The Best Places to Go Hiking in the USA
America some of the best hiking trails in the world, with each state having it’s own favourites. I asked Kevin Devoto, an avid outdoor enthusiast and freelance writer, to share with us the best places to go hiking in the USA. Check out his top six and get planning your next trip Stateside…
Angels Landing
As Utah’s first national park, there are over 30 moderate hiking trails in Zion. The most popular trail is Angels Landing. This 5-mile hike takes up to five hours for the entire round-trip. This hike is for anyone in good condition until you reach Scout Lookout. The views are magnificent, but the last 1/2 mile can be a little dangerous, as you can see the trail going south along the ridge. Zion is a must visit for any outdoor enthusiast and has to be one of the best places to go hiking in the USA.
The Appalachian Trail
This trail spans across 14 states and is nearly 2,190 miles long. It stretches from Springer Mountain in Georgia all the way up to Mount Katahdin in Maine. The largest segment of The Appalachian Trail is in Virginia. Portions of the trail wind through towns, except for Maine, when you’ll have 100 miles of wilderness to trek through. You will need enough water and food for at least eight days. Even though there are shelters along the trail, bring your own tent just in case it’s crowded.
Half Dome
Yosemite, one of the most beloved National Parks, is home to the infamous Half Dome hike. This strenuous hike is almost 16 miles round-trip and will take you to the top of granite dome. From there, you will have unparalleled views of Nevada Falls, Vernal, and the Yosemite Valley. The last 400 feet of the hike, you will climb using two metal cables. You will also need a permit
because of its popularity. Not only is Yosemite one of the best places to go hiking in the USA, it is worth a visit for the scenery alone.
Cadillac Mountain North Ridge Trail
Acadia National Park is where you will find Cadillac Mountain, the tallest mountain in the eastern seaboard and the main attraction of Acadia. It is only a 4-mile round-trip trail, but once you reach the top of the mountain at 1,528 ft., you will be rewarded with stunning views in every direction. You will be able to see the islands off the coast of Maine, Bar Harbor village, Eagle Lake, and Don Mountain. It is a very good walk with a steady climb.
Hoh River Trail
This trail is found in Olympic National Park in Washington State and winds through the beautiful rainforest for 17.4 miles up to Glacier Meadows. There are opportunities to see wildlife, such as elk, mountain goats, and possibly bears. You will experience several stream crossings and be able to view Mount Olympus and Blue Glacier. The trail is very well maintained with Tom Creek and Happy Four Shelter, two points of interest on the trail.
Medicine Point Lookout Trail
Located near Sula, Montana, Medicine Point Lookout is a 4-mile trail is very steep and not recommended for beginners who want to go hiking in the USA. It will take you up to a small historic forest fire lookout station that has been restored as if you were in the 1940s. You can actually spend the night as it sleeps two and has a wood stove for heat, along with a lantern and a propane camp stove. There is a 30–inch catwalk surrounding the tower with spectacular views of Montana’s wilderness.
All of these trails offer a variety of scenic beauty, difficulty and length, in different areas of America. Whether you are a beginner, intermediate or advanced, hiker, these are six great trails for hiking in the USA. Always remember to prepare for each one of these hikes accordingly. Pack enough food, wear the right clothes, and more importantly wear the right footwear. There is something magical about seeing these beautiful sites first-hand, instead of just passing through. Go see for yourself.
About the author:
Kevin Devoto is an avid outdoor enthusiast and freelance writer. He enjoys writing about sustainability, eco friendly behaviours and local travel. He has traveled all over the world but has taken a particular interest in our great National Parks.
Sarah
