Home Camping Adventures 5 Of The Most Beautiful Hikes In America
5 Of The Most Beautiful Hikes In America

5 min

September 7, 2023

Feeling adventurous? Hiking does wonders for the mind, body, and soul.

America’s diverse landscape offers beautiful hiking trails for all skill levels. Majestic mountains, lush forests, alpine lakes, and towering cliffs are just waiting to be explored. So lace up your boots and hit the trail!

Here are five of the most beautiful hikes in America.


1. John Muir Trail, California

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In total, the John Muir Trail is 211 miles, but thankfully, you don’t have to hike the entire thing in one shot (unless you want to, of course!).

You can jump on this trail from a number of different locations, hike for the day, and be back in your tent by nightfall.

Yosemite National Park is a great place to access the trail and experience an awesome day hike on the Vernal Fall and Nevada Fall trails. These hikes aren’t easy, but you are rewarded with two beautiful, iconic waterfalls.

Discover campgrounds in California.


2. Kalaulau Trail, Kauai, Hawaii

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Kalaulau Trail offers spectacular views throughout. This breathtaking 11 mile trail runs along the beautiful Na Pali Coast from Ke’e Beach to Kalaulau Beach.

You will encounter rugged cliffs, deep valleys, and fast-moving streams, making this a challenging hike. But hiking the Kalaulau Trail will give you the opportunity to see parts of the coast that are otherwise inaccessible.

It’s possible for an experienced hiker to take on the entire trail in a day. However, we recommend breaking it down into two separate day trips so you can enjoy the lush valleys, waterfalls, and ocean views.

Where to go camping in Hawaii.


3. Observation Point, Zion National Park, Utah

This classic 8-mile (round trip) hike is a challenge. But it’s totally worth it.

The views from Observation Point are some of the best in the park. After spending hours trudging up the side of a mountain on a paved zig-zagging path, you’ll be rewarded with a jaw-dropping view down into Zion Canyon.

Along this strenuous hike you will get a glimpse into Echo Canyon, a deep mysterious gorge, and at the top, a spectacular view of Angels Landing, the Three Patriarchs, and the white rock of Cathedral Mountain.

Planning a trip to this park? Check out our Insider’s Guide to Zion!


4. Eagle Creek Trail, Columbia River Gorge, Oregon

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This 12 mile (round trip) trail is loaded with beautiful waterfalls. Eagle Creek is one of the most popular trails in the Columbia River Gorge, but if you don’t mind other people, it’s definitely worth exploring.

The trail winds through temperate rainforest, sheer basalt cliffs, and the ultimate prize: stunning waterfalls.

Two miles in, you will come to the iconic Punchbowl Falls, a 100-foot waterfall that plunges into a beautiful blue-green pool. Along the way you will also pass Metlako Falls, Loowit Falls, and the 175 foot Tunnel Falls.

Planning to explore Mount Hood? Check out these awesome hikes! Or discover some great campgrounds in Oregon.


5. Ptarmigan Tunnel Trail, Glacier National Park, Montana

Glacier National Park is home to more than 700 trails, all of which offer stunning scenery. But there is something magical about Ptarmigan Tunnel.

The 10 mile (round trip) Ptarmigan Tunnel Trail shares the first part of its trail with the Iceberg Lake Trail. Once you start climbing, you will have amazing views of Many Glacier Valley, Swiftcurrent Glacier, and Mount Wilbur.

Halfway though, you will come to Ptarmigan Falls and shortly after, you will encounter the Ptarmigan Tunnel Trail which leads you to the beautiful, turquoise Ptarmigan Lake, and then on to the 250 foot Ptarmigan Tunnel. When you come out on the other side of the tunnel, take in the spectacular views of the Belly River Valley and Elizabeth Lake. If you go a little further, you can see the Old Sun Glacier.

Need a place to camp? Check out these Montana campgrounds.


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