16 Of America's Most Incredible National Forests That Are Just Begging For A Visit
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Sarah McCosham
Author
When John Muir spoke of the unbridled beauty of America’s wilderness, he remarked that “the clearest way into the Universe is through a forest wilderness.” Touched with the divine kind of wisdom one discovers in the Great Outdoors, Muir was indeed correct: there is nothing more wonderful than time spent basking in the wilds of Mother Nature, and there are many, many places in the U.S. where one can do just that. Today we’re taking Muir’s advice and going on a journey of discovery in America’s most incredible national forests, and we hope you’ll be inspired to go forth and explore these natural oases, too.
National Forests In The Northeast U.S.
The northeastern US is a beautiful area filled with historical significance. As the entry point for Europeans exploring the “New World,” the East Coast was a rich landscape of deep forests. Much of those wonderful forests have been preserved thanks to our national forests.
Allegheny National Forest, Sheffield Township, PA 16347, USA
- Address: Sheffield Township, PA
- Can't Miss Overlook: Right outside of the Allegheny National Forest you will find the Kinzua Sky Walk. This is an incredible experience as you extend out 624 feet into the Kinzu Gorge with nothing but epic views in every direction. It's a bit harrowing if heights aren't your thing, but it's a once-in-a-lifetime experience.
- Where To Stay Nearby: The Little Hickory is a brand new tiny home that is wonderfully furnished. It's the perfect rental for a very romantic getaway in the Allegheny National Forest. You are only a three-minute walk from the Allegheny River!
Established in 1923, Allegheny National Forest is the only national forest in Pennsylvania, spanning a magnificent 517,000 acres in the northwestern region of the state. Within this expanse -- a lush, fertile land of trees, knobs, mountains, and valleys -- the Tionesta Scenic and Research Natural Area lays claim to the biggest old-growth forest in the state. The ancient forest, boasting eastern hemlock and American beech trees dating back 400 years, spans more than 2,000 acres and is rife with opportunities for exploration and adventure. This is an area of immense natural splendor, sure to both stoke and satisfy your wanderlust.
Explore the Allegheny National Forest with Outdoors Allie in this video which shows some of the amazingly fun activities and sights you'll enjoy here:
White Mountain National Forest, Livermore, NH 03812, USA
- Address: Livermore, NH
- Can't Miss Hiking Trail: The Franconia Ridge Loop Trail has been named one of the top ten hiking trails in the world by National Geographic! As you traverse the eight-mile trail you'll pass through three different mountain ranges each more stunning than the last.
- Where To Stay Nearby: The Dundee Lodge started out as a one-bedroom cabin in the early 1900s. It has been updated to three bedrooms but still has that historic charm. And the views of the White Mountains couldn't be more magical.
Covering more than 800,000 acres, New Hampshire's White Mountain National Forest features some of the most untamed and beautiful country in the Northeast, including the Presidential Mountain Range. The forest's 6,288-foot Mount Washington is its crown jewel; a challenging trek for intrepid hikers that, with wind speeds in excess of 200 mph *and* feet of snow literally falling by the hour, is said to boast the "world’s worst weather." Despite the rugged conditions, White Mountain National Forest boasts some truly jaw-dropping landscapes too; its forests are flush with maple, oak, hemlock, pine, birch, spruce, and fir trees. And while fall in White Mountain National Forest is certainly stunning, the quiet, snow-frosted peacefulness of winter is straight out of a Robert Frost poem, and, in our opinion, its most magical season.
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Green Mountain National Forest, Rutland, VT 05702, USA
- Address: Rutland, Addison, and Washington County, VT
- Can't Miss Hiking Trail: The hike to Lye Brook Falls in Manchester is a wonderful 4.6-mile hike that is easy enough for kids of all ages, and will reward you with amazing views and a refreshing waterfall.
- Where To Stay Nearby: A cabin in the shadows of Green Mountain is pretty much a dream vacation for outdoor lovers. And the award-winning Dragonfly Cottage is simply delightful. With three ski slopes nearby and hiking trails in every direction, you are all set for unlimited adventures.
The Green Mountain National Forest was established to protect the area from over logging in 1932. At the time it was only around 100,000 acres in size, and of that, less than 20 percent was federally owned. It has grown into a vast wilderness of 821,000 acres of which nearly 50 percent is federally owned. This delightful section of Vermont is now adored by outdoor enthusiasts of all kinds. With about 900 miles of trails used for hiking, biking, skiing, snowmobiling, and horseback riding, as well as numerous lakes for water recreation, the GMNF is an outdoor lover's dream come true. In fact, the oldest long-distance trail in the United States passes through this national forest. The Long Trail was blazed between 1910 and 1930 by the Green Mountain Club, which still maintains the trail to this day.
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National Forests In The Southeast U.S.
The Carolinas and the Virginias are well known for vibrant fall colors and rich forests. With well-known mountain ranges like the Great Smokey Mountains, the Appalachian Mountains, and the Blue Ridge Range, this area has some of the best national forests in the U.S.
Nantahala National Forest, North Carolina 28734, USA
- Address: Southern North Carolina
- Can't Miss Hiking Trail: The hike to Upper Whitewater Falls is only about 1.2 miles all total but the views of this iconic waterfall are incredible as it cuts through the rock surrounded by a lush forest.
- Where To Stay Nearby: Pack your fly fishing gear and get ready for the perfect mountain stream fishing trip in the Nantahala National Forest. Stay at the roomy one-bedroom cabin with two trout streams on the property. You can step off the back porch and throw a line in.
When you visit Nantahala National Forest in North Carolina, you really get a national forest twofer; it's often paired with the neighboring Pisgah National Forest, as the duo lays claim to more than 200 miles of the Appalachian Trail. These forests are flush with old-growth stretches of oak, hemlock, tulip poplar, pine, sycamore, dogwood, and beech trees, which, as you can imagine, light the North Carolina landscape ablaze with vibrant colors each fall. For waterfall chasers, Nantahala National Forest offers amazing opportunities. With the powerful Nantahala River running through the forest, as well as several others, Nantahala is home to hundreds of North Carolina waterfalls, including the show-stopping Upper Whitewater Falls. Known as the tallest waterfall east of the Rocky Mountains, Whitewater Falls boasts two tiers -- one in North Carolina and one in South Carolina -- totaling a stunning 811 feet.
Monongahela National Forest, West Virginia 26264, USA
- Address: Seneca Rocks Discovery Center, 13 Roy Gap Road Seneca Rocks, WV 26884
- Can't Miss Natural Wonder: Spruce Knob is along the highest ridge of the Allegheny Mountains. You can drive to an overlook at the highest point in West Virginia.
- Where To Stay Nearby: This two-bedroom cabin on Spruce Knob Mountain (the highest mountain in West Virginia) is surrounded by epic views of the Monongahela National Forest. It's also not far from the Spruce Knob trailhead.
West Virginia's national park tends to take center stage (and rightfully so), but it's by no means the only breathtakingly beautiful region of the state. Established in 1920, Monongahela National Forest spans nearly 1 million acres and encompasses one of the most ecologically diverse areas in the U.S. This wooded wonderland expands across the north-central highlands of West Virginia and contains 23 campgrounds, over 800 miles of trails, and countless bodies of water, making for the ultimate natural playground for outdoor enthusiasts.
National Forests In The Midwest U.S.
The Midwest misses out a bit on the mountain front, but the dense forests and the beautiful Great Lakes make up for it. The national forests in this region are as diverse as they are beautiful.
Superior National Forest, Stony River Township, MN 55731, USA
- Address: Stony River Township, MN
- Can't Miss Hiking Trail: Be sure to hike the Eagle Mountain Trail to the highest point in Minnesota with stunning views of Lake Superior.
- Where To Stay Nearby: This charming three-bedroom cabin on Lake Superior is a fantastic family getaway. With your own rocky beach to explore, hiking trails, fishing spots, and a cozy stone fireplace to return to, this cabin is a little slice of heaven in the Superior National Forrest.
Minnesota gets a lot of attention for its myriad lakes, and rightfully so. But Minnesota is so much more than just 10,000 lakes; the state is home to over 17 million acres of forested land, including 54 state forests. These lush landscapes are full of many different kinds of trees, flowers, and abundant foliage - not to mention some of the most diverse and wondrous wildlife in the country. One of the most notable forests? Superior National Forest, the ancient forest in Minnesota that looks like something out of a fairy tale. Superior National Forest is made up of 3.9 million acres of woods in the northernmost region of the state; this boreal forest is teeming with towering pine, birch, oak, maple, and aspen trees. What's more, the forest is home to the grandest view in the state: the summit of Eagle Mountain, which, at 2,301 feet above sea level, is the highest point in Minnesota.
Black Hills National Forest, West Pennington, SD 57745, USA
- Address: Pennington County, South Dakota
- Can't Miss Hiking Trail: The Sunday Gulch Trail in Custer State Park touches the tip of the beautiful Sylvan Lake. You'll catch glimpses of Black Elk Peak, Little Devil's Tower, Cathedral Spires, and Poet's Lake.
- Where To Stay Nearby: The Chalet on High Meadows is a delightful two-bedroom A-frame cabin surrounded by an absolute oasis of beauty in the Black Hills between Rapid City and Sturgis.
A trip through the Midwest isn't complete without traveling through the Black Hills. Whether you enjoy its historical significance with a visit to Mount Rushmore or you simply love exploring the vast plains, mountains, bluffs, and forests you can't go wrong with any part of this incredible national forest. There is so much natural beauty to be discovered here you can come back again and again to experience something new every time. Head to Spearfish Canyon for the thrill of Roughlock Falls. Take the Peter Norbeck Scenic Byway to see bison, elk, and pronghorn antelope roaming free. It also gives you access to Mount Rushmore. The Cathedral Spires and Black Elk Peak are a thrilling sight to see in the Black Elk Wilderness with imposing granite bluffs and tall fragrant pines reaching for the heavens.
Shawnee National Forest, Herod, IL 62946, USA
- Address: Jackson, Williamson, Union, Alexander, and Pulaski County, IL
- Can't Miss Natural Wonder: The Garden of the Gods is a can't-miss area of Shawnee. With numerous hiking trails to explore including the quick and easy Siamese Twins Trail which gives you views of Pike's Peak.
- Where To Stay Nearby: A one-bedroom hickory log cabin in the Garden of the Gods - can you think of a more adventurous and beautiful stay? The Hickory Hollow Log Cabin sleeps four and has a very rustic feel with enough modern amenities to keep you comfortable.
The Shawnee National Forest is a breathtaking area of Southern Illinois where light seems to bend to nature's will. The Garden of the Gods wilderness area is an iconic area of this national forest with fabulous sandstone towers of rock set against a stunning open landscape of deciduous trees with wide open skies of blue. Deeper into the forest is a lush landscape of greenery, streams, lakes, and rivers. The Shawnee National Forest is sandwiched between the Ohio and the Mississippi Rivers. It will delight you with steep bluffs and cascading waterfalls - particularly Jackson Falls which cuts through the rock to plunge into a boulder-lined basin of water.
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National Forests In The Southwest U.S.
As we travel to the Southwest we get away from your typical lush forests usually associated with a national forest. But the canyons, gorges, buttes, and desert landscape is just as beautiful as its more lush counterparts.
Sequoia National Forest, California 93262, USA
- Address: Kern, Tulare, and Fresno County, CA
- Can't Miss Hiking Trail: The Trail of 100 Giants is an epic hike surrounded by iconic towering Sequoia trees, many of which are over 1,500 years old.
- Where To Stay Nearby: This beautiful riverfront home is set in some of the most beautiful forestlands you'll find. It's like having your own national forest to play in. You are only steps away from the Kern River for fishing, kayaking, swimming, and hiking trails galore.
The first thing you'll notice as you enter Sequoia National Park is how dramatic the rugged landscapes are. The park's 631 square miles are full of looming mountains (including Mount Whitney, the tallest mountain in the Lower 48), rugged foothills, deep canyons, caverns, and, of course, some of the world's largest trees. Within this expanse, Sequoia National Forest quite literally stands out; this 1.1 million-acre forest contains 34 distinct groves and is truly unlike any other place in the world. John Muir, who was known as the Father of National Parks, remarked that the sequoia groves are "not like places, they are like haunts." Giant Forest is the largest of the 34 groves, with Redwood Mountain Grove and Atwell, and East Fork Grove not far behind it. The hiking here is unrivaled, providing visitors with the unique opportunity to walk among real-life giants.
Cibola National Forest, New Mexico 87825, USA
- Address: Albuquerque, NM
- Can't Miss Attraction: The Very Large Array (yes that's its actual name) is located in the Cibola National Forest and is one of the nation's premier astronomical radio observatories. Visitors are encouraged to stop by the visitor's center for exhibits, a theater, and a self-guided tour of the telescopes.
- Where To Stay Nearby: How about a ghost town getaway in New Mexico? This cute home was relocated from an old abandoned silver mining town. With several abandoned towns nearby to explore and the Cibola and Gila National Forests, there are plenty of outdoor adventures to be had.
"Forest" can mean so many different things, depending on where you live. In the West, for example, Cibola National Forest is an extraordinary expanse of "sky islands" covering 1.6 million acres across northern and central New Mexico, with elevations reaching 11,300 feet. The forest and surrounding grasslands contain four protected wilderness areas that provide habitats for species like elk, mule deer, black bears, and bobcats, and a critical migration corridor for raptors and other wildlife through the Sandia and Manzano mountains. It's breathtakingly beautiful and unlike any other national forest in America.
Coconino National Forest, Arizona 86017, USA
- Address: Flagstaff, AZ
- Can't Miss Hiking Trail: Chimney Rock Pass takes you to the iconic Chimney Rock over a 1.8-mile loop trail. The red canyon walls come alive with color as the sun sets.
- Where To Stay Nearby: Casita De Los Santos is a lovely home perfect for a romantic getaway in Sedona, AZ. Absolutely epic views right from your hot tub and some of the best hiking trails in the Coconino National Forest. Sugarloaf Mountain, Chimney Rock, and Coffee Pot Rock are minutes from your front door.
While the West might not be the first place that comes to mind in terms of "lush forests," Coconino National Forest defies all desert stereotypes. From the iconic red rocks of Sedona to its mountainous alpine tundra and ancient volcanic terrain, this woodland expanse is one of the most diverse national forests in the country. Coconino was made for hiking, boasting some of the very best, bucket-list-worthy treks in the country. At the top of the list is the Fossil Creek Waterfall Trail, a 2.6-mile, out-and-back hike that traverses past, among other things, a real-life tropical oasis.
White River National Forest, Colorado 81637, USA
- Address: Gypsum, CO
- Can't Miss Natural Wonder: The Yampah Spa and Vapor Caves in Glenwood is an interesting therapeutic experience that utilizes the natural hot springs to heat the cave floor to 125 degrees Fahrenheit. It creates a natural geothermal steam bath that relaxes the soul.
- Where To Stay Nearby: Glenwood Springs is your launchpad for outdoor adventures. With hot springs, caves, lakes, mountains, canyons, and excellent hiking trails to explore, Pete's Place is the ultimate home base for up to eight people.
Laying claim to what is perhaps the single most beautiful place in the country, White River National Forest is a Colorado paradise. Maroon Bells is a place that needs no introduction; the ultimate nature postcard, this natural wonder boasts a startlingly blue lake, lush meadows, and two 14,000-foot peaks. The peaks reflect perfectly in the pristine waters for a panorama that's absolutely flawless. Maroon Bells' iconic twin peaks are located in the Maroon Bells-Snowmass Wilderness of Colorado's White River National Forest. This high-mountain oasis makes for a picture-perfect day trip or weekend adventure, with myriad hiking opportunities for outdoor enthusiasts of all abilities. (The overlook for this stunning vista is handicap accessible, in fact: flat, fully paved, and just 80 yards from the parking lot.)
National Forests In The Northwest U.S.
With regal redwood forests, incredible waterfalls, and snow-covered mountains to explore, this region is breathtaking. And the national forests in this part of the US are some of the best in the nation.
Gifford Pinchot National Forest, Washington 98377, USA
- Address: Southwest Washington State
- Can't Miss Natural Wonder: Mount Saint Helen's is an iconic volcano in the Gifford Pinchot National Forest. There are numerous hiking trails that offer wonderful views. If you are a hard-core climber take the Ptarmigan Trail all the way to the summit. You will need more gear than your standard hike and a permit to make the climb to the top.
- Where To Stay Nearby: Stay at River House Retreat, a wonderful two-bedroom home that sleeps seven. Enjoy river views from your wrap-around deck with a hot tub to soak away those stressed-out hiking muscles after spending the day on the PCT.
Over 1.3 million acres of green forests soaring mountains, dewy meadows, and rapid streams cover the Gifford Pinchot National Forest, an expanse often overlooked in favor of Washington's national park trio. Highlighted by the Mount St. Helens National Volcanic Monument, Gifford Pinchot National Forest is known for its wholly wild and unusual landscape, which includes tunnels and caverns formed in eons-old cooling lava. Ape Cave is a 2.5-mile journey into the belly of the beast, while Falls Creek Cave is a lesser-known tunnel that many find easier and more accessible to explore.
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Salmon–Challis National Forest, Shoup, ID 83469, USA
- Address: Lemhi County, ID
- Can't Miss Hiking Trail: The trail to Lower Cedar Creek Falls is one of the best-rated hikes around Mackay, ID. About three miles in length, stunning mountain streams, and gorgeous views await with a treat at the end - a steep but fun climb to the falls.
- Where To Stay Nearby: An incredibly unique stay is the Blue Gypsy Wagon on a mini-donkey ranch. This bed and breakfast is located near the beautiful Salmon River not far from the Goldbug Hot Springs.
A treasure in the Gem State, Salmon-Challis National Forest covers 4,235,940 acres, making it one of the largest national forests in the Lower 48. It covers much of the land area of the Frank Church–River of No Return Wilderness, which is the largest wilderness area south of Alaska. Numbers aside, this forest is a place of immense beauty and splendor, boasting the state's most unbridled scenery and wildlife. It's an iconic adventure destination for nature-loving Idahoans; and, considering it protects several mountain ranges, rivers, and extensive wildlife, it's no wonder why!
Bighorn National Forest, Wyoming 82834, USA
- Address: Sheridan, WY
- Can't Miss Natural Wonder: If you love climbing, a trip to Ten Sleep Canyon is a must. There is plenty of hiking trails too, if you just like to explore.
- Where To Stay Nearby: The charming town of Ten Sleep is a great place to stay when adventuring into the Bighorn National Forest. And this lovely four-bedroom home is within minutes of the historic downtown.
Wyoming is a nature lover's paradise, and Bighorn National Forest is one of its most shining stars. One of the most remote and pristine places in the country, Bighorn National Forest is a national treasure sure to satisfy the wanderlust of all who explore its 1,107,571 pristine acres. Bighorn is home to literally thousands of miles of trails, myriad mountains, and dozens of lakes, and it's hard to imagine a better place to get away from the world -- especially within the park's Cloud Peak Wilderness. One of Earth's last true wilderness areas, this is an immensely beautiful forest that truly is a bucket list must for all explorers.
Tongass National Forest, Alaska 99833, USA
- Address: Southeast Alaska
- Can't Miss Hiking Trail: The Carlanna Lake Trail is a cool hidden gem with a boardwalk through the forest, epic mountain views, and pure glacial lakes. The 5.1-mile out-and-back trail is found in Ketchikan, Alaska.
- Where To Stay Nearby: For the ultimate Alaskan adventure in Ketchikan, stay aboard an 85-foot yacht! This four-bedroom yacht sleeps up to six and is available for rent from May through September. Oh, and you'll have a private chef!
Up in the Last Frontier, there is a place of extraordinary beauty that offers a glimpse into the past. Tongass National Forest is home to some of the most ancient trees in America. These old-growth trees are usually Sitka spruce, yellow or red cedar, or Western Hemlock; the Western Hemlock tends to be the tallest and can grow upwards of 135-170 feet tall, with diameters of up to 11 feet. An important part of southeast Alaska, some of these majestic trees are over 1,000 years old; they are an awe-inspiring testament to the history of the area, and a stark reminder of why we need to treat our planet with the utmost respect and care.
When was the last time you immersed yourself in the wondrous wilds of America’s national forests? It truly is a soul-filling, humbling, immensely comforting experience worth seeking out.
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Our treasured U.S. National Forests
What are National Forests in the United States?
National forests in the United States are protected and managed lands typically comprised of old-growth forests, woodland, and mountainous areas, but also canyons, gullies, gulches, and buttes. They were created with a dual purpose of protection as well as multi-use recreational areas. The national forest system was created in 1891 after President Benjamin Harrison signed the Land Revision Act.
How many National Forests are there in the United States?
There are 154 national forests in the United States, as well as an additional 20 national grasslands that are protected by the national forest system. Nearly 200 million acres have been designated as national forest land.
What activities can I do in National Forests?
The kinds of activities one can do in national forests are quite vast. Hiking, mountain biking, swimming, climbing, hunting, fishing, camping, horseback riding, birdwatching, off-roading - the list is pretty much endless. Of course, we can't forget winter activities; skiing, ice-climbing, snowshoeing, ice-skating, and snowmobiling are only a few of the winter sports you can enjoy in a national forest. If you enjoy the outdoors there is an activity for you in any of our beautiful national forests.