Whether you’re craving alpine views, desert solitude or forested pathways, America’s hiking trails deliver. With countless miles of trails stretching across national parks, wild backcountry and scenic coastlines, it’s easy to find a path that matches your exploration style.

The Appalachian Trail

Eastern United States

Spanning more than 2,190 miles from Georgia to Maine, the Appalachian Trail is the longest hiking-only footpath in the world. While few tackle it end-to-end, popular sections provide plenty of reward. Traverse through Grayson Highlands State Park in Virginia for expansive valley vistas or try the rugged White Mountains of New Hampshire if you’re up for a challenge.

Mist Trail

Yosemite National Park, California

For a hike bursting with natural beauty, the Mist Trail is a must. This 3-mile round-trip trail takes you close to two of Yosemite’s most spectacular waterfalls — Vernal Falls and Nevada Falls. As you ascend stone steps beside rushing water, you’ll feel the cool spray creating a refreshing mist that gives the trail its name. Lush ferns and granite cliffs frame the path, while panoramic views open up at the top. It’s a rewarding hike that combines both power and tranquility, perfect for those seeking a truly picturesque adventure.

Kalalau Trail

Kauai, Hawaii

If wandering along towering sea cliffs with a backdrop of turquoise water and lush valleys sounds like your kind of expedition, the Kalalau Trail won’t disappoint. Running 11 miles along the Napali Coast, this tropical trek includes steep climbs, river crossings and dense jungle terrain. Although demanding, the trail leads to the breathtaking paradise of Kalalau Beach. Most hikers camp overnight with a permit, but even a shorter hike to Hanakāpī’ai Falls offers an extraordinary jungle adventure.

The Enchantments

Alpine Lakes Wilderness, Washington

Tucked deep in the Cascade Mountains, the Enchantments grants a high-alpine experience that lives up to the name. This 18-mile point-to-point trail winds past crystal-clear lakes, jagged granite peaks and groves of radiant larch trees in autumn. The Core Enchantments zone requires a lottery permit for overnight stays, but lucky hikers are rewarded with one of the most magical landscapes in the Pacific Northwest.