hiking trip planner: discover the
most epic trails in the u.s.
Ready to conquer a mountain? Discover a remote waterfall? Experience amazing views? Lace up your shoes and start exploring with our hiking trip planner! From popular routes to unique finds, we’ve compiled eight can’t-miss U.S. hiking trails.
Devil’s Garden
Spectacular sandstone arches
You’ll feel like you’ve been transported to another planet during this 7.8-mile loop in one of America’s most iconic national parks. Along the way, discover eight arches, go rock scrambling over sandstone and enjoy the best views of the park.
The Mist Trail
Wonderous waterfalls
Get ready to experience the most amazing waterfalls of your life during this 5.4-mile hike in majestic Yosemite. See both Vernal Fall and Nevada Fall roaring over the canyon’s edge and feel the cool mist on your face as you take in the spectacular rainbows.
Rock House Trail
An outrageous cave
The Rock House is the only true cave in Hocking Hills State Park. While the trek there is only a quarter mile, you’ll experience rugged cliffs, rocky steps and even waterfalls. Once you arrive, explore the monstrous cave with natural cutouts along the way where you can peer down at the gorge below.
Windmill Pasture Hilltop
Enchanting grassy hills and wildflowers
Ready to get out of the mountains and enjoy wide-open spaces? Check out Strong City, Kansas, to view one of the largest remaining tallgrass prairies in the country. Featuring rolling grassy hills, seasonal wildflowers and the occasional bison herd, it’s a delightful area unlike any other place you’ve hiked.
The Lemon Squeezer
Adventurous boulders and crevasses
Get ready to experience one of the craziest sections of the Appalachian Trail. Hike two miles in to experience a wild obstacle course that takes you through a fun, yet challenging adventure scrambling over huge boulders and squeezing between tight crevasses. No wonder they call it the “Lemon Squeezer!”
Chapel Loop Trail
Gorgeous lakeside beaches
Touted as one of the best day hikes in Michigan, this 10.4-mile trail boasts two waterfalls and stunning rock formations along the edge of Lake Superior. Take a lunch break on Chapel Beach and enjoy the never-ending horizon of gorgeous turquoise water.
Bar Island Trail
Secret passageway
This unique hiking trail only appears during certain times of the day. For one and a half hours before and after low tide, a sand bar is exposed so you can walk between Bar Harbor and Porcupine Island. Just give yourself enough time to return before the tide comes back in!
Snake Bight: Rowdy Bend Trail
Wild wildlife
This bucket-list destination makes a great day hike for spotting wildlife like crocodiles, manatees and unique bird species. Wind through tropical wilderness and bay-lined mangroves—you might even spot a flamingo!
what to pack for the best hike of your life
The best hiking trails are away from it all—which means you probably won’t find a snack bar or convenience store nearby. Before starting your adventure, use this checklist to help you pack. Also, consider the length of your hike and what the weather will be like.
Once you’re packed, check your backpack’s weight to make sure you can comfortably carry everything you’re bringing along. Happy trails!
*This statement has not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.
