National Geographic Traveler and Atlas Obscura. Although originally from the swamps of Washington, D.C., he's now based in the trees of Portland. He's been interested in geography and travel since seeing his first map as a kid, and is now working toward seeing it all in person. You can find him exploring the coastal beaches or a record store in his free time.

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5 lesser known national parks to add to your bucket list

These more remote U.S. parks, from Alaska to American Samoa, are kept well away from the bustling crowds.

The national parks in the United States are chosen for their natural, historic, and cultural values and are specially designated by an act of Congress or executive order. They vary in size from a single home—the smallest site is Thaddeus Kosciuszko National Memorial in Pennsylvania— to larger than the size of Switzerland, as is Wrangell–St. Elias National Park and Preserve in Alaska.

Some of the sites that become national parks might not be the most trodden; some may take a little more exploration to find. Here are five of those kinds of parks.  

Hot Springs National Park

This park’s pine-, oak-, and hickory-forested mountains encircle the northern edge of the city of Hot Springs, Arkansas, which is centered over 43 thermal springs and 26 miles of hiking trails. Congress created Hot Springs Reservation in 1832, 40 years before it established Yellowstone.

Even before official park designation in 1921, Hot Springs had become a destination for curing health issues such as nervous disorders and arthritis. Seeping through Ouachita Mountain rocks as rainwater more than 4,000 years ago, the fossil water is heated to an average temperature of 143°F (62°C) by the natural heat of Earth a mile underground. Artesian pressure forces the water up through a fault to the base of Hot Springs Mountain.  

Each day the reservoir collects about 700,000 gallons of water. In addition to bathing, visitors come to tour eight ornate, late Victorian-era bathhouses—many in the Spanish colonial style—along Bathhouse Row.  

Indiana Dunes National Parks

With its 15 miles of shore under the constant sculpting forces of Lake Michigan’s wind and waves, Indiana’s only national park has high sands from which visitors can see the skyline of Chicago across the lake.

The phenomenon of singing sands, which may occur once a month under optimal conditions, can be heard from 30 feet away. It’s caused by the quartz crystals, moisture, and friction from footsteps, which creates a clear, ringing sound.

Trails lead through the park’s dunes, wetlands, prairies, and forests, home to more than 1,100 species of vascular plants. The park also shelters more than 60 historic structures, including houses from the 1933 Chicago World’s Fair.

Theodore Roosevelt National Park

Tucked away in southwestern North Dakota, with the South and North Units 70 miles apart and the tiny Elkhorn Ranch Unit in between, this isolated park offers wind-scoured, multicolored badlands; hundreds of species of wildflowers; and an unexpected amount of wildlife, including wild horses, deer, elk, pronghorn antelope, bighorn sheep, and bison, the species that Theodore Roosevelt—hunter, conservationist, and namesake of the park— helped save from extinction.  

Roosevelt acquired Elkhorn Ranch in 1884 and returned repeatedly to raise livestock and pursue “the strenuous life.” His experience later inspired him to protect 230 million acres of park and public lands nationwide. Although conservation is a cornerstone of Roosevelt’s presidential legacy, some of his policies uprooted and devastated Native Americans, including the Three Affiliated Tribes—the Mandan, Hidatsa, and Arikara Nation—who once inhabited this parkland.  

Gates of the Arctic National Park and Preserve

Unlike any other national park, this giant park is entirely above the Arctic Circle. In the northern park during winter, the sun doesn’t rise for nearly a month; in summer the sun doesn’t set for nearly two months.

Beneath thousands of caribou paths, melting permafrost soaks the tundra in summer, watering a wealth of Lilliputian plant life from underground. By August, autumn cooling and snow turn the lush carpet of plants a brilliant scarlet and gold. Looking across the vast tundra can be disorienting. With few visual cues, distant grizzlies look like nearby ground squirrels.  

The park approximates the wonders of the Great Plains before settlement: Wolves chase moose through the dwarf willow, grayling flit through pellucid waters, sandhill cranes strut along the riverbanks, and huge herds of caribou migrate through—their leg ligaments clicking like castanets—in an uncountable blur.

National Park of American Samoa

Closer to New Zealand than the United States, American Samoa (“sacred earth”) is the most farflung and usually the least visited in the National Park System.

The park units are on portions of Tutuila, Ta’ū, and Ofu, three of the islands that make up the only U.S. territory south of the Equator. The park protects a paleotropical rainforest and more than 350 species of native birds; its only native mammal is a bat.

A third of the park is marine waters, with 250 coral species and 950 species of fish. Fishing is world-class, and Ofu Island has a protected reef for snorkeling and diving, along with a famous white-sand beach. Warm and humid, Samoa has a wet season that runs from November through April.  

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13 Road Trips To Take In The USA That Are Bucket-List Worthy

• Stunning coastal views and charming towns make the Pacific Coast Highway a bucket-list-worthy road trip in California. (100 characters)
• Route 66 is perfect for history buffs, connecting small towns and offering iconic landmarks along the way. (102 characters)
• The Great River Road, spanning 10 states, provides a scenic route along the Mississippi River for an ultimate bucket list road trip. (129 characters)

There's something inherently alluring about the open road. The wind in your hair, the sun on your face, and the freedom to explore new destinations and experiences. From adventures on the rugged coastline of the Pacific Northwest to the stunning vistas of the Southwest, the United States is home to some of the most iconic and breathtaking road trip routes in the world. This article lists some of the best bucket-list-worthy road trips to take in the USA for a memorable adventure. So, grab those keys, buckle up, and get ready for an experience of a lifetime on one of America's most scenic roads .

UPDATE: 2023/12/07 11:27 EST BY AARON SPRAY

Even More Great Road Trips To Take In The United States

The United States is famous for being one of the best places for road tripping. There are plenty of potential road trips to take all through the United States (and not only in the Lower 48). This list was expanded to include even more excellent road trip ideas to explore the nation.

Related: 10 Of The Most Scenic Byways In The U.S. (Perfect For A Road Trip)

Pacific Coast Highway, California

Staggering sheer drops and coastal views are what make this pacific coast adventure stand out.

The Pacific Coast Highway is one of the most famous road trips in the US , stretching along the California coastline between Orange County and Mendocino County, covering a distance of approximately 655 miles. The highway is considered one of the most beautiful roads in the world, offering breathtaking ocean views with stunning beaches, rugged cliffs, and charming coastal towns.

Some of the must-see spots along the Pacific Coast Highway include the Monterey Bay Aquarium, Bixby Bridge, the Hearst Castle, the Point Lobos State Natural Reserve, Pfeiffer Beach, and McWay Falls. The drive also takes you through the spectacular Big Sur region, overlooking the coastline and the Santa Lucia Mountains.

• Length: 655 miles
• When To Go: September through October
• Bucket List Stop: Pfeiffer Beach to see the falls

Route 66, Illinois to California

Perfect for history buffs, route 66 tells stories of america's midwestern glory days.

Stretching from Chicago, Illinois, to Santa Monica in California, covering a distance of approximately 2,448 miles, Route 66 is one of the most iconic highways in the US and offers plenty of places to visit along the way. The highway is a popular route for travelers, as it connects many small towns and rural areas in the Midwest and the Southwest.

Some of the must-see attractions and landmarks along the highway include the Gateway Arch in St. Louis, Missouri; the Cadillac Ranch in Amarillo, Texas; the Grand Canyon in Arizona; and the Santa Monica Pier in California.

• Length: 2,448 miles
• When To Go: May and September
• Bucket List Stop: Blue Whale of Catoosa to add a quirky, famed landmark to the trip

Great River Road, Mississippi River

This route covers 10 states in total, making it an ultimate bucket list road trip.

The Great River Road is a national scenic byway that follows the course of the Mississippi River from its headwaters in northern Minnesota to its mouth in the Gulf of Mexico. The road passes through 10 states, including Minnesota, Wisconsin, Illinois, Tennessee, and Louisiana, covering a distance of approximately 3,000 miles.

Some of the highlights of the Great River Road include the Mark Twain Boyhood Home and Museum in Hannibal, Missouri; the Vicksburg National Military Park in Mississippi; and the French Quarter in New Orleans, Louisiana. The road also passes through several national and state parks, such as Itasca State Park, Effigy Mounds National Monument, and Natchez Trace State Park.

• Length: 3,000 miles
• When To Go: During the fall months , September through November
• Bucket List Stop: The French Quarter in New Orleans for an authentic Crescent City experience

Related: 10 Bucket List Road Trips To Take In The US This Fall

Blue Ridge Parkway, Virginia and North Carolina

Known for being the most scenic mountain road in the south, the blue ridge scenery is unparalleled.

The Blue Ridge Parkway is a scenic drive, spanning 469 miles through the Appalachian Mountains, connecting Shenandoah National Park in Virginia with Great Smoky Mountains National Park in North Carolina. The road is among the best road trips US states have to offer, especially due to the fact it provides breathtaking views of the Blue Ridge Mountains, rolling hills, valleys, and various opportunities for hiking, biking, picnicking, and wildlife watching.

The Blue Ridge Parkway is one of the most popular scenic drives, offering visitors a variety of attractions, including overlooks with panoramic views, hiking trails, picnic areas, and historic sites. Some of the most popular stops along the parkway include the Peaks of Otter, Linville Falls, Craggy Gardens, and the Linn Cove Viaduct.

• Length: 469 miles
• When To Go: Mid-May through Mid-September
• Bucket List Stop: Shenandoah National Park to take in the beauty of Virginia's Blue Ridge Mountains

Discover the best stops along the Blue Ridge Parkway when planning a road trip adventure along this road.

Overseas Highway, Florida Keys

Seven mile bridge connects travelers to bahia honda state park, making it perfect for nature lovers.

The Overseas Highway is a 113-mile scenic road that connects mainland Florida with the Florida Keys , a chain of islands stretching southward into the Gulf of Mexico. The highway, which is easily among the best road trips in the US in terms of ocean scenery, offers stunning views of the turquoise waters of the Gulf of Mexico and the Atlantic Ocean - thereby also providing opportunities for swimming, snorkeling, fishing, and wildlife watching en route.

Some of the highlights of the Overseas Highway include the Seven Mile Bridge, Bahia Honda State Park, and the Key West Butterfly and Nature Conservatory, which features hundreds of colorful butterflies and exotic birds. Other popular stops along the highway include the Ernest Hemingway Home and Museum, the Dolphin Research Center, and the John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park, home to the only living coral barrier reef in the continental United States.

• Length: 113 miles
• When To Go: Between January and April
• Bucket List Stop: Bahia Honda State Park to appreciate the untouched beauty of this Florida Keys landscape, and any spring season festivals

The Pacific Northwest

In stark contrast to other pacific roads, the northwest scenic byway offers dense woods, mountain views, and scenic waterways.

The Pacific Northwest Scenic Byway, also known as the Cascade Loop, is another one of the most beautiful road trips in the US. It's a 440-mile scenic route that winds through the Cascade Mountains in Washington State, offering stunning views of snow-capped peaks, rushing rivers, and lush forests, allowing travelers to enjoy various outdoor recreation and cultural exploration along the way.

The Scenic Byway is dotted with charming mountain towns such as Leavenworth, and Winthrop, offering a Wild West vibe with wooden sidewalks and historic buildings. Other highlights of the Pacific Northwest Scenic Byway include North Cascades National Park, Lake Chelan, Methow Valley, and the Columbia River Gorge, a stunning river canyon, a popular spot for hiking, rock climbing, and waterfall viewing.

• Length: 440 miles
• When To Go: During the spring or summer months
• Bucket List Stop: North Casades National park, where travelers can cross off bucket list hikes, wildflower viewing, and scenic waterfalls off their list

Related: A Road Trip To Remember: The 10 Most Scenic Drives For Your Spring Vacation In The U.S.

The Grand Circle, Southwest USA

This route takes travelers through scenic rocky canyons between utah, arizona, new mexico, colorado, and nevada.

The Grand Circle is a scenic route that takes visitors through some of the most iconic national parks and monuments in the American Southwest. The route includes the states of Arizona, Utah, New Mexico, Colorado, and Nevada, stretching over 1,400 miles of stunning desert landscapes, ancient ruins, and geological wonders.

The Grand Circle route typically starts and ends in Las Vegas, Nevada, passing through iconic national parks like Zion, Bryce Canyon, Arches, and Canyonlands, known for their towering red rock formations, stunning canyons, and unique geological features. Other highlights of the Grand Circle route include Monument Valley, Mesa Verde National Park, and the Hoover Dam.

• Length: 1,400 miles
• When To Go: April to May, or September to early November
• Bucket List Stop: Monument Valley to explore hoodoos and other unique geological formations

The Great Lakes Circle Tour

Perfect for small town lovers and scenic lakeside views, this route promises all the beauty of the great lakes.

The Great Lakes Circle Tour is a scenic road trip taking visitors around the five Great Lakes. The route is approximately 6,500 miles long and passes through eight US states and the Canadian province of Ontario, allowing travelers to enjoy a variety of landscapes, from urban areas to small towns and rural countryside.

Along the way, visitors can explore national parks like Isle Royale, Pictured Rocks, and Niagara Falls, with various historic lighthouses, beaches, and scenic overlooks. One of the highlights of the tour is the Great Lakes Seaway Trail and the St. Lawrence River, offering stunning views of the Thousand Islands, known for its charming waterfront towns.

• Length: 6,500 miles
• When To Go: During the summer months , between June and August
• Bucket List Stop: Niagara Falls for those who have never been, or Pictured Rocks for those who have

The Black Hills and Badlands, South Dakota

Early america can be seen on this route, in the form of several landmarks and even a former midwest mining town.

The Black Hills and Badlands route is a scenic driving route passing through some of the most iconic natural landmarks in South Dakota. The route covers approximately 150 miles, taking visitors through a variety of landscapes, including the rugged badlands, towering granite peaks, and pristine forests, including several iconic attractions, such as Mount Rushmore National Memorial, the Crazy Horse Memorial, and Badlands National Park.

Some other notable stops along the route include Custer State Park, Deadwood gold-mining town, and the Sturgis Motorcycle Museum and Hall of Fame, which celebrates the history and culture of motorcycle enthusiasts.

• Length: 150 miles
• Bucket List Stop: Badlands National park to witness some of the most famous landmarks in American history

Related: Hit The Road: 10 Unforgettable Adventures Await With These U.S. Road Trip Ideas

The Texas Hill Country

Small towns and country that span for miles exude the true charm of the texas hill country route, offering the best views in the state.

The Texas Hill Country route offers picturesque views of beautiful rolling hills and charming small towns of central Texas. The route is approximately 200 miles long, extending between Austin and San Antonio. The region is known for its stunning landscapes, historic sites, and unique cultural attractions. The road through Texas Hill Country takes visitors through several scenic small towns, such as Fredericksburg, Gruene, and Luckenbach. These are some of the best towns in the Texas Hill Country , each particularly known for its charming shops, restaurants, and live music venues.

One of the highlights of the route is the scenic drive along the winding roads of the Hill Country. Visitors can enjoy stunning views of the landscape from the many lookout points and scenic overlooks along the way.

• Length: 200 miles
• When To Go: During the months of April, May, and October
• Bucket List Stop: Fredericksburg, which is a bucket list destination for small town lovers

The Dalton Highway, Alaska

With this route being the only one that crosses the arctic circle, the dalton highway is the definition of "bucket list".

The Dalton Highway is the northernmost highway in the United States and the only road trip in this list that crosses the Arctic Circle. The Dalton Highway is an all-weather road but also incredibly remote and one that requires extensive planning (be prepared for breaking down in the remote Alaskan wilderness).

The Dalton Highway runs from Fairbanks (the main city in Interior Alaska) and ends at Deadhorse in Prudhoe Bay (near the Arctic Ocean).

• Length: 414 miles
• When To Go: June to mid-July , when the highway is usually dry
• Bucket List Stop: Finger Mountain Wayside, which also has an interpretive half-mile hiking trail for those seeking more scenic overlooks

Hawaii Big Island Circuit Drive

While hawaii might seem out of the way, the big island circuit drive is worth the flight to see active volcanoes and stunning coastal landscape views.

The Big Island of Hawaii is by far the largest island in the Hawaiian Island Chain and is home to some of the world's most active volcanoes and some of the most stunning landscapes. One of the epic drives to consider is to drive around the Big Island. The two main roads on the Big Island are Highways 11 and 19 and taken together they create one big loop around the whole island.

• Length: 300 miles
• When To Go: During the months of April, May, August, September, and October
• Bucket List Stop: Pepe'ekeo Scenic Drive is at the start of Highway 19, just north of Hilo

Seattle To Fairbanks North American Drive

It wouldn't be a bucket list trip if it didn't have a unique route, and the drive from seattle to washington and fairbanks, alaska, also brings travelers through canada.

This suggested road trip from Seattle in Washington to Fairbanks in Alaska is the only American road trip to also pass through Canada. This is a mammoth 2,150-mile road trip passing through some of the remotest landscapes of North America (including British Columbia and the Yukon Territory). Alternatively, to keep it an all-American 'road trip', consider taking the Alaska Marine Highway - a ferry network that is part of the American highway system that bypasses Canada.

• Length: 2,150 miles
• When To Go: During summer months, preferably early June and July
• Bucket List Stop: While Fairbanks is the ultimate bucket list stop, saving some time to explore Canada can also add a unique aspect to this road trip

Take a hike! But not before packing some safety essentials for your trip

Kate Ryan | [email protected]

June 29, 2024, 4:00 AM

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The D.C. area has hundreds of miles of trails for hikers of all skill levels to enjoy.

But the American Hiking Society is encouraging hikers to check out their list of 10 essentials before heading out the door.

Topping the list, said AHS communications manager Maggie Peikon, is proper footwear.

“Generally speaking, you’ll want footwear that can provide safe traction to keep your feet protected throughout the duration of your hike,” she said.

Some outdoor enthusiasts prefer sport sandals, but Peikon said, “There’s a time and place for sandals, perhaps on hikes through water or water crossings.”

Typically, hikers are best off with hiking shoes or boots that offer more coverage and stability, Peikon said.

Other items hikers should have with them are maps and compasses or GPS units.

The AHS website advises: “While phones and GPS units are handy, they aren’t always reliable in the backcountry,” so hikers should consider carrying a paper map and compass and know how to use them.

Staying hydrated in hot weather is always important, no matter what your activityis, but Peikon said it’s especially important for hikers: “The rule of thumb is to carry a half a liter of water for every hour you plan to be hiking.”

And even if you think you’ll just take a short hike and can skip carrying water, don’t.

“You never want to be in a situation where you don’t have enough water,” Peikon told WTOP.

Peikon said it’s important for hikers to consider their own fitness level and the type of hike they are planning on taking: “Especially in the summer heat, overexertion can happen quickly, and if you’re not used to a particular level of fitness challenge, it can present a real challenge for you.”

When it comes to running into unexpected company on the trail, like snakes or bears, she said hikers need to be aware of their surroundings.

If hiking alone, hikers should make noise, either by clapping or singing, “Just so that you don’t surprise a bear.” If you do cross paths with a bear, she said, “Speak calmly, like ‘Hey, bear,’ and walk backward — never turn your back to a bear.”

Peikon suggests carrying bear spray, but remaining alert to your surroundings.

Like bears, snakes typically try to avoid humans, but there are cases when hikers step on them, unaware that a snake was underfoot.

“Generally, they try to stay off the trail, but of course it happens, they’re going to be in those sunny spots, warming themselves up, so just keep an eye out for them,” Peikon said.

You can see the organization’s complete list of 10 essentials on AmericanHiking.org .

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As a member of the award-winning WTOP News, Kate is focused on state and local government. Her focus has always been on how decisions made in a council chamber or state house affect your house. She's also covered breaking news, education and more.

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Hikers Can Claim 3 Free Nights On This Beautiful Island In Italy

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• Sardinia offers free 3-night stay for hikers on its 311-mile Santa Barbara Mining Trail.
• Sardinia's trail highlights its cultural, historical heritage, ancient sites, mining history, and unique flora and fauna.
• "Leg's go in Cammino" initiative for 35 and under hikers explores Sardinia's interior from Sep 15-Dec 31, 2024.

Hiking travelers have a lot of places they can see, and most recently Sardinia has started offering three free nights to travelers who want to experience their newest hiking trail. There are many reasons travelers visit Sardinia , and this trail may become one of the more popular ones. Italy's scenic views and amazing culture make it a must-visit for many travelers. Yet Sardinia has an allure all its own, separate from the opulence and splendor of Italy itself.

The island gets its name from Ancient Rome, although the source of the name is still hotly debated . Sardinia shows up in works of literature like Steinbeck's The Sea and Sardinia and has found its place in popular culture because of the word "sardines." As a hiking destination it's well worth traveling to see. The coastline is beautiful, and the beaches call out to travelers. Let's take a look at why this offer to visit Sardinia with three days' free accommodation is the opportunity of a lifetime.

If You're Hiking This Mediterranean Island, You Can Soon Stay There For Free

Sardinia is a beautiful island that many desire to visit. This unique program hopes to bring more people to the island to stay for free.

Hiking A Beautiful Island In Italy Can't Be Beat

Sardinia has an irresistible offer for hikers.

In all the places I've visited as a hiker, Sardinia is among the most breathtaking. Sardinia offers exceptional hiking experiences due to its diverse landscapes. The island features rugged mountains, pristine beaches, and lush forests. Hikers can explore ancient nuraghi (stone towers), hidden coves, and dramatic cliffs.

The Mediterranean climate ensures pleasant conditions for much of the year. Trails range from easy coastal walks to challenging mountain treks, catering to all skill levels. Sardinia's rich biodiversity and unique flora and fauna add interest to hikes.

Introducing The Santa Barbara Mining Trail

Take this classic jaunt across the landscape.

The Santa Barbara Mining Trail offers hikers an immersive journey through Sardinia's rich cultural and natural landscape. Stretching 311 miles, this ambitious trail takes approximately a month to complete, divided into 16 manageable stages. The three-day free stay initiative is a great way to get people started on hiking this trail.

Exploring outdoors is, after all, one of the best things to do in Sardinia . Participants traverse a diverse array of terrains, including cliffs, caves, forests, beaches, and waterfalls, while also encountering ancient sites along the way.

The trail, organized by the Cammino Minerario di Santa Barbara foundation, provides a unique opportunity to explore Sardinia's mining heritage and stunning Mediterranean scenery. Hikers can expect a challenging but rewarding experience that showcases the island's geological and historical significance.

There Are A Few Ways To Make The Santa Barbara Mining Trail Trek

There are three routes to choose from while hiking sardinia's top trail.

The Santa Barbara Mining Trail offers hikers three distinct route options, each showcasing unique aspects of Sardinia's landscape and history. Route "301" begins in Portoscuso, famous for tuna fishing, and ends in Masua, known as the "coast of the mines."

The "302" route starts in Masua and concludes in Montevecchio, passing through coastal towns like Buggeru and Portixeddu.

Finally, route "303" commences in the abandoned medieval village of Tratalias ( Sardinia has amazing archaeological locations ) and finishes near the sea in Portoscuso, offering stops at Sant'antioco and Carbonia. Each path provides diverse experiences, from coastal views to mining heritage sites, allowing hikers to tailor their journey to their interests.

Sardinia's "Leg's Go In Cammino" Initiative

Encouraging hiking to explore sardinia's interior.

There are a few things visitors should not do in Sardinia , but exploring the island through varied walks isn't one of them. The "Leg's go in Cammino" initiative , launched by the Cammino Minerario di Santa Barbara foundation, aims to attract younger hikers to Sardinia's historic trails.

Open to travelers aged 35 and under, the program offers a free three-night stay for those who embark on the Santa Barbara mining trail. The initiative runs from September 15 through the end of the year, providing ample opportunity for autumn and winter hiking.

Participants must choose one of the three designated routes and make a small donation to claim their free accommodation. While the full trail takes about a month to complete, hikers are not required to walk the entire route to benefit from the free stay, making it accessible to those with limited time or varying ability levels.

What's It Like To Hike In Sardinia?

Breathtaking is an understatement.

From the brilliant Mediterranean water to the stunning ancient ruins that dot the countryside, there's little that Sardinia doesn't offer to a dedicated hiker. As someone who's advised others on hiking the Caribbean , seeing this European island should be high on any hiker's bucket list.

It gives a hiker a brand-new perspective on the island, and it's refreshing to see it from this perspective. With a free three-day stay, there's no better time to explore Sardinia than right now.

Do you plan to take advantage of the free stay to hike Sardinia's Santa Barbara Mining Trail Trek? Tell us in the comments!