13 Stunning Treetop Walks in the U.S. Worth the Climb

There's something magical about trees. Wandering through a forest, surrounded by lush canopies, is a pastime everybody should experience at least once. That's where the best canopy walks in America come in. Beyond just a hiking trail, these scenic treetop trails soar high above the ground and offer a truly immersive experience.

Canopy walks are man-made footpaths, often taking the form of elevated boardwalks, suspension bridges, treehouse villages, and even zip line stations. All are intricately designed to work in harmony with their natural surroundings, including old-growth giants, sprawling branches, and thick tree trunks. Ready to check one out yourself? Here's a list of our favorite canopy walks in the U.S., perfect for both relaxing and exhilarating experiences.

1. Redwood Canopy Walk Adventure, California

No place in the world compares to Northern California's redwood forests, and with a canopy tour with Mount Hermon Adventures, you'll have the unique opportunity to witness them from a bird's-eye view: up to 150 feet in the air. Walk through the aerial adventure course or conquer one of six zip lines on the property. You'll feel immersed in the natural beauty of the revered forest and town of Felton.

As you stroll across the two suspension bridges that make up the canopy walk, you'll see a babbling creek and lush greenery down below. Tour guides versed in the local flora and fauna guide the way, helping you feel even more connected to your surroundings. This is a great canopy walk for families and is ideal for spring, summer, and fall.

2. Leach Botanical Garden Tree Walk, Oregon

Forests are a place for healing and reflection, and Leach Botanical Garden has long been an urban escape for Portlanders. The park's grounds are the former estate of John and Lilla Leach, devoted botanists who, in the 1930s, built the Manor House and began work on the eponymous gardens. Today, the 17-acre park offers visitors a refuge from the hustle and bustle of the city and life, as well as the unique opportunity to traipse among the treetops.

As you walk across the aerial tree walk (which spans the entire 17 acres), you'll find yourself among the 80-foot-tall Douglas fir trees and more than 2,000 varieties of local plants. Enjoy the blooming flowers during springtime, or admire the fall foliage during peak autumn season. Nature photographers and birdwatchers will absolutely love this walk.

3. Arbor Day Farm Treetop Village, Nebraska

Did you know Nebraska is where Arbor Day began? Experience the legacy firsthand at Arbor Day Farm in Nebraska City. This 260-acre farm includes an apple market, lodge, historical park, and a one-of-a-kind canopy walk that stretches across three acres. Walk along the netted walkways and unique bridges high above the trees.

Embark on the Tree House Trail, and stop to take in the view from one of the 11 unique treehouses connecting the walkway. Then, race your kiddos down a 50-foot slide back down to earth. The best time to visit Arbor Day Farm is in early to mid-spring, and during Arbor Day Weekend (April 24 to 26), when the farm hosts a fantastic, family-friendly festival. Come experience the first attraction of its kind in the U.S.!

4. Branson Zipline Canopy Tour, Missouri

Those looking for a "world-class eco-adventure" need only visit Missouri. Here, you'll find Branson Zipline at Wolfe Mountain, a one-of-a-kind adventure park with one of the best canopy walks in the country. Zip down the Ozark Explorer, Branson's most scenic zip line tour, which gives you a little taste of everything scenery-wise.

Conquer the seven zip line courses and 10 sky bridges over the course of 1 to 2 hours. Adrenaline seekers, outdoor enthusiasts, or simply those who love scenic views (and aren't scared of heights) will love the experience. Visit in the summertime for optimal weather, or in autumn to witness the fall foliage from an aerial view.

5. Lake Geneva Canopy Adventures, Wisconsin

Spanning 100 acres in one of the most objectively beautiful regions of Wisconsin, Lake Geneva Ziplines & Adventures boasts several opportunities for high-flying fun, including a zip line canopy tour and a high ropes course. Traverse solo through 19 different obstacles set 32 feet above ground, or team up with friends to complete obstacles together. Expect the 2-hour guided excursion to fly by, and to see some pretty incredible views from the top.

Autumn is the most popular time to visit this canopy walk, thanks to the stunning fall foliage and vibrant colors. Book an excursion for up to eight people (kids under 15 need a parent present) and enjoy a fun-filled day out in nature. Tickets for the zipline are $110-$120 per person, and tickets for the high ropes are $80 per person.

6. Dow Gardens Canopy Walk, Michigan

Fun fact: the nation's longest canopy walk is in Michigan. Dow Gardens is home to a 1,400-foot-long canopy walk that takes guests on an enchanting excursion through the treetops. Get a bird's-eye view from 40 feet above the ground, and enjoy the longest walk of its kind in the U.S. Add in the scenic splendor of the Great Lakes State, too, and the experience is positively sublime.

When you're done strolling the canopy walk, peruse the beautiful 110 acres of annual and perennial plants on the Midland grounds. Then admire the plethora of butterflies, the adorable Children's garden, and the peaceful water features within the gardens. The best time to visit is summer or spring, but even winter is fun and exemplifies #PureMichigan.

7. Holden Arboretum Canopy Walk, Ohio

Another superlative canopy walk in the Midwest, Holden Arboretum is an Ohio treasure that features a treetops twofer: the Kalberer Emergent Tower and the Murch Canopy Walk. As you climb the 120-foot tower (12 stories), you'll experience the wonder of the luscious treetops and unparalleled views of the region.

After witnessing a bird's-eye view, venture into the trees on the 500-foot canopy walk. This magical, Ohio treetop walk adventure rises 65 feet above the forest floor and immerses guests in the mature forests of the area. It's an ideal place for nature lovers to gather and admire the plants and wildlife local to Kirtland. Any time of year is a wonderful experience.

8. Treetop Skywalk at Anakeesta, Tennessee

At a quarter of a mile long, the Treetop Skywalk at Anakeesta is the longest of its kind in North America. Explore the 16 suspended bridges and 14 platforms suspended up to 60 feet in the air—it's quite literally an arboreal playground. After conquering this magnificent canopy walk, head back down to discover the 70 glorious acres of Tennessee terrain below. We also highly recommend hitting up the mountain coaster, challenging adventure course, and sky-high observation tower to round out the experience.

Kids and adults will love this bucket-list experience. Visit Anakeesta amusement park for an action-packed summer vacation, or during the fall for peak leaf peeping. Tickets start at $34.99 for adults and $22.99 for children (ages 4-11).

9. Ramblewild Treetop Adventure, Massachusetts

Soar through the treetops at Ramblewild—an exciting zip line and canopy walk experience in Lanesborough, Massachusetts. Explore over 1,400 acres of gorgeous New England forest from a dazzling treetop view. A guide will take you through the various levels of the aerial ropes course, an experience open to children 7 and up.

Start by taking a scenic drive to the canopy walk site. Then set off on an aerial adventure filled with high wires, zip lines, balancing logs, rope ladders, cargo nets, suspension bridges, and more. If action-packed feats aren't your thing, take a stroll along the 200-foot suspension bridge above a babbling stream. Thrill and relaxation seekers alike will love it here.

10. Vermont Institute of Natural Science Canopy Walk, Vermont

Vermont is known for its lush and abundant foliage, and there is perhaps no better place to revel in this natural paradise than the Forest Canopy Walk in the Vermont Institute of Natural Science. Located on 47 forested acres in Quechee, Vermont, this ADA-compliant canopy walk allows you to gain elevation without the need for stairs or steep ramps.

Take a relaxing stroll down this fairly level boardwalk, which slopes toward the backwater of the Ottauquechee River. At certain points, expect an elevation of 50 feet above the forest floor, while getting eye-to-eye with the delightful flora and fauna of the Green Mountain State. People of all ages and abilities will enjoy this beautiful, nature-filled canopy walk.

11. Hawaii Island Canopy Tour, Hawaii

There's simply nowhere more beautiful in the world than Hawaii. With its diverse flora and fauna, as well as myriad biomes and terrains, the Aloha State has peak canopy walk conditions. As the only full canopy tour on Hawaii Island, the Kohala Canopy Tour operated by Hawaii Forest & Trail is certainly one-of-a-kind. Zip lines, canopy walks, and rappels make for quite the aerial adventure.

While you might want to stay away if you’re wary of heights, this tour is a perfect activity for anyone who wants a little adventure in their life—or just some incredible aerial views of the islands. In fact, for this once-in-a-lifetime experience, you might be tempted to conquer your fears.

12. Myakka River State Park Canopy Walk, Florida

For the ultimate Florida canopy walk experience, look no further than Myakka River State Park. This Sarasota treasure has a canopy walk that takes you through 100 feet of hammocks, prairies, and wetlands. As you step along the wooden walk that's 25 feet above ground, you'll feel transported to a time when Florida was just swampland, marshes, and yes, the occasional alligator. Continue walking until you reach the 74-foot tower overlooking the miles of lush greenery.

Nature photographers, artists, and environmental activists flock to this canopy walk because of its variety of local plants and perspective. It's an incredible place to visit in the wintertime, when the weather is mild and cool. You can even go camping at the park in a tent or RV—giving you even more time to explore the property.

13. Phil Hardberger Park Walk, Texas

The ultimate Texas canopy walk trail is right in the middle of Phil Hardberger Park in San Antonio. While there are plenty of things to do at this beautiful public park, the 1,000-foot-long canopy walk is definitely the star activity. Get a bird's-eye view of a lush forested landscape that you simply cannot get on the ground. Experience the largest U.S. bridge in Texas, which crosses over Wurzbach Parkway and connects two separate parts of the park.

After the land bridge, traverse across the newly built 18-foot-high Skywalk via a variety of nearby trails. Wilderness and wildlife explorers will absolutely love seeing the abundance of birds, deer, rabbits, and other local animals at this amazing park. It's a free activity that you can visit all year-round.

Tips for Visiting Treetop Walks Safely

Before visiting a treetop walk, check out the park's or experience's website first to make sure it's open and available during your desired dates. Dress accordingly: closed-toed shoes, long pants, and comfortable materials are advised, especially if you choose to do a zip line, too. Double-check if there are any more things you need to bring along, and whether the equipment is regularly inspected.

If you're planning to visit a canopy walk with family or kids, check if there are any age limits and fill out any necessary forms or waivers needed before participating. If you need an easy-going or more accessible treetop walk, you can look at online reviews to see what reviews and accessibility scores are like. From there, enjoy a nature-filled canopy walk adventure.

Looking for more treetop experiences? Check out this stunning Atlanta canopy walk, and this adventurous Pennsylvania canopy walk if you're in the area.