Top 10 Hiking Trails in the USA for Adventure-Lovers

The United States is home to some of the most breathtaking hiking trails in the world, offering stunning landscapes and thrilling adventures just waiting to be explored. Whether you’re a seasoned trekker or just beginning your hiking journey, these trails have something for everyone. 

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From slot canyons to alpine peaks, this curated list of the top ten hiking trails in the USA will help you plan your next outdoor adventure. And if you’re an international traveler or a tech-savvy explorer, don’t forget to purchase an eSIM USA plan to stay connected during your trek! 

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What is a USA eSIM & Why Do You Need One? 

Before we get into the trails, here’s a quick pro tip for hikers and travelers alike:  An eSIM is a virtual SIM card that offers convenient and affordable mobile data connectivity wherever you go in the United States. It’s perfect for accessing maps, navigation tools, and more without the risk of data roaming fees! 

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Be sure to stay connected on your hikes—whether for safety, planning your route, or sharing stunning trail photos. 

Now, without further ado, here’s our list of the top ten hiking trails in the USA. 

1. Zion Narrows, Utah 

Head out to Utah in the spring (March or April) for cooler temperatures or in the autumn (October or November) for gorgeous fall colors. If you plan to turn your visit into a summer adventure, be prepared for soaring temperatures and increased crowds. 

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Known as the narrowest section of the Zion Canyon In Zion National Park, you’ll hike through a river surrounded by towering red sandstone walls in a slot canyon. Walk right through the Virgin River, making this one of the most unique hiking experiences. It’s one of the premier hikes in this park and across the Colorado Plateau. Waterproof shoes and a sense of adventure are a must! 

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Zion National Park is one of the most-visited parks in the U.S., with an estimated 4.5 million visitors descending upon this natural wonder every year. 

2. Appalachian Trail, East Coast 

Though open year-round, the best time to hike the Appalachian Trail is in the spring or the fall. This is because of the ideal conditions – milder temperatures and stunning foliage displays. This trail – also known as the “A.T.” – is a legendary long-distance trail that spans over 2,190 miles across 14 states. 

From the rolling hills of Georgia to the rugged peaks of Maine, this trail showcases the diverse beauty of the eastern United States. You can tackle short sections or aim for a several-month-long thru-hike! Whatever you choose, make sure you have the appropriate equipment and let your emergency contact know about your plans. 

3. Bright Angel Trail, Arizona 

It’s easy to guess why it’s ideal to hike this trail in fall or spring: summer in Arizona can be deadly hot. Opt for reasonable temperatures and skip the risk of heat stroke. 

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This 23-mile, Rim-to-Rim hike is a challenging trail that takes you deep into the Grand Canyon. The switchbacks and dramatic canyon views make for an unforgettable trek. Pick your starting destination – Bright Angel or Kaibab – and set up a shuttle to return you to your car when you’re finished. Or, hike it in and out but don’t forget to pace yourself—the way back up is no easy feat! 

4. Kalalau Trail, Hawaii 

Located on the Hawaiian island of Kauai, the Kalalau Trail can be hiked year-round, thanks to the tropical climate. This 22-mile, round-trip hike includes an elevation gain of about 6,250 feet. 

Highlights of this trail include coastal views, lush valleys and pristine beaches along the Napali Coast. This Hawaiian gem offers a mix of tropical paradise and rugged remote hiking. The turquoise waters and dramatic cliffs are worth the effort. Fast hikers may be able to complete this trek in just a day; others can opt to take tow to three days to complete it, allowing them to soak up the scenery and decrease the challenge. 

5. John Muir Trail, California 

Head out to California between July and September to take on this epic hike! Unlike the A.T., the entirety of this trail isn’t open year-round; snowfall plays a major role in its opening and closing times. 

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Like its counterpart, the A.T., the John Muir Trail is a thru-hike that’ll take more than a weekend to conquer! Unlike the A.T., this is a high-altitude trek, one that runs 211 miles through the Sierra Nevada mountains. It’s known for its stunning peaks, meadows and lakes, and is a favorite among serious hikers. It also intersects with the Pacific Crest Trail – another major thru-hike. 

6. Acadia National Park, Maine 

To the northernmost state on the East Coast to hike year-round. In the summer, this popular park sees between 600k and 800k visitors per month. But in the winter, monthly visitors drop to around 15k. This flexibility allows visitors to get out during a time of year that suits their schedule best. 

Acadia National Park offers a network of trails with mountain views and access to the Atlantic Ocean. It’s special, thanks to the summit of Cadillac Mountain; jaw-dropping vistas, especially during sunrise, is one of the first places in the U.S. to see the sun every day. Don’t forget to wear appropriate layers. 

7. Yellowstone National Park, Wyoming 

One of the most iconic destinations in the U.S., Yellowstone National Park draws millions of visitors every year. It’s no surprise, then, that summer is a popular time to visit. Beautiful blue skies, warm weather and long days make it a perfect time to see the most of this wild place. For those seeking fewer crowds, September, October and April are better months during which to visit. 

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Yellowstone National Park is no ordinary park. Geothermal features, expansive meadows, and native wildlife – buffalo, wolves and bears – mean this park deserves the attention it receives. Trails like the Fairy Falls Trail and Mount Washburn offer stunning landscapes that showcase Yellowstone’s unique character. Stay on posted trails and avoid littering!

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One of the best things about Yellowstone is its family-friendliness. Folks of all ages love this park for its interactive landmarks and robust ranger core. 

8. Olympic National Park, Washington

Rainforests, rugged coastlines and snow-capped mountains all should be expected in this park. For those who want to avoid inclement weather, try visiting between April and October. This period of time usually lends to dryer, warmer weather (though there are no guarantees!)

This park’s diverse ecosystems make it a paradise for nature enthusiasts. The Hoh Rainforest Trail and Hurricane Ridge are perfect starting points for hikers. Make sure to pack your rain jacket and wear appropriate layers! Don’t forget to check the weather before you start hiking.  

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While in Washington, don’t forget to check out the San Juan Islands for a relaxing getaway with your loved ones! It’s a nice way to end a hiking adventure. 

9. Rocky Mountain National Park, Colorado 

One of the prettiest national parks in the U.S., Rocky Mountain National Park (RMNP) offers visitors the opportunity to experience high-altitude hiking and outdoor exploration. Thanks to it’s yearly snowfall, early fall and the height of summer are the best times to wander in this wilderness. 

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RMNP is known for its alpine lakes, wildlife sightings (think elk and bighorn sheep) and panoramic mountain views. The Bear Lake Trail and Longs Peak Trail showcase the beauty of the Rockies. Keep an eye on the weather and plan to hit the trail early in the morning. Afternoon thunderstorms at altitude can be deadly. 

10. Glacier National Park, Montana 

Since many visitors and hikers alike desire to drive the Going to the Sun Road, June through mid-September is an ideal time to visit this park. In addition to the stunning landscape, visitors can also take advantage of river rafting and fishing, as well as explore areas on both sides of the Continental Divide.  

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Highlights of Glacier National Park include stunning glacial lakes, towering peaks, and colorful wildflowers. Trails like the Highline Trail offer some of the most iconic views in the United States. This park is a slice of natural paradise that hikers dream of exploring. Help keep wildlife away from you by attaching a small bell to your backpack; this alerts animals of your presence well before you actually arrive. 

Stay Connected with an eSIM During Your Adventures 

Whether you’re hiking in the Zion Narrows or trekking through Glacier National Park, staying connected is vital. With a U.S. eSIM, you’ll have instant access to maps, emergency contacts, weather updates, and all the tools you need to make your hiking trip safe and seamless. 

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No hardware, no hassle—just download an eSIM plan and enjoy uninterrupted data coverage across all 50 states. Plus, use it to share your incredible trail photos and memories with family, friends, or your online hiking community. All new customers receive an eSIM free plan just for creating an account! 

Final Thoughts 

The USA’s top hiking trails offer unparalleled experiences for outdoor lovers. Whether you’re chasing adventure in Utah’s slot canyons, strolling through rainforest trails in Washington, or marveling at the ocean views in Hawaii, there’s a trail for every type of explorer. 

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And don’t forget to pack smart—water, essentials, and your USA eSIM to keep you connected. Where will your next hike take you?