National parks offer some of the most breathtaking hikes in the world. These trails showcase diverse landscapes, from towering mountains to lush forests and deep canyons. Explore these hikes to experience the beauty and grandeur of nature firsthand.
Angels Landing – Zion National Park
Angels Landing is a thrilling hike located in Zion National Park, Utah. The trail is 5.4 miles round trip and offers breathtaking views of Zion Canyon. The final half-mile involves a narrow ridge with steep drop-offs, making it an exhilarating experience for adventurous hikers. The hike is famous for its panoramic vistas and dramatic landscapes. Key highlights include Scout Lookout and the breathtaking summit. Be prepared for a challenging climb, especially along the ridge, which requires a good head for heights and careful footing.
Half Dome – Yosemite National Park
Half Dome is an iconic hike in Yosemite National Park, California. The 16-mile round trip trek is strenuous, involving a significant elevation gain and a final ascent using cables. The views from the top are unmatched, offering a sweeping panorama of the Yosemite Valley. The trail passes through stunning landscapes, including Vernal and Nevada Falls. The cable section near the summit is a unique and thrilling feature, attracting thousands of hikers each year. Permits are required, so plan ahead to secure your spot.
Bright Angel Trail – Grand Canyon National Park
Bright Angel Trail is one of the most popular hikes in Grand Canyon National Park, Arizona. The trail descends into the canyon, offering hikers a closer look at the majestic rock formations and the Colorado River. It’s a strenuous hike, with a round trip to the river being around 19 miles. Key highlights include Indian Garden, a lush oasis halfway down, and the incredible views of the canyon walls. The trail is well-maintained and has several rest houses with water, making it safer and more accessible for determined hikers.
Hidden Lake Trail – Glacier National Park
Hidden Lake Trail is a picturesque hike in Glacier National Park, Montana. The 5.4-mile round trip offers stunning views of alpine meadows, wildflowers, and Hidden Lake itself. The trail starts at Logan Pass and is accessible from the Going-to-the-Sun Road. The trail is popular for its wildlife sightings, including mountain goats and marmots. At the overlook, hikers are rewarded with a breathtaking view of the lake, surrounded by rugged peaks. It’s a moderately challenging hike, suitable for most fitness levels.
Mist Trail – Yosemite National Park
Mist Trail in Yosemite National Park, California, is a popular hike that takes you up close to two of the park’s iconic waterfalls. The 7-mile round trip leads to the top of Vernal Fall and Nevada Fall, offering misty, refreshing conditions in spring and early summer. The trail is known for its slippery steps and stunning waterfall views. Highlights include the powerful spray from Vernal Fall, which creates rainbows on sunny days, and the panoramic vistas from the top of Nevada Fall. It’s a must-do hike for waterfall lovers.
Cadillac Mountain North Ridge Trail – Acadia National Park
Cadillac Mountain North Ridge Trail is a scenic hike in Acadia National Park, Maine. The trail is 4.4 miles round trip and offers panoramic views of the Atlantic Ocean and surrounding islands. Hikers often enjoy the sunrise from the summit, as it’s the first place to see the sunrise in the United States. The trail features rocky terrain and occasional granite steps. Key highlights include the views of Frenchman Bay and the chance to see peregrine falcons. The hike is moderate, making it accessible for most hikers.
South Kaibab Trail – Grand Canyon National Park
South Kaibab Trail is a challenging hike in Grand Canyon National Park, Arizona. The trail descends steeply into the canyon, providing stunning views at every turn. It’s about 7 miles round trip to Skeleton Point, but hikers can choose shorter or longer destinations. The trail is known for its dramatic vistas and unique geological formations. Highlights include Ooh Aah Point and Cedar Ridge, both offering breathtaking overlooks. There is no water along the trail, so hikers need to carry plenty of supplies.
Highline Trail – Glacier National Park
Highline Trail is a spectacular hike in Glacier National Park, Montana. The trail is about 11.8 miles one way, starting at Logan Pass and ending at The Loop. Hikers experience stunning views of wildflower meadows, rugged peaks, and the distant glaciers. The trail is famous for its narrow path along a sheer cliff, known as the Garden Wall. Key highlights include encounters with wildlife like mountain goats and the breathtaking view from Granite Park Chalet. It’s a moderately challenging hike, suitable for experienced hikers.
Fairyland Loop – Bryce Canyon National Park
Fairyland Loop is an enchanting hike in Bryce Canyon National Park, Utah. The 8-mile loop trail takes hikers through hoodoos, spires, and colorful rock formations. It starts and ends at Fairyland Point, offering a less crowded experience than other park trails. The trail showcases the park’s unique geological features and vibrant colors. Highlights include Tower Bridge and China Wall, both stunning rock formations. It’s a moderately challenging hike, providing an immersive experience of Bryce Canyon’s beauty.
Observation Point – Zion National Park
Observation Point is a breathtaking hike in Zion National Park, Utah. The 8-mile round trip trail offers one of the best views in the park, looking down on Angels Landing and Zion Canyon. The trail starts at Weeping Rock and ascends through Echo Canyon. The hike is famous for its dramatic switchbacks and expansive vistas. Highlights include the narrow slot canyon of Echo Canyon and the stunning overlook at Observation Point. It’s a strenuous hike, rewarding hikers with unparalleled views.
Harding Icefield Trail – Kenai Fjords National Park
Harding Icefield Trail is an adventurous hike in Kenai Fjords National Park, Alaska. The trail is 8.2 miles round trip and provides stunning views of the Harding Icefield and Exit Glacier. It starts at the Exit Glacier area and climbs steeply. The trail is known for its breathtaking glacier views and diverse landscapes. Key highlights include the icefield vista at the top and frequent wildlife sightings like black bears and marmots. It’s a challenging hike, best suited for experienced hikers.
Grinnell Glacier Trail – Glacier National Park
Grinnell Glacier Trail in Glacier National Park, Montana, is a stunning hike leading to one of the park’s remaining glaciers. The 10.3-mile round trip offers breathtaking views of alpine scenery, turquoise lakes, and towering peaks. The trail is known for its vibrant wildflowers and abundant wildlife, including bighorn sheep and grizzly bears. The highlight is reaching the glacier, where hikers can see the ice up close and enjoy the serene beauty of the surrounding landscape.
The Narrows – Zion National Park
The Narrows in Zion National Park, Utah, is a unique hike through the Virgin River. Hikers wade and sometimes swim through narrow canyons, surrounded by towering walls. It’s an adventurous experience, with a round trip distance of up to 16 miles. The hike is famous for its dramatic slot canyon scenery and refreshing water. Highlights include Wall Street, the narrowest section, and Orderville Canyon, a scenic side canyon. Proper footwear and gear are essential for navigating the river safely.
Skyline Trail – Mount Rainier National Park
Skyline Trail is a beautiful hike in Mount Rainier National Park, Washington. The 5.5-mile loop offers stunning views of Mount Rainier, wildflower meadows, and glaciers. The trail starts at Paradise and is accessible to hikers of varying skill levels. The hike is renowned for its panoramic vistas and vibrant wildflowers. Key highlights include Myrtle Falls and the breathtaking views of Rainier from Panorama Point. It’s a moderately challenging hike that showcases the park’s diverse landscapes.
This article originally appeared on Rarest.org.
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