The Best 25 Hikes In America
This land is your land, this land is my land.
America is home to some of the most beautiful natural scenery in the world and while we definitely plan to indulge in the hot dogs, fireworks, and red white and blue everything, we think the best way to celebrate The Fourth of July is going out for a hike with friends and family. So head out on one of America's 25 Best Hikes or hit up your favorite local trail and celebrate the holiday weekend by getting outside!
1. Hanging Lake, CO
The trip to Hanging Lake is a short hike but yields big rewards. Pine tree lined cliffs engulf a cascade of water falling into a very inviting mountain lake. The perfect summer escape. Learn more.
2. The Enchantments, WA
This hike will get you breathing but the clear blue waters of Colchuck Lake and the Mountain Goats sharing the trail will be more than enough reward. Learn more.
3. Angel’s Landing, UT
Angel's Landing is one of the most famous - and most daring - hikes in Utah's Zion National Park, if not in the West. Beat the summer heat by tackling it in the evening and you'll also catch an amazing twilight view. Learn more.
4. Smith Rock, OR
Famed for its rock climbing, Smith Rock has an extensive system of fantastic trails. Go for a hike and watch the climbers make there way up the rock. Learn more.
5. Roan Highlands, NC
This is one of the best sections of the Appalchian Trail with wildflowers galore and sweeping views of the Blue Ridge Mountains. Learn more.
6. Gothic Basin, WA
You can reach this inspiring landscape with a tough but rewarding day hike just a short drive outside of Seattle. Learn more.
7. Spy Rock, VA
At just 3 miles and dog friendly, this is the perfect sunrise or sunset hike for you and your pup. Learn more.
8. The John Muir Trail, CA
This is one to add to the bucket list. You can hike sections or embark on the journey of a lifetime for a three week trek. Learn more.
9. Oneonta Gorge, OR
Walk, wade in the river, and navigate log jams through this mossy gorge to reach to beautiful Oneonta Falls. Learn more.
10. Algonquin Peak, NY
The Adirondack Mountains are amazing and from this 5,114 ft peak you'll have great views of the surrounding moutain range. Learn more.
11. Enchanted Rock, TX
The trail leads to the base of this massive boulder summit, leaving it up to your imagination to reach the top and pick a spot to soak it all in. Learn more.
12. The Wave, UT
Experience one of the most iconic and unqiue landscapes in the Southwest on this hike through unbelievable sandstone rock formations. Learn more.
13. Snoqualmie Mountain, WA
From the summit of Snoqulamie Mountain you'll have amazing 360 degree views of surrounding mountains like the iconic Mt. Rainier. Learn more.
14. Mount Sneffels, CO
The views along the trail of this hike challenge those at the summit, making the journey just as incredible as the destination. Learn more.
15. Pinnacle Park, NC
Lounge at the Pinnacle and take in the views after a 6.5 mile hike through the park. You earned it. Learn more.
16. The Narrows, UT
Zion National Park is full of hiking trails that are totally one of a kind and this is definitely one of them. Hike and canyoneer through this nearly full tube of sandstone. Learn more.
17. Iceberg Lake, MT
Glacier National Park is as rugged as they come and this hike is the perfect way to experience it first hand. Learn more.
18. Havasu Falls, AZ
You'll have to put in some work to reach this Arizona desert oasis, but just look at that blue water - it'll be worth it. Learn more.
19. Half Dome, CA
One of the most famous monoliths in the world and one heck of a hike. The 13 or so miles to the base of Half Dome are amazing - and difficult - in their own right, but the cables up to the top and 360 degree views of Yosemite are unbelievable. Learn more.
20. Kasha-Katuwe Tent Rocks, NM
This hike leads to yet another incredibly unique and stunning landscapes. It's just 3 miles of mostly flat trail to reach these amazing rock formations. Learn more.
21. Point Reyes, CA
Experience the majesty of the Pacific Coast and the amazing wildlife found in this scenic coastal area. Learn more.
22. The Grand Canyon, AZ
The Grand Canyon is one of America's most famous landmarks and there's no better way to see it than hiking right in. Learn more.
23. Coffin Mountain Fire Lookout, OR
Hike through serene mountain landscapes of wildflowers and towering peaks of the Cascades like Mt. Jefferson in the distance. Learn more.
24. Bearfence Mountain, VA
Make the quick day hike to this lookout point or hook up with the Appalachian Trail and extend your day hike. Learn more.
25. Mt. Sterling Fire Tower, NC
Find panoramic views of the Smoky Mountains from the top of this 60 foot fire tower. Learn more.
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We want to acknowledge and thank the past, present, and future generations of all Native Nations and Indigenous Peoples whose ancestral lands we travel, explore, and play on. Always practice Leave No Trace ethics on your adventures and follow local regulations. Please explore responsibly!
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