Ultimate Hiking Bucket List: 12 Best Hikes You Can Do In The U.S.

The United States has over 88,600 miles of hiking trails in its National Trails System, providing diverse scenery and breathtaking natural wonders.

Some of the best hikes in the US include the challenging Burroughs Mountain Trail in Mount Rainier National Park, the scenic Sky Pond Trail in Rocky Mountain National Park, and the iconic Half Dome Trail in Yosemite National Park.

The Trail of Ten Falls in Silver Falls State Park offers hikers the opportunity to see ten different waterfalls in one seven-mile loop, making it a must-do hike for nature lovers.

With its fairytale national parks, serene state parks, and idyllic islands, the United States promises outdoor enthusiasts a whale of a time. From Alaska to Maine to Utah, Arizona, California, and even as far as Hawaii, the stunning landscapes of America thwart hikers with diverse scenery, mind-blowing natural wonders, and many of the most beautiful views in the world.

Of course, the country offers countless hiking opportunities; to be specific, though, how many miles of trails are there in the USA? It’s a ton; America’s National Trails System comprises more than 88,600 miles, consisting of 11 National Scenic Trails, 1,300 National Recreation Trails, and 19 National Historic Trails (not forgetting the seven side and connecting trails, either). See? It is a lot.

But only the best hikes in the US ever make worldwide fame. So, what are they? From the icy trails in Kenaji Fjords to the dry, easy desert hikes in Joshua Tree and the tropical rainforests of Kauai in Hawaii — among many other top American hiking trails — here are the best hikes America has in store for the most discerning of hiking boot-wearers in search of truly awesome adventures. Best of all? They range from mega-easy to super-strenuous — ideal for everyone.

It’s true that every state and every country has its “can’t-miss” hikes, so much so that narrowing down a list can seem nearly impossible. For that reason, we’ve updated this list with even more of the best hikes in the US and updated relevant information about the existing hikes. Happy trails!

Fun Fact: Over 336 million people inhabit the United States, more than 230 million of whom live within 60 miles of a National Trail — according to the Pacific Crest Trail Association.

12 Burroughs Mountain Trail, Mount Rainier National Park, Washington

Clear view of the snow-capped peak of Mount Rainier and some vegetation switching to fall colors 

A hike that can be traversed on foot or with cross-country skis, there is something truly unique about the Burroughs Mountain Trail in Mount Rainier National Park in Washington. Mount Rainier is home to a number of easy hikes, but Burroughs Mountain Trail is definitely not one of them. A challenging hike even in ideal weather, this hike quickly becomes an expert-only trail as the snow creeps in. Despite the challenges, the scenic views of the Burroughs make this a bucket-list hike for many US travelers. In fact, a number of hikers report getting an early start so that they can enjoy both the landscape and the beautiful Washington sunrise.

Those who can’t commit to the full-time constraints of this over-five-hour hike can shorten the outing by turning around after the second burrough, which cuts off both time and difficulty for this exceptionally beautiful US hike.

• Location: Mount Rainier National Park, Washington
• Difficulty Level: Strenuous
• Hike Length: 8.9 miles
• Time to Complete: 5–6 hours
• Elevation Gain: 2,437 feet
• Best Time to Hike The Burroughs Mountain Trail: This hike is particularly scenic between June and September when the weather is warm, even at the higher elevation, and the trail is clear. This hike does get snow starting between late October and mid-November.

Like most national parks, there is an entrance fee for Mount Rainier National Park. The entrance fee of $30/vehicle can be bought on the National Park Website or at the entrance to the park.

11 Half Dome Trails, Yosemite National Park, California

Half Dome mountain peak in Yosemite National Park, California 

With a state as big as California, it’s no surprise that more than one of the best hikes in the US can be found within its boundaries. Of these exceptional hikes, the Half Dome Trail is perhaps the most visually recognizable. Half Dome is perhaps the most prominent geological structure within Yosemite National Park, an impressive feat for one of the most famous national parks in the US. The Half Dome Day Hike is not for the faint of heart. Towering nearly 5,000 feet above the park (approximately 8,800 feet above sea level), this hike goes pretty much straight up for the entire first half of this out-and-back trail. The intensity of this hike means that those who commit should plan to fill their entire day with the adventure.

This 10- to 12-hour excursion includes plenty of steep uphills, culminating in the infamous cable portion. Two metal cables guide hikers up the last 400 feet of the trail, and while they are safe for those who follow the rules, injuries are regularly reported by those who choose not to listen.

Thankfully, even with the intense ascent and teetering cables, the views from atop this behemoth immediately confirm that this hike is worth the effort and a true bucket-list hike for US adventurers.

• Location: Yosemite National Park, California
• Difficulty Level: Strenuous
• Hike Length: 14–16 miles (dependent on trail)
• Time to Complete: 10–12 hours
• Elevation Gain: 5,305 feet
• Best Time to Hike The Half Dome Trails: This permit-only hike is only available between Memorial Day (May) and Columbus/Indigenous Peoples Day (October)

There are a number of trails that lead to the summit of Half Dome. These hikes require that hikers obtain a permit through the National Park Service (NPS) website. These hikes are all exceptionally difficult and mainly vary in steepness. The shorter 14-mile options are steeper, while the longer options have more switchbacks, making them longer in distance but easier on the joints.

Additionally, guests should be aware that Yosemite National Park itself has a $35/vehicle entrance fee. This fee is required to enter the park and access the hike.

10 Trail of Ten Falls, Silver Falls State Park, Oregon

A waterfall surrounded by plenty of trees in Silver Falls State Park

There are a number of magnificent waterfall hikes to explore in the US, but sometimes, it can be hard to decide where to focus one’s efforts. Instead of picking and choosing which waterfall hike to take, the Trail of Ten Falls in Silver Falls State Park, one of the best hikes in the US, takes hikers past ten different waterfalls in one seven-mile loop.

Silver Falls State Park exists primarily to protect these scenic waterfalls, so it’s no surprise that many hikers want to enjoy them all. There is some flexibility with how hikers complete the loop, cutting off waterfalls to make it shorter and starting on either end. Regardless of the exact route, this moderately strenuous hike requires focus to avoid slips in the often muddy conditions.

Starting at South Falls Lodge Trailhead, this hike combines the Canyon Trail and the Rim Trail. Hikers who keep their footing can enjoy views of all ten waterfalls that call the park home: South Falls, Lower South Falls, Lower North Falls, Double Falls, Drake Falls, Middle North Falls, Twin Falls, North Falls, Upper North Falls, and Winter Falls. Even in the US, it is rare that a single hike leads to so many visual highlights, making it clear why so many consider it one of America’s best hikes.

• Location: Silver Falls State Park, Oregon
• Difficulty Level: Moderately Strenuous
• Hike Length: 7.4 miles
• Time to Complete: 3–4 hours
• Elevation Gain: 1,190 feet
• Best Time to Hike The Trail of Ten Falls: Spring is ideal for enjoying peak water flow, Fall there is beautiful Fall foliage to enjoy all along the trail, and the falls themselves are still flowing freely

While there is no entrance fee for Silver Falls State Park, there is a $5 parking permit required to park at the trailhead. Parking permits can be purchased either at one of the booths throughout the park or at the trailhead itself.

9 The Hidden Valley Nature Trail, Joshua Tree National Park, California

A hiker standing on a large boulder overlooking the Hidden Valley Trail in Joshua Tree National Park, California, USA

The Hidden Valley Nature Trail ranks among the best hikes in California (but it’s quite short at only a mile long). It begins at one of the first trailheads at the western entrance of Joshua Tree National Park (the trailhead is at the Hidden Valley picnic area, which is around nine miles southeast of the park’s western entrance).

Sure, this trail might be one of the easiest hikes in the US (it’s ideal for first-timers seeking an introductory trek in the Mojave Desert), but it still earns its place among the best hikes in America in terms of dramatic desert scenery. The trail is mostly flat and takes hikers around a scenic desert valley chock-full of the park’s famous Joshua Trees as well as many other striking desert flora, such as beavertail cacti and California junipers.

Of course, many people are familiar with the iconic Joshua Trees in their namesake desert park, but that’s not the sole reason to go hiking in Joshua Tree. This particular trail promises the perfect examples of the gigantic monzogranite boulders seen scattered across the valleys of Joshua Tree — and visitors can climb on them (naturally, with care and caution; mindless climbing is among the many things not to do in Joshua Tree National Park).

Indeed, one doesn’t have to be an expert climber to scale some of the massive boulders along this trail; however, hiking the Hidden Valley Nature Trail is an awesome place to spot experienced climbers scrambling the park’s signature colossal rocks — and that’s an edge-of-the-seat show in itself.

All in all, the Hidden Valley Nature Trail is among the best hiking trails in the US for beginners (it’s very easy), so many hikers will likely have the energy to tackle the nearby trails as well. For those who fancy extending their jaunt (with the views and unique landscapes here, the likelihood of that happening is high), other scenic hikes in Joshua Tree include Warren Peak, the Skull Rock Nature Trail, and the Ryan Mountain Trail.

• Location: Joshua Tree National Park, California
• Hike Length: 1-mile loop
• Time to Complete: 30 minutes to 1 hour
• Difficulty Level: Easy
• Elevation Gain: 52 feet
• Best Time to Hike The Hidden Valley Nature Trail: March and April are ideal, thanks to pleasant temperatures and blooming flowers in the desert

The entry fees for Joshua Tree National Park are $30 per vehicle, $25 per motorcycle, or $15 per person.

8 The Lone Star Geyser Trail, Yellowstone National Park, Wyoming

The Lone Star Geyser erupting, Yellowstone National Park, Wyoming, one of the best hikes in the USA

What’s one of the best things to do in Yellowstone National Park? Naturally, hiking. But to be super specific? Hiking the Lone Star Geyser Trail, one of the best hikes in North America, thanks to its unique namesake geyser. Of course, many visitors flock to see the famous geysers of Yellowstone — and most drive in with a vehicle. However, to avoid the crowds and soak up some serenity in hiking, this trail ticks every box.

Hiking the Lone Star Geyser Trail takes roughly two-to-three hours, give or take a little. That said, if catching an eruption is on the day’s to-do list, it might take longer. Still, it’s worth the wait; this trail boasts one of the largest cones in Yellowstone — the Lone Star Geyser. It’s 10 feet in height (and it erupts fairly reliably every three hours, with eruptions reaching about 45 feet or 13.7 meters into the sky).

As for the trail as a whole (easily one of the best hikes in Yellowstone away from the masses), its trailhead is located south of Old Faithful Overpass, a little beyond Kepler Cascades parking lot. It ventures through a scenic forest while following the Firehole River — and fortunately for beginner hikers, most of the path is paved (which also means it’s suitable for cyclists).

The trail eventually comes to an end at a junction with the Howard Eaton Trail — a trail that’s actually part of the Continental Divide Trail. Travelers can also see a number of hot springs between the Lone Star Geyser and this junction. At the junction, hikers can head on to Shoshone Lake on the Shoshone Lake Trail if they want to make an entire day trip out of their trek. Alternatively, they can continue to the other side of Old Faithful Village.

Should hikers wish to extend their stay after exploring what is perhaps one of the best day hikes in the US, other beautiful hikes in Yellowstone National Park nearby include the Fairy Falls Trail (about which there are some fascinating facts) and the Upper Geyser Basin and Old Faithful Observation Point Loop. One of the best places to stay in Yellowstone National Park is the Old Faithful Inn, while the nearest campground to the Long Star Geyser Trail, with decent facilities, is in Grant Village.

Alternatively, backcountry camping in Yellowstone requires a permit; reservations can be made via the NPS Yellowstone backcountry permit page, while walk-up permits are available on a first-come, first-served basis at the park’s Backcountry Permit Offices.

• Location: Yellowstone National Park, Wyoming
• Hike Length: 4.8 miles out-and-back
• Time to Complete: 2–3 hours
• Difficulty Level: Easy
• Elevation Gain: 72 feet
• Best Time to Hike The Lone Star Geyser Trail: April to September for the best weather. But April, May, September, and October are the shoulder seasons and ideal for avoiding crowds

When at the Lone Star Geyser, visitors should look for the eruption logbook nearby and check if anyone previously noted the last eruption. If they have, it’ll be a good indication of when to expect the next one (remember, the geyser erupts every three hours).

The Lone Star Geyser eruptions last approximately five minutes, after which people can witness and hear a loud steam phase that can be heard as far as a mile away. Also, the entry fees for Yellowstone National Park are $35 per vehicle, $30 per motorcycle, and $20 per person.

7 The Grinnell Glacier Trail, Glacier National Park, Montana

Stunning mountain landscapes and glacial lakes from the Grinnell Glacier Trail in Montana, USA

Who knew that Montana offers up some of the best hikes US states have in store for adventurers? The reason is Glacier National Park — a truly beautiful region home to a handful of the most beautiful lakes in America. One such stunning lake in the park is Grinnell Lake — to which visitors can hike.

Most of the hike to Grinnell Lake — which the Grinnell and Salamander glaciers feed — goes through picturesque woods. Still, the trail also delivers scenic views of two of Alaska’s subalpine lakes, namely Lake Josephine and Swiftcurrent Lake, along with a number of cascading waterfalls.

As well as lakes and waterfalls, hikers can scope out Alaskan wildlife along the way; horses, mountain goats, beavers, and bighorn sheep are among the animals in Glacier National Park to see on this hike. Plus, adventurers might even see moose and grizzly bears as they traverse the trail.

At the end of the hike, trekkers are rewarded for their efforts with stunning vistas of the crystal-clear, turquoise-water Grinnell Lake, complemented by the dramatic backdrop of Mount Grinnell, Mount Gould, and the Garden Wall. Sadly, Grinnell Lake is far too cold for swimming, even in summer; however, in the warmer months, it’s just about warm enough for some refreshing wading.

• Location: Glacier National Forest, Montana
• Hike Length: 7.6 miles round trip
• Time to Complete: 5–7 hours
• Difficulty Level: Strenuous
• Elevation Gain: 1,840 feet
• Best Time to Hike The Grinnell Glacier Trail: July and August is the best time to visit Glacier National Park for hiking, as daytime temperatures linger around 70 °F (21 °C) and 40 °F (4 °C) at night. Meanwhile, September to April is the best time to see the Northern Lights in Glacier National Park in certain areas.

Travelers who wish to extend their stay and explore other trails in addition to the Grinnell Glacier Trail will find there are other scenic hikes nearby. Other beautiful hikes in Glacier National Park that are fairly close include Iceberg Lake, the Pitamakan – Dawson Loop, and Avalanche Lake. There are also restaurants, services, and places to stay in Glacier National Park, including hotels and campgrounds.

The entry fees for Glacier National Park in summer are $35 per vehicle, $25 per motorcycle, and $20 per person. In winter, the fees are $5 cheaper. Additionally, as of 2023, separate vehicle reservations for four areas of the park are necessary: Going-to-the-Sun Road, the North Fork, Two Medicine, and Many Glacier (see the park’s vehicle reservation page for details).

6 The Teton Crest Trail, Grand Teton National Park, Wyoming

A backpacker hiking the Teton Crest Trail in Grand Teton National Park, Wyoming, USA

Grand Teton National Park is among the most beautiful national parks in the US for hiking; think of soaring granite peaks, lush pine forests, fields of wildflowers, glittering lakes, and abundant wildlife. One of the best hikes in Grand Teton National Park, however, is the Teton Crest Trail, which features the prettiest parts of the park: the Jedidiah Smith Wilderness and two national forests named Bridger-Teton and Caribou Targhee

Immersing visitors in the total wilderness of the park away from all the tourists, the Grand Teton Trail is among the best backpacking routes in the US, and the trail’s most scenic sections come first: Hurricane Pass, Alaska Basin, and the Paintbrush Divide. In particular, the sights from the top of the Hurricane Pass are all the evidence of why this is one of the most beautiful hiking trails in the US (hint: it boasts breathtaking vistas of Grand Teton and Middle Teton).

Along the journey, hikers also witness sparkling streams, pretty lakes, lovely meadows, and jagged peaks as they climb mountain passes and watch for wildlife — species to catch a glimpse of include mule deer, marmots, moose, and even bears. Being one of the best multi-day hikes in the US, visitors must stay at designated campsites along the trail — Grand Teton camping permits are required. They are available online on the first Wednesday in January or in person at the Jenny Lake Ranger Station.

• Location: Grand Teton National Park, Wyoming
• Hike Length: 40 miles (64km)
• Time to Complete: 4–6 days
• Difficulty Level: Moderate to strenuous
• Elevation Gain: 10,889 feet
• Best Time to Hike The Teton Crest Trail: August, when the wildflowers bloom, the weather is gorgeous, and the majority of the park’s snow has melted

Acting fast is a must; typically, online Grand Teton camping permits for this trail are fully booked in minutes when they’re available from January 10 to May 15. That said, the NPS reserves most of the campsite permits for walk-ins — go to the Jenny Lake Ranger Station the day before one’s trip to get one. A permit is valid for ten consecutive nights for camping in Grand Teton National Park’s backcountry.

Many recommend the campsites at North Fork Cascade Canyon, Death Canyon Shelf, Marion Lake, Holly Lake, and the Alaska Basin for the best scenery. Plus, don’t forget that the entrance fees for Grand Teton National Park are $35 per vehicle, $30 per motorcycle, and $20 per person.

5 The Beehive Loop Trail, Acadia National Park, Maine

A hiker on the Beehive Trail in Acadia National Park during the fall, Maine, USA

The famous Beehive Loop Trail is one of the best hikes in Acadia National Park and is the ultimate outdoor playground near Bar Harbor, which offers tons to do, given it ranks among the prettiest vacation destinations on the East Coast. This top Acadia trail really does pack a punch with the most beautiful scenery in New England as hikers take the trek to the Beehive summit.

Before starting the hike, visitors mustn’t forget to stop at Sand Beach — one of the best beaches in Maine that’s conveniently located in Acadia. At Acadia’s Sand Beach, visitors will find parking areas and accessible restrooms – but those are the only accessible parts of the trail; the Beehive Loop involves granite stairs, iron rungs, and rock scrambling (so it’s not ideal for pets, young children, or people with limited mobility).

Hikers will find a crosswalk at the top of Sand Beach’s entrance just across the park loop road, next to which they’ll spot the Bowl Trailhead (the Beehive Loop begins along the Bowl Trail). Here, hikers start their accent to the top of the mountain.

The journey up throws challenging terrain and obstacles; hikers have to walk along exposed edges, climb on rung metal ladders, and trek up steep paths. As such, the Beehive Trail isn’t ideal for beginners, nor is it great for pets — paws ain’t ideal for climbing rung ladders. Hikers with Fido should attempt any of the dog-friendly hikes in Acadia instead.

Although these challenges make the Beehive hike one of the most difficult hikes in Acadia National Park, hikers’ efforts are worth it; at the summit, they get to admire the most beautiful coastal views in Maine — hands down. The Beehive Loop Trail then continues past the mountain’s summit and descends to the Bowl, a small pond between the Beehive and Champlain Mountain. After this descent, there aren’t any more ladders or rungs, so it’s a little easier.

At the Bowl, the trail heads along its south side before turning left into the woods, marking the end of the hike. Finally, visitors should note that the Beehive trail is a loop for a reason — it’s absolutely not recommended to go back down the ladders and rungs.

• Location: Acadia National Park, Maine
• Hike Length: 1.4 miles
• Time to Complete: 1–3 hours
• Difficulty Level: Strenuous
• Elevation Gain: 520 feet
• Best Time to Hike The Beehive Loop Trail: June to October for pleasant weather (October is perhaps the best time, thanks to the stunning fall colors in the park)

Entrance fees for Acadia National Park are $35 per vehicle, $30 per motorcycle, or $20 per person. In 2020, the NPS implemented an additional vehicle reservation fee for the Sand Beach Entrance and Cadillac Summit Road, the former of which is the best starting point for the Beehive Loop Trail.

The fee is $4 per vehicle plus a $2 reservation charge (so $6 total). This fee is in addition to the park’s usual entrance fee. See the Cadillac Summit Road Vehicle reservations page for more information or book the pass on the NPS’s dedicated Cadillac Summit Road reservation page.

4 The Kalalau Trail, Ha’ena State Park, Kauai, Hawaii

A beautiful bird’s eye view of Kalalau Trail, Kapaa, Hawaii, one of the most beautiful hikes in America

There are many reasons why the Kalalau Trail earns its place among the most beautiful hikes in the US; its landscapes are synonymous with the kind of natural, unspoiled beauty associated with Hawaii’s unique and secret hikes. The terrains and views are unlike anywhere else in the United States, and the lush, tropical surroundings brand the Kalalau Trail one of the best hikes in Hawaii — but it’s no walk in the park (although it’s literally in a park — Ha’ena State Park, to be exact).

Taking hikers to the enchanting Napali Coast (which takes about 12 hours to hike), the Kalalau Trail winds through awe-inspiring tropical forests and to pretty beaches. However, adventurers have to pay for all that breathtaking beauty by trekking along treacherous cliffs with steep drops and harsh inclines — which are regularly muddy and slippery since it rains a lot in Kauai. The effort to trek what is arguably one of the most difficult hikes in the US is absolutely worth it, though.

The fittest of hikers can hike the Kalalau Trail out and back in a day; however, most camp overnight along the way at Hanakoa or Kalalau, which are the only authorized areas for camping on the Kalalau Trail. When hiking, visitors must not forget to check out the best stops on the Kalalau Trail, such as Hanakapiai Beach, Hanakapiai Waterfall, and Kalalau Beach. Plus, hikers can enjoy other nearby trails, including the Pihea Trail, the Awa’awapuhi Trail, and the Kalepa Ridge Trail.

• Location: Ha’ena State Park, Kauai, Hawai’i
• Difficulty Level: Strenuous
• Hike Length: 22 miles out-and-back
• Time to Complete: 15–17 hours (but most hikers treat this trail as a backpacking trip, taking several days)
• Elevation Gain: 800 feet
• Best Time to Hike The Kalalau Trail: Summer is the ideal time because it’s the driest period on Kauai. Generally, though, any time when it’s not raining is a great time to hike this trail.

The first two miles of the Kalalau Trail (from Ke’e Beach to Hanakāpīʻai Beach) are open for day use and don’t require a permit. People going past Hanakāpīʻai Valley (at 2 miles in) require a valid camping permit for Ha’ena State Park even if they don’t intend to camp (see the Kalalau Trail website’s day-use page for more information on permits and parking in Ha’ena State Park. Stays cannot exceed five nights.

Camping at Hanakoa or Kalalau requires a permit (it’s the same permit), which costs $35 per person per day for non-residents and $25 for residents of Hawaii. See the Kalalau Trail website’s permits page for more details. Camping permits can be purchased via Hawaii’s Department of Land and Natural Resources Napali State Coast Wilderness page, which also offers more insights on camping and hiking the trail.

3 The Angel’s Landing Trail, Zion National Park, Utah

Scenery along the Angel’s Landing Trail in Zion National Park, Utah, United States of America, one of the most scenic hikes in the US

The Angel’s Landing Trail is the most famous hike in Zion National Park and one of the most popular hikes in the US. It’s not at all easy, but the scenery it delivers is enough to make people cry (as are its adrenaline-packed, fear-of-height-inducing segments).

It’s actually quite misleading at the start; the beginning of the Angels Landing trail is too easy, lulling hikers into a false sense of security. But that soon ends when the first boss round emerges — a series of switchbacks that are notoriously steep and long. All the effort bears reward, though, as dramatic views of the basin below with its technicolor stones and the Virgin River blow people’s minds.

After these showstopping basin vistas, hikers approach a nice, shaded canyon known as Refrigerator Canyon (a welcoming refuge from the heat of the hike). The canyon prepares hikers for an even more eyewateringly steep and strenuous switchback with a rather unintimidating name — Walter’s Wiggles. This switchback, like its predecessor, promises gifts for hikers’ efforts; the Scout’s Lookout comes next, which boasts some of the best views of Zion Canyon.

Given that the latter-mentioned section is the most challenging part of Angel’s Landing trail, most hikers call it a day at this point and don’t go further. After all, it’s somewhat terrifying; the rocky ridges that hikers traverse are extremely narrow and feature panic-inducing, deep drops to one’s left and right. But those with courage reach the summit and relish a paralyzing 360-degree view of Zion Canyon.

For those with more stamina, other beautiful hiking trails in Zion National Park are nearby, such as the Canyon Overlook Trail, The Subway, and The Narrows (another of the best hikes in the United States). In fact, The Narrows is equally famous as Angel’s Landing, but it’s a little more unique; it involves a bit of canyoneering (and sometimes water wading) along a flowing riverbed with sky-high red rock walls.

There are plenty of things beginners should know before hiking The Narrows (it’s not an easy hike in Zion, after all). But it’s a bucket list US hike since it takes trekkers up the Virgin River along the narrowest part of Zion Canyon.

• Location: Close to Springdale, Zion National Park, Utah
• Hike Length: 5.4 miles round trip
• Time to Complete: 4–5 hours
• Difficulty Level: Strenuous
• Elevation Gain: 1,500 feet
• Best Time to Hike Angel’s Landing: Spring and Fall are perfect since temperatures are more manageable, normally ranging between 57 °F (14 °C) and 90 °F (32 °C)

Those wondering where to camp in Zion National Park (and how much it costs) can rejoice; there are three campgrounds — the South Campground, Lava Point Campground, and Watchman Campground, the latter of which is said to be the best.

Campers can also find free camping spots in Zion National Park with the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) outside the park. There are several BLM areas south of Highway 9 that are open year-round. Visitors are permitted to camp for up to 14 days — contact the BLM St. George Field Office for more information). Like most US national parks, Zion has entrance fees — $20 per person, $30 per motorcycle, and $35 per vehicle.

Related:10 Things You Need To Know Before Visiting Angels Landing In 2023​​​​​

2 The Havasu Falls Hike, Havasupai Reservation, Arizona

Beautiful sunrise at Havasu Falls near Supai Village, Havasupai, one of the best hikes in Arizona, USA

Havasu Falls is the most famous of the five waterfalls of Havasupai, which comprise Mooney Falls, Beaver Falls, and Havasu Falls, along with the New Navajo (also called Old Navajo) and Rock Falls in Havasu Canyon, the latter two of which are known as the new falls and were created during the August 2008 flood — hence “new.”

It’s possible to take a helicopter or pack mule to the Havasupai Reservation, where these falls await, but the most bucket list-worthy option is hiking. Not only is the trail to Havasu Falls one of the top hikes in the US, but the falls themselves are also extremely hard to reach; thus, it retains an air of exclusivity (and it’s usually a crowd-free trail to hike, too).

One of the top attractions in the Grand Canyon area, exploring Havasu Falls is no easy feat despite its place among the best US hikes. Located on the Havasupai Indian Reservation, the hike to Havasu Falls traverses the most beautiful part of the Colorado Plateau. It boasts the red rocky canyon scenery and landscapes for which the Grand Canyon is globally famed.

The Supai Village is the capital of the reservation, and there aren’t any roads to it; access is via the trail from Hualapai Hilltop. From there, it’s approximately eight miles to the Supai Village (plus two more miles to the campground and waterfalls). The tranquil, serene red canyon and turquoise pool at Havasu Falls are the fruit of one’s pain it took to get here (hence, it finds itself among the best US hiking trails that lead to swimming holes).

Because it’s a challenge to get to the falls, it’s easily one of the most unique hikes in the US that rewards the hikers who do nominate themselves as challengers. What’s more, hikers with an adventurous flair and some stamina to spare can continue on to Mooney Falls and Beaver Falls after descending into the canyon or trek to the confluence of the Colorado River.

• Location: Havasupai Indian Reservation, Arizona
• Difficulty Level: Moderate
• Hike Length: 20 miles out-and-back
• Time to Complete: 4 hours in and 6 hours out
• Elevation Gain: 3,307 feet
• Best Time to Hike to Havasu Falls: Early spring, fall, or winter are ideal since the heat isn’t as intense. In summer, it gets super hot (so plan to hike as early as possible to escape the heat of the day if hiking in the summer months)

The journey to Havasu Falls is among the most beautiful waterfall hikes in the US, but it’s not easily accessible (nor is it a day hike). The land that cradles the reservation has a sacred heritage, so the Havasupai Tribe strictly limits visitor numbers.

To stay, one must obtain a permit to camp at the Havasu Falls Campground or the Havasupai Lodge, which are limited and sell out fast every February 1 when they’re released. Permits cost $100 per weeknight and $125 per weekend night, and camping reservations are for three nights/four days (so the full cost of Havasupai permit prices if hiking to Havasu Falls is around $300-$375 per person). Lastly, there is no water available along the trail (so bring enough for the hike — it gets really hot in this area).

1 The Wave Trail, Coyote Buttes, Arizona & Utah

The Wave, Coyote Buttes North, Arizona/Utah, One of the best hikes in the USA

So, the best hike in the US isn’t exactly a trail per se. Still, it deserves a place at the top of the best and most beautiful US hikes list — and the reason is super special. It’s home to some of the strangest rock formations in the world. In essence, The Wave is a striking geological sandstone rock formation that gets its name because — yep, it resembles a wave. The Wave is more of an attraction rather than a trail, but the trek there qualifies it for the list of the top US hikes.

The hike is a round trip and is just over three miles each way from the Wire Pass trailhead; it starts in Wire Pass Wash and climbs out of the said wash before heading up a steep hill to a flat, sandy area. Even though it’s not actually a trail (there’s no designated path, for that matter), The Wave is among the most exclusive hikes in the US due to strict visitor regulations (meaning there aren’t any crowds, either — those lucky enough to visit pretty much get the entire, otherworldly Mars-like realm to themselves).

Hopeful hikers must win an online lottery to bag a permit for The Wave, and those who do need to be in good physical shape; it’s a physically demanding adventure and tough to navigate. Permit holders receive nothing but a route description, a route map, a photo guide, and GPS coordinates along the proposed route to The Wave — that’s it. The rest is up to them (but it’s totally an adventure; hence, some people try for years to win a visitor permit).

Sure, The Wave is the main attraction in Coyote Buttes North — which is a tiny part of the 112,500-acre Paria Canyon-Vermilion Cliffs Wilderness. But there are myriad other Martian landscapes and landmarks to explore, such as the Boneyard, the Dinosaur Track, and the Second Wave, each of which boasts epic cliffs and curved sandstone formations.

Lake Powell is also close enough to The Wave to add to the itinerary; it’s only 30 miles away and draws travelers for water activities, hotel stays, and lakeside camping (it’s actually one of the most scenic lake camping spots in the US). The closest campsite near The Wave is at the Stateline Campground, just a few miles away on the border of Utah and Arizona on the Houserock Valley Road (it has about seven basic sites with a pit toilet and no water).

• Location: Coyote Buttes North, Vermillion Wave National Monument
• Hike Length: 6.4 miles round trip
• Time to Complete: 90 minutes to 3 hours
• Difficulty Level: Moderate
• Elevation Gain: 418 feet
• Best Time to Hike The Wave: March, April, and May, or September, October, and November are the best months to visit The Wave and its nearby attractions. But bagging a permit is the most difficult throughout this time. July and August are the easiest for getting a permit for The Wave. However, it’s also way too hot to hike in these months, as temperatures often reach 101 °F (38 °C) in the daytime.

Hiking The Wave requires a very exclusive permit for the Coyote Buttes North area that can be obtained via the Coyote Buttes North Advanced Lottery online around four months in advance. The lottery application fee is $9 and is non-refundable — and the bummer is that people can only try it once (unlucky lottery losers have to wait until the first of the month at 9 AM to enter again).

Meanwhile, daily Coyote Buttes North permits are available via the Coyote Buttes North Daily Lottery, which walk-ins can apply for two days in advance (winners pay $7 per person or per dog per day). Sixteen people or four groups are awarded permits every day via the walk-in lottery for the next day (overall, 64 people are permitted to visit Coyote Buttes North daily via both lotteries).