The US is home to some of the most beautiful landscapes in the world, and there are countless trails that are just waiting to be rediscovered. Whether you’re an experienced hiker or just looking for a leisurely walk in nature, there’s a trail for everyone. Some of the top trails to rediscover in the US include the Appalachian Trail, the Pacific Crest Trail, the Grand Canyon Rim-to-Rim Trail, and the Zion Narrows Trail. Each of these trails offers a unique experience, from the lush forests of the Appalachian Trail to the dramatic canyons of the Grand Canyon Rim-to-Rim Trail. Rediscovering these trails is not only a great way to stay active and enjoy the outdoors, but it’s also an opportunity to connect with nature and experience the beauty of the US firsthand.
The John Muir Trails, California
California is known for its beautiful landscapes and outdoor activities, and one of the best ways to experience it is by hiking the John Muir Trail. The John Muir Trail is a 211-mile long trail that runs through the Sierra Nevada mountain range in California, from Yosemite Valley to Mount Whitney. The trail is named after John Muir, a naturalist and conservationist who was instrumental in the creation of national parks in the US.
The John Muir Trail is a challenging hike that takes around 20-25 days to complete, but the rewards are well worth it. Hikers will be treated to stunning views of the Sierra Nevada mountains, including peaks like Mount Whitney, the highest peak in the contiguous US. Along the way, hikers will also pass by pristine lakes, waterfalls, and meadows.
One of the highlights of the John Muir Trail is the opportunity to hike through three national parks: Yosemite, Kings Canyon, and Sequoia. These parks are home to some of the most iconic natural landmarks in the US, including Half Dome, El Capitan, and the General Sherman tree, the largest tree in the world by volume.
Hiking the John Muir Trail requires careful planning and preparation. Hikers need to obtain permits, plan their resupply points, and be prepared for changes in weather conditions. However, the trail is well-marked and there are plenty of resources available to help hikers plan their trip.
The Appalachian Trail, Maine
The Appalachian Trail is one of the most iconic hiking trails in the US, stretching over 2,200 miles from Georgia to Maine. The trail winds through 14 states, including some of the most beautiful landscapes in the country. The Appalachian Trail is a bucket list item for many hikers, offering a unique opportunity to experience the beauty of the US firsthand.
Hiking the entire Appalachian Trail takes around 5-7 months, but many hikers choose to hike sections of the trail instead. This allows hikers to experience different parts of the trail without committing to a months-long journey. Some of the most popular sections of the trail include the Great Smoky Mountains in Tennessee, the White Mountains in New Hampshire, and the Shenandoah National Park in Virginia.
Hiking the Appalachian Trail is not without its challenges. The trail is rugged and remote, and hikers need to be prepared for changes in weather conditions, wildlife encounters, and physical exhaustion. However, the rewards are well worth it. Hikers will be treated to stunning views of mountains, forests, and waterfalls, as well as the opportunity to connect with nature and fellow hikers.
The Appalachian Trail is not just a hiking trail, it’s a community. Hikers on the trail often form close bonds with each other, sharing stories, food, and gear. The trail is also maintained by volunteers, who work tirelessly to keep the trail in good condition for future generations to enjoy.
The Lost Coast Trail – North California
The Lost Coast Trail – North is a 40.2 km hiking trail located in Northern California, stretching along the rugged coastline of the Pacific Ocean. The trail is known for its stunning views of the ocean and the rugged terrain, as well as the opportunity to spot wildlife such as sea lions, harbor seals, and gray whales. The Lost Coast Trail – North is a popular destination for hikers and outdoor enthusiasts, offering a unique opportunity to explore the beauty of California’s coastline.
Hiking the Lost Coast Trail – North takes around 2-3 days, and hikers need to be prepared for changes in weather conditions and physical exhaustion. The trail is remote and rugged, with no road access for most of its length. However, the rewards are well worth it. Hikers will be treated to stunning views of the ocean, the rugged coastline, and the opportunity to connect with nature.
The Pacific Crest Trail
The Pacific Crest Trail is a 2,650-mile long hiking trail that runs from the border of Mexico to the border of Canada, passing through California, Oregon, and Washington. The trail is known for its stunning views of the Sierra Nevada mountains, the Cascade Range, and the Mojave Desert. Hiking the Pacific Crest Trail is a bucket list item for many hikers, offering a unique opportunity to explore some of the most beautiful landscapes in the US.
Hiking the entire Pacific Crest Trail takes around 5-6 months, but many hikers choose to hike sections of the trail instead. Some of the most popular sections of the trail include the John Muir Trail, which runs through the Sierra Nevada mountains, and the Oregon section, which includes Crater Lake National Park.
Hiking the Pacific Crest Trail is not for the faint of heart. The trail is rugged and remote, and hikers need to be prepared for changes in weather conditions, wildlife encounters, and physical exhaustion. However, the rewards are well worth it. Hikers will be treated to stunning views of mountains, forests, and lakes, as well as the opportunity to connect with nature and fellow hikers.
The Pacific Crest Trail is also a community. Hikers on the trail often form close bonds with each other, sharing stories, food, and gear. The trail is maintained by volunteers, who work tirelessly to keep the trail in good condition for future generations to enjoy.
The Long Trail – Vermont
The Vermont Long Trail is a 272-mile hiking trail that runs the length of Vermont, from the Massachusetts border to the Canadian border. The trail is the oldest long-distance hiking trail in the US, and it’s known for its rugged terrain and stunning views of the Green Mountains. The Vermont Long Trail is a popular destination for hikers and outdoor enthusiasts, offering a unique opportunity to explore the beauty of Vermont’s wilderness.
Hiking the entire Vermont Long Trail takes around 3-4 weeks, but many hikers choose to hike sections of the trail instead. Some of the most popular sections of the trail include the northern section, which includes Mount Mansfield, the highest peak in Vermont, and the southern section, which includes Stratton Mountain.
Hiking the Vermont Long Trail is a challenging but rewarding experience. The trail is rugged and remote, and hikers need to be prepared for changes in weather conditions, wildlife encounters, and physical exhaustion. However, the rewards are well worth it. Hikers will be treated to stunning views of mountains, forests, and streams, as well as the opportunity to connect with nature and fellow hikers.
The Vermont Long Trail is also a community. Hikers on the trail often form close bonds with each other, sharing stories, food, and gear. The trail is maintained by volunteers, who work tirelessly to keep the trail in good condition for future generations to enjoy.
