Whether you’re looking for a peaceful walk through nature or a challenging summit climb, hiking is one of the best ways to connect with the outdoors.
Luckily, there are thousands of trails around the U.S. that cater to every skill level. The best hiking trails combine scenic views, rewarding terrain, and a sense of escape that makes every step worth it.
Some lead to hidden waterfalls.
Others wind through ancient forests, desert canyons, or along dramatic cliffside paths.
In this guide, you’ll discover the different hiking trails for beginners, intermediates, and advanced adventurers—along with a few underrated gems that deserve way more love.
We’ve included tips to help you hike smarter, stay safe, and get the most out of your journey—no matter where you’re starting from.
So lace up those boots, pack your snacks, and let’s hit the trail.
Table of Contents
Why Should You Hike?
There are many benefits of hiking. It’s an experience that nourishes both body and mind.
Stepping onto a trail helps you disconnect from digital noise and reconnect with nature. Whether it’s the sound of wind in the trees or the sight of a mountain bathed in golden light, hiking offers a unique kind of peace you can’t find indoors.
It’s also a low-cost activity that’s accessible to most people. All you really need is a good pair of shoes and a sense of adventure.
From reducing stress to improving cardiovascular health, the benefits are backed by science—and felt with every step.
Best of all, you can hike solo, with friends, or with family. There’s no pressure to perform—just an open trail and the promise of discovery.
How to Choose the Best Hiking Trails for You
With thousands of trails out there, picking the right one can feel overwhelming—especially if you’re new to hiking or planning a trip somewhere unfamiliar.
The key is to match the trail to your skill level, time, and goals.
If you’re just starting out, look for shorter routes with minimal elevation gain. These offer a more relaxed experience without sacrificing beautiful views.
Intermediate hikers might want longer loops or moderate climbs that challenge stamina without requiring technical skills.
For advanced hikers, rugged terrain, high altitudes, and backcountry routes bring the kind of adventure that makes all the effort worth it.
Other factors to consider include:
- Trail conditions and weather
- Accessibility and parking
- Seasonal closures
- Water sources and restroom availability
- Crowd levels (some trails get packed fast!)
Take a moment to think about what kind of experience you want. Are you chasing summit views, forest serenity, or coastal breezes?
Once you know what you’re looking for, finding the best hiking trails becomes a whole lot easier.
Top Hiking Trails for Beginners
If you’re new to hiking, the U.S. is full of beginner trails that are both accessible and awe-inspiring.
These routes allow you to ease into the hiking lifestyle while still enjoying incredible natural beauty—no need for advanced gear or technical skills. Most of them are well-marked, relatively flat, and close to major cities or parks.
Here are 5 hiking trails in the U.S. for beginners who want to get started the right way:
1. Muir Woods National Monument – California
Located just 30 minutes north of San Francisco, Muir Woods is a sanctuary of towering coastal redwoods, some over 600 years old.
The Main Trail Loop is a flat, 2-mile stroll on a combination of paved and boardwalk paths, making it extremely beginner-friendly. It follows Redwood Creek and winds past some of the tallest trees in the world, giving you an unforgettable nature experience without having to climb or navigate tough terrain.
What to know:
Go early in the morning to avoid crowds, especially on weekends. Parking is limited, so advance reservations for entry and parking are required.
2. Marymere Falls Trail – Washington
Just off Lake Crescent in Olympic National Park, the Marymere Falls Trail is a 1.7-mile round-trip hike that takes you through mossy forests, over wooden bridges, and finally to a 90-foot waterfall cascading down a fern-covered cliff.
The trail is mostly flat until the last few hundred feet, where a short uphill climb on a well-maintained dirt path leads to the viewing platform. It’s the perfect blend of serene and dramatic, offering a big payoff for minimal effort.
What to know:
Expect muddy patches if it has recently rained, and wear shoes with decent grip. Don’t forget your camera—the waterfall is stunning in all seasons.
3. Twin Falls Trail – Washington
Another Washington gem, this 2.6-mile out-and-back trail is located in the Olallie State Park near North Bend. It runs alongside the South Fork Snoqualmie River and leads to two breathtaking waterfalls.
The trail is gently sloped and shaded by lush Pacific Northwest forest, making it cool and comfortable even in summer. Bridges, viewpoints, and the soothing sound of water make this trail especially rewarding for beginners.
What to know:
This trail can be busy, but the waterfall views make it worthwhile. A Discover Pass is required for parking.
4. Brandywine Gorge Trail – Ohio
Tucked into Cuyahoga Valley National Park, the Brandywine Gorge Trail is a 1.5-mile loop that showcases one of Ohio’s most scenic waterfalls: Brandywine Falls.
The hike begins with a short boardwalk stroll to a large viewing deck, then loops through wooded trails with light elevation changes. You’ll get both a close-up of the falls and a peaceful walk through the surrounding forest.
What to know:
This trail is great year-round, but it’s especially beautiful in the fall when the leaves change. The path can get muddy, so waterproof shoes help.
5. Laurel Falls Trail – Tennessee
Located in Great Smoky Mountains National Park, this 2.6-mile paved trail leads to the stunning Laurel Falls—a multi-tiered waterfall with a dramatic 80-foot drop.
It’s one of the most popular hikes in the Smokies, and for good reason: it’s easy to access, paved the whole way, and has a huge visual payoff. Families with kids and first-time hikers love this trail for its beauty and simplicity.
What to know:
Because it’s paved, it’s more accessible than most hikes, but it can still be slippery when wet. Go early or on weekdays to avoid crowds.
These beginner trails are proof that you don’t need to go far—or climb high—to enjoy some of the best hiking trails the U.S. has to offer.
Best Hiking Trails for Intermediate Hikers
If you’ve fallen in love with hiking and want to push yourself a little further, intermediate-level trails offer the perfect next step.
These hikes are longer, more varied in terrain, and often come with rewarding views that make the effort completely worthwhile.
You don’t need to be an expert—but a bit of endurance, good footwear, and trail awareness will go a long way.
Here are some of the best hiking trails in the U.S. for intermediate hikers looking to level up:
1. Angel’s Rest Trail – Oregon
Located in the Columbia River Gorge, the Angel’s Rest Trail is a 4.8-mile round trip with about 1,500 feet of elevation gain—just enough to get your heart pumping.
The trail winds through forested slopes and rocky outcroppings before opening up to jaw-dropping panoramic views of the Columbia River and surrounding cliffs. It’s one of the most iconic hikes in Oregon for a reason.
What to know:
The incline is steady but manageable. Watch for loose rocks near the summit, especially if it’s been rainy. Sunset hikes here are unforgettable—just be sure to bring a headlamp for the return.
2. Old Rag Mountain (Lower Loop Option) – Virginia
While the full Old Rag loop is advanced, the Lower Old Rag Fire Road Loop offers a 5.4-mile forested hike with moderate elevation and fewer technical demands—making it great for strong beginners transitioning into intermediate territory.
You’ll get beautiful mountain scenery, dense forest trails, and fewer crowds compared to the rock scramble at the summit.
What to know:
Parts of the trail are gravel service roads, which are easier on the knees. Pack plenty of water—this is still a workout.
3. Bear Mountain Loop – New York
Just a short drive from NYC, Bear Mountain State Park features the Bear Mountain Loop, a 4-mile round trip that includes stone staircases, scenic ridges, and a summit view over the Hudson River.
This hike blends natural beauty with a touch of urban accessibility. Expect a steep climb early on, followed by an easier descent with forest and river views.
What to know:
The trail is well-maintained, but the initial ascent can be tough—trekking poles help. Try it in the fall for amazing foliage.
4. Mist Trail to Vernal Fall – California
This Yosemite classic is a 3-mile round trip to Vernal Fall, with a steep incline and hundreds of granite steps that run beside the thundering Merced River.
The payoff is worth every step: misty views, vibrant rainbows, and the raw power of one of Yosemite’s most iconic waterfalls.
What to know:
Wear shoes with grip—those granite steps can be slippery. Start early in the day to beat the crowds and the heat.
5. Garden of the Gods Loop – Colorado
This 6.3-mile loop through Garden of the Gods Park offers moderate elevation gains and a surreal landscape of towering red rock formations, wildflowers, and sweeping views of Pikes Peak.
You’ll hike past rock spires, through open meadows, and along well-marked dirt trails that make the whole experience smooth and scenic.
What to know:
The altitude (around 6,400 feet) can be a factor, so take your time and hydrate. This trail is dog-friendly and well-suited for half-day hikes.
These intermediate trails offer the best of both worlds: a good challenge and incredible scenery—without needing mountaineering skills to enjoy them.
Premier Hiking Paths For Advanced Adventurers
If you’re the kind of hiker who sees steep switchbacks as an invitation and packs microspikes for fun, these trails are for you.
The best hiking trails for advanced adventurers often involve long distances, high altitudes, or technical sections that require planning, fitness, and grit. Thus, knowing how to prepare for high altitude hikes is crucial.
But the reward? Next-level views, unforgettable moments, and the kind of peace you only find when you’re miles from the nearest road.
Here are 5 top-tier U.S. trails that challenge and inspire seasoned hikers:
1. Half Dome via Mist Trail – California
This 14- to 16-mile round trip in Yosemite National Park is as legendary as it is demanding.
You’ll climb nearly 5,000 feet in elevation, pass two massive waterfalls (Vernal and Nevada Falls), and end with the famous cable ascent up the sheer granite face of Half Dome. It’s tough, exposed, and exhilarating.
What to know:
A permit is required for the cable section, and it’s only open during certain months. Gloves and a serious head for heights are essential. Start early—this hike takes 10–12 hours for most people.
2. Mount Washington via Tuckerman Ravine – New Hampshire
Don’t let the 4,000-foot elevation fool you—Mount Washington is one of the most dangerous hikes in the eastern U.S. due to rapidly changing weather and a steep, rocky trail.
The Tuckerman Ravine Trail is 8.4 miles round trip with nearly 4,200 feet of elevation gain. It offers alpine meadows, icy waterfalls, and a dramatic final ascent up bare rock faces.
What to know:
Always check the Mount Washington Observatory forecast. Weather at the summit can shift from sunny to snow in minutes—even in summer.
3. Rim-to-Rim – Grand Canyon, Arizona
Crossing the Grand Canyon from rim to rim is a bucket-list challenge. The full hike is about 24 miles with 6,000+ feet of elevation gain depending on your direction.
You’ll descend into one of the most iconic landscapes on Earth, cross the mighty Colorado River, and climb out the other side—experiencing nearly every ecosystem the Southwest has to offer.
What to know:
Plan for two days unless you’re an ultra-hiker. This trail is best tackled in spring or fall. Permits and careful hydration planning are a must.
4. The Narrows Top-Down – Utah
Located in Zion National Park, the Top-Down Narrows hike is a 16-mile water trek through a narrow sandstone canyon, often wading waist-deep (or deeper) in the Virgin River.
It’s a one-of-a-kind experience with towering canyon walls, hanging gardens, and the surreal echo of flowing water surrounding you at every step.
What to know:
This hike requires a wilderness permit and careful weather monitoring—flash floods are a real danger. Rent canyoneering boots and a dry bag locally for safety and comfort.
5. Mount Whitney Trail – California
At 14,505 feet, Mount Whitney is the tallest peak in the lower 48 states—and the 22-mile round-trip hike to the summit is no joke.
You’ll experience over 6,100 feet of elevation gain, switchbacks that seem to go on forever, and some of the most expansive views in the Sierra Nevada.
What to know:
A permit is required, and altitude sickness is a serious concern. Most hikers start before 3 a.m. to summit and descend before afternoon storms. This one’s a true endurance test.
These advanced trails demand preparation, fitness, and respect for nature—but they offer experiences that stick with you for life. This guide on how to train for hiking will help you get started.
Hidden Gems: Underrated Trails Worth Discovering
Not every great hike makes it to Instagram fame—and that’s a good thing.
Some of the most beautiful hiking trails are hidden in plain sight: less crowded, less hyped, but every bit as beautiful.
Whether you’re looking for solitude, unique terrain, or a place that feels like your own personal discovery, these underrated trails deliver a quieter kind of magic.
Here are 5 hidden gems in the U.S. that deserve way more love:
1. Caprock Coulee Trail – North Dakota
Located in Theodore Roosevelt National Park, this 4.3-mile loop combines badlands scenery, prairie landscapes, and fossil-rich terrain—all without the crowds of more famous parks.
You’ll spot bison, prairie dogs, and possibly even wild horses as you wind through rocky ridges and canyon-like formations.
Why it’s great:
This trail feels remote and wild, offering a true sense of solitude and connection to nature. It’s a perfect escape for hikers who love wide-open spaces and big skies.
2. Pawnee Buttes Trail – Colorado
Tucked away in northeastern Colorado, this 4.6-mile round trip trail leads you across grasslands and wildflower meadows to two striking rock formations rising from the plains.
It’s a completely different side of Colorado—no mountains here, just expansive prairie and silence.
Why it’s great:
The dramatic contrast between flatland and towering buttes is stunning, especially at sunrise or sunset. Ideal for birdwatchers and photographers.
3. Goat Lake Trail – Washington
Often overshadowed by more famous hikes in the Cascades, the 10.4-mile Goat Lake Trail is a forest-to-lake stunner in the Mt. Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest.
You’ll hike through mossy forest, cross roaring creeks, and finally reach a glacier-fed alpine lake surrounded by jagged peaks.
Why it’s great:
Less crowded than nearby Enchantments or Rattlesnake Ledge, and the lake views are absolutely worth the effort. Great for summer day hikes or backpacking.
4. Highline Trail (Uinta Mountains) – Utah
Not to be confused with Glacier’s more famous version, Utah’s Highline Trail in the Uinta Mountains offers raw alpine beauty with far fewer footprints.
This point-to-point trail can be done in sections, but even short segments feature alpine meadows, wildflowers, and high-altitude lakes.
Why it’s great:
It’s a haven for backpackers and advanced day hikers who want high elevation and total solitude. Expect minimal crowds and major rewards.
5. Lost Coast Trail – California
Stretching along the remote northern California coastline, this trail weaves through beach, forest, and dramatic bluffs where the mountains literally meet the sea.
The full trail is around 25 miles (typically done as a multi-day backpacking trip), but shorter out-and-back hikes from Mattole Beach or Shelter Cove are still incredibly scenic.
Why it’s great:
It’s one of the few coastal wilderness trails in the U.S. that remains untouched by development. You’ll need tide charts and solid prep, but the solitude and scenery are unmatched.
These hidden gems prove you don’t have to follow the crowds to find trail magic. In fact, some of the most meaningful hikes are the ones where it’s just you, the trail, and the sound of the wind.
Tips for Hiking Safely and Responsibly
No matter how experienced you are or where you’re hiking, safety and sustainability should always come first.
Being prepared and respectful doesn’t just protect you—it also preserves the trails and natural environments for others to enjoy.
Here are some essential hiking tips to help you stay safe and hike responsibly:
1. Know Before You Go
Always research your trail before heading out. Check the distance, elevation gain, trail conditions, and weather forecast.
Apps like AllTrails, Gaia GPS, and local park websites can give you up-to-date information and real user reviews.
Pro tip: Download maps for offline use. Cell service isn’t guaranteed in the backcountry.
2. Pack the 10 Essentials
Even for a short hike, bring these key items:
- Navigation (map, compass, or GPS)
- Headlamp or flashlight
- Sun protection (sunglasses, sunscreen, hat)
- First aid kit
- Knife or multi-tool
- Fire starter or lighter
- Extra food
- Extra water
- Extra clothes
- Emergency shelter (even a space blanket counts)
Why it matters: Conditions can change fast, and it’s better to be over-prepared than caught off-guard. Check out our complete guide on what to bring for hikes.
3. Leave No Trace
Follow the Leave No Trace principles to minimize your impact on the environment. This includes:
- Packing out all trash (yes, even biodegradable stuff like orange peels)
- Staying on marked trails
- Not disturbing wildlife
- Leaving what you find (flowers, rocks, etc.)
The goal is to make it seem like no one was there before you.
4. Tell Someone Your Plan
Before heading out, let a friend or family member know your route, expected return time, and what to do if you’re overdue.
This is especially important for solo hikers or anyone tackling longer or remote trails.
Bonus tip: Some hikers leave a trail plan in their car dashboard just in case.
5. Respect Trail Etiquette
Good trail manners go a long way:
- Yield to uphill hikers
- Step aside for runners or faster hikers
- Keep noise levels low
- If hiking with dogs, leash them and pack out waste
Whether you’re hiking for exercise, mental clarity, or a love of the outdoors, staying safe and responsible ensures the trails stay open and beautiful for years to come.
Final Thoughts
Whether you’re a beginner taking your first steps into the woods or a seasoned trekker chasing summits, the U.S. is home to some of the best hiking trails on the planet—each one offering a chance to explore, recharge, and reconnect.
From easy strolls with big payoffs to high-elevation epics that test your limits, there’s a trail for every level and every kind of adventurer.
The key is finding the one that matches your current skill, curiosity, and craving for the wild.
Just remember: Hiking isn’t about conquering nature—it’s about coexisting with it. When you hit the trail with preparation, respect, and a spirit of discovery, you’re not just hiking.
You’re building memories, expanding your world, and gaining a deeper appreciation for the landscapes we often take for granted.
Want Support on Your Hiking Journey? Join the We Hike to Heal Community
As you begin your hiking journey, consider joining our We Hike To Heal community. Whether you’re seeking support, motivation, or the company of others who are also passionate about hiking, we provide a welcoming space for women to connect, grow, and heal through the transformative power of nature.
Frequently Asked Questions About Hiking Trails
- What should I wear when hiking?
Wear moisture-wicking layers, comfortable hiking boots or shoes, and weather-appropriate outerwear. Avoid cotton, and always bring a rain layer. - What’s the difference between hiking and trekking?
Hiking typically refers to shorter, less strenuous day trips, while trekking involves multi-day journeys over varying terrain, often in more remote areas. - How do I find hiking trails near me?
Use apps like AllTrails, Gaia GPS, or Hiking Project. You can also check local parks, state or national forest websites, or join local hiking groups on social media. - Is hiking safe for kids?
Yes—many trails are family-friendly. Look for short, flat routes and bring plenty of snacks, water, and sun protection. Keep a close eye on young children near cliffs or water. - Can I hike in winter?
Yes, but it requires preparation. Wear insulated, waterproof gear, use traction devices like microspikes, and stick to well-marked, safer trails. - What should I eat before and during a hike?
Before: carbs and protein (e.g., oatmeal, eggs). During: trail mix, protein bars, fruit, or jerky. Stay hydrated and avoid overly sugary snacks that crash your energy. - How do I prevent blisters while hiking?
Wear moisture-wicking socks, properly fitted footwear, and consider using blister prevention tape or balm on hotspots. Break in your boots before a long hike. - Is solo hiking safe?
It can be, with proper preparation. Always tell someone your plan, carry a map or GPS, bring the 10 essentials, and choose well-trafficked trails, especially if new to solo hiking. - Are hiking poles worth it?
Yes, especially on steep or uneven terrain. They reduce strain on your knees, improve balance, and can help with pacing on longer hikes. - How do I train for a difficult hike?
Build endurance with cardio (running, stair climbs, or walking hills), strengthen your legs and core, and practice with weighted daypacks on shorter hikes.