The Most Scenic and Challenging Trails in the US

Are you an adventure junkie or a hiking lover? The United States has some of the most stunning trails for adventure lovers. Surrounded by natural beauty and greenery, these trails are not only beautiful but also involve a lot of challenging routes. These alluring hiking trails give a lifetime pleasant experience to every hiker who visits here.

From crystal clear lakes to huge mountains, these hiking trails feature many scenic spots for a hiker. You can try different types of hikes on these trails with friends. Read this blog to know the best trails in the United States to add to your bucket list.

1. Appalachian Trail

Located at a distance of only 75 miles from Washington, D.C., the Appalachian Trail is a unique place to explore for hikers. This trail is situated in Shenandoah National Park which spreads to an area of around 100 miles. This park is home to several hiking trails for a short day trip.

You can find many species of animals and birds in this national park. From nice waterfalls to various scenic spots, you can discover many new things on these trails. Appalachian Trail is a breathtaking place encircled by dense forests and beautiful nature spots.

2. South Kaibab to Bright Angel Trailhead

The Grand Canyon is one such place in the world that you must visit once in your whole life. It offers a lot of surreal spots as you start walking below the rim of the canyon. However, it is not an easy trail down to the Grand Canyon and many hikers fail to complete the full trek.

South Kaibab Trail is one of the most challenging trails in the United States. It drops around 5000 feet from the canyon and you need to take every step carefully to complete the trail.

Hikers will easily find the various water resources on this trail near the Indian Garden Campground. Although this a challenging trekking trail, it is a must-watch place for every hiker.

3. Angel’s Landing Trail

This trail is one of the most captivating places located near Springdale, Utah. It is a long trail of around 9 km with difficult modes and has an elevation gain of about 1,500 feet. If you really want to explore a good place while hiking with friends, Angel’s Landing Trail is an ideal place.

This trail might seem easy at the beginning but includes a lot of steep slopes that will need hard work. It offers a beautiful view of the Virgin River and features colorful stones. One more notable feature of this trail is Walter’s Wiggles. It is a dangerous switchback that offers the view of Zion Canyon.

You will experience some of the scariest parts while walking on Angel’s Landing Trail. Do not miss capturing these surreal views of this trail with your camera.

4. Billy Goat Trail

If you are thinking of spending a couple of days with your family, visit Billy Goat Trail. It is a moderate trail for hiking with a distance of 4.75 miles situated in Maryland. The views of the gushing Potomac River and rocky Great Falls will give a thrilling hiking experience.

Billy Goat Trail is among the most famous trails in the United States visited by numerous hikers. Avoid monsoons to visiting this place as it is flooded and damaged due to landslides.

5. The Skyline Trail to Camp Muir, WA

This trail is strictly for experienced hikers and professionals. It comes in Mt. Rainier National Park and goes up to 15 miles and has an elevation gain of around 9000 feet. You will need several days to complete this trek which includes many tough routes.

Carrying a crampon is very important while going on this trek. This hiking trail is filled with huge glaciers and might cause injuries to the hikers if they do not take proper care. At every phase, you need to walk slowly to avoid slippage and injuries. This is indeed a difficult trail in the United States that one must try.

6. Sliding Sands Trail, Hawaii

Spreading across a large area of 18 km, Sliding Sands Trail is a moderate hiking trail. It involves a combination of easy and difficult modes that you have to cross during a hike. This trail is a part of Haleakala National Park that comes on Maui Island.

This place gives you a dreamy experience while walking in this place. You have to continuously walk down on this trail which makes it a difficult trail. Getting back to the starting point is a tough task on this trail of Hawaii. The best thing you can do on this trip is to spend some days in the wilderness cabins of camper grounds in Haleakala National Park.

7. Petroglyph Wall Trail in Nevada

Enjoy a short hiking trip of 1 to 2 days in Nevada with your family. Petroglyph Wall Trail is located in Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area, Nevada. Although this national park might include short-distance hikes, you may have to walk for about 6 hours to complete this trail.

You will witness many species on the different routes such as hawks, wildlife, and lizards. It is a perfect trail for beginners who want to hike for a few days.

8. Half Dome, CA

Yosemite National Park is undoubtedly one of the best places in the United States. Half Dome is a popular trail in Yosemite National Park with a distance of 16 miles. The shortest route of this trail begins from Mist Trail trailhead.

This hike can be best done with the help of cables. It offers gorgeous views of Yosemite Valley and High Sierras. Try this hiking trail once to get a beautiful experience!

Final words

These are the most challenging trails in the United States surrounded by scenic spots, waterfalls, and natural beauty. It is necessary to carry all the essentials while going on a hiking trip. Pack your bags to experience some of the best trails in the United States with your loved ones.