Ranked: Best Trails in the United States
The United States boasts an incredible array of hiking trails, offering outdoor enthusiasts a diverse range of experiences from coast to coast. From challenging mountain ascents to scenic forest walks, these trails showcase the country's natural beauty and provide adventures for hikers of all skill levels. In this ranking, we'll explore some of the most breathtaking and popular trails across America, highlighting their unique features and challenges.
1. Navajo Loop and Queens Garden Trail, Bryce Canyon National Park, Utah
Difficulty: Moderate
Duration: 1h 33 mins
Distance: 4.8km
Elevation Gain: 199m
Topping our list is the iconic Navajo Loop and Queens Garden Trail. This trail offers an unparalleled journey through Bryce Canyon's famous hoodoos, providing hikers with otherworldly views and a moderate challenge. The relatively short distance and reasonable elevation gain make it accessible to many, while the stunning scenery ensures an unforgettable experience.
2. Devil's Bridge Trail, Sedona, Arizona
Difficulty: Moderate
Distance: 6.3km
Elevation Gain: 159m
Devil's Bridge Trail leads hikers to one of Sedona's most photographed natural arches. The moderate difficulty and stunning red rock views make this a must-do for visitors to the area. The trail culminates with a chance to walk across the natural sandstone bridge, offering thrilling photo opportunities.
3. Skyline Loop, Mount Rainier National Park, Washington
Difficulty: Hard
Duration: 3h 28m
Distance: 9km
Elevation Gain: 540m
This challenging trail in Mount Rainier National Park rewards hikers with panoramic views of the Cascade Range and close-up looks at the mountain's glaciers. The Skyline Loop offers a true alpine experience, with wildflower meadows in summer and the possibility of spotting wildlife.
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4. Angels Landing Trail, Zion National Park, Utah
Difficulty: Hard
Duration: 2h
Distance: 6.9km
Elevation Gain: 557m
Not for the faint of heart, Angels Landing offers thrill-seekers a challenging climb with chain-assisted sections and narrow ridges. The panoramic views of Zion Canyon from the summit are truly spectacular, making this one of the most famous hikes in the national park system.
5. Rattlesnake Ledge Trail, North Bend, Washington
Difficulty: Moderate
Duration: 3h 4m
Distance: 8.5km
Elevation Gain: 445m
Located near Seattle, the Rattlesnake Ledge Trail offers hikers a taste of the Pacific Northwest's beauty. The trail winds through lush forests before opening up to stunning views of the Cascade Mountains and Rattlesnake Lake below.
6. Emerald Lake Trail, Rocky Mountain National Park, Colorado
Difficulty: Moderate
Duration: 1h 45m
Distance: 5.1km
Elevation Gain: 214m
This trail takes hikers past three beautiful alpine lakes, with Emerald Lake being the crown jewel. Surrounded by towering peaks, the trail offers a perfect introduction to the beauty of Rocky Mountain National Park.
7. Vernal and Nevada Falls via the Mist Trail, Yosemite National Park, California
Difficulty: Hard
Duration: 4h 10m
Distance: 10.3km
Elevation Gain: 673m
This challenging trail in Yosemite takes hikers up close to two of the park's most impressive waterfalls. The Mist Trail lives up to its name, offering a refreshing (and often wet) experience as you climb alongside the cascading water.
8. Trail of Ten Falls, Silver Falls State Park, Oregon
Duration: 3h 21m
Distance: 11.9km
Elevation Gain: 360m
As the name suggests, this trail passes by ten beautiful waterfalls, with the option to walk behind several of them. It's a unique experience that showcases the lush beauty of the Pacific Northwest.
9. Avalanche Lake Trail, Glacier National Park, Montana
Difficulty: Moderate
Duration: 2h 28m
Distance: 9.5km
Elevation Gain: 231m
This trail takes hikers through a beautiful forest to a stunning alpine lake surrounded by towering peaks. The relatively moderate difficulty makes it accessible to many visitors to Glacier National Park.
10. Scout Lookout via West Rim Trail, Zion National Park, Utah
Duration: 2h 13m
Distance: 5.8km
Elevation Gain: 342m
For those who want breathtaking views of Zion without the exposure of Angels Landing, the hike to Scout Lookout is an excellent alternative. It offers many of the same vistas without the final chain section.
Each of these trails offers a unique glimpse into America's natural beauty. From desert landscapes to alpine meadows, from challenging ascents to leisurely walks, there's something for every hiker on this list. Remember to always check current trail conditions, obtain necessary permits, and practice Leave No Trace principles to help preserve these incredible places for future generations of hikers.