The United States is home to some of the most challenging, rugged, and scenic hiking trails in the world. From the towering peaks of the Rockies to the arid deserts of the Southwest, there are countless trails that offer adrenaline-pumping adventures for seasoned hikers and outdoor enthusiasts. If you're an adventure seeker looking for your next challenge, here are the top 10 hiking trails in the US that promise a thrilling experience and stunning landscapes.
1. The John Muir Trail, California
Distance: 211 miles | Difficulty: Strenuous
The John Muir Trail (JMT) is one of the most iconic and challenging hiking routes in the US. Spanning through the Sierra Nevada Mountains, it begins in Yosemite National Park and ends at Mount Whitney, the highest peak in the contiguous United States. Hikers are treated to dramatic alpine scenery, including crystal-clear lakes, snow-capped peaks, and towering granite cliffs. The trail is known for its rugged terrain and high-altitude climbs, making it perfect for experienced hikers looking for an epic adventure.
2. The Pacific Crest Trail, West Coast
Distance: 2,650 miles | Difficulty: Strenuous
The Pacific Crest Trail (PCT) stretches from Mexico to Canada, passing through California, Oregon, and Washington. This massive trail offers diverse landscapes, from arid deserts to snow-capped mountains. Adventurous hikers often tackle the entire trail in segments or attempt through-hikes, with the journey taking several months to complete. The trail offers an unparalleled wilderness experience, testing endurance and mental strength as it meanders through some of the most beautiful and rugged terrain in the US.
3. The Zion Traverse, Utah
Distance: 48 miles | Difficulty: Strenuous
Zion National Park is known for its dramatic landscapes and towering red rock cliffs. The Zion Traverse is a multi-day backpacking trail that crosses the park from east to west, providing hikers with stunning views of canyons, waterfalls, and the iconic Zion Canyon. The trail is known for its steep climbs, rough terrain, and exposure to the elements, making it a thrilling and challenging experience. The rewards include unparalleled views of Zion’s natural beauty.
4. The Grand Canyon Rim-to-Rim Trail, Arizona
Distance: 24 miles | Difficulty: Strenuous
Hiking from the North Rim to the South Rim of the Grand Canyon is a quintessential American adventure. This challenging trek drops over 5,000 feet into the canyon, requiring hikers to navigate switchbacks, steep descents, and hot desert conditions. The elevation changes and extreme heat make it a physically demanding hike, but the views of the canyon’s stunning rock formations and the Colorado River are worth every step. Many hikers aim to complete the entire rim-to-rim journey in one day, though it’s often recommended to break it up into two days for safety.
5. Mount Whitney Trail, California
Distance: 22 miles (out-and-back) | Difficulty: Very strenuous
Mount Whitney is the highest point in the contiguous United States, standing at 14,505 feet. The Mount Whitney Trail is a challenging climb that requires both physical endurance and preparation due to the high altitude and rapidly changing weather conditions. The trail features steep climbs, narrow switchbacks, and an incredibly rewarding summit view. It's a must-do for those looking to conquer one of the most famous peaks in the US.
6. The Presidential Traverse, New Hampshire
Distance: 19 miles | Difficulty: Strenuous
The Presidential Traverse is a high-altitude hike in the White Mountains of New Hampshire. It takes hikers over several peaks, including Mount Washington, the highest point in the Northeast. This trail features steep ascents, unpredictable weather, and rocky terrain, making it a challenging adventure. The payoff comes in the form of stunning vistas of the surrounding valleys, mountains, and forests. It’s a great trail for those seeking a difficult, alpine experience in the Eastern US.
7. The Lost Coast Trail, California
Distance: 25 miles | Difficulty: Moderate to strenuous
The Lost Coast Trail is one of California's most remote and rugged coastal hikes, offering a true wilderness experience. Located in the King Range Wilderness, the trail runs along the Pacific coastline, passing through untouched beaches, dense forests, and challenging river crossings. The trail’s isolation means that hikers often encounter few others, making it perfect for those seeking solitude and an adventurous escape into nature.
8. The Bright Angel Trail, Grand Canyon, Arizona
Distance: 9.5 miles (one-way) | Difficulty: Strenuous
Another iconic Grand Canyon trail, the Bright Angel Trail offers a more accessible but still challenging way to experience the canyon’s depth and beauty. Starting from the South Rim, this steep and winding trail descends over 4,000 feet to the Colorado River. Hikers face the difficult climb back up, making this a strenuous round-trip. However, the panoramic views and incredible geological features make the Bright Angel Trail one of the most popular and rewarding hikes in the US.
9. The Highline Trail, Montana
Distance: 15.2 miles | Difficulty: Moderate to strenuous
Located in Glacier National Park, the Highline Trail is renowned for its dramatic alpine scenery and wildlife sightings. This trail traverses steep cliffs and offers breathtaking panoramic views of glaciers, waterfalls, and lush valleys. Although the terrain can be challenging, especially in the first few miles, the Highline Trail is ideal for those who want to experience Glacier National Park’s incredible beauty in a more accessible way.
10. The Wonderland Trail, Washington
Distance: 93 miles | Difficulty: Moderate to strenuous
The Wonderland Trail circles Mount Rainier, offering one of the best long-distance hikes in the Pacific Northwest. The trail takes hikers through old-growth forests, wildflower meadows, glaciers, and alpine lakes, with spectacular views of Mount Rainier. The Wonderland Trail can be done as a multi-day backpacking trip, with many sections offering a challenging yet accessible experience. Whether you're tackling the entire trail or exploring shorter segments, the Wonderland Trail offers adventure and stunning scenery at every turn.