When it comes to travelling to the US, international visitors flock to see landmarks like the Statue of Liberty and Wall Street. But for outdoor enthusiasts passionate about day hiking, America is a true paradise of impressive routes and landscapes.
This article will list the 30 best day hikes in the US. These trails allow you to experience some of America's most breathtaking scenery, from deserts to mountains to forests, while still being achievable adventures for a single day.
Best Beginner-Friendly Day Hikes In The US
If you're just starting out, there are many great hiking trails in the US for beginners. These often are about 5-10 miles in length, and call for basic preparation.
1. Ocean Path, Acadia National Park, Maine
Ocean Path offers a delightful blend of coastal beauty and easy accessibility. Photo by Michael - stock.adobe.com
Level: Easy
Distance: 2.2 miles (3.5 kilometres)
Expected time: 2 hours
It’s no secret that the State is full of amazing national parks. Acadia National Park on the coast of Maine holds scenic treasures of its own. This largely flat, paved pathway stretches along Park Loop Road. Coming here, you'll be in awe of all the stunning ocean views, dramatic rocky cliffs, and iconic landmarks.
Hike along volcanic cliffs towering 200 feet (61 metres) above the surf, pounding Thunder Hole and Otter Cliffs below. With picnic areas along the way and chance sightings of whales, sea lions and seals offshore, it’s a perfect choice for families with children, casual hikers, or anyone looking for a scenic walk rather than a strenuous trek.
2. Kuliʻouʻou Ridge Trail, Hawaii
Nothing can beat this stunning view. Photo by Austin Schmid on Unsplash
Level: Easy
Distance: 5 miles (8 kilometres)
Expected time: 1-2 hours
The name is a mouthful, isn’t it? Hawaii is more than a beach haven, there are great hikes in the lush Hawaiian tropical rainforest, too. This 1,500-foot (457.2 metres) elevation day hike rewards its challengers with peerless Oahu coastline vistas over through the emerald jungle.
Hikers emerge on a narrow leaf-covered ridge after switchbacks past bamboo, ginger and heliconia. The wooden platform outlooks provide 360-degree views stretching from downtown Honolulu and Diamond Head Crater to offshore islands.
The best part? The trail is dog-friendly, and you can even let them enjoy some off-leash freedom in some parts. After a long flight, it’s a great chance to let your furry friend blow some steam with you.
3. The Narrows, Zion National Park, Utah
Yes, even beginner hiker can do The Narrows. Photo by f11photo on stock.adobe.com
Level: Easy
Distance: 2-12 miles (5-16 kilometres)
Expected time: 2-5 hours
Venturing into the Virgin River, The Narrows treats hikers to a unique experience hiking through a sheer gorge only less than 20 feet (6.1 metres) wide in places.
What makes The Narrows among the best day hikes in America is how you can choose a gruelling 12-mile hike or a casual 2-mile hike, depending on your liking and fitness level.
However, hiking through ankle to waist-deep chilly water requires the right footwear and gear, so be well-prepared if you want to venture further.
Moderate Day Hikes Across America
Looking for a thrilling outdoor challenge that won't exhaust you for days afterwards? Discover some of the most scenic and moderately challenging day hikes across the United States:
4. Maryland's Black Rock Trail, Appalachian Trail
This trail is so incredible to conquer. Photo by jonbilous on stock.adobe.com
Level: Medium
Distance: 7.3 miles (around 11.4 kilometres)
Expected time: 3 hours
Stretching across more than 2,200 miles along the Appalachian Mountains, the Appalachian Trail is famous for being one of the longest continuous hiking paths globally. Although completing a through-hike of the trail typically takes about six months, there are great options for day hikes in various sections.
An example is the Black Rock Trail in Maryland, which forms a 7.6-mile lollipop loop intersecting with the Appalachian Trail. The trailhead is easily accessible from Interstate 70 and features ample parking. If you are into backpacking, there is a shelter and a designated tent camping area.
Note that the wind can get very chilly at times, so remember to wear several layers to keep warm. The hike requires a bit of a climb at the first part, but it’s almost all flat afterwards, so it’s one of the best moderately challenging day hikes in the US.
5. South Kaibab Trail, Arizona
The nature here is so incredible. Photo by Rajiv Perera on Unsplash
Level: Medium
Distance: 3 miles (4.8 kilometres)
Expected time: 4 hours
Looking for the best day hikes in the US to be wowed by the Grand Canyon? Consider the out-and-back hike to Cedar Ridge along the South Kaibab Trail. This moderately-challenging route gives you epic canyon views for a very reasonable amount of effort.
The trail starts by Yaki Point after you take the park shuttle bus. After about a mile and a half, you'll reach Cedar Ridge. This viewpoint opens up to the canyon amphitheatre, with 360 degrees of sheer cliffs and layered rock. Trust us, it’s picture-perfect.
6. Summerland Trail, Mount Rainier National Park, Washington
Summerland Trail is one of the most popular moderate day hike in the US. Photo by kellyvandellen - stock.adobe.com
Level: Medium
Distance: 8.4 miles (13.5 kilometres) - 4.2 miles to Camp Summerland, optional extension to Panhandle Gap
Expected time: 4 hours
A few miles west, the Summerland Trail treats hikers to dense forests, lush meadows, and spectacular views of Rainier's glaciers.
You can start from the small parking area off White River Road and ascend gradually to the Summerland meadows, filled with the view of Little Tahoma. The first 4 miles to Camp Summerland are considered moderate.
More ambitious hikers can continue 1.5 miles (2.4 kilometres) and 900 feet (274 metres) higher past Summerland to Panhandle Gap and tarns while looking for mountain goats and marmots.
7. Delicate Arch Trail, Utah
To witness this symbol of Utah requires more than just a car ride.
CabinZero ADV Backpack. IG: Ági Szabadi
Level: Medium
Distance: 3 miles (4.8 kilometres)
Expected time: 3 hours
For stunning desert arches and slickrock fins, Utah's Arches National Park is hard to top. The moderately strenuous 3-mile out-and-back Delicate Arch Trail is definitely one of the best day hikes in the US, leading to a graceful sandstone arch perched on the edge of a vast bowl.
Hikers follow a well-worn path up slick rock formations with expansive views of the otherworldly red rock landscape. Making their way along steep sandstone fins, hikers are rewarded at the trail's end with an unforgettable perspective of the Delicate Arch framed against the desert hills.
It's best to hike early in the morning or late afternoon to avoid the midday heat and see the arch illuminated by the low-angled light.
8. Iceberg Lake Trail, Glacier National Park, Montana
Beauty is at every turn with Iceberg Lake Trail. Photo by dfikar - stock.adobe.com
Level: Medium
Distance: 9.6 miles (15.4 kilometres)
Expected time: 5 hours
Glacier National Park's Iceberg Lake Trail offers breathtaking alpine scenery, one of the park's most iconic destinations. Spanning 9.6 moderate to strenuous miles roundtrip from the trailhead near Swiftcurrent Motor Inn, hikers are treated to expansive valley views.
A highlight around the 2.5-mile mark is Ptarmigan Falls, where water cascades down a sheer cliff. Continuing up a steady forested ascent, hikers emerge onto the dramatic cliffs of Ptarmigan Wall before reaching the turquoise waters of Iceberg Lake, dotted with chunks of ice well into summer.
However, this is an active bear country. So you should carry bear spray, make noise while hiking, and review bear safety guidelines for safe measures.
9. The Mist Trail, Yosemite National Park, California
Are you ready to admire the famous Nevada Fall? Photo by Tommy Larey on stock.adobe.com
Level: Medium
Distance: 7 miles (11 kilometres)
Expected time: 5 hours
Home to breathtaking waterfalls and showstopping Yosemite Valley perspectives, the Mist Trail in Yosemite National Park delivers an epic journey. Not to mention the park itself is full of picturesque landscapes to snap the perfect shot.
Following the Merced River through lush forest, hikers are treated to the 317-foot Vernal Fall before emerging onto granite slabs with close-up perspectives of the massive Nevada Fall.
In winter, the route may be closed. In that case, you can hike via John Muir Trail. That said, the path will be very snowy/full of ice, so it may be better to consider hiking this route in other seasons.
10. The Jenny Lake Trail, Grand Teton National Park, Wyoming
It is recommended as the best day hikes in the US for hikers with some experience. Photo by makenzie cooper on Unsplash
Level: Medium
Distance: 7.1 miles (around 11.4 kilometres)
Expected time: 3 hours
The Jenny Lake Trail in Grand Teton National Park, Wyoming starts gently, winding through pine forest alongside the dazzling blue waters of Jenny Lake. As the trail climbs above treeline, expansive views open up of the towering Teton Range, with jagged Grand Teton rising above all.
With relatively minimal elevation gain, it's considered a moderate hike. You can complete the entire loop or take advantage of the shuttle boat service that cuts across the lake to shorten your hike. You should not miss the roundtrip to Hidden Falls overlook, this is one of the easiest hikes in the park yet treats hikers to sweeping vistas.
11. Highline Trail, Glacier National Park, Montana
One spot of the Red Rock Lake in the Highline Trail. Photo by Danita Delimont - stock.adobe.com
Level: Medium
Distance: 11.6 miles (18.6 kilometres)
Expected time: 7 hours
Within Glacier National Park's one million protected acres lies the epic Highline Trail. Stretching 11.6 miles point-to-point along a narrow mountain ridge, it offers heart-pounding views for hardy hikers. From Logan Pass at 6,646 feet (2,026 metres), the non-technical trail traverses sheer cliff bands and winding alpine meadows carpeted with wildflowers.
Periodic overlooks look out over glacial lakes and valley forests. Spotting mountain goats and bighorn sheep adds to the rugged wilderness ambiance. Beginning the hike before 8 AM provides the best chance to complete it in a very full day while avoiding afternoon thunderstorms.
12. Rim Trail, Grand Canyon National Park, Arizona
The best time to come here is during the summer. Waldemar, uploaded by CLI, CC BY-SA 3.0 PL, via Wikimedia Commons. Image resized.
Level: Medium
Distance: 13 miles (21 kilometres)
Expected time: 5 hours
Another spectacular Grand Canyon option is the 13-mile (21 kilometres) point-to-point Rim Trail encircling the South Rim. Following the canyon lip past historic buildings, lodges, and viewpoints provides constantly changing perspectives.
Hiking clockwise or counter-clockwise, travellers encounter names like Mather Point, Pipe Creek Vista and Pima Point. Picnic spots like Yavapai Geology Museum offer education along with panoramas.
13. Skyline Trail, Mount Rainier National Park, Washington
Skyline Trail stands out as a quintessential Mount Rainier experience. Photo by Janice - stock.adobe.com
Level: Medium
Distance: 5.5 miles (8.9 kilometres)
Expected time: 4 hours
The iconic Skyline Trail is a 5.5-mile (8.9 kilometres) loop that treats hikers to breathtaking views of Mount Rainier throughout. Wildflowers bloom along the trail from July through September, adding splashes of colourful beauty to the subalpine meadows. Reaching over 1,700 feet (518 metres) in elevation gain, it's a moderately challenging hike rewarding hikers with panoramic vistas at every turn.
14. Watchman Peak Trail, Crater Lake National Park, Oregon
View of Crater Lake from Watchman's Peak trail towards sunset, Brian Holsclaw, CC BY-ND 2.0, via Flickr.
Level: Medium
Distance: 3.3 miles (around 5.3 kilometres)
Expected time: 2 hours
Situated on the Eastern edge of volcanic Crater Lake lies 8,926-foot Watchman Peak. Via the 3.3-mile out-and-back Watchman Peak Trail, hikers are treated to sheer cliff views dropping 1,232 vertical feet to sapphire waters and forested islands below.
Moderate in difficulty with a steady incline, this route rewards ambitious hikers with breathtaking mountain panoramas. Setting out before 9 AM in July and August helps avoid afternoon thunderstorms.
15. Garfield Peak, Crater Lake National Park, Oregon
It deserves one of the must-visit destinations on your bucket list for day hikes in the USA. Markgorzynski, CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons. Image resized.
Level: Medium
Distance: 3.4 miles (5.5 kilometres)
Expected time: 2 hours
Rising over 7,000 feet (2.1 kilometres) in Crater Lake National Park lies the dormant volcano Mount Mazama, now filled with deepest sapphire waters. The strenuous Garfield Peak Trail provides an awe-inspiring 360-degree panorama off lake and Cascade Range.
After skirting spruce and pine forests, hikers gain 2,400 vertical feet (732 metres) to the summit with nothing blocking panoramic views. Spotting eagles soaring on thermals adds to the alpine thrill.
Carrying essentials and starting before 9 AM ensures safe completion. As one of Oregon's premier hikes, this route rewards those seeking solitude and scenic High Cascades beauty.
16. North Fork Cascade Canyon, Grand Teton National Park, Wyoming
Mountain View and wildflowers North Fork Cascade Canyon Hike Grand Teton National Park, amanderson2, CC BY 2.0, via Flickr
Level: Medium
Distance: 13.3 miles (around 21.4 kilometres)
Expected time: 8 hours
Another gem tucked deep in Grand Teton's backcountry is the North Fork Cascade Canyon trail. This hike climbs over 1.500 feet through towering peaks and cascading waterfalls into the rugged beauty of North Fork Cascade Canyon.
After crossing a log over the rushing glacial river, hikers are treated to sweeping views of secluded Solitude Lake at treeline. Camping amid the granite spires offers a true wilderness experience just steps from a well-known national park.
17. Precipice Trail, Acadia National Park, Maine
ACADIA NATIONAL PARK - THE HANGING STEPS, J.R. Libby, CC BY 2.0, via Flickr
Level: Medium
Distance: 3.2 miles (5.15 kilometres)
Expected time: 2.5 hours
For adventurous souls, Acadia's Precipice Trail should not be missed. This loop climbs over 1,000 feet (304.8 metres) up sheer cliff faces via iron rungs bolted into volcanic rock. The thrills of height is unreal.
It’s the most challenging trail in the park. You’ll have to manoeuvre over boulders, walk on thin ledges, and climb vertically. Upon reaching the Champlain Mountain’s summit, agile hikers are rewarded with the coastline panorama that make this challenging trail truly unforgettable.
18. Torrey Pines Beach Trail Loop, California
This Is an escape to a scenic California beach with a touch of challenge. Photo by Stephen - stock.adobe.com
Level: Medium
Distance: 3.2 miles (5.15 kilometres)
Expected time: 2 hours
At just 2.3 miles (5.15 kilometres), Torrey Pines Beach Trail Loop provides a scenic nature walk showcasing indigenous plants and views of the blue Pacific. This is one of the few places nationwide to observe the stately Torrey pine, endemic to this region.
Parking costs around $20 outside. There are water and bathrooms throughout the route, so it’s well-equipped. However, remember to bring plenty of water as there’s a lack of shade.
19. Johns Mountain Trail, Georgia
The main Johns Mountain Trail loop is about 5 miles long with moderate elevation gain. Photo by Marcus Jones - stock.adobe.com
Level: Medium
Distance: 5 miles (8.4 kilometres)
Expected time: 3 hours
The delightful Johns Mountain Trail takes hikers through lush forests and across babbling creeks, with some amazing sights. One highlight is the observation deck at Johns Mountain Overlook, which rewards trekkers with panoramic vistas near the trailhead.
The true gem of the trail, however, is breathtaking Keown Falls. This stunning waterfall cascading over a high cliff is a peaceful spot to take a break.
Johns Mountain Trail also connects to the much longer Pinhoti Trail for those looking for a longer backpacking adventure. Campsites situated along pretty Furnace Creek offer overnight options too.
20. Notch Trail, Badlands National Park, South Dakota
The ladder is a great change of pace of the whole route. Photo by spatesphoto - stock.adobe.com
Level: Medium
Distance: 1.5 miles (2.4 kilometres)
Expected time: 1 hours
South Dakota's Badlands National Park conceals natural spectacle on its short Notch Trail. Passing striated buttes and narrow ridges lead to a ladder climb to unveil a small canyon, which most remark as the most unique part of the hike.
Challenging US Day Hikes For The Most Experienced
For seasoned hikers, America offers a diverse range of challenging day hikes that will test your endurance and leave you breathless. Here are a few to consider:
21. Half Dome in Yosemite National Park, California
Conquering Half Dome in Yosemite National Park is an exhilarating experience. Photo by Richie_K on stock.adobe.com
Level: Hard
Distance: 24.1 kilometres (around 15 miles)
Expected time: 12 hours
Deep within Yosemite Valley lies Half Dome, offering one of the best day hikes in the US. Reaching the top involves a physically demanding 15-mile round trip hike ganging up to 5,000 feet (1,524 metres).
The trek follows a well-defined trail past waterfalls before ascending granite slabs using cables. Summiting Half Dome is an epic achievement for those who come well-prepared. Advance permits (via lottery or wilderness permit) are also required for the challenging final push.
22. Mount Whitney Trail, California
Mount Whitney is a dream for many hikers. Photo by Donna Elliot on Unsplash
Level: Hard
Distance: 22 miles (35.4 kilometres)
Expected time: 16 hours
Another Yosemite classic is the 22-mile out-and-back hike to the summit of Mount Whitney. Its highest point in the lower 48 states, reaching the peak of up to 15,000 feet (4,572 metres), rewards hikers with unmatched 360-degree views for over 100 miles in every direction.
Steep granite switchbacks coupled with high elevation make this an endurance test even for experienced hikers. The distance is almost strenuous and can be covered by snow, so carefully preparing is required. It is as challenging as it is fun; that’s why Mount Whitney Trail makes its name among the best day hikes in the US.
23. Angels Landing, Zion National Park, Utah
The view is simply stunning. Photo by helivideo on stock.adobe.com
Level: Hard
Distance: 5.4 miles (8.7 kilometres)
Expected time: 4 hours
Utah's Zion National Park boasts epic day hikes - Angels Landing. Angels Landing follows a narrow ridge secured by chains, treating hikers to heart-stopping 1.400+ foot (426.7 metres) drop offs on either side.
The trail has sheer cliffs and steep drop-offs, especially along the Spine. It's essential to stay on the path and hold onto the chains in place for safety.
Reaching the top is challenging, but the views through Zion's sandstone monoliths are unparalleled. You will need to submit your permit due to its popularity.
24. Telescope Peak, Death Valley, California
Telescope Peak stands at the highest point in the park. Pimlico27, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons. Image resized.
Level: Hard
Distance: 14 miles (22.5 kilometres)
Expected time: 7 hours
Rising to over 11,000 feet, Telescope Peak in Death Valley National Park stands as one of the loftiest summits in the state. The trail gains 3,000 vertical feet (914.4 metres) over boulder fields and dry slopes en route to panoramic payoffs.
However, as of Feb 2024, many roads are closed due to Hurricane Hilary storm and atmospheric river damage. You can check for more information here.
25. Bright Angel Trail, Grand Canyon National Park, Arizona
A scene from the famous trail. Photo by Oleksii Yasinskyi on Unsplash
Level: Hard
Distance: 15.3 miles (24.6 kilometres)
Expected time: 15 hours
Grand Canyon National Park in Arizona boasts over a dozen trails providing access to the immense gorge. One of the most scenic and accessible is the Bright Angel Trail.
Spanning over 15 miles roundtrip from South Rim Village to Indian Garden and back, it descends 1,400 vertical feet (426.7 metres) along the Eastern edge of the canyon. Hikers are treated to continuously expanding vistas of sculpted rock walls and inner canyon vegetation.
The well-maintained dirt path includes wooden handrails and rest houses to break up the journey. Popular stopping points like Three-Mile Resthouse showcase the evolving canyon perspectives. Starting early beats the heat and crowds on this route.
26. Devils Garden Trail, Arches National Park, Utah
The Devils Garden Trailhead is located 18 miles from the park entrance. Ronnie Macdonald from Chelmsford, United Kingdom, CC BY 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons
Level: Hard
Distance: 7.9 miles (12.7 kilometres)
Expected time: 5 hours
Arches National Park in southern Utah hides over 2,000 natural sandstone arches, and Devils Garden Trail provides access to an impressive concentration.
The complete 7.9-mile Devils Garden loop trail takes you past the Landscape Arch, Double O Arch, Dark Angel, and the primitive loop trail. It’s considered to be more challenging than the 1.9-mile roundtrip section of the Landscape Arch, which is more suitable for casual hikers and families.
There are restrooms available year-round, but drinking water is only available from spring to fall. Thankfully, the park entrance fee applies to Devil's Garden Trail, which will cost you $30 per person and $15 per vehicle.
27. Brokeoff Mountain Trail, Lassen Volcanic National Park, California
Lassen Volcanic National Park experiences a variety of weather conditions, so dress in layers and bring rain gear. LassenNPS, Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons
Level: Hard
Distance: 7 miles (11.2 kilometres)
Expected time: 4 hours
For a more challenging hike, tackle the 7-mile round trip Brokeoff Mountain Trail in Lassen Volcanic National Park, California. Nestled amid steaming fumaroles and volcanic cinder cones, this park saw its last major eruption a century ago.
Brokeoff Mountain Trail is not for the faint of heart. With an elevation gain of over 2,500 feet (7762 metres), the climb is steady and demands good physical condition. Expect to encounter volcanic sand to rocky outcrops, so a great pair of durable hiking boots is crucial.
28. Gooseberry Trail, Canyonlands National Park, Utah.
This steep trail is one of the hardest day hikes in the US. Photo by Secret Travel Guide on Unsplash
Level: Hard
Distance: 4.2 miles (7.6 kilometres)
Expected time: 4 hours
The route is extremely narrow with a very steep path. If you want one of the most challenging day hikes in the US, this is it. Most hikers remarked that they had to slide down some paths instead of walking due to loose footing and mud.
For that, you should bring poles. Moreover, you should bring plenty of water (at least 4L) and start early. The way back can be brutal and time-consuming, with little to no shade.
But the breathtaking view from the white rim and everything is rewarding. What’s more, there are almost no people on a non-holiday, so the view and the hike are all yours.
29. Mount Tallac Trail, California
Finishing a day hike to Mount Tallac will bring you a sense of achievement. Photo by Calvin Hayward on Unsplash
Level: Hard
Distance: 9.6 miles (15.4 kilometres)
Expected time: 6 hours
Towering over tranquil Lake Tahoe in California, 9,738-foot (2,968 metres) Mount Tallac poses a splendid challenge.
Starting gently through wildflower meadows, the final ascent involves boulder hopping to breathtaking vistas, rewarding every step of elevation gain.
A quick note, after passing through the Floating Island Lake, make sure you have snow shoes and even ice axe ready.
Tallac's summit makes one feel atop the world. The breathtaking 360-degree views of Lake Tahoe, the Desolation Wilderness, the Crystal Range, and Pyramid Peak are one to behold for a lifetime.
30. Paintbrush Canyon Trail, Grand Teton National Park, Wyoming
Just immerse in the scenic beauty during the whole trail. Photo by MelissaMN - stock.adobe.com
Level: Hard
Distance: 19.9 miles (around 32 kilometres)
Expected time: 14 hours
The Paintbrush Canyon Trail is always mentioned in the top day hikes in the US list. Wading Paintbrush Creek's chilly waters multiple times requires care, but the effort unveils why these peaks inspired awe in native tribes. Ambitious hikers can pair this trail with the adjacent Cascade Canyon loop for an epic circuit.
Bottom Line
Across America, less-travelled trails offer solace and adventure beyond expectations. For variety, grandeur and adventure without crowds, these selected gems immerse hikers in unmatched splendour, ecosystems and cultural heritage. With so much to discover off well-trodden paths, intrepid explorers will find thrills to last a lifetime.
Do you have another recommendation for the best day hikes in the US? Don’t hesitate to share your experiences in the comment section! Finally, we would really appreciate it if you share this article with your fellow friends as well. Thank you for reading!
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