Picture this: You’re gazing out over a vista that seems to stretch to the ends of the Earth. Your heart races with anticipation as you set foot on a hidden gem of a hiking trail. The scent of pine fills the air as you wind your way through lush forests and ascend to a peak that rewards you with a panoramic view fit for a king.
As impressive as it sounds, places like this truly exist in the U.S. I have a list of great hiking trails to prove it.
Top 5 U.S. hiking spots to explore
1. Nugget Falls Trail in Alaska’s Tongass National Forest
This two-mile hike offers lush forests, wildlife sightings and captivating waterfall and glacier views.
2. Half Dome in Yosemite National Park, California
The 16-mile trail demands your unwavering dedication, leading you to the summit of Yosemite’s illustrious granite dome. The pinnacle of the journey features a thrilling ascent using metal cables for the last 400 feet, an iconic and permit-required experience.
3. Angels Landing Trail in Zion National Park, Utah
Revered as an angelic marvel, this five-mile roundtrip trail offers a heart-pounding ascent that is described as terrifying and immensely rewarding.
4. Rim Trail in Grand Canyon National Park, Arizona
The Rim Trail’s panoramic vistas offer a 12-mile stretch along the southern rim of the Grand Canyon, and its mostly level pathway treats hikers to continuous, awe-inspiring views.
5. Skyline Trail in Mount Rainier National Park, Washington
This 5.4-mile trail delivers ever-changing perspectives and an intimate encounter with Mount Rainier, creating unforgettable memories.
Prepare for your next hike
Hiking some of these trails can be challenging. Your best move is to prepare for everything Mother Nature can throw at you. Here are supplies to always take on your hikes.
Staying hydrated is made easy with this hydration backpack. It holds 3 liters of water and is super easy to carry on any trail.
This Columbia sunshade hat is perfect for staying cool even in the pounding sunshine.
Keep your balance with these must-have hiking poles. They’re lightweight, collapsable and can help you climb any steep trail.
Footwear is vital to a successful hike. These high-rise hiking boots will help you conquer any trail.
You don’t want to skip this first aid kit. It includes bandages, sterile wipes, a sting relief pad and everything else you need in case of an accident.
Whether you’re a seasoned hiker or someone taking their first steps into nature, these hidden gems offer an opportunity to connect with nature in ways you’ve never imagined. Your next epic adventure awaits.
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