The United States is home to some of the world’s most diverse and breathtaking hiking trails. At Discover Outdoors, we believe hiking isn’t just about adventure—it’s about connecting with nature and treading lightly to preserve its beauty. 

Here’s an in-depth guide to ten of the best hiking trails, showcasing their unique features and ecological significance while emphasizing responsible practices for outdoor enthusiasts.

Navajo Loop And Queens Garden Trail

• Location: Bryce Canyon National Park, Utah
• Difficulty: Moderate
• Length: 4.8 km (3 miles)
• Estimated Time: 1 hour 33 minutes

Bryce Canyon’s hoodoos and spires, formed over millions of years, glow in red, orange, and white hues. Starting at Sunset Point, the trail offers panoramic canyon views. Highlights include Queen Victoria, resembling a regal figure, and Thor’s Hammer, a towering single spire, making this a must-see hiking destination.

Why It’s Special: The hoodoos here are unique to Bryce Canyon, making it a geological wonder. The narrow canyon of Wall Street offers an otherworldly experience with its towering walls.

Eco-Tip: Stick to marked paths to avoid damaging the delicate desert soil, which takes decades to recover from human impact.

Angels Landing Trail

• Location: Zion National Park, Utah
• Difficulty: Hard
• Length: 6.9 km (4.3 miles)

Angels Landing is as exhilarating as it is scenic. The trail features steep switchbacks and narrow ridges with drop-offs on either side, making it a favorite for thrill-seekers. The climb to Scout Lookout offers stunning views of Zion Canyon’s red cliffs and lush valley. The final stretch involves gripping chains bolted into the rock for safety—a test of nerves and endurance.

Why It’s Special: The 360-degree views from the summit are unparalleled, showcasing Zion Canyon in all its glory. It’s a bucket-list hike for experienced adventurers.

Eco-Tip: Limit noise to preserve the serenity of the trail and wildlife habitats. Permits are required, so plan.

Devil’s Bridge Trail via Dry Creek Road

• Location: Sedona, Arizona
• Difficulty: Moderate
• Length: 6.3 km (3.9 miles)

This trail leads to Devil’s Bridge, Sedona’s largest natural sandstone arch. The views from the bridge are mesmerizing, with sweeping vistas of Red Rock Country. While the hike is relatively short, the final ascent involves a steep rock-step climb. The surrounding landscape is rich with vibrant red sandstone, contrasting with green juniper trees.

Why It’s Special: The natural arch creates a stunning photo opportunity, especially during sunrise or sunset. The surrounding wilderness is home to unique desert flora and fauna.

Eco-Tip: Use established trailheads and avoid creating new paths to protect the fragile desert ecosystem.

Skyline Loop

• Location: Mount Rainier National Park, Washington
• Difficulty: Hard
• Length: 9.3 km (5.8 miles)
• Estimated Time: 3 hours 32 minutes

Skyline Loop starts at Paradise, a fitting name for this lush, flower-filled area. The trail offers diverse scenery, including waterfalls, glaciers, and sweeping views of Mount Rainier. Hikers can spot marmots basking on rocks and enjoy the serene beauty of alpine meadows. Panorama Point, a popular stop along the trail, provides breathtaking views of the surrounding peaks and valleys.

Why It’s Special: The trail showcases the Pacific Northwest’s rich biodiversity, from subalpine meadows to rugged glacial terrain.

Eco-Tip: Stay on the trail to avoid damaging wildflowers, and pack out all trash to maintain the park’s pristine condition.

Emerald Lake Trail

• Location: Rocky Mountain National Park, Colorado
• Difficulty: Moderate
• Length: 5.1 km (3.2 miles)
• Estimated Time: 1 hour 39 minutes

This peaceful trail takes hikers through lush pine forests and alongside serene alpine lakes, including Nymph Lake and Dream Lake. The trail ends at Emerald Lake, a crystal-clear body of water surrounded by rocky peaks. Wildlife, such as chipmunks and birds, are commonly seen along the way, adding to the natural charm.

Why It’s Special: The combination of pristine lakes and towering peaks creates a tranquil and picturesque experience.

Eco-Tip: Avoid feeding wildlife, as it disrupts their natural behaviors and diet.

Vernal And Nevada Falls via Mist Trail

• Location: Yosemite National Park, California
• Difficulty: Hard
• Length: 10.3 km (6.4 miles)
• Estimated Time: 4 hours 10 minutes

Mist Trail is one of Yosemite’s most iconic routes, taking hikers close to two massive waterfalls—Vernal and Nevada Falls. The granite steps near Vernal Falls provide an up-close encounter with its powerful spray. At the same time, Nevada Falls offers stunning views from its top. Spring is the best time to visit, as snowmelt makes the waterfalls even more dramatic.

Why It’s Special: Few trails allow you to experience waterfalls intimately. It’s a perfect blend of challenge and beauty.

Eco-Tip: Stay on marked trails to prevent erosion and use refillable water bottles to reduce plastic waste.

Rattlesnake Ledge Trail

• Location: Washington
• Difficulty: Moderate
• Length: 8.5 km (5.3 miles)
• Estimated Time: 3 hours 4 minutes

Just a short drive from Seattle, Rattlesnake Ledge Trail is a favorite for locals. The climb leads to a rocky outcrop with panoramic views of Rattlesnake Lake, surrounding forests, and distant peaks. Below the trail, the lake is a hub for kayaking and picnicking.

Why It’s Special: Its accessibility and stunning views make it a great option for beginners and families.

Eco-Tip: Use biodegradable sunscreen to protect the lake’s water quality.

Trail Of Ten Falls

• Location: Silver Falls State Park, Oregon
• Difficulty: Moderate
• Length: 11.9 km (7.4 miles)
• Estimated Time: 3 hours 21 minutes

This trail loops through ten breathtaking waterfalls, including South Falls, where you can walk behind the cascading water. The lush forest surrounding the trail houses ferns, mosses, and towering Douglas firs, creating a magical atmosphere.

Why It’s Special: Walking behind waterfalls is a unique experience few trails offer.

Eco-Tip: Bring a reusable snack container to reduce waste along the trail.

Avalanche Lake Trail

• Location: Glacier National Park, Montana
• Difficulty: Moderate
• Length: 9.5 km (5.9 miles)
• Estimated Time: 2 hours 28 minutes

This trail begins at Trail of the Cedars and leads through old-growth forests to Avalanche Lake. Dramatic cliffs and cascading waterfalls surround the lake’s pristine, turquoise waters. Early morning hikes are best to avoid crowds and enjoy the lake’s tranquility.

Why It’s Special: Avalanche Lake’s serene beauty and clear waters make it a standout destination.

Eco-Tip: Avoid using single-use plastics during your hike to reduce pollution.

Scout Lookout via West Rim Trail

• Location: Zion National Park, Utah
• Difficulty: Hard
• Length: 5.8 km (3.6 miles)
• Estimated Time: 2 hours 13 minutes

Scout Lookout offers stunning views of Zion Canyon and is a gateway for hikers heading to Angels Landing. While the trail is steep, it’s manageable for those with moderate fitness levels. The lookout is a rewarding endpoint for those who don’t continue to the more challenging sections of Angels Landing.

Why It’s Special: The trail combines accessibility with incredible views, making it ideal for a half-day hike.

Eco-Tip: Use trekking poles to reduce the impact on the steeper sections.

Final Thoughts

Hiking isn’t just about the destination—it’s about preserving the journey for generations. By choosing eco-friendly practices, we ensure these trails remain as breathtaking as they are today. Let’s protect and enjoy nature, one step at a time.