Standing at the edge of a cliff, the wind rushing past you as you take in a view so vast, it feels like the world is at your feet. The scent of fresh pine fills the air, and the only sound you hear is your heartbeat.
Hiking isn’t just about the destination—it’s about that moment of pure connection with nature, where every step brings a sense of wonder and achievement.
Whether you’re a seasoned adventurer or just starting, there’s a trail waiting to transform your world. Ready to explore the trails that will leave you breathless? Keep reading.
1. Zion National Park, Utah
Zion National Park is a paradise for adventurers of all skill levels, offering a vast array of trails that showcase the park’s jaw-dropping sandstone cliffs, deep canyons, and lush valleys. For beginners, the Lower Emerald Pool Trail provides a relatively easy hike with the reward of stunning views and cascading waterfalls. However, for seasoned hikers, Angels Landing is one of the most famous and challenging trails in the U.S. The exposure and steep drop-offs make it not for the faint-hearted, but the view from the top is worth it. It’s a must-do for anyone looking for a challenge in Zion.
What makes Zion even more remarkable is its accessibility. Whether you’re traversing the easy Riverside Walk or scaling the epic The Narrows, Zion’s diverse landscapes cater to everyone. The variety of hikes makes it easy to spend multiple days here, soaking in every vista. I’ll never forget the first time I stood at the top of Angels Landing, feeling like I was on top of the world—completely worth the effort.
Other Information:
- Best Months to Visit: April to October for optimal weather and trail access. However, it’s best to visit early in the morning or late afternoon during peak months to avoid the crowds.
- Difficulty: Beginner to expert (depending on the trial)
- Parking: Limited during peak seasons; shuttle service is available in spring and summer.
- Instagram Spots: Angels Landing, The Watchman, The Narrows
2. Yosemite National Park, California
Yosemite National Park is legendary for its dramatic granite cliffs, giant sequoias, and incredible waterfalls, making it one of the most iconic hiking destinations in the U.S. For beginners, the Lower Yosemite Falls Trail offers an easy, flat walk to the base of one of the tallest waterfalls in North America. But if you’re looking to challenge yourself, Half Dome is one of the ultimate test hikes, with its iconic cables that climb the granite peak. It’s a grueling 14-16 hour round trip, but the sense of accomplishment when you reach the top is unforgettable.
One of my highlights in Yosemite was hiking to Glacier Point. The panoramic views of the valley and surrounding peaks were just breathtaking, and the trail itself wasn’t as demanding, making it perfect for anyone who wants a rewarding hike without extreme difficulty. Yosemite has something for everyone, from strolls to intense climbs, and the sheer beauty of the park will make you want to keep coming back.
Other Information:
- Best Months to Visit: May to October, especially for the waterfalls during spring thaw.
- Difficulty: Beginner to expert (Half Dome is challenging)
- Permits: Required for Half Dome; advanced reservations recommended.
- Instagram Spots: Yosemite Falls, Glacier Point, Tunnel View
3. Grand Canyon National Park, Arizona
The Grand Canyon is truly a bucket-list destination for hikers. Its vastness and dramatic beauty are unlike anything else on Earth. The South Rim Trail is a fantastic option for beginners, offering breathtaking views along its accessible path. For those who want to venture deeper into the canyon, the Bright Angel Trail provides a challenging descent into the heart of the canyon. The switchbacks are steep, but the panoramic views of the canyon’s red rock layers are worth every step.
One of my most memorable experiences in the Grand Canyon was the sunrise over the canyon walls. The colors are simply magical, and it’s one of those moments that makes you feel incredibly small in the best way. Keep in mind that temperatures in the canyon can vary greatly, so be prepared for both the heat at the base and the cool weather at the rim. Be sure to stay hydrated and take it slow to avoid the intense Arizona sun.
Other Information:
- Best Months to Visit: March to May and September to November for pleasant temperatures.
- Difficulty: Beginner to expert (depending on the trial)
- Elevation: Rim-to-river descent can be strenuous.
- Instagram Spots: Grand Canyon Sunrise, Desert View Watchtower, South Rim Viewpoints
4. Acadia National Park, Maine
Acadia National Park is a hidden gem on the East Coast, with a wide range of trails offering everything from coastal views to forested paths. The Ocean Path is a gentle 4-mile walk that takes you along the rocky coastline, offering breathtaking views of the Atlantic Ocean and Acadia’s iconic granite peaks. For more seasoned hikers, the Precipice Trail is a thrilling, exposed route that climbs the side of a mountain, offering dramatic views of the park and coastline.
One thing that stood out during my visit to Acadia was the blend of coastal and forested landscapes—something not often seen in other parks. Whether you’re hiking along the cliffs of Cadillac Mountain or exploring the tranquil Jordan Pond, Acadia’s mix of terrain keeps things interesting. The park is especially stunning in the fall when the foliage turns vibrant red and orange, making it a photographer’s dream.
Other Information:
- Best Months to Visit: Late spring to fall, especially in October for foliage.
- Difficulty: Easy to moderate (Precipice is challenging)
- Park Size: Compact, making it easy to explore multiple trails in one trip.
- Instagram Spots: Cadillac Mountain, Jordan Pond, Ocean Path
5. Glacier National Park, Montana
Glacier National Park is a hiker’s dream, offering some of the most beautiful and rugged landscapes in the U.S. For beginners, the Avalanche Lake Trail is a scenic, relatively easy hike that takes you past waterfalls and into a stunning alpine lake surrounded by towering peaks. However, for experienced hikers, The Highline Trail offers one of the best wilderness experiences, providing expansive views of the rugged Rocky Mountains and the opportunity to encounter wildlife.
I’ve had the pleasure of hiking The Grinnell Glacier Trail, which takes you through wildflower meadows, past glacial lakes, and up to a glacier. The view from the top, looking down at the turquoise water, is something I’ll never forget. Glacier National Park is all about the outdoors: the park has more than 700 miles of trails, making it the perfect destination for anyone looking to escape into nature. Its remote location adds to the sense of adventure, as it’s less crowded than some of the more famous parks, giving you a more peaceful experience.
Other Information:
- Best Months to Visit: June to September for the most accessible trails.
- Difficulty: Easy to expert (Highline is challenging)
- Wildlife: Bighorn sheep, grizzly bears, and mountain goats are commonly seen.
- Instagram Spots: Grinnell Glacier, Logan Pass, Hidden Lake
6. Bryce Canyon National Park, Utah
Bryce Canyon is known for its unique rock formations called hoodoos, which are spire-like structures formed by erosion. For beginners, the Navajo Loop Trail is a must-do. It’s relatively short, but it takes you down into the heart of the canyon, allowing you to experience these otherworldly formations up close. For those looking for a more challenging hike, The Fairyland Loop offers a stunning and longer route, giving you sweeping views of the canyon while also taking you deeper into the wilderness.
What makes Bryce Canyon stand out is the sunrise and sunset experiences. Watching the first light of day illuminate the hoodoos is a surreal experience, as the colors change with the sun. The park is small enough that you can easily take in multiple viewpoints in a single day. But even with the shorter hikes, Bryce always leaves you in awe of the natural beauty. It feels like hiking through a geological wonderland.
Other Information:
- Best Months to Visit: April to October; summer can get hot, so mornings and evenings are the best times to hike.
- Difficulty: Easy to moderate (depending on the trail)
- Elevation: Over 8,000 feet, so be mindful of altitude effects.
- Instagram Spots: Sunrise at Bryce Point, Queen’s Garden, Fairyland Loop
7. Yellowstone National Park, Wyoming
Yellowstone, the world’s first national park, is rich in geothermal wonders, wildlife, and scenic vistas. For beginners, the Lower Falls Viewpoint on the South Rim Trail offers a great view of one of the park’s most iconic features, the Lower Falls. But for more seasoned hikers, the Bechler River Trail takes you on a remote journey through the park’s backcountry, crossing rivers and passing thermal features that few visitors see. The diverse landscapes range from steaming geysers to lush forests, and each hike feels like a new adventure.
What’s special about hiking in Yellowstone is the diversity of experiences. You can be walking through a serene forest one moment and then encounter bubbling hot springs or geysers the next. For me, one of the highlights was hiking near Old Faithful and witnessing the iconic eruption, knowing I was standing in the middle of one of Earth’s most active geothermal areas. The park is vast, so it’s a hiker’s paradise for both casual walks and more demanding treks.
Other Information:
- Best Months to Visit: June to September; winters are cold and some trails are inaccessible.
- Difficulty: Easy to moderate, with a few challenging backcountry routes.
- Wildlife: Bison, elk, grizzly bears, wolves, and more.
- Instagram Spots: Old Faithful, Grand Prismatic Spring, Lamar Valley
8. Olympic National Park, Washington
Olympic National Park in Washington State is a diverse wilderness that includes lush rainforests, alpine peaks, and a rugged coastline. For beginners, the Hall of Mosses Trail offers a short, easy hike through an enchanting, moss-draped rainforest. But for more experienced hikers, the Enchanted Valley trek offers a challenging backcountry experience, complete with views of waterfalls and the chance to spot elk. The park’s wilderness is truly unique, and the variety of ecosystems means there’s something for everyone.
What sets the Olympics apart is the Hoh Rainforest. It’s one of the largest temperate rainforests in the world, and the feeling of walking through it is magical. The quiet of the forest is broken only by the occasional birdcall, and the lush greenery is unlike anything I’ve seen in other parks. On the coast, you can hike along beaches with sea stacks and driftwood, making Olympic one of the most varied and visually striking parks.
Other Information:
- Best Months to Visit: Late spring to early fall; avoid the wet winter season.
- Difficulty: Easy to challenging (depending on the trail)
- Elevation: Includes both coastal and alpine hikes.
- Instagram Spots: Hoh Rainforest, Rialto Beach, Hurricane Ridge
9. Mount Rainier National Park, Washington
Mount Rainier is one of the most iconic peaks in the Pacific Northwest, towering at over 14,000 feet. For beginners, the Grove of the Patriarchs is an easy, scenic trail through an ancient forest filled with massive trees. But for more experienced hikers, the Camp Muir trail provides an incredible opportunity to ascend the lower slopes of the mountain, with stunning views of glaciers and snow-covered peaks. Mount Rainier is a year-round destination, and the glaciers make it one of the most unique hikes in the U.S.
The views of the surrounding valleys and peaks are spectacular, and the wildflower meadows in summer add a burst of color to the landscape. The sight of Mount Rainier towering over the landscape is awe-inspiring, and it’s impossible not to be drawn to its majesty. Hiking around the base or along the ridgelines gives you a sense of being dwarfed by nature—there’s a real humbling quality to being in the presence of this magnificent peak.
Other Information:
- Best Months to Visit: June to September; snow persists in the higher elevations year-round.
- Difficulty: Moderate to expert (Camp Muir is a demanding hike)
- Elevation: High elevation with potential for altitude sickness.
- Instagram Spots: Sunrise from Sunrise Point, Paradise Meadows, Camp Muir
10. Rocky Mountain National Park, Colorado
Rocky Mountain National Park is a hiker’s paradise, offering over 300 miles of trails through towering peaks, alpine lakes, and lush valleys. For beginners, the Bear Lake Loop is an easy but beautiful hike with incredible views of the surrounding mountains. But for those seeking a challenge, Longs Peak is one of Colorado’s most famous climbs, offering a strenuous 14-mile round trip to the summit with dramatic views and the chance to test your endurance.
One of the best things about Rocky Mountain National Park is its proximity to Estes Park, which makes it easy to plan your hikes and accommodations. The landscape is truly stunning, with wildflower-filled meadows, crystal-clear lakes, and panoramic mountain vistas. I loved hiking up to Emerald Lake, where the water was a brilliant turquoise and the surrounding peaks seemed to rise straight up from the water. It’s a rewarding, scenic trek that showcases the true beauty of the Rockies.
Other Information:
- Best Months to Visit: June to September for most trails; winter hiking is available but requires preparation.
- Difficulty: Easy to expert (Longs Peak is challenging)
- Elevation: Some trails reach over 12,000 feet, so be mindful of the altitude.
- Instagram Spots: Bear Lake, Emerald Lake, Longs Peak
11. Shenandoah National Park, Virginia
Shenandoah National Park is a hidden gem in the heart of the Blue Ridge Mountains, offering over 200,000 acres of stunning views and serene hiking trails. For beginners, the Dark Hollow Falls Trail is a short and easy path that leads you to a beautiful waterfall. But if you’re looking for a more challenging experience, the Appalachian Trail runs through the park, offering miles of rugged terrain and spectacular mountain vistas.
What makes Shenandoah so special is the accessibility and variety of its trails. You don’t need to venture far from the main highway to find yourself surrounded by wildflowers, lush forests, and crystal-clear streams. One of my favorite hikes here was the Skyline Drive, which offers panoramic views of the valley below, especially during the fall when the foliage is at its peak.
Other Information:
- Best Months to Visit: Spring and fall; avoid summer for the crowds.
- Difficulty: Easy to moderate (depending on the trail)
- Wildlife: Deer, black bears, and various bird species.
- Instagram Spots: Dark Hollow Falls, Skyline Drive, Stony Man Summit
12. Joshua Tree National Park, California
Joshua Tree is a surreal landscape where two deserts meet, creating a unique ecosystem full of strange rock formations and iconic trees. If you’re a beginner, the Hidden Valley Trail is a must-do, offering easy access to some of the park’s most famous rock formations. For expert hikers, the Ryan Mountain Trail is a moderately challenging hike that rewards you with expansive views of the park and its rugged terrain.
Joshua Tree is a favorite among photographers, and for good reason. The park’s sunsets and sunrises are some of the best in the country. I loved watching the golden light turn the giant boulders and twisted trees into a painterly scene. It’s an otherworldly experience, and it feels like you’ve stepped onto a different planet.
Other Information:
- Best Months to Visit: March to May, and October to November.
- Difficulty: Easy to moderate (Ryan Mountain is challenging)
- Weather: Be prepared for drastic temperature changes, especially in the desert.
- Instagram Spots: Cholla Cactus Garden, Ryan Mountain, Skull Rock
13. Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Tennessee/North Carolina
The Great Smoky Mountains are a sanctuary of mist-covered mountains, waterfalls, and old-growth forests. For beginners, the Laurel Falls Trail is an easy, paved path that leads you to one of the most picturesque waterfalls in the park. For a more rugged adventure, the Clingmans Dome trail offers a moderate hike to the highest point in the park, providing breathtaking panoramic views of the Smokies.
What sets the Smoky Mountains apart is its stunning biodiversity. Whether you’re walking through fog-draped forests or catching glimpses of wild turkeys and deer, the park feels like an immersion into nature. During the fall, the foliage explodes into vibrant shades of orange, red, and gold, making it a prime destination for photographers. It’s a place where you can connect with the wilderness in its most tranquil and untamed form.
Other Information:
- Best Months to Visit: Spring and fall, especially for fall foliage.
- Difficulty: Easy to moderate (Clingman Dome is moderate)
- Wildlife: Black bears, elk, and wild turkeys.
- Instagram Spots: Laurel Falls, Clingmans Dome, Alum Cave Bluffs
14. Haleakalā National Park, Hawaii
Haleakalā is a majestic park on the island of Maui, known for its vast volcanic landscapes, including the world’s largest dormant volcano. For beginners, the Sliding Sands Trail offers an easy way to experience the park’s stunning craters and volcanic terrain. However, for those seeking a challenge, the Halemau’u Trail is a more strenuous route that takes you deep into the volcanic wilderness, with incredible views of the crater and surrounding peaks.
What’s truly magical about Haleakalā is the sunrise. If you’re an early riser, catching the first light of day from the summit is a spiritual experience. The colors of the sky and the vastness of the volcanic landscape are breathtaking. It’s a moment of stillness and beauty that will stay with you long after you leave the island.
Other Information:
- Best Months to Visit: Year-round, though the weather can be unpredictable at higher elevations.
- Difficulty: Easy to challenge (Halemau’u is challenging)
- Elevation: The summit is over 10,000 feet, so prepare for altitude effects.
- Instagram Spots: Haleakalā Summit, Sliding Sands Trail, Sunrise at the Crater
15. Lake Tahoe, California/Nevada
Lake Tahoe offers a stunning combination of alpine beauty and crystal-clear waters, making it a prime destination for hikers. The Eagle Lake Trail is an easy hike that takes you to a peaceful lake with mountain views, perfect for beginners. For those with more experience, the Mount Tallac Trail offers a strenuous hike to one of the highest peaks in the region, with panoramic views of Lake Tahoe and the surrounding Sierra Nevada.
Whether you’re hiking along the lake’s shore or climbing up to high mountain ridges, Lake Tahoe’s scenery is unparalleled. I particularly loved hiking in the early morning, when the lake’s surface was like glass, reflecting the surrounding peaks. The diversity of terrain—ranging from lush forests to rocky ridges—keeps things interesting, and the beauty is nothing short of inspiring.
Other Information:
- Best Months to Visit: Late spring to early fall for hiking, though winter is great for skiing.
- Difficulty: Easy to expert (Mount Tallac is challenging)
- Elevation: High-altitude hikes can be demanding.
- Instagram Spots: Eagle Lake, Mount Tallac, Sand Harbor
16. Mount Hood, Oregon
Mount Hood is a towering presence in Oregon’s landscape, known for its snowy peaks and picturesque alpine meadows. For beginners, the Mirror Lake Trail is an easy hike that takes you through lush forests to a stunning lake with views of Mount Hood. However, for more advanced hikers, the Timberline Trail offers a rugged 40-mile loop around the mountain, providing breathtaking vistas, glaciers, and alpine meadows.
What I loved about hiking around Mount Hood was the variety of landscapes. The lower trails are forested and peaceful, while the higher trails offer more challenging terrain with snowfields and dramatic mountain views. The contrast between lush greenery and snow-capped peaks makes for one of the most striking hiking experiences.
Other Information:
- Best Months to Visit: June to September for hiking; winter is great for skiing.
- Difficulty: Easy to expert (Timberline is challenging)
- Elevation: The summit is over 11,000 feet, so prepare for altitude changes.
- Instagram Spots: Mirror Lake, Timberline Lodge, Meadows
17. Everglades National Park, Florida
The Everglades is a unique ecosystem that offers an entirely different hiking experience compared to the mountainous parks. For beginners, the Anhinga Trail provides an easy boardwalk hike that lets you get up close to the wetlands and wildlife, including alligators, birds, and turtles. For more seasoned hikers, the Gumbo Limbo Trail offers a slightly more rugged experience through mangrove swamps and tropical hardwood forests.
Hiking in the Everglades is like stepping into a different world—one of swamps, wildlife, and serene water vistas. I found it incredibly peaceful to walk through the stillness, surrounded by the sound of nature and the occasional splash of an alligator. The Everglades is especially stunning at dawn and dusk when wildlife is most active, and the atmosphere is calm and mysterious.
Other Information:
- Best Months to Visit: December to April; avoid summer due to heat and humidity.
- Difficulty: Easy to moderate (Gumbo Limbo is moderate)
- Wildlife: Alligators, manatees, various bird species.
- Instagram Spots: Anhinga Trail, Shark Valley, Flamingo
