10 of the Best Hiking Trails in the United States

For those who like to spend time communing with nature, hiking is the ideal activity. Not only is hiking a great way to visualize nature's beauty, but it is great exercise. Additionally, mountain tops are home to some fantastic views. Below are ten of the best hiking trails in the United States.

Glacier Gorge, Estes Park, CO

One of the most beautiful hiking trails in the US, Glacier Gorge leads to several beautiful glacier lakes, including Mills Lake, which is so clear that the large rainbow trout are in full view. Additionally, the trail features beautiful aspens, fabulous waterfalls, split-log bridges, and a plethora of wildlife.




Sawyer River Road, Conway, NH

For those who like easy hiking and lots of beaver ponds, Conway New Hampshire's Sawyer River Road hiking trail deserves a trek. The popular New England trail also features beautiful clearings, the Swift River, and the occasional Moose sighting.

Appalachian Trail-Springer Mountain To Hightower Gap, Suches, GA

Hikers should not let the movie Deliverance deter them from hiking Georgia's beautiful Appalachian Mountains. One of the most popular hikes is from Springer Mountain to Hightower Gap, which features plenty of shelters, water, beautiful hemlocks, and the splendor of Long Creek Falls.

Sunset Ridge Trail, Mount Mansfield, VT, 

This picturesque hiking trail is even more scenic during the foliage months as it features an abundance of hardwoods. Wildlife is not uncommon on Sunset Ridge as there are plenty of deer, hawks, and owls, as well as the occasional moose and bear. However, it's the breathtaking views that make Vermont's highest elevation worth hiking. 


The Superior Hiking Trail, Two Harbors, MN

Ranked by Backpacker Magazine as one of the top ten hiking trails in the world, The Superior Hiking Trail offers hikers breathtaking views of dozens of Minnesota's beautiful lakes, including Lake Superior. Hikers are also known to spot ravens, black bear, moose, and timberwolves along the trail.

Greenbrier River Trail, Greenbrier, WV

One of the longest and most beautiful rail trails in the country, Greenbrier River Trail snakes through the Greenbrier River Valley. Many parts of the trail run parallel with the Greenbrier River; therefore, many hikers pack their fishing poles. Featuring steep cliffs, gorgeous pastures and quaint little towns, the Greenbrier River Trail has been a popular destination for hikers and bikers for years.

Half Dome, Yosetime Park, CA

A bit more challenging than the other trails on this list, Half Dome is not for the novice as it features an 800 foot cable climb. However, those who take on the trek are rewarded with stunning waterfalls, gorgeous scenery, and an abundance of wildlife.

Bagby Hot Springs, Estacada, OR

For those who are not offended by middle-aged skinny-dippers, Bagby Hot Springs is an ideal hiking destination. Featuring moss covered logs, Nohorn Creek, and a well maintained bathhouse this trail is one of Oregon's most popular hiking destinations.

Mount Mitchell, Burnsville, NC

Mount Mitchell has the highest elevation on the East coast. Those hiking the trail should prepare themselves for some vigorous climbing as certain areas are steep and rough; however, those who make the climb witness fantastic views. The trail also offers a mixture of beautiful hardwoods and large spruce trees.

Mount Kaala Trail, Oahu, HI

For those who wish to experience the true beauty of Hawaii, Mount Kaala is a destination that must be considered. Sitting over 4000 feet above sea level, Mount Kaala offers its hikers a beautiful rainforest, giant Hapu'u'u ferns, wild orchids, and native Hawaii roses.

The United States boasts some of the best hiking trails in the world. Whether on the east or west coasts, in the heart of the south, nestled in the Rockies, or jutting from one of Hawaii's Islands, there will always be hiking trails that are perfect for everyone.

Haliegh Adams is a professional writer. She loves spending time with her family and camping or hunting. She also enjoys collecting cool Benchmade knives. For more information on knife collecting, visit http://www.iknifecollector.com/.

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