Satisfy your wild side by tackling the most iconic hikes in the United States, from coast to coast and everywhere in between.
America boasts some of the world’s most iconic hiking trails and outdoor areas. Outdoor enthusiasts from far and wide travel to the U.S. to experience its rugged mountains, picturesque coastlines, and dramatic desert scenery.
These are the best bucket list hikes in the U.S. for breathtaking views and unforgettable adventures.
Half Dome, California
The Half Dome Day Hike in Yosemite National Park attracts outdoor enthusiasts nationwide. This strenuous 16.5-mile hike gains over 4,800′ of elevation, taking hikers through forests, past waterfalls, and to the summit of Half Dome.
During the last 400’ of the hike, you must navigate a steep cable route that rewards you with stunning views of Yosemite Valley below. Due to its length and difficulty level, this California hike is not ideal for beginners.
Beehive Loop Trail, Maine
Test your physical limits along Acadia National Park’s famous Beehive Loop Trail. Although only 1.5 miles long, it features sections of exposed granite, ladders, and rock scrambling. Prepare for a tiring but exhilarating adventure that provides one-of-a-kind views of the national park below.
Devil’s Bridge Trail, Arizona
Tackle the Devil’s Bridge Trail in Sedona to see one of Arizona’s most iconic rock formations. Enjoy the vibrant desert landscape as you hike about two miles to the natural arch. Devil’s Bridge is a jaw-dropping sight and the perfect backdrop for photos.
Trail of Ten Falls, Oregon
The Trail of Ten Falls in Silver Falls State Park offers a unique opportunity to see ten waterfalls in one hike. While it’s over seven miles long, the trail is relatively moderate and family-friendly. You can even walk behind several waterfalls, giving you a new perspective on the picturesque water features.
Angels Landing, Utah
Angels Landing is one of the most iconic hikes in Utah. Located in Zion National Park, the roughly 4-mile-long trail is famous for its technical cliffside sections. Admire the Zion Canyon landscape below as you tackle the final narrow ridgeline leading to the Angels Landing viewpoint.
Diamond Head Crater Summit Trail, Hawaii
While the Diamond Head Crater Summit Trail is less than two miles long, it’s almost entirely uphill. The path leads you to the top of Diamond Head, a volcanic crater overlooking Oahu. Despite the physically demanding hike, the sweeping island and ocean views make the effort worthwhile.
Harding Icefield Trail, Alaska
Hiking the Harding Icefield Trail in Kenai Fjords National Park is a great way to experience Alaska’s rugged wilderness. This challenging path ascends almost nine miles through picturesque forests and meadows. When you reach the trail’s endpoint, you can enjoy views of the country’s largest icefield from above.
Grandfather Trail, North Carolina
North Carolina’s Grandfather Trail is a strenuous ridgeline hike with incredible scenery. Throughout almost 4.5 miles, you’ll encounter many overlooks, rock features, and steep areas with fixed cables where you may need to climb on your hands and knees. Hiking the Grandfather Trail is an unforgettable experience that guarantees lasting memories.
Calico Tanks Trail, Nevada
Hiking in the Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area is one of the most fun things to do in Las Vegas. Consider exploring the Calico Tanks Trail, a moderate hike less than 2.5 miles long. It has everything from historical artifacts to intriguing rock formations and the distant city skyline.
Skyline Loop, Washington
Head to Mount Rainier National Park in Washington to conquer the Skyline Loop. It spans over 5.5 miles, highlighting some of the park’s most striking scenery.
You’ll hike along rushing rivers, travel through wildflower fields, and have the chance to spot waterfalls and glaciers in the distance. Along the way, watch for native wildlife, such as bears and deer.
Grinnell Glacier Trail, Montana
If you can only embark on one Glacier National Park hike, make it the Grinnell Glacier Trail. This challenging 10-mile trail boasts various landscapes, including serene lakes and jagged mountain peaks. While many hikers consider Grinnell Glacier extremely difficult, it’s worth pushing yourself for the spectacular views.
Old Rag Mountain Loop, Virginia
Don’t let the name fool you—Old Rag Mountain Loop in Shenandoah National Park is anything but boring. The over 9-mile-long route steadily gains elevation as you weave through boulders and trees. While having lunch, you can enjoy views of the surrounding mountains from the summit.
Delta Lake Trail, Wyoming
Discover Wyoming’s dramatic scenery along the Delta Lake Trail in Grand Teton National Park. To reach the lake, you must ascend more than seven miles through forested areas and boulder fields. Delta Lake is a stunning reward for your efforts, with crystal-clear waters framed by towering mountains.
Pikes Peak, Colorado
Known as America’s Mountain, Pikes Peak in Colorado is on many hiking bucket lists. The mountain towers over 14,000’ in the air, and the most popular route to the top is the Barr Trail.
This path is over 12 miles one way and gains almost 7,500’ of elevation in total. Many camp overnight to break up the hike, though experienced hikers can complete the out-and-back trail in one day.
Alum Cave Trail, Tennessee
Hit the Alum Cave Trail to get off the beaten path at Great Smoky Mountains National Park, the most visited U.S. park. At 11 miles long, this hiking trail is not for the faint of heart. If you’re up for the challenge, you’ll witness some of the Great Smoky Mountains’ finest nature areas.
Head to Alaska for unforgettable outdoor adventures
Alaska is home to some of the country’s most striking landscapes. Tackle the best Alaska trails to create lifelong memories.
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Utah is one of the best hiking states in America
Dramatic desert environments await you in Utah. These are the top hikes in Utah for all experience levels.
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Elise Armitage is an entrepreneur and founder of What The Fab, a travel + lifestyle blog based in California. At the beginning of 2019, Elise left her corporate job at Google to chase her dreams: being an entrepreneur and helping women find fabulous in the everyday. Since then, she’s launched her SEO course Six-Figure SEO, where she teaches bloggers how to create a passive revenue stream from their website using SEO. Featured in publications like Forbes, Elle, HerMoney, and Real Simple, Elise is a firm believer that you can be of both substance and style.
