Our Wandering Pack

Hiking in national parks offers some of the most breathtaking landscapes, diverse ecosystems, and unforgettable outdoor experiences. Whether you’re looking for challenging backcountry adventures, scenic day hikes, or family-friendly trails, these top national parks for hiking should be on your must-visit list. If you’re searching for the best hiking destinations in the U.S., top national parks for outdoor adventures, or bucket list hikes, this guide will help you plan your next trek.

Best National Parks for Hiking

1. Yosemite National Park, California

Best Hiking Trails in Yosemite:

• Half Dome Trail – A strenuous 14- to 16-mile round trip featuring cables to the summit.
• Mist Trail – A scenic and moderately difficult trail passing Vernal and Nevada Falls.
• Glacier Point Trail – A stunning overlook hike with panoramic views of Yosemite Valley.

2. Grand Canyon National Park, Arizona

Top Grand Canyon Hikes:

• Bright Angel Trail – A well-maintained trail with breathtaking canyon views.
• South Kaibab Trail – A steep but rewarding trail with unmatched vistas.
• Rim Trail – A more accessible hike along the canyon’s edge with multiple viewpoints.

3. Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Tennessee/North Carolina

Must-Visit Trails in the Smokies:

• Alum Cave Trail – A moderate hike leading to spectacular cave bluffs.
• Charlies Bunion – A rewarding hike with expansive views of the Smokies.
• Clingmans Dome Trail – A short but steep trail leading to the highest point in the park.

4. Zion National Park, Utah

Best Hikes in Zion:

• Angels Landing – A thrilling hike with narrow ridges and jaw-dropping views.
• The Narrows – A unique hike through the Virgin River’s towering slot canyons.
• Observation Point – A challenging hike with one of the best panoramic views in the park.

5. Rocky Mountain National Park, Colorado

Top Hiking Trails:

• Emerald Lake Trail – A moderate hike with stunning alpine lake views.
• Sky Pond Trail – A challenging yet rewarding hike past waterfalls and glaciers.
• Bear Lake Loop – An easy, scenic hike perfect for families.

6. Acadia National Park, Maine

Must-Hike Trails in Acadia:

• Precipice Trail – A thrilling climb with iron rungs and ladders along cliffs.
• Jordan Pond Path – A peaceful loop with picturesque views of the Bubbles mountains.
• Cadillac Mountain Summit Trail – A moderate trail leading to the park’s highest peak.

7. Glacier National Park, Montana

Best Glacier National Park Trails:

• Highline Trail – A must-do hike with breathtaking ridge views.
• Grinnell Glacier Trail – A stunning hike to one of the park’s iconic glaciers.
• Avalanche Lake Trail – A family-friendly hike with waterfalls and a serene lake.

8. Mount Rainier National Park, Washington

Epic Hikes in Mount Rainier:

• Skyline Trail – A scenic hike with wildflowers, waterfalls, and stunning mountain views.
• Tolmie Peak Trail – A rewarding climb with a fire lookout and alpine lake views.
• Wonderland Trail – A multi-day trek encircling Mount Rainier.

9. Yellowstone National Park, Wyoming/Montana/Idaho

Best Yellowstone Hikes:

• Fairy Falls Trail – A relatively easy hike leading to an impressive waterfall.
• Mount Washburn Trail – A moderate trail with panoramic views and possible wildlife sightings.
• Lamar Valley Trail – A fantastic hike for spotting bison, wolves, and other wildlife.

10. Shenandoah National Park, Virginia

Top Shenandoah Hiking Trails:

• Old Rag Mountain Trail – A challenging but rewarding rock scramble hike.
• Dark Hollow Falls Trail – A short, beautiful hike to a cascading waterfall.
• Stony Man Trail – An easy trail with stunning Blue Ridge Mountain views.

Hiking Tips for National Parks

1. Plan Ahead: Research park regulations, trail conditions, and weather forecasts before your visit.
2. Follow Leave No Trace Principles: Pack out all trash, stay on designated trails, and respect wildlife.
3. Be Prepared: Bring proper gear, plenty of water, and navigation tools.
4. Check for Permits: Some hikes, like Half Dome and Angels Landing, require permits.
5. Start Early: Popular trails get crowded—hiking early allows for better views and a quieter experience.

Explore More National Parks

If you love hiking, be sure to check out our other guides on the best U.S. national parks for adventure travel, RV-friendly national parks, and hidden gem national parks for off-the-beaten-path hikes. Whether you’re looking for epic hiking destinations or family-friendly trails, there’s a national park adventure waiting for you!

What’s Your Favorite National Park for Hiking?

We’d love to hear about your hiking experiences! Share your favorite national park trails and tips in the comments below.

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