The USA's Top 10 Hiking Trails: From Coast To Coast

Jeff Askin

Going for a hike is as easy as tying your shoes and taking that first step into nature. It’s one of the best ways to enjoy the great outdoors and discover the diverse terrain that comprises the USA. With such an abundance of open space to offer, America has become a hiking hotbed. Weekend warriors across the country are making their way out of the city to see what the hype is all about. Discover ten of the best places to get hiking.

View from the top of Lincoln Mountain

Long Trail, Jay Peak Long Trail North: Jay, Vermont

This trail settled in the Green Mountains of Vermont is a true gem that is worth seeing if you are in the Northeast. This 270-mile trail is one of the oldest long-distance hiking trails in the country. This trail stretches through Vermont and all the way to the Canadian border. The 270-mile trail offers plenty of short hikes that encompass all skill levels. Be careful when hiking in inclement weather, as the peak can be dangerous due to its open exposure.

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CentralAmerica

GORGEOUS GUATEMALA

Gorgeous Guatemala

5 days . Mini
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1. Guatemala

An express adventure for those with limited time off. Prepare yourself incredible experiences. You will hike a volcano, visit mayan temples and witness a ceremony and take in beautiful colonial Antigua.

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CentralAmerica

BEACHY BELIZE

Beachy Belize

5 days . Mini
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2. Belize

A quick trip not too far away for those seeking a relaxing mini break. You will have plenty of free time to relax but also some awesome activities to experience the rainforest and the caribbean sea.
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CentralAmerica

COLONIAL MEXICO

Colonial Mexico

5 days . Mini
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3. Mexico

An exciting mini trip exploring the lesser known colonial towns of central Mexico. This is hte perfect trip for someone with limited time off and still wants to turn on explorer mode and do something different.
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SouthAmerica

ADVENTUROUS ECUADOR

Adventurous Ecuador

8 days . Epic
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1. Ecuador

A remarkable 8 days adventure through the Andes and the Amazon rainforest. The best choice for adventure seekers wishing to visit the 2 most iconic areas of South America, in only 1 week and no flights.

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SouthAmerica

ANCIENT PERU

Ancient Peru

9 days . Epic
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2. Peru

An alternative itinerary to classic Peru, from Cusco to Arequipa. This itinerary is great combination of highlights Cusco and Machu Picchu with the lesser known Arequipa and Colca Canyon.
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Europe

SEDUCTIVE SOUTHERN ITALY

Seductive Southern Italy

10 days . Epic
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1. Italy

The ultimate Italian experience from the vibrant streets of Naples to the breathtaking sceneries of the Amalfi Coast followed by Matera and down to Puglia with its golden beaches, intense flavours and fascinating destinations.

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Europe

EDINBURGH AND THE SCOTTISH HIGHLANDS BY TRAIN

Edinburgh And The Scottish Highlands By Train

7 days . Culture
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2. Scotland

Embark on this great adventure starting from London all the way to Scotland with a true Scottish experience made of breathtaking sceneries, whisky tasting and ..lots of fun! Ideal for train lovers and explorers.
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Europe

COMPLETE PORTUGAL BY TRAIN

Complete Portugal By Train

8 days . Culture
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3. Portugal

A wonderful train journey around Portugal, from the romantic city of Porto to the Douro Valley, to the beautiful Aveiro all the way to Lisbon and Sintra. The perfect trip to train, culinary and culture lovers.
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Asia

SOULFUL SOUTH KOREA

Soulful South Korea

10 days . Epic
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1. South Korea

Discover incredible temples, mountains and modern cities on this 10 day adventure. This trip is perfect for those seeking immersion in the cuisine, culture and natural wonders of South Korea.

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Asia

THAILAND, CAMBODIA & VIETNAM

Thailand, Cambodia & Vietnam

11 days . Epic
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2. Thailand

From Bankgok to Angkor Wat to Ho Chi Minh City and everything in between - adventure through the heart of South-East Asia. Taste the delights, see history brought to life and unwind on a Mekong River cruise.
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Asia

SECRETS OF SRI LANKA BY TRAIN

Secrets Of Sri Lanka By Train

10 days . Culture
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3. Sri Lanka

A fantastic adventure that showcases Sri Lanka's fantastic landscapes, wildlife and flavours. With 3 epic rail journeys, 3 UNESCO heritage sites and time to relax, this trip has loads to offer at a great price
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Africa

EPIC MOROCCO

Epic Morocco

11 days . Epic
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1. Morocco

An epic journey across Morocco: from Casablanca to Marrakech, through the blue city of Chefchaouen to the wonders of the desert and deep to the High Atlas Mountains - this trip has it all! Ideal for true explorers!

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Africa

ULTIMATE EGYPT

Ultimate Egypt

9 days . Epic
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2. Egypt

From Cairo to Aswan, this trip brings the land of the pharaohs to life. You'll visit the Pyramids, Valley of the Kings and Luxor Temple and cruise down the Nile in style. This is the perfect way to explore Egypt.
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Africa

IMMERSIVE KENYA

Immersive Kenya

8 days . Epic
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3. Kenya

An immersive blend of culture and wildlife for first time travelers to Africa. Learn about Nairobi, sample local coffee in the Aberdares and finish up with a fantastic safari stay in the Masai Mara.
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Sunrise on Beacon Heights

Old Rag Mountain: Shenandoah National Park, Va.

This hike in the Shenandoah National Park is one of the most popular hikes in the mid-Atlantic Region. It offers spectacular panoramic views from many of the trails and is a favorite among the locals. If you are up to the challenge, it also offers one of the most challenging rock scrambles in the park. Be sure to plan your hike carefully and go early in the morning, as the park tends to become crowded by the late afternoon.

Sunrise on Beacon Heights

Beacon Heights: Linville, N.C.

Beacon Heights is a short and sweet hike that offers great long-range views of the surrounding mountains. It is located right off Hwy 221 and is very accessible. It is an easy to moderate uphill hike that is great for the whole family. The trail is only about a quarter mile long so its perfect from the hiker that wants to get in and get out with too much fuss.

: Landscape view of the John Muir Trail

John Muir Trail, Sierra Nevada Mountains: Yosemite Valley, California

This long distance trail in the Sierra Nevada Mountains passes through three National Parks and covers a distance of over 200 miles. It was named after the naturalist John Muir and follows the footpath of the Pacific Crest Trail. The hike lies almost entirely at 8000 feet in elevation and has been described as ‘America’s Most Famous Trail’.

Small Waterfall in Autumn at Colombia River Gorge

Columbia River Gorge, Oregon

The Columbia River Gorge is an expansive area that stretches eighty-five miles on the Columbia River. The Gorge itself is 4000-feet deep and slices through the extreme mountainous topography. The hiking area comprises more than 100 different trails that offer something for all skill levels. It has become a hotspot for tourists from around the world who want to experience the expansive Pacific Northwest in all of its pristine beauty.

Franconia Ridge Traverse: White Mountain National Forest, New Hampshire

The White Mountain National Forest offers over a 1000 miles of pristine wilderness to hike. It is also one of the most beautiful sections of the Appalachian Trail and is home to the Presidential Mountain Range. If you are looking to see a mesmerizing waterfall check out the Arethusa Falls trail. The 160-foot tall waterfall is sure to leave you speechless.

Creek inside Big South Fork Recreational Area

Big South Fork National River and Recreation Area, Honey Creek Loop: Tennessee

This hiking trail is located near the town of Allardt and is recommended to experienced hikers only. If you have the skill to hike this trail then get ready to have your socks blown off! The Honey Creek Loops includes amazing waterfalls, creeks, rivers and other geological features. The hike is five-and-a-half miles long and is accessible year-round to the public. Allow for plenty of time on this hike, as it is challenging and dangerous when the sun starts to set.

The Lost Coast: Photo by Scrubhiker

The Lost Coast: California

The Lost Coast in California is one of the premier coastal trails in the United States. Set in the rugged beaches of Northern California this National Recreation Trail is truly a wonder to see. This hike is the perfect way to get a first hand look at the marine life that inhabits the area. Sea lions are known to call these beaches home and there is an abundance of tide pools as well. Be sure to plan your hike accordingly or on a weekday as it can become very crowded during the holidays and weekends.

Maroon Lake

Snowmass Wilderness, Maroon Bells: Aspen, Colorado

Maroon Bells is located in the White River National Forrest near Aspen. It is considered one of the most photographed peaks in Colorado. The incredible mountain scenery speaks for itself and is a must see for all nature lovers. This is a great summer time hike as there are many natural springs and rivers to swim in. The most well known hike in this area is the Crater Lake Trail. This intermediate hike is great for a family outing and is post card worthy.

Panoramic View of Zion National Park

Angels Landing: Zion National Park, Utah

Zion National Park is world renowned in the hiking community. The park is roughly 230 square miles of pure outdoor bliss. Of all the many trails in the park, one area in particular stands out from the rest. Angles Landing is considered the most famous in the entire park. With dizzying 360 degree views of the entire park this hike offers one of the most scenic lookouts in the entire country.

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Volcanic Iceland Epic Trip

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2 years.

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It's the personal contact, the personal experiences. I love meeting people from all over the world... I really like getting to know everyone and feeling like I'm traveling with a group of friends.

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I have so many places on my list, but I would really lobe to go to Africa. I consider myself an “adventure girl” and Africa feels like the ULTIMATE adventure!

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