Best Hiking Trails

The great outdoors calls adventurers to discover scenic landscapes found along charming hiking paths. With so many incredible trails spanning this vast country, how does one decide where to start? This guide profiles some truly special spots worth exploring while sharing tips for planning sustainable excursions. Strap on your boots – it’s time to hit the trails!

Regional Trail Gems
Five Favourite Trails
Planning Your Dream Hiking Adventure
Ethical and Sustainable Trail Stewardship
Wrapping Up Your Great Outdoors Adventure
Best Hiking Trails Frequently asked Questions:

Regional Trail Gems

California

Sunny California boasts incredible geographic and ecological diversity, offering hikers a truly remarkable range of trails from which to choose. Rugged coastlines, lush forests, dramatic mountains and arid deserts are all within reach of amazing footpaths.

Coastal trails along the Northern and Central California shore provide unmatched ocean vistas. One gem is the gnarled blufftop route topping Point Reyes National Seashore, where elephant seals haul out below towering sea cliffs. Further South, Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve treats visitors to a rare coastal pine forest hugging the soft sands of La Jolla. Ancient sandstone forms craggy outcrops interspersed with the wind-sculpted pines, all backed by the deep blue Pacific.

Inland, Sierra Nevada peaks lure mountain lovers along the John Muir Trail and elsewhere to high alpine lakes beneath sheer granite sentinels. Yosemite Valley represents the crown jewel, with famous vistas accessible on trails ranging from leisurely valley floors to the exposed challenge of Half Dome. To the East, Mount Whitney gains over 6000 vertical feet to the highest point in the lower 48.

For desertscapes, the vast Anza-Borrego Desert State Park provides hundreds of miles of 4WD roads and trails crisscrossing its badlands of fan palm oases and ghost town relics. Hike through ocotillo and cholla forests beneath towering sandstone monoliths like the famous Slot Canyon. Northward lies Death Valley, where escape the summer heat but venture out after rainstorms to discover ephemeral wildflower blooms.

Whether selecting coastal bluffs, mountain lakes or rugged desert, California’s diverse protected lands and countless trails invite exploring its splendid natural beauty. Plan several trips to truly just scratch the surface of what the Golden State has to offer outdoor enthusiasts.

Pacific Northwest

The Pacific Northwest is renowned for its epic conifer forests, lush rainforests and rugged coastlines stretching from Northern California to Southeast Alaska. Towering along the region’s trails, mammoth Douglas fir, Sitka spruce and western redcedar impart a magical old-growth cathedral feel.

In Washington, Olympic National Park shelters over seventy miles of fantastic hiking routes. Hurricane Ridge provides a premier alpine habitat showcasing wildflowers and wildlife against stunning mountain and sea vistas. Look closely along the trail for signs of Roosevelt elk, black bear and mountain goats. Further North, Deception Pass State Park trails treat hikers to coastal bluffs and old-growth forests fringing sparkling straits and bays.

Oregon entices hikers along trails winding through protected Grove of Titans and Elk Mountain sections of Siuslaw National Forest. Massive centuries-old trees dwarf visitors amid emerald fairyland ambiance. Spot baneful northern spotted owls or explore tidepools on coastal trails like those within three-mile long Ecola State Park.

Vancouver Island and the Canadian Gulf Islands present further opportunities for rainforest immersion. In Pacific Rim National Park, red cedar-shrouded trails offer glimpses of black-tailed deer and rare Kermode “spirit” bears feasting on salmon. Further exploration awaits among scenic woodland isles and rugged coastal fjords all along the intricate Inside Passage.

Between the elaborate root buttresses, towering giants and lush undergrowth along Pacific Northwest trails, it’s easy to feel small within spectacular untamed wilderness that helped shape the region’s natural and cultural identities.

Rocky Mountains

Towering peaks punctuated by sweeping alpine vistas are hallmarks of hiking trails across the rugged Rocky Mountains. In Colorado, Rocky Mountain National Park offers over 350 miles of paths accessing truly inspiring scenery.

Emerald Lake Trail presents a premier mountain destination, climbing over 4,000 vertical feet up switchbacks through aspen and pine forest. Catch your breath at Island Lake before the final push up to gemstone pools of Emerald and Dream Lakes, ringed by imposing granite spires. Nearby, Glacier Gorge Trail cuts through a melting pot of ecological zones showcasing mountain goats and bighorn sheep.

Further south in Utah, world-renowned red rock formations dating back over 200 million years form the backdrop along Zion National Park’s trails. The scenic Valley Trail provides views of statuesque monoliths like The Great White Throne and Angels Landing before the grueling climb up. Narrows hikers are treated to craggy slot canyons towering a thousand feet on either side while wending along the Virgin River.

Additionally, Colorado’s San Juan and Gunnison National Forests present further elevated adventures among aspen and evergreens. In Wyoming, the granite peaks embraced by Teton National Park offer multi-day traverses along the base of the famed range. Across Montana and Idaho, alpine lakes and flower-draped meadows await discovery among sprawling wildlife refuges and national forests spanning the Continental Divide. Grand scenery and diverse terrain make the Rockies a hiker’s paradise.

Five Favourite Trails

Angels Landing – Zion National Park, Utah

Best Hiking Trails - Angels Landing - Zion National Park

Looming over the Virgin River valley like a giant stone deity, Angels Landing trail treats hikers to some of Zion’s most heart-stopping exposure and drop-dead scenery. After shuttling or hiking a few levels up the scenic Zion Canyon scenic drive, the moderate ascent begins through twists of red rock littered with weathered boulders.

As the narrow fin ridge comes into focus high above, chains assist the final challenging approach. Climbing 1500 feet total, hikers traverse thin rock poised directly over sheer cliff drops. Taking small steps with assistance can be nerve-wracking for those afraid of heights, but the astounding rewards are worth it. At the pinnacle, expansive vistas unveil the entire Palisade and Towers of the Virgin across rolling mesas.

Timing a trip up mid-morning allows enjoying the summit without crowds before afternoon thunderstorms frequently blanket this lightning-prone spire. Rangers may restrict access if high winds arise too. Come prepared with good shoes or sandals with grippy soles, and pack plenty of fluids as there is no shade once reaching the exposed apex. Respect designated rest stops for others below and above you too.

Angels Landing delivers a true mountain experience amid Zion’s fairyland canyon scenery. With caution, perseverance and fortunate weather, hiking this epic fin rewards both nerve and nature lovers with unbeatably close views of endless sandstone sculptures. It remains a ‘must-do’ for seasoned Zion trekkers.

Half Dome – Yosemite National Park, California

Best Hiking Trails - Half Dome - Yosemite National Park

Looming majestically above Yosemite Valley, iconic Half Dome stands as the crown jewel of Sierra hikes. Reaching its sheer battered summit via permanent cables requires substantial fitness, but rewards remain unmatched.

The journey begins with a moderate climb up the Mist Trail alongside dazzling Vernal and Nevada Falls. Following the valley floor, traverse through pockets of vast sequoia groves–silent sentinels keeping watch over these hallowed woods. Beyond, the trail pitches upward towards the base of Half Dome itself.

Here, the final ascent begins in earnest up polished granite slabs. Cables fixed to the mountain guide the way as the path narrows dangerously. Hand over hand between cable poles, hikers hoist themselves meticulously upward and inward towards the bulging half-sphere of solid rock high above.

Reaching the top exposes a breathtaking 360-degree panorama spanning Yosemite’s iconic landmarks. On clear days, views infinitely unfold all the way to Mt. Ritter and Banner Peak beyond. With picnic in tow, relax within this hard-earned alpine realm to simply absorb the glory all around.

Only attempt Half Dome with sufficient experience in similar talus and cable sections. Rangers also require permits to mitigate impacts–apply early. Weather can turn swiftly too, so allow ample time floating back down well before dark. Though strenuous, standing atop Yosemite’s crown jewel inspires an unforgettable sense of elation and connection to this landscape’s raw beauty.

Lady Bird Johnson Grove – Jedediah Smith Redwoods State Park, California

Best Hiking Trails - Lady Bird Johnson Grove - Jedediah Smith Redwoods State Park

Nestled within the quiet old-growth forests of Jedediah Smith Redwoods State Park lies a truly magical grove named to honour conservation champion Lady Bird Johnson. Walking the easy 3/4 mile trail here, visitors feel a deep sense of connection to the grandeur of centuries past.

Towering redwood sentinels soaring overhead block out sunlight, filling the dim understory with an air of mystique. Soft brown carpet of needles cushions footsteps as ferns and scattered ray fungi inhabit ancient trunks. Look closely to spot banana slugs inching their slime trails across the path, or scan moss-draped bows for stealthy northern spotted owls.

Interpretive signs impart the grove’s fascinating history, from Native American inhabitance through the logging boom of past generations. Hollowed stumps tell of massive trunks felled, while regrown young redwoods offer hope for tomorrow. Sheltered glades showcase delicate trillium flowers blooming in spring amid soft filtered light.

Allow quiet wandering to simply take in the hushed majesty holding court along this trail. Feel dwarfed within the grove’s grand sentinels living over a millennium, as they shelter rare wildlife and offer visitors respite from rushing life outside this coastal sanctuary. A brief walk here gifts lifelong memories in nature’s quiet cathedral protected for future generations too.

Château Lake Loop – Waterton Lakes National Park, Alberta

Best Hiking Trails - Château Lake Loop - Waterton Lakes National Park

Nestled among soaring peaks along the Alberta/Montana border, Waterton Lakes National Park holds some of the most stunning alpine scenery in the Canadian Rockies. A premier hike enjoying this splendour is the lightly trafficked Château Lake Loop.

Setting out from the Blairmore trailhead, the eight-mile route initially climbs gently through dense forest. Emerging onto subalpine meadows, vibrant wildflowers like fireweed, gentians and Indian paintbrush create a sea of colour in summer months. Lupine and asters spill down talus slopes as pikas call out their distinctive cries.

Further in, azure Château Lake appears flanked by glacier-carved cliffs. Watch for bighorn sheep and mountain goats playing along craggy edges high overhead. Belted kingfishers and mallard broods may also be spotted around the shoreline. Continuing the loop, more dazzling vistas open over Pinto and Boat Lakes nestled below peaks draped in hanging glaciers.

A picnic perfect backdrop, enjoy lunch among fragrant wildflower clovers before beginning the scenic descent. Returning through flower-strewn forest, keep eyes peeled for abundant wildlife like moose, black bears, marmots and birdlife of every feather. Savour lingering alpine ambiance from this cherished Rockies respite as the trailhead parking lot comes back into view.

Enchanted Valley Trail – Mount Saint Helens National Volcanic Monument, Washington

Best Hiking Trails - Enchanted Valley Trail - Mount Saint Helens National Volcanic Monument

Nowhere demonstrates nature’s resilience better than the recovering landscapes surrounding Mount St. Helens. On May 18, 1980, a massive eruption tore laterally across the snow-capped peak, transforming 230 square miles overnight.

The Enchanted Valley Trail provides a front-row seat to witnessing regeneration firsthand. Setting out from the trailhead, trees closest to the blast radius remain standing ghosts—gray corkscrew trunks interspersed with vibrant new growth. Interpretive signs along the five-mile loop hike explain how fires fostered lodgepole pine and microscopic fungi assisted pioneer plants.

As the trail descends into magical Enchanted Valley itself, evidence of the deadly blast diminishes. Here, cooled lava flows carved a cirque-like depression now cradling lush meadows and a tarn. Peer closely along shoreline rocks for emerging mosses and liverworts colonizing freshly deposited surfaces. Songbirds flit through fir bowers while ravens soar overhead.

Back alongside the Toutle River on the return leg, massive debris avalanches and twisted trunks come into view. Gaining elevation out of the valley, forest matures with each step until transitioning seamlessly into undisturbed old growth. Witnessing nature’s ability to restore even after devastation on such a massive scale offers inspiration for humanity’s role in stewarding fragile ecosystems.

Planning Your Dream Hiking Adventure

Doing thorough preparation allows focused enjoyment of any backcountry trip. Consider the following:

Dates – Check park/forest calendars and permit requirements well ahead of desired travel months (usually summer). Some trails restrict use seasonally.

Gear – Prioritize comfortable, well-broken-in boots plus layers, first aid supplies, map/compass and bear/bug deterrent as needed for the region.

Transportation – Most destinations require vehicles for access. Research shuttle services if carless or renting for one-way hikes is preferable.

Lodging – Parks typically house limited options, so reserve campsites/cabins early or scout nearby gateway towns with motels.

Supplies – Pack plenty of high-energy snacks, 3-4 litres of water and optionally a lightweight stove/fuel if venturing overnight.

Permits – Most popular trails demand reservation of a quota to legally hike, sometimes over a year in advance. Be strategic!

With due diligence put toward logistics, your relaxation into natural glory can truly begin once boots strike the trail. Always practice low-impact hiking ethics whether going it alone or joining outfitted excursions too.

Ethical and Sustainable Trail Stewardship

As outdoor recreation surges, it falls on each hiker individually and collectively to care for precious trails. Some best practices:

Pack It In, Pack It Out – Trash has no place in the wilderness, so properly dispose of all waste.

Leave No Trace – Follow minimal impact principles like sticking to established trails and avoiding sensitive fauna/flora.

Avoid Peak Seasons – Disperse use to lessen ecological strains, opting for off-months when possible.

Volunteer Your Time – Contribute to trail maintenance and conservation with volunteer trail crews and environmental nonprofits.

Respect Private Property – Ask permission to cross private lands and leave gates/fences as found.

Support Local Agencies – Join advocacy and friends groups boosting park funding and projects.

Following Leave No Trace ethics means future generations inherit trails in the same wild, inspiring condition we cherish today. Our small actions collectively make a big difference – so pack courtesy along with your gear!

Wrapping Up Your Great Outdoors Adventure

By now inspiration surely calls you to hit the trail. While this guide merely scratched the surface of the world’s best routes, I hope highlighting a few standouts nearby whets your appetite. With attention to planning and low-impact principles, you’re set to embark lifelong hiking memories. With skies as your only limit, may you discover untold natural wonders and beauty through quiet walks with the Great Outdoors. Happy trails!