With its pristine landscapes and diverse array of habitats and terrain, North America offers some fantastic hiking for anybody with that more adventurous side. Instead of planning for a beach getaway, you can check out some great spots across the continent to take advantage of jagged cliffs, snowy peaks, vibrant forests and ancient volcanoes. I recently came across an article that shared the 10 best places in North America for hiking, based on the opinions of both travelers and experts.
1. Yellowstone (Montana/Wyoming): Yellowstone is known the world over as a hot destination for the outdoorsy, and for good reason. It offers over 1,000 miles of hiking trails across 2 million acres of land, and the chance to see a variety of wildlife. Popular routes include those in the Canyon and Norris areas, as well as the Continental Divide Trail. If you’re looking to hike there, the best conditions are typically in the fall.
2. Yosemite National Park (California): Immortalized thanks to the classic Looney Tunes character Yosemite Sam, this California landmark attracts travelers by the thousands. Most travelers tend to flock to the valley area, where there are some of the most popular trails, although you can find plenty more space and quiet in the backcountry (just don’t forget to bring a map!).
3. Banff (Alberta, Canada): Since it was first settled in the 1880s, Banff has been renowned for its pristine beauty, as well as its many opportunities for hiking. There are over 80 trails in the area, including the Johnston Canyon and the Tunnel Mountain trail, where you can see the “hoodoo rock formations”.
4. Kauai (Hawaii): If you’re looking to test your stamina, you can come here and try your luck at hiking along the 11-mile Kalalau Trail, which offers great views of the scenic cliffsides of Kauai. After hitting up Kalalau, you can head on over to the lush paths of Waimea Canyon. However, trails can be challenging, so be sure to pack a sturdy pair of boots. You’ll need them.
5. Sedona (Arizona): While hiking in Sedona, it’s easy to forget that you’re still on Earth, and not exploring some distant alien planet. The various trails lead through the red rock canyons and mystical “vortexes”. After visiting the Red Rock State Park, you can also go to the Palatki Heritage Site and get the chance to see ancient Hopi dwellings.
6. The Big Island (Hawaii): Complete with roaring waterfalls, steaming volcanoes and lush forest, the Big Island really has it all. You can explore Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, or venture into the Hakalau Forest and get acquainted with the area’s bird population.
7. Acadia National Park (Maine): Up in Stephen King country, this park offers various expeditions for the adventurous hiker, such as deep forests or craggy coastlines. If you stick close to the water, you might just catch a glimpse of seals sunning themselves on the cliffside rocks.
8. Jackson Hole (Wyoming): The stunning views of Jackson Hole, with the Grand Tetons in the background, very rarely disappoint. This place has routes for hikers of various skill levels, as well as scenery that looks great on any Instagram page.
9. Grand Canyon (Arizona): Labeled one of the seven natural wonders of the world, the Grand Canyon certainly lives up to its grand moniker. A hiking trip here is one that’s hard to forget. You can take more popular routes, such as the Bright Angel Trail or the Rim Trail, which traces the canyon’s South Rim, or try the paths along the North Rim if you want to avoid the crowds.
10. Aspen (Colorado): Traditionally a skiing area, Aspen isn’t only popular during the winter, and is extremely popular with hikers. The views where the mountains meet at a sparkling lake nearby are hard to beat.
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