Step Into Adventure: 15 Hikes You’ll Want on Your Bucket List 🥾

From canyon climbs to waterfall walks, these epic trails across the U.S. are calling your name.

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Take More Adventures
May 01, 2025

15 Epic U.S. Hiking Trails to Add to Your Adventure List

Hey Adventurer! 🌲❄️

Whether you’re chasing waterfalls, scaling mountain peaks, or strolling along coastal cliffs, the U.S. is packed with trails that deliver the views and the vibes. This week, we’re highlighting 15 of our all-time favorite hikes—from the dramatic switchbacks of Angels Landing to the misty magic of Oregon’s waterfall loop. We’ve got something for every pace and path, so grab your boots, load up your trail snacks, and get ready to hike your heart out.

🗳️ TMA TRIVIA TIME:

👉 Tap to vote — and we might just drop a surprise freebie for early responders.

🏞️ The 15 Best Hiking Trails in the USA

Whether you’re chasing waterfalls, climbing summits, or just here for the views, the USA’s hiking scene has something for every kind of adventurer. We rounded up 15 epic trails—from family-friendly strolls to bucket list-worthy climbs. So go ahead, dust off those hiking boots. Your next great hike starts here.

South Kaibab Trail – Grand Canyon NP, AZ

Steep, stunning, and packed with jaw-dropping canyon views, this trail is not for the faint of knees. Skeleton Point gives you a glimpse of the mighty Colorado River—and a great excuse to catch your breath.

This Sedona favorite leads you to a natural sandstone arch with dramatic drop-offs and photo ops galore. Go early to beat the crowds and the desert heat.

Mist Trail – Yosemite NP, CA

Prepare to get soaked—this is Yosemite’s most famous waterfall hike, and it’s worth every damp step. Climb alongside Vernal and Nevada Falls for nonstop views and cool misty air.

Clouds Rest – Yosemite NP, CA

Skip the Half Dome crowds and head here for 360° summit views that seriously compete. It’s a long hike, but the reward is one of the best panoramas in the park.

This high-elevation trek takes you across alpine tundra and past wildflowers, marmots, and jaw-dropping views. Keep an eye on the sky—afternoon storms roll in fast up here.

One of the easiest (and most scenic) trails in Acadia, this coastal path is perfect for families. You’ll stroll past crashing waves, rugged cliffs, and postcard-worthy views.

Carved into the side of a mountain, this dramatic hike offers wildflower meadows, epic drop-offs, and a solid chance of spotting mountain goats. It’s long, it’s iconic, and it’s worth every step.

This trail is not messing around—chains, cliffs, and adrenaline-pumping exposure await. But if you’ve got the nerve, the view at the top is one for the books.

Wander between Bryce’s famous hoodoos on one of the most accessible and scenic loops in the park. It’s short but packs in all the weird, wonderful rock shapes you came to see.

Three lakes, one hike. This short and scenic trail is a Rocky Mountain classic, perfect for a quick adventure with major alpine rewards.

Stretching from Mexico to Canada, this thru-hike legend crosses deserts, mountains, and everything in between. Whether you’re in for a section or the whole thing, it’s one for the bucket list.

Tackle a beautiful slice of the iconic AT as it weaves through Shenandoah’s ridgelines and quiet woods. Wildflowers, wildlife, and backcountry vibes included.

Mount Rainier steals the show on this loop filled with meadows, glaciers, and waterfalls. It’s a choose-your-own-adventure hike with unforgettable alpine drama.

Ten waterfalls in one hike? Yes please. This lush Oregon loop lets you walk behind several of them for a magical, misty experience.

A short but steep climb leads to one of the best viewpoints near Seattle. Great for sunrise, and even better if you bring a snack and stay a while.

🛠️ Trail Tips to Know Before You Go

  • Check trail closures and permits in advance.

  • Always carry the 10 essentials (map, water, snacks, etc.).

  • Start early and watch the weather—especially on alpine hikes.

  • Respect trail rules, stay on the path, and leave no trace.

🌲 That’s a Wrap!

Which trail is calling your name? Whether it’s the wilds of Washington or the cliffs of Zion, there’s no better way to experience the U.S. than on foot. Let us know your favorite hikes—or ones we should add to the next list!

See you on the trail,

– The TMA Team

✅ Trivia Answer: B) Pacific Crest Trail

The Pacific Crest Trail stretches over 2,650 miles from the U.S.-Mexico border in California all the way to the Canadian border in Washington—making it one of the most iconic thru-hikes in the world.

🌍 More Travel Inspiration!

If you’re dreaming of budget-friendly adventures, we’ve got plenty more guides to help you plan your next trip:

🔹 Love scenic road trips? Check out these Best Day Trips from the Bay Area 🚗

🔹 Looking for an unforgettable camping experience? Try a Tree Tent Campsite 🌲

🔹 Exploring Mexico? Don’t miss our guide to the Best Things to Do in Tijuana 🇲🇽

🔹 Chasing waterfalls? Plan a Hike to Ouzel Lake 🏔️

🔹 Rainy camping trip? Be prepared with these Tips for Camping in the Rain 🌧️🏕️

🔹 Camping in California? Check out the Best Campgrounds for Tents & RVs 🏕️

🔹 Hiking fan? Explore the Top Hiking Trails in America 🥾

🔹 Heading to Vietnam? Plan your trip with our Vietnam Travel Guide 🇻🇳

🔹 Want to camp in Utah? Here are the Best Places to Camp in Utah ⛺

🔹 Exploring Texas? Don’t miss these RV Parks in Texas 🚍

Wherever you’re headed, we’re here to help you Take More Adventures! ✈️🌎 🚀