It’s Official: These Are the 10 Strangest Hiking Trail Names in the U.S.

I'm always fascinated by how places, whether towns, streets, or even hiking trails, get their names. Some are certainly thought-provoking, while others are cute or downright hilarious in the laugh-out-loud sort of way. But what are the meanings behind some of the strangest hiking trail names across the U.S.? From coast to coast, we are going to discover the oddest, most head-scratching trail names we could find and the meaning of them all.

1. Poo Poo Point Trail, Washington

The name Poo Poo Point Trail is certainly one that will make anyone chuckle before wondering why it was named that. My initial thought was that a child named it, but the origin is actually historic. Back when logging was prevalent in the area, loggers used steam whistles to communicate with each other through the thick forest.

Poo Poo Point, which is an area on West Tiger Mountain that was cleared by the logging industry, is named after the distinctive sound the whistles made. The point is used as a launching point for paragliders, which you may be able to see when taking the moderately challenging 6.8-mile, out-and-back trail.

For a trail map, visit AllTrails.

2. Catwalk National Recreation Trail, New Mexico

The word "catwalk" evokes images of models walking down a runway, but in New Mexico, the Catwalk National Recreation Trail couldn't be further from the catwalks of Fashion Week. Instead, this 2.4-mile Gila National Forest trail leads hikers over Whitewater Creek via a series of bridges and catwalks. The trail is gravel in sections and paved in others, featuring barriers and railings. It is approximately 4 feet wide and accessible for individuals with wheelchairs and mobility equipment. However, due to some unpaved portions and slightly steep grades, assistance may be required.

Head to AllTrails for information on where to park and to view a trail map.

3. Hop the Snake Trail, Maryland

The origin of the name for this next hike at Patapsco Valley State Park in Maryland is unknown. However, you can use your imagination as to where the name Hop the Snake Trail came from. Perhaps it's the way the trail winds its way through the woods, with the occasional stream you must cross or hop over. Whatever the case may be, the origin of this trail name is a mystery, but wouldn't it be fun to discuss ideas of where it came from with your hiking companions?

Visit AllTrails for a map of the Hop the Snake Trail.

4. The Thumb via The Knoll, Oregon

In the Siuslaw National Forest, there's a promontory that overlooks the North Pacific Ocean at the end of an unnamed trail. The formation is known as "God's Thumb" or "The Thumb." You'll follow Lincoln City’s Knoll Loop for 1.25 miles to the unofficial trail to get to The Thumb and its overlook for spectacular views of the rugged Oregon coast.

For a trail map to The Thumb, visit AllTrails.

5. Devil's Marbleyard, Virginia

Would you hike along a trail to an area known as the Devil's Marbleyard? As ominous as the name sounds, the challenging 3.3-mile out-and-back trek along Belfast Trail within the James River Face Wilderness Area will take you through a massive boulder field at the top of a mountain—this is known as the Devil's Marbleyard. You can either turn around at this point or continue to the views from the top, scrambling up and over the boulders along the way. Of course, you will want to prepare for a hike like this by wearing sturdy hiking boots or shoes.

For more on this trail with a strange name, head to AllTrails.

6. South Mountain Reservation Fairy Trail, New Jersey

For those who believe in a little bit of magic and fantasy, a stroll along the Fairy Trail at South Mountain Reservation in Millburn, is a must. Walking down the white-blazed woodland path, you'll discover tiny hand-built cottages that are so detailed in the tree hollows you may expect to see faeries inhabiting them. This whimsical trail is the perfect family-friendly outing for those with children.

Visit the South Mountain Conservancy website for more on the Fairy Trail.

7. Hogback Mountain, Michigan

Within the Little Presque Isle Natural Area lies a wild and rugged trail to a mountain with a fascinating name that may make you pause. The trail to Hogback Mountain starts out relatively flat, making it an easy trek. And then, when you get to the last half mile, you're met with a steep incline and a rock scramble as the cherry on top. This is the summit of Hogback Mountain, and the views are worth the climb if you're able to do so.

How did Hogback Mountain get its name? The answer is simple: due to the shape created by a long, narrow ridge, it resembles the back of a hog. (I love the simplicity of the name's origin).

To view the trail map to the top of Hogback Mountain, visit AllTrails.

8. Munds Wagon, Cow Pies, and Hangover Trail, Arizona

I live in Arizona, where rocky, rugged hiking trails through the desert and mountainous landscapes are abundant. While there are some trails with unusual names, I believe the Munds Wagon, Cow Pies, and Hangover Trail takes the cake. The trail's name is three-fold: "Munds Wagon" is named after the cattle drive trail built by local rancher Jim Munds in the late 1800s, "Cow Pies" refers to the flat, round rocks that resemble cow pies throughout Sedona, and "Hangover" refers to the feeling some people may get while trekking the steep rocky ledges of the trail.

This 8.4-mile hike through the Coconino National Forest in Sedona offers breathtaking panoramic views of the red rocks and surrounding mountains. While the views are stunning, the route is strenuous, featuring an elevation gain of 1,154 feet, and is not recommended for beginners.

To view a map and to familiarize yourself with trail conditions, visit AllTrails.

9. Chupacabra Trail, Kansas

Don't let the name of this Wyandotte County Lake Park trail scare you away. Sure, the name may be "Chupacabra," but you won't see any goat-sucking cryptids on the Chupacabra Trail. Instead, you'll discover a wealth of scenery, including a lush forest and a lake, on this easy 4.5-mile trek. It's a quiet trail without too much foot traffic, so try not to let your imagination get the best of you by thinking of Chupacabras!

Visit AllTrails to view a trail map.

10. Knobby Knees Trail, Texas

Trinity River National Wildlife Refuge in Liberty protects a bottomland forest along the river. In the forest are bald cypress trees, which are known for their "knees" that grow on the upper part of the trees' roots. (And yes, they look like knees!) If you'd like to see them for yourself at Trinity River, take the easy 1.2-mile Knobby Knees Trail, and keep your eyes peeled for wildlife, including warblers, bald eagles, snapping turtles, and alligators.

Visit AllTrails for trail conditions and a map.

While these are just a handful of the strangest hiking trail names in the U.S., we know there are many more! If you happen to know of one, please fill out our nomination form to share all the details. If you're feeling inspired to plan a U.S. hiking trip, try the incredibly easy and helpful Only In Your State itinerary planner.