6 U.S. States for Hiking

Utah is famous for its unique and dramatic landscapes, making it a top state for hiking. The state’s “Mighty Five” national parks—Zion, Bryce Canyon, Capitol Reef, Arches, and Canyonlands—offer a wealth of hiking trails through stunning red rock formations, canyons, and arches. Zion National Park’s Angels Landing and The Narrows are iconic hikes that attract adventurers from around the world. Bryce Canyon’s hoodoos and natural amphitheaters provide surreal and picturesque settings for hikers. The state’s vast desert landscapes and colorful rock formations create a hiking experience like no other. With its diverse and striking scenery, Utah offers unforgettable hikes for outdoor enthusiasts.

California is a hiker’s paradise, offering a diverse range of landscapes from coastal trails to mountain peaks. The state is home to iconic hiking destinations such as Yosemite National Park, where trails like Half Dome and Mist Trail offer breathtaking views of granite cliffs, waterfalls, and giant sequoias. The Pacific Crest Trail also runs through California, providing long-distance hikers with challenging terrain and stunning scenery. In Southern California, hikers can explore the rugged beauty of Joshua Tree National Park and the scenic coastal trails of Big Sur. With its year-round mild climate and variety of ecosystems, California offers endless opportunities for hikers of all levels.

Washington State offers some of the most scenic and varied hiking opportunities in the U.S. The Cascade Range and Olympic Mountains provide numerous trails with stunning views of snow-capped peaks, dense forests, and alpine meadows. Mount Rainier National Park features trails like the Wonderland Trail, which circumnavigates the iconic peak, offering a challenging and rewarding hike. The North Cascades are known for their rugged beauty and remote wilderness, while the coastal hikes in Olympic National Park showcase lush rainforests and dramatic beaches. Washington’s diverse ecosystems and well-marked trails make it a premier destination for hikers seeking both adventure and natural beauty.

Oregon is a haven for hikers, boasting a variety of trails that showcase the state’s lush forests, rugged coastlines, and volcanic landscapes. The Columbia River Gorge offers scenic hikes with waterfalls and panoramic views, such as the popular Multnomah Falls and Eagle Creek trails. In the Cascade Range, hikers can explore the volcanic peaks of Mount Hood and the Three Sisters. The Oregon Coast Trail provides stunning coastal views and beach walks, while Crater Lake National Park features trails with breathtaking vistas of the deep blue lake. Oregon’s diverse environments and well-maintained trails make it an excellent destination for hiking enthusiasts of all levels.

Colorado is renowned for its spectacular mountain scenery and extensive network of hiking trails. The state’s Rocky Mountain National Park features over 350 miles of trails, ranging from easy walks around alpine lakes to challenging summits like Longs Peak. Colorado’s famous “14ers,” mountains exceeding 14,000 feet in elevation, attract hikers seeking high-altitude adventures. Trails in the San Juan and Sangre de Cristo ranges offer dramatic landscapes and solitude. The Colorado Trail, stretching 486 miles from Denver to Durango, provides a long-distance hiking experience through diverse terrains. With its breathtaking vistas, abundant wildlife, and well-maintained trails, Colorado is a top destination for hiking enthusiasts.

New Hampshire, located in the heart of New England, offers some of the best hiking opportunities on the East Coast. The White Mountains are the centerpiece of the state’s hiking scene, with trails leading to the summits of Mount Washington, Mount Lafayette, and the Presidential Range. The Appalachian Trail runs through New Hampshire, providing challenging and scenic hikes for long-distance trekkers. Franconia Notch State Park features popular trails like the Franconia Ridge Loop, offering stunning views of the surrounding peaks and valleys. With its picturesque landscapes, diverse trails, and vibrant fall foliage, New Hampshire is a top choice for hikers seeking both beauty and adventure.