Are you itching to get out of the house and commune with nature? Hiking is a great way to do just that. Not only is it a fantastic form of exercise, but it also allows you to explore the great outdoors and take in breathtaking views. Luckily, there are plenty of hiking trails all over the country that offer diverse scenery and difficulty levels. Here are some of the best hiking trails in your area that are worth exploring!
Mount Tamalpais State Park, California
Located in Marin County, this state park is a hiker’s paradise. With over 60 miles of trails to choose from, you can find something to fit your experience level. The park is known for its stunning views of the San Francisco Bay Area, redwood groves, and coastal trails. One of the most popular hikes is the Steep Ravine and Matt Davis Loop, which takes you through a lush forest, past waterfalls, and up to panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean.
The Appalachian Trail, Virginia
The Appalachian Trail is a 2,200-mile long hiking trail that stretches from Maine to Georgia. However, you don’t have to tackle the whole trail to experience its beauty. The section that runs through Shenandoah National Park in Virginia is particularly breathtaking. The trail offers views of the Blue Ridge Mountains, wildflowers, and even the chance to see some wildlife. One of the most popular hikes is the Hawksbill Gap Loop, which offers stunning views of the Shenandoah Valley.
Zion National Park, Utah
If you’re looking for a hiking trail that offers stunning views of towering red rocks and deep canyons, Zion National Park is your go-to destination. The park offers a range of hikes for all experience levels, from easy strolls to strenuous climbs. Angels Landing is one of the most popular hikes, which takes you up to a scenic viewpoint with 360-degree views of the park. The Narrows is another popular hike, which allows you to walk through a narrow slot canyon with towering walls on either side.
Acadia National Park, Maine
Located on the coast of Maine, Acadia National Park offers a range of hiking trails with stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean. The park is also home to Cadillac Mountain, the highest point on the East Coast, which offers unparalleled views of the sunrise. One of the most popular hikes is the Precipice Trail, which offers a challenging climb up a granite cliff face with stunning views of the park.
Glacier National Park, Montana
Located in the Rocky Mountains, Glacier National Park offers a range of hiking trails for all experience levels. The park is known for its stunning glaciers, alpine lakes, and mountain vistas. One of the most popular hikes is the Highline Trail, which offers stunning views of the park’s mountains and wildlife. If you’re feeling adventurous, the Grinnell Glacier hike is a challenging climb up to a stunning glacier-fed lake.
Great Smoky Mountains National Park, North Carolina and Tennessee
The Great Smoky Mountains National Park is the most frequently visited national park in the country, and it’s easy to see why. The park offers over 800 miles of hiking trails through lush forests, past waterfalls, and up to stunning mountain views. The Chimney Tops Trail is one of the most popular hikes, which takes you up to a stunning rocky outcrop with panoramic views of the park.
No matter where you are in the country, there is a hiking trail worth exploring. From coast to coast, there are stunning views, challenging climbs, and opportunities to commune with nature. So why not strap on your hiking boots and hit the trails? You never know what you might discover.