Nothing beats a total solar eclipse, and on Monday, April 8, 2024, the Great North American Eclipse of 2024 will be one of the biggest celestial events of our lifetime. Visible in more than a dozen American states, there are countless incredible destinations to experience the phenomena for yourself – including these 14 editor-curated picks in the path of totality.
On Monday, April 8, 2024, the eclipse will begin over the South Pacific Ocean, with Mexico’s Pacific coast experiencing totality at approximately 11:07 a.m. PDT. The eclipse will then travel across Mexico and enter America at the southwest Texas border. From there, it will sweep across the states and into Canada before dissipating. The entire event will last approximately two and a half hours, but totality will only last 90 seconds to 4 minutes 28 seconds, depending on your viewing location.
Texas is the first American state that will experience the total solar eclipse this April, and one of the best destinations to experience it for yourself is the Bald Cypress Trail, an easy out-and-back trail near Spring Branch that measures just 1.6 miles. Nestled within Guadalupe River State Park, this easy trail is jam-packed with stunning river views.
The easy, 2.6-mile Mountain Fork River Trail in Broken Bow, Oklahoma, is as pretty as they come. With stunning water views and a forest sure to be springing back to life, this trail is full of wonder.
In Arkansas, Sam's Throne Trail offers sweeping views of the Big Creek Valley and bluff lines. The area is popular among rock climbers, but the Sam's Throne Trail is a moderate adventure measuring 2.9 miles in length and 400 feet of elevation gain.
At more than 300 feet in depth, Missouri's Blue Spring is one of the state's most unexpected wonders, called "Spring of the Summer Sky" by Native Americans. Located along the Current River, the Blue Spring Trail is an easy adventure the entire family will love, measuring in at approximately 100 feet of elevation gain and three miles of hiking.
Located near Columbus, Kentucky, the Columbus-Belmont State Park Trail is an easy 2-mile trail that features stunning views of the Mississippi, plus unobstructed views of the sky for eclipse viewing!
We love waterfalls here at OnlyInYourState, and the Fern Clyffe Waterfall Trail is the definition of a natural gem. The trail itself is moderately challenging – but measures in at less than a mile – and features stunning views of the forest, rock formations, and its namesake waterfall.
An easy route around the edge of an Indiana state park, the Mounds State Park Perimeter Loop is less than three miles long and features peaceful views of the White River and surrounding forest.
In Ohio, the West Branch North Loop Trail is a three-mile trail that features stunning forest and lake views any time of the year. West Branch State Park is popular for camping – and a fantastic spot to call home while visiting the nearby Cuyahoga Valley National Park, which lacks campgrounds of its own.
A one-mile trail around the Buckaloons Campground within the Allegheny National Forest Recreation Area, the Buckaloons Scenic Trail is an underrated beauty we can't get enough of.
In New York's Green Lake State Park, the Green Lake to Round Lake Trail leads hikers around two picturesque lakes surrounded by stunning foliage. The 2.9-mile gravel trail is rated as easy, with less than 200 feet of elevation gain throughout.
Vermont's Kettle Pond State Park is a scenic beauty, and the best way to experience it for yourself is on the 3.2-mile Kettle Pond Trail. With little elevation gain and stunning views, the entire family will love this Vermont trail – especially when paired with a solar eclipse!
Overlooking the Connecticut River, the 1.4-mile Lake Francis State Park River Trail is as peaceful as they come. You'll love listening to the sound of the flowing river and taking in the quiet beauty of New Hampshire.
A 3.4-mile out-and-back trail near Rangeley, MainePiazza Rock is part of the Appalachian Trail and measures approximately 600 feet of elevation gain. The moderate trail is popular for backpacking, hiking, and camping, and while it can be quiet depending on when you time your visit, it's likely to be more crowded on April 8. Discover more incredible spots to watch the eclipse in Maine here.
For even more incredible hiking trails where you can experience the upcoming total solar eclipse, check out the AllTrails Solar Eclipse Map. Be sure to sign up for AllTrails+ to read reviews, save and download trail maps, and more.
Tucked away in every corner of the country and nestled around every turn, America is home to countless jaw-dropping landscapes – and while you can experience these breathtaking destinations by car (perhaps on one of these 17 iconic American road trips) – one of our favorite ways to experience them is on foot.
From Washington state to the southern tip of Florida, the United States of America is home to incredible hiking trails that offer unrivaled beauty and adventure for hikers of all experience levels. Our list of these 13 bucket list-worthy hikes ranges from easy to challenging, and some take you completely off the grid. Whether we are hiking to The Wave in Arizona after finally receiving that permit or hiking in a new spot near our hometown, we've always had AllTrails+ in our pocket. And this summer, they've updated their award-winning app with even more features that make getting outside even easier.
Many of these incredible hikes are nestled within National Parks, and AllTrails also has the perfect pairing to make the most of your next excursion: you can purchase AllTrails+ and a National Parks Pass for just $99 – a 14 percent savings. If you're not ready to make the commitment, you can also enjoy a free week of AllTrails+ on us.
1. The Rim Trail, Bryce Canyon National Park – Utah
The Rim Trail at Bryce Canyon National Park takes you to some of the most magical overlooks in the celebrated national park. At more than 10 miles round trip, it's not a short hike; however, there are smaller increments you may choose to complete if you don't want (or are unable) to complete the full hike.
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This trail follows the rim of Fairyland Canyon and Bryce Canyon, providing sweeping panoramas of *the* grand canyon and iconic hoodoos of the park. In fact, Bryce Canyon has the largest collection of hoodoos in the world – and you can marvel at these natural wonders whilst hiking the Rim Trail.
For those making the once-in-a-lifetime trip to the Last Frontier, Tongass National Forest is a bucket list must. This area is a nature lover's paradise, teeming with wildlife, mountains, forests, waterfalls, rivers, caves, and even Alaska's very own "swamps," known as muskegs.
Tongass National Forest is also home to more than 700 miles of trails, in fact, making it a must-visit destination for hikers of all abilities. The Nugget Falls Trail is perhaps the best all-around trek in the park, packing incredible waterfall and glacial views in a straightforward, two-mile hike. In fact, with the new
Collections Feature on the AllTrails app, you can search for certain types of hikes, like those with waterfalls, dog-friendly trails, hidden gems, epic views, and more.
Florida might not be known for its epic hiking, but we can’t talk about the best hiking trails in every corner of the United States without discussing Everglades National Park, and in particular, the Anhinga Trail. Perhaps the easiest and most popular trail within the Everglades, the paved Anhinga Trail measures just .8 miles and is wheelchair accessible and stroller-friendly. Meandering over marshlands, this scenic trail is popular for wildlife viewing. The park charges a fee of $30 per private vehicle, $25 per motorcycle, and $15 per person who enters the park on foot, by bike, or by watercraft. Dogs are not allowed on the trail, so leave them at home.
While there are countless incredible hiking trails within the Maroon Bells Snowmass Wilderness, today, we’re highlighting one of the easiest trails: the Maroon Bells Scenic Loop Trail is a dream come true. Measuring less than two miles in length and featuring less than 200 feet of elevation gain, this scenic trail features stunning mountain and lake views.
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The culmination of more than 300 million years of geologic activity, including sedimentation, weathering, and erosion by wind, water, and ice, Maroon Bells is the ultimate nature postcard, with a startlingly blue lake, abundant meadows, and two 14,000-foot peaks. The peaks reflect perfectly in the pristine waters for a panorama that's absolutely flawless.
This area receives a lot of visitors – about 300,000 a year, all coming with cameras in hand to capture a truly spectacular sight. But while this attraction is touted as the most photographed place in Colorado, pictures simply don’t do it justice; Maroon Bells is something you must experience for yourself.
There's a place that's quite literally at the edge of the country where you can be the first to experience the birth of a new day. Located in incredible Acadia National Park, Cadillac Mountain is a vision. The rocky features of the summit and the absolutely incredible views from the top are just a few of the reasons it's regarded as the most beautiful attraction in the country.
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The summit of the 1,529-foot mountain is accessible year-round and is reached via the eponymous North Ridge Trail.
Few places in the country are as breathtakingly beautiful as Shenandoah National Park. With stunning and radiant scenery, Shenandoah offers some of the best outdoor recreation in the U.S., including access to the world-famous Appalachian Trail.
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However, due to Skyline Drive's convenience, many visitors treat Shenandoah as a "drive-through" park, which is an absolute travesty.
Of course, Shenandoah's roadside overlooks are sublime -- but the park is so much more. Nearly all the hiking trails in Shenandoah National Park branch off of this road; for instance, the acclaimed Appalachian Trail runs parallel to Skyline Drive, and there are several access points off the road for those wishing to experience this bucket-list-worthy hike.
One of the AllTrails updates - my personal favorite - is Park Pages. Visiting a National Park, like Shenandoah mentioned above, can be overwhelming. Park Pages is the one resource you need when hiking in a National Park. And don't forget to check out the AllTrails+ and National Parks Pass Bundle for more savings.
Located in Washington's wondrous Olympic National Park, Hoh Rain Forest is an enthralling emerald oasis. One of the only temperate rainforests in the world, wandering through Hoh Rain Forest feels like stepping into another world altogether. The rainforest gets a staggering 12-14 feet of rain annually, which gives this thriving ecosystem its verdant canopy of mosses, ferns, and trees. The "Green Giant" is one of Hoh's most extraordinary trees, a towering presence keeping watch over the forest. Regarding hikes, the Hall of Mosses and the Spruce Nature Trail are both beginner-friendly, and while short in distance, they don't skimp on scenic splendor.
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Filled with untamed mosses and hanging ferns, old-growth trees, and abundant wildlife, Hoh Rain Forest is a lush wonderland within the Washington wilds, and hiking in this park truly belongs on every adventurer's bucket list.
Hawaii beaches come in a variety of stunning colors – from white and black to red and green. One of my personal favorites is Papakolea Green Sand Beach, nestled on the southernmost tip of Hawaii Island. The green hue comes from olivine, a mineral and common component of Hawaiian lava. Because olivine is denser than other minerals, it accumulates on the shoreline naturally – creating a green-hued beach unlike any other in Hawaii.
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It is one of only four green sand beaches worldwide and is accessible only via a 5.6-mile out-and-back trail (2.8 miles each way) that gains approximately 300 feet in elevation and provides little respite from the Hawaiian heat. This is one of my favorite hikes I’ve ever completed, if not for the trail itself, but for the otherworldly destination.
The Clingmans Dome Observation Tower Trail, located within the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, is renowned for its popularity. Ascend to Tennessee's highest point and immerse yourself in breathtaking 360-degree views of the Smokies and the magnificent forest from Clingmans Dome.
This captivating 1.3-mile out-and-back trail is near Bryson City, North Carolina. It's a moderately challenging route that typically takes around 43 minutes to complete and is a favorite among runners and walkers alike. For an optimal experience, plan your visit between April and November.
Hiking Half Dome via the John Muir Trail in Yosemite National Park is an exhilarating adventure. Starting from Happy Isles, you'll trek approximately 16 miles round trip, gaining over 5,300 feet in elevation. The John Muir Trail portion boasts steep granite staircases, often drenched in spray from Vernal and Nevada Falls, lending a refreshing mist in warmer months.
The highlight of the journey is undoubtedly the final ascent up the cables section, a thrilling but strenuous climb to the summit. Once atop Half Dome's iconic granite crest, at 8,842 feet, breathtaking views of Yosemite Valley unfold, rewarding you with a sense of awe and accomplishment. The hike to Half Dome in Yosemite National Park is an experience that offers both a challenging journey and a stunning reward.
Natural beauty abounds in Arizona – and not just at its grandest attraction. The state is home to some of the most extraordinary places in the country, with Vermillion Cliffs Wilderness topping the list.
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While there are numerous formations within this park, The Wave is an elusive beauty that shouldn't be passed up. The Wave is a 190-million-year-old rock formation that hails from the Jurassic Age, and as you hike, you'll undoubtedly picture ancient beasts stomping through its curves and undulations; though wrapping your mind around how, exactly, such an incredible sculptural artwork was formed, is nearly impossible. Don't let the hike's six miles deter you, either; this otherworldly wonder is worth each and every step in the sands. It is important to note that a permit is required to take this hike and some wait years to achieve this. If you want a similar experience, check out Coyote Buttes South. It still requires a permit, but they are much easier to get!
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.
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One of the most notable forests, Superior National Forest is an ancient forest in Minnesota that looks like something out of a fairy tale. The 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.
You'll get a first-hand look at all of this lush and lovely landscape along the Oberg Mountain Loop Via Superior Hiking Trail, an accessible, short-and-sweet trail that's beautiful all year, but especially rapturous in the height of fall foliage.
Everything is bigger in Texas, including the Lone Star State's national parks. Big Bend National Park, for example, is over 800,000 acres, making it one of the 20 largest national parks in the Lower 48. However, you don't need to be a *big* hiker to experience the best of this picturesque place. Clocking in at 1.5 miles, the Santa Elena Canyon Trail is short in length but big in beauty. Santa Elena Canyon, a majestic limestone grotto nestled in the park, is one of the most splendid wonders in the country.
Traversing through the heart of the canyon, this trail offers hikers of all abilities the opportunity to immerse themselves in the outdoor beauty of Texas... and it's an opportunity you shouldn't pass up.
How many of these hikes have you experienced for yourself? What is your favorite hike in the United States? When packing for your next big hiking adventure, don't forget to sign up for AllTrails+ and all of its extremely helpful features. Whether you’re new to hiking or are an experienced outdoors enthusiast looking to tackle one of America’s most iconic hiking trails – like the Appalachian Trail or the Pacific Crest Trail – AllTrails+ features more than 400,000 hiking trails and will help you along the way with user reviews, and trail photographs, plus 3D and downloadable maps. And now with Collections, Park Pages, and the redesigned Trail Pages, AllTrails+ is even more essential when getting outside.
Hey there, aspiring adventurer! Are you looking for a true challenge that will push you to your limits? Then you won't want to miss out on these 12 hikes across the United States that are challenging but incredibly worth it. These treks offer stunning views of natural landscapes and the opportunity to explore some of the most remote areas of the country. While they may be tough, the sense of accomplishment at the end is worth every step. So, whether you're an experienced hiker or just looking for a new adventure, these hardest hikes in the US are sure to satisfy your craving for adventure.
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When on rugged and remote trails like these, AllTrails is especially important. With the free version of AllTrails, users can favorite trails, create lists, look at photographs, read reviews, and navigate on the trail, but AllTrails+ offers the ability to unlock more map details, bring trails to life with 3D maps, and even preview 3D flyovers. You can even improve the hiking experience with downloadable offline maps, wrong turn alerts, and print maps for backup.
Ready to tackle one of the most thrilling hikes in the USA? Let's talk about the Kalalau Trail in Hawaii. Brace yourself for a 22-mile round trip through the jaw-dropping Na Pali Coast of Kauai. This trail isn't for the faint of heart—it's tough. Picture narrow paths along sheer cliffs, numerous stream crossings, and Hawaii's unpredictable weather throwing rain and wind your way.
But fear not! With proper preparation, you can conquer it. Pack sturdy hiking boots, plenty of water, and essential supplies like snacks, sunscreen, and rain gear. Start early to make the most of daylight and give yourself ample time. Make sure you're in good shape and have some experience with challenging terrain. Trust the process, the breathtaking views and sense of accomplishment at the end will make every step worth it. Are you up for the challenge?
Need To Know: You must obtain a permit to hike and camp along the Kalalau Trail. Plan well in advance as permits are limited and in high demand.
Are you looking for an adventure in Utah? Angel's Landing is a popular hiking trail located in Zion National Park. It's a challenging hike known for its steep ascent, narrow ridges, and breathtaking views. The hike is approximately 5.4 miles round trip and is considered one of the most difficult hikes in the park. The trail climbs 1,500 feet in elevation and includes a section called "Walter's Wiggles," a series of 21 steep switchbacks that can leave even the fittest hikers feeling winded.
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At the summit, hikers are rewarded with stunning views of Zion Canyon and the Virgin River. However, the hike takes a dose of courage, as the final half-mile section involves navigating along the infamous Angel's Landing Trail, where chains provide support in precarious spots. With proper preparation and a sense of adventure, Angel's Landing offers an unforgettable experience amidst Utah's stunning red rock landscape.
Need To Know: The trail is not recommended for those with a fear of heights or inexperienced hikers. Check the weather forecast beforehand and start early to avoid crowds and heat. Bring plenty of water and supplies as there are no water sources available. A permit is necessary for hiking Angels Landing.
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3. Rim to Rim, Grand Canyon National Park, Arizona
The Rim to Rim hike in Grand Canyon National Park is one of the most challenging hikes in the country. The trail is approximately 24 miles long and requires descending from the North Rim of the Grand Canyon via the North Kaibab Trail, crossing the Colorado River before connecting with the Bright Angel Trail and ascending to the South Rim. It's considered the hardest hike in the park, with over 10,000 feet of cumulative ascent and descent.
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Expect a challenging journey through diverse landscapes, from pine forests to desert vistas, with extreme temperatures and limited water sources. Despite its challenges, the Rim to Rim hike offers epic views of the Grand Canyon and Colorado River and is a once-in-a-lifetime experience for those up to the challenge.
Need To Know: Before tackling the Rim-to-Rim, ensure excellent physical fitness and proper preparation. Be aware of wildlife encounters and trail hazards. A permit is required for hiking the Rim to Rim Trail; obtain it in advance due to high demand.
4. Half Dome via the Mist Trail, Yosemite National Park, California
Hiking Half Dome via the Mist Trail in Yosemite National Park is an exhilarating adventure. Starting from Happy Isles, you'll trek about 14 to 16 miles round trip, gaining over 4,800 feet in elevation. The Mist Trail portion boasts steep granite staircases, often drenched in spray from Vernal and Nevada Falls, lending a refreshing mist in warmer months.
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The highlight of the journey is undoubtedly the final ascent up the cables section, a thrilling but strenuous climb to the summit. Once atop Half Dome's iconic granite crest, at 8,842 feet, breathtaking views of Yosemite Valley unfold, rewarding you with a sense of awe and accomplishment. The hike to Half Dome via the Mist Trail in Yosemite National Park is an experience that offers both a challenging journey and a stunning reward.
Need To Know: Remember to secure permits in advance, prepare for variable weather, and prioritize safety throughout this unforgettable hike.
5. Wonderland Trail, Mount Rainier National Park, Washington
The Wonderland Trail circumnavigates the majestic Mount Rainier, offering a demanding yet gratifying hiking experience. This trail, spanning approximately 93 miles, showcases various landscapes, including dense forests, alpine meadows, glacial rivers, and spectacular views of Mount Rainier. Expect significant elevation changes and varying terrain, from rocky slopes to wooden bridges over rushing streams.
High points of the trail include extraordinary panoramas of the snow-capped peak reflected in crystal-clear lakes, encounters with abundant wildlife, and the camaraderie of fellow hikers along the way. Embark on the Wonderland Trail for an unforgettable adventure, immersing you in the unparalleled beauty of Mount Rainier National Park.
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Need To Know: Prepare by knowing the trail, getting permits, packing essential gear (including layers, sturdy boots, navigation tools, food, and water), and staying hydrated and informed for a safe and enjoyable hike on the Wonderland Trail.
The Appalachian Trail (AT) is an iconic long-distance hiking route spanning around 2,190 miles from Georgia to Maine. As you embark on this journey, anticipate encountering different landscapes, from rugged mountains to serene valleys, alongside ever-changing weather conditions. Along the way, you'll become part of a vibrant community of fellow thru-hikers, trail angels, and welcoming towns.
One of the most memorable moments is reaching the summit of Mount Katahdin in Maine, marking the northern terminus of the trail and symbolizing the culmination of your incredible journey. Be prepared for the physical and mental demands of the trail, immerse yourself in its natural beauty, and cherish your experiences and connections forged along the Appalachian Trail.
Need To Know: Before starting your Appalachian Trail hike, plan and prepare your gear and supplies, have a realistic itinerary, get in shape, and learn about Leave No Trace principles.
7. Pacific Crest Trail, California, Oregon, & Washington
The Pacific Crest Trail is a 2,650-mile-long hiking trail that spans from the border of Mexico to Canada. It crosses through three states - California, Oregon, and Washington - and offers a diverse range of terrain and landscapes, from the Mojave Desert, the Sierra Nevada Mountains, Crater Lake, and Mount Rainier. The trail also passes through several national parks and forests and offers stunning views of the Pacific Ocean, volcanic peaks, and alpine lakes.
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Hiking the Pacific Crest Trail is challenging and requires careful planning and preparation. You will encounter steep ascents and descents, extreme temperatures, and long stretches without access to water or other amenities. You'll meet people from all over the world, share stories and tips, and support each other through the ups and downs of the journey. The trail also offers otherworldly views, the opportunity to connect with nature, and a sense of accomplishment unmatched by other outdoor activities.
Need To Know: To prepare for the Pacific Crest Trail, one should consider the necessary gear, physical training, and mental preparation. It is important to research the trail, find out when you need permits, plan resupplies, and be prepared for the unexpected.
The Maze in Canyonlands National Park is a remote and rugged wilderness area - characterized by towering sandstone cliffs, deep canyons, and intricate rock formations. Expect challenging off-trail hiking, route-finding through narrow slot canyons, and navigating steep terrain. The Maze offers a sense of isolation and solitude, with minimal human presence and stunning panoramic views of the surrounding desert landscape.
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A highlight of the Maze is its incredible natural beauty, with iconic landmarks such as the Chocolate Drops, the Doll House, and the Harvest Scene. This hike promises an adventure for experienced wilderness hikers seeking a true backcountry experience amidst the stunning red rock scenery of the American Southwest.
Need To Know: Obtaining a backcountry permit is essential for hiking in The Maze due to its remote nature and limited facilities. Permits can be obtained from the Canyonlands National Park visitor center. Additionally, carry sufficient water, navigation tools, and emergency supplies, as services are minimal, and cell phone coverage is limited to non-existent.
9. The Presidential Traverse, White Mountains, New Hampshire
The Presidential Traverse is in the White Mountains of New Hampshire. At approximately 20 miles long with over 8,000 feet of elevation gain, it typically takes between one and three days to complete. The trail takes you across the summits of several peaks, including Mount Washington, the highest peak in the Northeastern United States. You can expect to encounter a variety of terrain, from rocky and steep ascents to exposed ridges and alpine environments.
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The hike can be physically demanding, but the insane views of the surrounding mountains and valleys are well worth the effort. An apex of the hike is reaching the summit of Mount Washington, which offers beautiful panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. The Presidential Traverse is a must-do for experienced hikers looking for a challenging adventure in the beautiful White Mountains.
Need To Know: No permits are necessary, but don't underestimate the weather; it's no joke, with over 150 deaths recorded. Many of these tragedies result from inadequate preparation and awareness of how rapidly conditions can change at the summit. Bring gear, begin early, and adhere to Leave No Trace principles.
10. Mount Whitney via Mountaineer's Route, Sierra Nevada, California
Mount Whitney, located in the Sierra Nevada mountain range of California, is the highest peak in the contiguous United States, standing at an elevation of 14,505 feet.
The most challenging route to Mt. Whitney is undoubtedly the Mountaineer's Route. This route is not for the timid and requires significant experience in mountaineering. The trailhead is located at Whitney Portal, and the route includes a 4,000-foot ascent over five miles.
Once you reach Lower Boy Scout Lake, the route becomes more challenging as you navigate the couloir, which is steep and requires ice ax and crampons. After the couloir, you will reach the summit plateau, where you can enjoy phenomenal panoramic views of the surrounding mountains.
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Need To Know: This route is only recommended for experienced mountaineers and requires preparation - check the weather, bring gear, and climb with others. Allow time for acclimatization, stay hydrated, and have an emergency plan. Obtain permits and follow regulations for a safe and enjoyable climb.
Have you ever hiked a 272-mile trail? The Long Trail is just that - it runs through the Green Mountains of Vermont, from the Massachusetts border to the Canadian border. This trail is the oldest long-distance hiking trail in the United States, and it offers a unique and challenging hiking experience. Trekking along the trail, you'll encounter rugged terrain, steep climbs, and breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. You'll also pass through quaint towns and villages and have the opportunity to meet other hikers along the way.
One of the best parts of the trail is the summit of Mount Mansfield, the tallest peak in Vermont. From here, you'll have a panoramic view of the surrounding mountains and valleys that is truly breathtaking. The trail is well-maintained, and hiking the Long Trail is perfect for anyone who loves the outdoors and is up for a multi-day challenge.
Need To Know: Water is plentiful along the trail with frequent stream crossings, and backpackers could utilize shelters maintained by the Green Mountain Club for camping.
12. Highline Trail, Glacier National Park, Montana
If you're seeking a thrilling hiking adventure - the Highline Trail in Glacier National Park is a must-do. This legendary trail spans approximately 73 miles through stunning alpine terrain, offering epic views of glacier-carved valleys, rugged peaks, and alpine meadows.
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While the trail provides an unforgettable experience, it's not for the easily frightened. You should prepare for tough sections with significant elevation gain and loss, narrow ridges, and unpredictable weather.
Wildlife lovers will love the chance to spot mountain goats, bighorn sheep, and even grizzly bears along their journey. The trail's most famous feature is the Garden Wall section, where you will traverse a narrow path carved into a cliffside with dramatic drop-offs and unparalleled views of the surrounding landscape. Get ready to immerse yourself in the beauty and grandeur of Glacier National Park on the Highline Trail hike!
Need To Know: Bear encounters are possible, so carry bear spray and know how to use it. Check trail conditions and weather forecasts before starting your hike. Consider starting early to avoid crowds and increase wildlife spotting opportunities. Remember, you'll need a backcountry permit for camping in Glacier National Park.
Have you trekked any of these trails? Which are you looking forward to tackling? Angel's Landing looks intense, right? Let me know your thoughts - I'd love to hear from you!
