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Hidden Gems: Lesser-Known Hiking Trails in the United States

By JJames janeiro 19, 2025

For those looking to escape the crowds and discover nature’s untouched beauty, the United States is home to countless lesser-known hiking trails. These hidden gems offer stunning landscapes, serene environments, and unique adventures. Here’s a guide to some of the most underrated trails that should be on your radar.


1. Lost Coast Trail, California

  • Length: 25 miles.
  • Difficulty: Moderate to strenuous.
  • Highlights: Remote beaches, rugged coastline, and wildlife like sea lions and otters.
  • Why It’s a Hidden Gem: This trail offers solitude and breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean, far from California’s bustling tourist hotspots.

2. Cohos Trail, New Hampshire

  • Length: 170 miles.
  • Difficulty: Moderate to difficult.
  • Highlights: Dense forests, mountain peaks, and tranquil ponds.
  • Why It’s a Hidden Gem: Spanning the northernmost part of New Hampshire, it’s a peaceful alternative to the busier White Mountains.

3. Black Elk Peak Trail, South Dakota

  • Length: 7 miles (round trip).
  • Difficulty: Moderate.
  • Highlights: Panoramic views, granite spires, and Harney Peak Fire Tower.
  • Why It’s a Hidden Gem: Located in the Black Hills, this trail is often overshadowed by nearby Mount Rushmore but offers equally stunning vistas.

4. Ozark Highlands Trail, Arkansas

  • Length: 165 miles.
  • Difficulty: Moderate.
  • Highlights: Waterfalls, limestone bluffs, and diverse wildlife.
  • Why It’s a Hidden Gem: A pristine trail that showcases the natural beauty of the Ozarks, perfect for solitude seekers.

5. Big South Fork Loop, Tennessee/Kentucky

  • Length: 10 miles (loop).
  • Difficulty: Moderate.
  • Highlights: Sandstone arches, river views, and lush forests.
  • Why It’s a Hidden Gem: This lesser-known trail offers a mix of rugged terrain and peaceful surroundings in the Appalachian region.

6. Ice Age Trail, Wisconsin

  • Length: 1,200 miles (segments available).
  • Difficulty: Varies by segment.
  • Highlights: Glacial formations, serene forests, and picturesque farmland.
  • Why It’s a Hidden Gem: This trail is a unique opportunity to explore remnants of the Ice Age while enjoying quiet, scenic hiking paths.

7. Anza-Borrego Desert Trails, California

  • Length: Various trails of different lengths.
  • Difficulty: Easy to strenuous.
  • Highlights: Desert landscapes, slot canyons, and seasonal wildflowers.
  • Why It’s a Hidden Gem: Less frequented than Joshua Tree, this desert park offers a surreal hiking experience.

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