National Trails Day is here, and there’s no better way to celebrate than with a hike on one of the many beautiful trails across the country. From stunning mountain views to serene coastal paths, there’s something for every nature enthusiast to enjoy. Here is a list of the 10 must-visit trails to celebrate National Trails Day. Whether you’re a seasoned hiker or just starting out, these trails offer breathtaking scenery and a chance to connect with nature. So lace up your hiking boots, pack a water bottle and some snacks, and get ready to hit the trails. Let’s explore some of the most beautiful and rewarding hikes that the United States has to offer.
Appalachian Trail
The Appalachian Trail is perhaps the most famous long-distance trail in the United States. Stretching for over 2,200 miles from Georgia to Maine, this trail passes through 14 states and offers stunning views of the Appalachian Mountains. Hiking the entire trail takes months, but even a short section hike can be an unforgettable experience.
One of the most popular sections of the trail is in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. The trail here passes through lush forests, crosses streams, and offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains. The trail is well-maintained and is accessible to hikers of all skill levels. Be sure to check the weather before you go, as the trail can be treacherous in bad weather.
Another popular section of the trail is in Shenandoah National Park. The trail here follows the ridgeline of the Blue Ridge Mountains, offering stunning views of the surrounding countryside. You’ll pass through fields of wildflowers, dense forests, and cross streams along the way. The park offers a variety of campsites and lodges, making it an excellent place to spend a few days exploring the trail.
Pacific Crest Trail
The Pacific Crest Trail is a long-distance trail that runs from Mexico to Canada, passing through California, Oregon, and Washington. The trail is over 2,600 miles long and offers hikers stunning views of the Pacific coastline, the Sierra Nevada Mountains, and the Cascade Range.
One of the most popular sections of the trail is in the Sierra Nevada Mountains. The trail here passes through some of the most beautiful alpine scenery in the world, with rugged peaks, crystal-clear lakes, and meadows filled with wildflowers. The trail can be challenging due to the high altitude, so be sure to acclimate yourself before setting out.
Another popular section of the trail is in Oregon. The trail here passes through the Cascade Range, offering stunning views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. Hikers will pass through dense forests, cross streams, and encounter a variety of wildlife along the way. The trail is well-maintained and is accessible to hikers of all skill levels.
Continental Divide Trail
The Continental Divide Trail is a long-distance trail that runs from Mexico to Canada, passing through New Mexico, Colorado, Wyoming, Montana, and Idaho. The trail is over 3,100 miles long and follows the Continental Divide, which separates the watersheds of the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans.
One of the most popular sections of the trail is in Colorado. The trail here passes through the majestic Rocky Mountains, offering hikers stunning views of the surrounding peaks and valleys. Hikers will pass through alpine meadows, cross streams, and encounter a variety of wildlife along the way. The trail is well-maintained and is accessible to hikers of all skill levels.
Another popular section of the trail is in Montana. The trail here passes through the rugged and remote Bob Marshall Wilderness, offering hikers a chance to experience some of the most pristine wilderness in the US. Hikers will pass through dense forests, cross streams, and encounter a variety of wildlife along the way. The trail is challenging but is well worth the effort.
John Muir Trail
The John Muir Trail is a long-distance trail that runs through the Sierra Nevada Mountains in California. The trail is over 200 miles long and offers hikers stunning views of some of the most beautiful alpine scenery in the world. The trail is named after John Muir, who was a naturalist and conservationist and played a key role in the creation of many of the US’s national parks.
One of the most popular sections of the trail is in Yosemite National Park. The trail here passes through the park’s stunning backcountry, offering hikers a chance to see some of the park’s most famous landmarks, including Half Dome and El Capitan. The trail is challenging but is well worth the effort.
Another popular section of the trail is in Kings Canyon National Park. The trail here passes through some of the most rugged and remote wilderness in the Sierra Nevada Mountains, offering hikers a chance to experience some of the most pristine wilderness in the US. Hikers will pass through dense forests, cross streams, and encounter a variety of wildlife along the way.
Grand Canyon Rim-to-Rim Trail
The Grand Canyon Rim-to-Rim Trail is a challenging trail that runs from the North Rim of the Grand Canyon to the South Rim. The trail is over 20 miles long and offers hikers stunning views of the canyon’s rugged and remote wilderness. The trail is well-maintained but is challenging due to the high elevation and steep terrain.
Hikers who complete the trail will be rewarded with stunning views of the canyon’s famous landmarks, including Bright Angel Point, Roaring Springs, and the Colorado River. The trail is best hiked in the spring or fall when the temperatures are cooler and the crowds are smaller.
Zion Narrows Trail
The Zion Narrows Trail is a unique and challenging trail that runs through the Narrows of Zion National Park. The trail follows the Virgin River as it winds its way through narrow canyons, offering hikers a chance to experience some of the most dramatic scenery in the park. The trail is accessible only by foot and requires hikers to wade through the river in some sections.
Hikers who complete the trail will be rewarded with stunning views of the park’s towering cliffs and cascading waterfalls. The trail is best hiked in the summer when the water is warmer and the crowds are smaller.
Angel’s Landing Trail
The Angel’s Landing Trail is a challenging and thrilling trail that leads to the summit of Angel’s Landing in Zion National Park. The trail is over 2 miles long and requires hikers to navigate steep switchbacks and narrow ridges. The trail offers stunning views of the park’s rugged and remote wilderness.
Hikers who complete the trail will be rewarded with stunning views of the park’s famous landmarks, including the Virgin River and Zion Canyon. The trail is best hiked in the spring or fall when the temperatures are cooler and the crowds are smaller.
Mount Rainier Wonderland Trail
The Mount Rainier Wonderland Trail is a challenging trail that circumnavigates Mount Rainier in Washington. The trail is over 93 miles long and offers hikers stunning views of the mountain’s glaciers, alpine meadows, and dense forests. The trail is well-maintained but is challenging due to the high elevation and steep terrain.
Hikers who complete the trail will be rewarded with stunning views of the mountain’s famous landmarks, including Emmons Glacier, the Carbon River, and the Ohanapecosh River. The trail is best hiked in the summer when the weather is warmer and the wildflowers are in bloom.
Glacier National Park Grinnell Glacier Trail
The Glacier National Park Grinnell Glacier Trail is a challenging trail that leads to the Grinnell Glacier in Montana. The trail is over 10 miles long and offers hikers stunning views of the glacier’s rugged and remote wilderness. The trail is well-maintained but is challenging due to the high elevation and steep terrain.
Hikers who complete the trail will be rewarded with stunning views of the glacier’s aquamarine waters and surrounding peaks. The trail is best hiked in the summer when the weather is warmer and the wildflowers are in bloom.
Acadia National Park Precipice Trail
The Acadia National Park Precipice Trail is a challenging and thrilling trail that leads to the summit of Champlain Mountain in Maine. The trail is over 1 mile long and requires hikers to navigate steep switchbacks, ladders, and narrow ledges. The trail offers stunning views of the park’s rugged coastline and dense forests.
Hikers who complete the trail will be rewarded with stunning views of the park’s famous landmarks, including the Atlantic Ocean and the surrounding islands. The trail is best hiked in the summer when the weather is warmer and the wildflowers are in bloom.
National Trails Day is a special day that celebrates the trails that connect us to nature and the great outdoors. Whether you’re an avid hiker or just starting out, there’s no better time to hit the trails than on National Trails Day. From the Appalachian Trail to the Pacific Crest Trail, there’s a trail out there for every nature enthusiast to enjoy. So, put on your hiking boots, grab your water bottle and some snacks, and get ready to explore the trails. Remember to leave no trace and respect the natural world around you. Happy hiking!
