50+ Hikes in 50 States: A Journey to Hiking All Over the US

If you’re wondering about the best hikes in every state, I have you covered! I spent 3 years hiking in every state and have been blown away by the beauty that this country has to offer.

Why did I decide to hike in all 50 states? Here is some background.

Between 2021 and 2024, I set out with a mission to hike in all 50 states. It all started with the pandemic. As soon as the pandemic began in March 2020, I was furloughed from my corporate job for 4 months. This finally gave me the time to start something I had wanted to start for your years - my travel blog. It also forced me to take my adventures closer to home. I was living in Dallas, TX at the time, and began to take lots of day trips to state parks.

I loved exploring Texas, despite never hearing about it as an outdoor destination. This really taught me that beauty is everywhere, and that I didn’t have to visit places like Utah or California to enjoy the beauty of the outdoors.

Fast forward to 2021, I had dreams of trying out a nomadic lifestyle. I decided the first step was getting a remote job, so I quit my somewhat in-person job to make it happen. Towards the end of the year, my husband and I moved out of our apartment in Dallas, got rid of all of our furniture and hit the road to travel full-time. We decided to live out of long-term Airbnbs so that we could have reliable wifi and a stable place for our cat.

I’ve never been one to wing it, I’m a planner. And I love setting goals. I knew I wanted to eventually visit all 50 states and all 63 US national parks, but I wanted to put a unique spin on it. So, my goal to hike in all 50 states was born.

The more I travel, the longer my list becomes. It has been such a joy to explore all over the United States. I get so much joy from exploring new places and having new experiences. I’ve found that I especially love exploring areas that are often overlooked, or considered to be flyover states. Through hiking in all 50 states, I’ve learned that every single state has beautiful nature waiting to be discovered.

Keep reading to get my recommendations for hikes in every single state.

A Few Important Hiking Tips

• Make sure to leave no trace while you’re hiking. This includes packing out your trash, traveling on durable surfaces, minimizing campfire impacts and never feeding or approaching wildlife. Learn more at lnt.org.

• Keep in mind that the specifics may vary widely depending on where you are. For example, you’ll need to watch out for cryptobiotic soil if you’re hiking the desert, and carry bear spray in certain areas such as Yellowstone. Always do your research before heading out.

• Wondering how to find hikes? I use a variety of sources, from blogs to Google Maps. However, I think one of the easiest ways is to look on AllTrails. AllTrails uses user-generated data and has maps, reviews and information on local trails. I pay for the premium version in order to have access to offline maps and other features.

• If you’re new to hiking, I have an entire guide on how to get started. I also have a day hike packing list. Read those articles to learn more.

The Best Hikes in Every State

This guide lists the 50 states in alphabetical order, and I share a handful of trails that I loved in each state.

Alabama

Did you know that northern Alabama was full of waterfalls? There are SO many in the northern part of the state.

My favorite area to hike in Northern Alabama was in Bankhead National Forest. The area has over 90 miles of trails and is located an hour and a half outside of Huntsville, Alabama.

I hiked to a few waterfalls in Bankhead, but my favorite was Shangri-La Falls. The trail is 1.4 miles and leads to a brilliant-blue waterfall that you can walk behind. The trail is not super well marked, so be sure to download offline maps and watch where you’re headed. Other beautiful waterfall trails in Bankhead include Coal Mine Falls and Sougahoagdee Falls.

Tip: Download offline navigation to use in Bankhead National Forest.

Another amazing trail in Alabama is Stephen’s Gap. This trail requires a permit that you’ll need to reserve ahead of time from the Southeastern Cave Conservancy. Only a few people are allowed to hike in per day. You’ll also need to bring a helmet and headlamp for entering the cave.

The hike itself is 1.4 miles and involves a bit of a rock scramble as you enter inside the cave. Inside, you’ll get to admire a giant waterfall inside of the cave. It’s such a unique and beautiful place!

Tip: Huntsville makes a great base for lots of waterfall day trips in Northern Alabama. It’s a fun city!

You can also find epic waterfalls in Northern Alabama at Little River Canyon National Preserve and Desoto State Park. As you can see, there is no shortage of beauty in this underrated slice of the US.

Alaska

Alaska is one of the most incredible places I’ve ever been. There are endless hiking opportunities in this vast state full of untouched wilderness. For a first-time visit, I highly recommend visiting one or more of the glaciers that you can reach by car. Some are shrinking at an alarming pace, so it’s best to see them sooner rather than later.

One of the best glaciers to explore is Matanuska Glacier. It’s located about 2 hours from Anchorage and considered to be one of the most accessible glaciers since you can reach it by car.

You can only visit Matanuska via a guided tour and there are a few different companies that will take you out. You will be given spikes that give you the ability to walk on the ice, and helmets to protect you from falling ice.

It’s an incredible experience to walk on top of the glacier and admire all of the various ice formations. The glacier is constantly changing and looks different year to year, and season to season. It’s an amazing experience.

Another glacier you can visit (but not walk on) is Exit Glacier, located in Kenai Fjords National Park. This glacier has been shrinking by over 150 feet per year since 2010, and there are signs to show you where it used to be. If you’re up for a longer challenge, you can continue from the same trail up to a view of the Harding Icefield. This massive icefield feeds into other glaciers and is an incredible sight.

Another area to hike near Anchorage is Hatcher Pass, which has beautiful scenic drives, historic mining history and alpine lakes. For an epic, but shorter trail in this area, head to Gold Cord Lake. This beautiful lake can be reached via a 1.8 mile trail beginning at the Independence Mine State Historical Park. For a longer hike, embark on the Reeds Lake Trail, which is much more rugged.

Alaska has no shortage of adventure, and I’m excited to continue to hike and explore this incredible state.

Read a 7 day itinerary for vistiing Alaska

Arizona

Home of the Grand Canyon and countless other areas for recreation, Arizona is a state full of beauty and diversity. Hiking opportunities in Arizona range from mountain hikes, brilliant blue waterfalls, stunning orange rock formations, hot springs and more.

One of the most iconic places to hike in Arizona is Havasupai. This bucket list backpacking trip will lead you to multiple major waterfalls at the bottom of the canyon. It is on tribal land and permits from the Havasupai tribe are required. It’s also very expensive, but worth it in my opinion.

The permits are for 3 nights and you can either camp at the bottom of the canyon or stay at the lodge. I thought that the backpacking trip was an amazing experience.

Another amazing area of Arizona to hike and explore is Sedona. This magical city is surrounded by orange rock formations and magical “vortexes” that are said to have an intense energy.

A couple amazing trails in Sedona include Cathedral Rock, a 1.2 mile hike that leads to an incredible sunset view, and Soldier Pass, which leads to caves, pools of water and more. Keep in mind that Sedona can be very crowded. Start early for the popular trails and have a backup plan. Be sure to practice leave no trace principles, including avoiding trembling vegetation and packing out all trash.

Read an itinerary for visiting Sedona

Arkansas

Arkansas is one of the most underrated states when it comes to outdoor adventure! There are some incredibly beautiful Arkansas state parks (which are free to visit), plus other public lands.

My favorite state park is Petit Jean, which is home to caves, waterfalls, cliffside views and more. It’s a stunning park. Also nearby, you can take in the views from Mount Nebo State Park, which has many epic views. And for a great hike close to Little Rock, it's worth a visit to Pinnacle Mountain State Park.

Outside of the state parks, one amazing place to visit is Buffalo National River. This national park site protects one of the few remaining undammed rivers in the United States. One amazing trail in the park is the Centerpoint to Goat Trail, which has an incredible view of the river down below.

Ozark National Forest is also full of some amazing hikes. One popular hike is the Whitaker Point Trail, which leads to a very picturesque rocky ledge. Another is the Pedestal Rock Trail, where you can explore rock formations that resemble pedestals.

Arkansas is full of outdoor adventures and it’s worth taking an Arkansas road trip to explore all over the NW part of the state.

Read about the best hikes across Arkansas

California

California is the third largest state in the US and full of so much beauty and diversity. You can climb mountains, hike along the coast, see some of the oldest trees in the world, explore the desert and more. While I’ve been to California several times, I’ve barely scratched the surface when it comes to some of the best nature that the state has to offer. So, I’m sharing my favorite trails so far, but will likely be updating this in the future.

One unique national park in California is Channel Islands National Park, which is a series of islands that can only be reached by boat. I loved the hike to Potato Harbor on Santa Cruz Island, as it leads to a stunning viewpoint of a potato-shaped harbor on the shores of the island.

Another amazing area of Southern California is Death Valley National Park, which is the hottest, driest and lowest national park. This giant park offers all kinds of trails, but one of my favorites is the Desolation Trail, which leads up into a canyon to some amazing views.

Moving onto Northern California, Redwood National Park is an incredible place where you can feel small among legendary trees. Not only is this park home to the world’s tallest trees, but it has prairies, coastlines and rivers. My personal favorite trail is Fern Canyon, a moss-covered canyon where they filmed some of Jurassic Park. A reservation is required for this trail during the peak season.

As you can see, there are so many incredible trails in California. A few areas still on my list include the Sierra Nevada Mountains, Yosemite National Park, Sequoia National Park, Lake Tahoe and Anza Borrego State Park.

Connecticut

Connecticut is a state that may surprise you! For its size (it’s the third smallest state), it has a high percentage of state parks, and plenty of hiking trails.

My favorite park (so far) is Sleeping Giant State Park. The park is known for its mountain top that resembles a large man sleeping on his back. There are a variety of hikes for all abilities. If you’re up for the challenge, I recommend hiking up the Blue Trail (which has some rock scrambling), visiting the observation tower and hiking down the Tower Trail.

Some other beautiful spots in Connecticut include Enders State Forest, Steep Rock Preserve and Campbell Falls State Park.

Read an itinerary for a fall day trip to Connecticut

Colorado

Similar to states like California, Oregon or Utah, Colorado offers some of the best outdoor recreation in the United States. The state is most known for the Rocky Mountains, but you can also visit the desert, sand dunes, waterfalls and more. It’s an incredibly diverse and majestic state.

One of the must-visit places in Colorado is Rocky Mountain National Park, which is one of the most iconic and loved national parks in the country. There are so many epic trails in this park. One that you’re sure to enjoy is the hike to Emerald Lake, which will lead you past other beautiful alpine lakes along the way.

If you’re up for more of a challenge, hike up to Sky Pond. This 8.6-mile journey leads to a stunning alpine lake, which includes other lakes and waterfalls along the way. Towards the end, you’ll need to scramble up a waterfall to reach the top.

Another hike I love in Colorado is the trail to Hanging Lake. This epic route is in Glenwood Springs and has quite a bit of elevation gain. However, it’s worth the effort to enjoy the lake that is seemingly hanging up high in a canyon, and the waterfalls above. A reservation is required for this hike.

The San Juan Mountains are also an epic area of Colorado to explore. They cover a large area and include some famous cities such as Telluride and Ouray. A couple of trails in the San Juan Mountains include the Ouray Perimeter Trail and the Blue Lakes Trail.

This barely scratches the surface, as there is no shortage of incredible hiking in Colorado.

Delaware

Delaware may be the second smallest state, but I was still impressed with the trail opportunities. The northern part of the state near Wilmington has rolling hills, forested areas and some colorful rocks.

One fantastic park to visit is Alapocas Run State Park. Here you can hike a paved trail and admire stripey, blue granite cliffs. Plus, the park has the only publicly accessible rock climbing wall in the state.

Another great place to hike is at Brandywine Creek State Park, which has miles of hiking trails through the forest and along Brandywine Creek.

And if you’re looking for something unique, you can even hike to the Arc Corner Monument Stone. It marks the border of Delaware and Pennsylvania at the end point of the only curved state border in the US. You’ll begin in White Clay Creek State Park, which also has other trails.

I’ve only explored this northern part of Delaware, but the state also has miles of coastline! I had a great time exploring here.

Florida

Florida may be best known for its beaches, but there are also some great hiking trails that showcase different ecosystems and a plethora of wildlife. You can’t go wrong with a visit to Everglades National Park, or its neighbor Big Cypress National Preserve.

One of my favorite trails in the Everglades is the Anhinga Trail. It’s a short, boardwalk hike, but offers a great chance to see wildlife. Another neat experience in the Everglades is to take a ranger-led wet walk, where you can actually walk out into a cypress dome and gain a better understanding of this unique place.

Tip: I recommend visiting the Everglades in the dry season, which is from November to April.

In Big Cypress National Preserve, the Gator Hook Trail offers a unique experience. The hike includes water crossings and you’ll have a great chance of spotting wildlife.

Another Florida park that I love is Myakka River State Park, located near Sarasota. The park features a beautiful canopy walkway. The canopy is cool, but for a more off-the-beaten-path experience, try to snag a permit for the Deep Hole Trail. This trail leads you out to a sinkhole that is a popular spot for dozens of alligators to hang out and get some sun.

Be sure to keep a great distance from alligators and other wildlife as you’re exploring Florida.

Read a full itinerary for Everglades National Park

Georgia

Georgia is another state that is surprisingly diverse when it comes to nature. There are mountains and waterfalls in the northern part of the state, plus miles of coastline and marshland in the Southeast region.

One of my favorite places to hike in Georgia is Cloudland Canyon, located close to the border with Tennessee. This stunning park has a large canyon and some beautiful waterfalls. I recommend hiking to Hemlock and Cherokee Falls to see some of the best views in the park.

Another very different area of Georgia that I love is Cumberland Island National Seashore. This island can only be reached by boat. The island has a pristine coastline, ruins from a former mansion, towering trees and lush plant life, plus a large population of feral horses. The Dungeness Loop Trail is great for a day trip, as it takes you through all of the best highlights near the dock.

One more area to explore in Georgia is Providence Canyon State Park, which has a striking orange-rock canyon. It’s known as the “Georgia’s Little Grand Canyon.”

Hawaii

Hawaii is an incredibly special place and each island has unique landscapes and epic hiking trails. Throughout the state, you’ll find towering waterfalls, deep canyons, active volcanoes, craters, jagged mountains and rocky coastlines. Each island has its own magic.

Of the three islands I’ve visited, my personal favorite for hiking is Kauai. The small island is home to the picturesque Na Pali Coast, Waimea Canyon and stunning beaches. On one end of the Na Pali Coast, hiking to Hanakāpīʻai Falls is an incredible experience. This 300-foot tall waterfall requires a 7.7 mile hike with multiple river crossings to reach. You’ll also need a reservation to visit the park.

Another amazing place to hike in Hawaii is Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, located on the Big Island of Hawaii. The park is home to the most active volcano on earth! To hike in and out of some of the volcanic craters and enjoy the various landscapes, I recommend hiking the Kilauea Craters Trail.

Hawaii has so much to offer and no matter which island you visit, I recommend seeking out the hiking opportunities instead of just visiting the beaches.

Idaho

Idaho is another state that I think is very underrated when it comes to outdoor adventure! My favorite area to hike in Idaho is the Sawtooth Mountains. Along with the jagged mountains, the region has many alpine lakes and several hot springs.

One epic hike in the Sawtooths is Alice Lake. It is often done as a backpacking loop, which leads to other lakes as well in a 22-mile loop. Personally, I just hiked out and back to Alice Lake, but absolutely loved the journey.

Another iconic Sawtooth Mountain alpine lake is Goat Lake. This one involves a lot of slippery scree and route-finding, so be sure to come prepared. I recommend watching YouTube videos ahead of time so you know what to expect.

Another area to visit in Idaho is Craters of the Moon National Monument, which protects volcanic landscapes. There are several short trails around the park, but my favorite was the Caves Trail. Be sure to obtain a free permit from the visitor center before entering the caves.

Southern Idaho is full of incredible places to explore and deserves a spot on your USA bucket list!

Read about the best things to do in Southern Idaho

Illinois

Illinois is a state best known for Chicago, but there are also some picturesque parks and forests that are wonderful for outdoor recreation.

One of the best places to hike in Illinois is Starved Rock State Park, which is home to caves, waterfalls and miles of hiking trails. For a great overview of the park, the Starved Rock and Sandstone Point Overlook trail is a great place to start. You can explore multiple canyons and enjoy views of the Illinois River.

Another great hike in Starved Rock is the Saint Louis Canyon Trail, which leads to a waterfall tucked into a deep canyon.

Other places for great hiking in Illinois include Shawnee National Forest and Garden of the Gods in the southern part of the state.

Indiana

From waterfalls to sand dunes, Indiana has a surprising amount of scenic parks and trails. My personal favorite park in Indiana is Turkey Run State Park because the trails are so adventurous! Trails feature waterfalls (that you can climb), ladders and caves, plus there are some beautiful waterfalls. Don’t miss Trail #3 to experience the best of the park.

Indiana Dunes National Park also has some beautiful hiking trails that explore sand dunes as well as marshlands and other landscapes. One of my favorites is the Dune Succession Trail, which has some epic views of Lake Michigan and the white sand.

Other great areas to hike in Indiana include Clifty Falls State Park, McCormick’s Creek State Park and Hoosier National Forest.

Read about the best hikes in Indiana

Iowa

Iowa may be known for its farming, but there are plenty of neat hiking trails throughout the state as well. One really unique park to visit is Maquoketa Caves State Park, where you can explore several caves. The park also has a large natural bridge and other rock formations. You can hike a loop around the park in 1.7 miles.

Another trail I love in Iowa is within the town of Cedar Rapids. It’s the hike to the top of Mount Trashmore, where the city turned a former landfill into a place for outdoor recreation. The top has fantastic views of the city and the Cedar River.

And if you’ll be in Des Moines, Ledges State Park is a great park to visit nearby. The park has some neat rock formations, plus views of the Des Moines River. Be sure to check out the Ledges Table Rock Trail.

In the future, I want to explore the scenic Driftless Area in Northeast Iowa, which is home to Effigy Mounds National Monument, Pikes Peak State Park and more.

Kansas

Kansas is another midwest state that is often considered to be a “flyover” state, but I found it to be full of beautiful nature. There are several neat rock formations across the state.

One of my favorite places to hike is Little Jerusalem Badlands State Park, which has chalk rock formations that have been eroded by time. The park also protects wildlife and wild buckwheat. There are a couple short trails, and the Life on the Rocks Trail has some great overlooks.

Another trail I love in Kansas is the Rock Town Trail, located along Wilson Lake. This trail leads to some large rocks next to a little beach area. It’s a fun place to photograph!

Kentucky

In my opinion, the best place to hike in Kentucky is Red River Gorge Geological Area! The area is known for its hiking, rock climbing, camping and more. It actually has the second highest concentration of rock arches and bridges outside of Utah.

So far, my favorite trail in Red River Gorge is the Double Arch, Courthouse Rock and Auxier Ridge Loop. The trail has a great variety, featuring rock arches and valley views from the top of rocky bluffs. The 6-mile loop is a great day hike.

For a shorter trek, Chimney Top is a great option. This short and easy hike leads to a fantastic view of the gorge.

Or if you want to see more arches, check out Sky Bridge. This is another short trail that allows you to see a large natural bridge from both above and below.

Whether you visit as a day trip from Cincinnati or spend a few days, Red River Gorge should be on your Kentucky bucket list!

Read my full guide on Red River Gorge

Louisiana

Louisiana has more to offer than New Orleans! The state sits on the Gulf of Mexico, so it’s home to bayous, swamps, forests, wetlands and marshlands. My favorite place to hike is right outside of New Orleans in the Jean Lafitte National Historical Park. It’s a great place to spot alligators!

I enjoyed the Palmetto, Bayou Coquille and Marsh Overlook trail, which included boardwalks over marshland. The park is free to visit and also has a visitor center in the French Quarter.

Maine

Maine is a state known for its vast wilderness. The most popular place for outdoor recreation is Acadia National Park, which has rocky coastlines, round mountain tops and picturesque lakes.

There are several great hikes in Acadia National Park, but here are a few of my favorites. If you’re not afraid of heights, the Beehive Trail is worth the climb. It involves climbing up iron rungs on the side of the rock face, and leads to some incredible views of the surrounding mountains and ocean.

If the Beehive Trail doesn't bother you, there is an even more challenging version of it as well - the Precipice Trail. Once again, there are several iron rungs and ladders that will lead you to the top of a cliff face. It’s not for those afraid of drops, but I thought it was a really fun experience. Just be sure to check if this trail will be open for your visit, as it is often closed for peregrine falcon nesting.

A couple other beautiful trails that are on the easier side include the Jesup Path (which is beautiful in the fall!), the Bubbles Nubble Loop and the Beech Mountain South Ridge Loop.

Maryland

Maryland is one of the smallest US states, but it still has both mountains and coastline.

From my travels so far, my favorite hike in Maryland is in Harpers Ferry National Historical Park. This park sits at the confluence of the Shenandoah and Potomac Rivers, and is at the corner of 3 states. There is also a historic village with a fort, historic buildings, a Civil War Museum and more.

For hikers, there is a popular trail that leads to a birds-eye view of the confluence between the rivers. While it technically begins in West Virginia, you cross the river right away into Maryland. The Maryland Heights trail is a bit steep, and makes for a great workout. At the top, you’re rewarded with a fantastic view.

This is a great historic national park to spend a day hiking, exploring the town and learning about the history of the area.

Massachusetts

Massachusetts is best known for the city of Boston, and perhaps the beachy peninsula of Cape Cod. But when it comes to hiking, I recommend visiting the western part of the state known as the Berkshires.

The Berkshires region is known for its outdoor recreation, along with its charming villages and thriving art institutions. I love the town of North Adams, which has some beautiful hiking trails nearby, along with an incredible art museum.

One trail that is super close to downtown North Adams is the Cascade Trail, which leads to a pretty waterfall. Another place to hike nearby is the Hoosac Range, which offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains. For a short version, hike to Sunset Rock. If you have more time, continue onto Spruce Hill, which has amazing views at the top.

Also nearby, you can visit Natural Bridge State Park, which has the only natural white marble arch in North America. Just keep in mind that the park is mostly closed during the winter and spring.

Michigan

Michigan is an epic state for hiking and outdoor recreation. Outdoor adventurers will love the Upper Peninsula (known as the U.P.) for its rugged environment. Within the U.P., you can hike along the shore at Pictured Rocks, take in the epic waterfalls at Tahquamenon Falls and more.

If you’re visiting Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore, it’s worth hiking the 10-mile loop that includes views of multiple waterfalls, beaches and unique rock formations. It’s a great way to explore this park via land.

Porcupine Mountains Wilderness State Park is also a fantastic place for hiking. In fact, it’s one of the largest state parks in the midwest. For an easy viewpoint, don’t miss Lake of the Clouds.

However, my all-time favorite place to hike in Michigan is at Isle Royale National Park. This park can only be reached by seaplane or ferry, so be sure to plan ahead. If you can, it’s worth doing a backpacking trip to get deeper into the island. But whether you’re backpacking or taking a day trip, there are some great day hikes from Rock Harbor. Hike to the top of Mount Franklin for incredible views, or Scoville Point to walk along the coast.

One more area to hike in Michigan is Sleeping Bear Dunes, which is known for its giant, white sand dunes on the shores of Lake Michigan. For a challenge, be sure to hike the Dune Climb Trail, which leads you up and over dunes until you reach Lake Michigan.

Read my itinerary for visiting the Michigan UP

Minnesota

Minnesota is another midwest state that has a large amount of nature and outdoor recreation. My favorite region of the state is the North Shore, which refers to a 150-mile stretch of land on the banks of Lake Superior. The North Shore is home to some incredible waterfalls, plus trails with epic views of lakes, and more.

My favorite North Shore Trail is the hike to Bean and Bear Lake. This route has great views from high above two beautiful lakes.

The North Shore is also well known for its waterfalls. One not to miss is High Falls, which is an impressive waterfall that can be reached via a paved trail. Another great park for waterfalls is Gooseberry Falls State Park, which has several large waterfalls. I recommend hiking out to Fifth Falls for a great overview of the park.

It’s definitely worth it to take a North Shore road trip between Duluth and Canada!

Read my Minnesota North Shore itinerary

Mississippi

Mississippi may not be well known for hiking, but it still has a few gems like everywhere else. I loved visiting Red Bluff, which is a deep, colorful canyon created by erosion. There is a hiking path along the canyon that leads down to railroad tracks and the Pearl River, but the best views are from above. Keep in mind that this is on private property and not necessarily maintained, so visit at your own risk.

Another beautiful park in Mississippi is the Davis Bayou Unit of the Gulf Islands National Seashore. It’s right on the ocean and a great place for spotting wildlife, such as alligators and birds. There is a 3.1-mile trail that leads to the most scenic areas of the park.

Missouri

Missouri is home to the Ozark Mountains, making it a great place for outdoor adventure. My favorite park is Ha Ha Tonka State Park, which is home to a natural spring, the ruins of a mansion and great trails.

I recommend combining a few different trails in the park. The Castle Trail is a must to see the ruins of a mansion built by a Kansas City businessman. The Spring Trail allows you to see the turquoise-colored natural spring that comes from beneath a rocky bluff. The Island Trail leads to some little caves and great river views. There is a lot to see in this park, and you can either hike or drive between the different areas.

Another place I loved hiking in Missouri was Lake of the Ozarks State Park! The Rocky Top Trail has some great views of the water.

Montana

Montana is home to my favorite US national park, Glacier. I know I’m not alone in feeling like this is one of the most beautiful places in the entire country!

Make sure to plan ahead when visiting Glacier. It’s a very popular park and there is a reservation system in place that varies depending on which area of the park that you visit. Plus, it can be hard to find parking at popular trailheads even with the reservations in place, so have a back-up plan. You’ll also need to carry bear spray while hiking.

Tip: Book your accommodations and rental car early if you’re planning a trip to Glacier.

My personal favorite hike in Glacier is the Highline Trail. This epic trail follows along the side of the mountain and has incredible views of the valley below. The trail is 15 miles, but you can also get a great feel for it by hiking a shorter version.

Another amazing trail is the hike to Iceberg Lake. It’s a lake that has huge chunks of ice floating in it year round.

A couple shorter hikes to consider are the Hidden Lake Overlook or the hike to St. Mary and Virginia Falls. This magical park has so many trails to choose from.

Read my itinerary for visiting Glacier National Park

Nebraska

Nebraska may not be known for its hiking, but there are certainly some beautiful and unique rock formations. I spent a day exploring the Northwest part of the state and visited several beautiful spots.

One of the most popular nature spots to visit in Nebraska is Scotts Bluff National Monument. This large bluff was an important landmark for Native Americans, Oregon Trail travelers, California Trail travelers and Mormon travelers. You can drive up on top of the bluff and take the short trails to the North and South Overlooks, or hike up the Saddle Rock Trail if you have more time. They also have a trail where you can actually walk where the Oregon Trail wagons traveled.

Another neat landmark in this area is Chimney Rock, where there is a series of easy trails that allow you to admire the rock from different angles. This was another important landmark on the Oregon Trail.

A couple other great areas to hike in this part of Nebraska include Chadron State Park (the Steamboat Trail has amazing views), Agate Fossil Beds National Monument (you can hike up to some impressive fossils) and Toadstool Geological Park. The entire Northwest corner of Nebraska is full of surprises, and worth a trip!

Nevada

Nevada is home to both deserts and mountains, and has lots of nature to explore. My favorite place to hike so far is Valley of Fire State Park, located just an hour outside of Las Vegas.

This stunning park is full of striking, orange rock formations, and has slot canyons, petroglyphs and more. To hike around some of the best landmarks of the park, I recommend the Fire Wave, White Domes and Seven Wonders Loop.

Other great places to hike in Nevada (that are high on my list) include Great Basin National Park and Cathedral Gorge State Park.

New Jersey

New Jersey is another state that surprised me! So far, I’ve hiked in Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area, which extends across both New Jersey and Pennsylvania.

Mount Tammany is an epic trail on the New Jersey side that leads to a beautiful view of the Delaware River and the surrounding mountains. I recommend hiking up the Red Dot Trail and down the Blue Dot Trail to make it a loop. This hike is popular, so arrive early to get a parking spot.

New Hampshire

The New Hampshire White Mountains is a region full of incredible hiking trails of all difficulties. If you’re up for a challenge, you can climb one of the “4,000-footers,” which refers to 48 mountain peaks above 4,000 feet.

I loved the Mount Lafayette and Franconia Ridge Loop, which includes two 4,000 foot peaks, waterfalls and even a mountain hut that serves food. The loop is quite challenging with lots of rock scrambling, so make sure to come prepared.

This is also an incredible area to visit during the fall. A couple hikes that have amazing fall foliage views include Artist Bluff, Mount Willard and the Welch-Dickey Loop.

Read about the best day hikes in the New Hampshire White Mountains

New Mexico

From massive white sand dunes to ancient cave dwellings to hot springs, New Mexico has a lot to offer. White Sands National Park is a gem in the Southwest corner of the state and it’s wonderful for hiking, sand sledding or just enjoying the views.

In the northern part of the state near Taos, Albuquerque and Santa Fe, there are a variety of landscapes, from the mountains to the desert.

One park worth visiting is Bandelier National Monument, which protects the ancestral and traditional lands of at least 23 tribal nations. Hiking to the Alcove House is a unique experience, because you can climb a series of ladders to reach a cave that was once home to Ancestral Pueblo people. Plus, there are many ruins and petroglyphs along the way.

Another amazing area to hike nearby is Jemez Springs, which is home to a series of hot springs. I loved the hike to McCauley Hot Springs, which has a few different pools to soak in. And make sure to stop by the Jemez Soda Dam!

An off-the-beaten-path trail in Northwest New Mexico is the Bisti Badlands. You’ll need to drive an unpaved road to reach the trailhead, but most cars should be okay in dry conditions. The hike leads you past unique and notable rock formations, including hoodoos, petrified wood and rocks that resemble cracked eggs. This remote corner of New Mexico is great for someone who loves adventure.

Read my guide to Santa Fe and hiking nearby

New York

The state of New York has so much to discover beyond New York City. I particularly love the Finger Lakes Region, which is not only home to beautiful lakes, but has several massive waterfalls and gorges.

The most famous park in the Finger Lakes is Watkins Glen State Park, which has trails through a narrow gorge that has been carved away by water. The Gorge Trail will lead you behind, under and above several waterfalls.

Not far from Watkins Glen, it’s also very much worth a visit to nearby state parks Buttermilk Falls, Robert H. Treman and Taughannock Falls. Each of these parks have incredible waterfalls. It’s also worth a visit to Letchworth State Park, located outside of Buffalo in Western New York. Letchworth has 3 major waterfalls and is known as the “Grand Canyon of the East.”

I also hope to visit the Adirondack Mountains in the future, which is home to many epic hiking trails.

Read about the best hiking trails near Ithaca, New York

North Dakota

If you’re visiting North Dakota, you must spend at least a day at Theodore Roosevelt National Park. The park is not only full of wildlife (including bison, prairie dogs and feral horses), but you can admire rolling prairies, unique rock formations and the scenic Little Missouri River.

My favorite trail in the park is the Caprock Coulee Loop, which is located in the North Unit of the park. The loop has stunning views of the grasslands intermixed with badlands.

The South Unit of the park also has several short trails that offer great views. Don’t miss the Wind Canyon Trail, which has a stunning river view or the Boicourt Overlook Trail, which overlooks beautiful white rock formations.

Read my itinerary for Theodore Roosevelt National Park

North Carolina

The mountainous state of North Carolina has so many striking trails. There are tons of waterfalls and many opportunities to enjoy mountainous panoramas.

So far, I’ve only hiked a few trails close to the vibrant city of Asheville. For waterfalls, Catawba Falls and Crabtree Falls are both amazing hikes. Catawba Falls is not far from the city of Asheville and features mossy boulders. It’s very popular, so go early to enjoy a more peaceful visit. Crabtree Falls is along the Blue Ridge Parkway and leads to a waterfall that falls down a giant slab of smooth rock.

A couple trails with mountain views near Asheville are Waterrock Knob and Craggy Pinnacle. Both hikes are relatively easy and offer remarkable views.

Oklahoma

Oklahoma has more than meets the eye. I was particularly impressed by the Wichita Mountains Wildlife Refuge, which protects bison, longhorn and other wildlife. The mountainous park has many hiking opportunities, plus camping, scenic drives and more.

My personal favorite trail is the Forty Foot Hole Trail, which features a small canyon that has been carved by water. You can admire it from above and hike into it. Other great trails in the Wichita Mountains include the Elk Mountain Trail and the Narrows Trail.

Another impressive park in Oklahoma is Beavers Bend State Park, where I enjoyed hiking the Friends Loop. This is also a great park for canoeing, fishing, camping and more.

Ohio

Ohio is the state that I was born and raised in, and it has some beautiful nature. My favorite place to hike in Ohio is at Hocking Hills State Park, which contains waterfalls, caves, natural bridges and other rock formations. The most famous trail tends to be Old Man’s Cave, where you can hike down into a gorge and enjoy several waterfalls and unique features.

Other beautiful trails in Hocking Hills include Ash Cave and Rock House. Ash Cave is short and sweet, with a stunning waterfall. Rock House is a loop trail where you can explore inside of a cave.

Another great place to hike in Ohio is in Cuyahoga Valley National Park. I highly recommend the Ledges Trail, which leads you among rocky walls throughout the forest. You’ll also want to be sure to see Brandywine Falls.

One other beautiful area of Ohio is Yellow Springs. Take a hike in Glen Helen Nature Preserve and enjoy marshland, a grotto, an orange-yellow rock face from dissolved iron and more. You can also enjoy a hike in the scenic Clifton Gorge nearby.

Oregon

Oregon is an incredibly beautiful state with a range of different sceneries. The Columbia River Gorge near Portland has several epic waterfalls that require various amounts of hiking.

My favorite trail in the Gorge is the hike to Tunnel Falls, which leads to a waterfall with a tunnel behind it. The 12-mile hike also has several other waterfalls along the way. If you’re looking for a shorter hike, Wahclella Falls and Bridal Veil Falls are just a couple to consider. And don’t miss the famous Multnomah Falls, which can be seen right off the road (or there are various trails that allow you to see it from different angles).

Tip: Reservations are required for Multnomah Falls during peak days and times.

Another amazing waterfall trail in Oregon is the Trail of Ten Falls in Silver Falls State Park. This epic 7.4-mile loop leads to 10 major waterfalls.

A few other trails to consider on an Oregon road trip include the Indian Sands Trail on the Southern Oregon Coast, Garfield Peak in Crater Lake and the Misery Ridge Trail in Smith Rock State Park.

Pennsylvania

Pennsylvania is a beautiful state full of waterfalls, forests and the Allegheny Mountains. One area I highly recommend is the Laurel Highlands, located in the Southwest corner of the state. It’s home to Ohiopyle State Park, which offers a variety of hiking trails. Don’t miss Cucumber Falls or the Ferncliff Trail to get a taste for the area.

Another amazing region for hiking is the Happy Valley Region, which is home to the city of State College. The most famous trail is Mount Nittany, which towers above Penn State University. Another great hike nearby is the Mid-State and Jackson Trail loop, which has large sections of boulders, and great views.

Read about the best hikes in State College, PA

Rhode Island

Rhode Island may be the smallest state, but it still has some beautiful nature. My favorite trail is on the coast at Sachuest Point National Wildlife Refuge. The park is an important stop for migratory birds and is one of the few remaining areas of undeveloped coastline in Rhode Island.

It’s relatively flat to hike a loop around the park and enjoy the birds and coastal views along the way. My favorite part was all of the colorful, striped rocks along the beaches.

If you’re in the area, it’s also worth walking the Newport Cliff Walk. This is a 3.5-mile paved path along the ocean that passes by several famous, Gilded Age Mansions.

Read my fall day trip itinerary for Rhode Island

South Carolina

South Carolina has beaches, waterfalls, marshland, mountains and more. One place to visit in Congaree National Park, which is home to the largest intact area of old growth hardwood forest in the southeast US.

While Congaree has some beautiful hikes, it’s quite common for many of the trails to be flooded (this happens about 10 times a year). However, even if the park is flooded, you’ll be able to hike some of the Boardwalk Loop, since it sits up higher. From the boardwalk, you’ll be able to admire several different types of trees.

Another beautiful region of South Carolina is Oconee County, which is home to 300+ waterfalls. Just a few waterfall hikes in the area include Opossum Creek Falls, Brasstown Falls and Yellow Branch Falls.

South Dakota

From the Badlands to the Black Hills, South Dakota has some remarkable hiking trails. In Badlands National Park, there are several overlooks and short hikes. My favorite trail is the Notch Trail, which features a long, wooden ladder to climb up and down.

The Black Hills Region is also very much worth a visit. Custer State Park is especially beautiful and has a trail to the highest point in South Dakota. The Cathedral Spires trail and the Sunday Gulch Trail are also fun trails with dramatic rock formations in the Custer.

Another magical area of the Black Hills is Spearfish Canyon, where you can enjoy lush green waterfalls on hikes to Spearfish Falls, Roughlock Falls and more.

Read my itinerary for the Badlands and the Black Hills

Tennessee

Tennessee is a beautiful state for outdoor recreation. It’s home to most of Great Smoky Mountain National Park, which is continually the most visited national park in the country. Plus, there are many state parks that feature waterfalls and other natural beauty.

My favorite Tennessee state park (so far) is Fall Creek Falls. The focal point of the park is a 256-foot tall waterfall that you can enjoy from above or hike to its base.

Fall Creek Falls is also close to some other beautiful state parks, such as Rock Island State Park and Burgess Falls State Park.

When it comes to the Great Smoky Mountains, there are so many hiking trails to choose from. One that I love, that isn’t super well known, is the hike to Indian Falls via the Middle Prong Trail. The 7.8-mile trek leads to a secluded waterfall that feels tucked away from the trail.

Tip: The Great Smoky Mountains are free to visit, but a parking pass is required (and is not covered with an America the Beautiful pass).

Texas

Texas is a huge state, so of course it has its fair share of hiking and tons of variety. One iconic place to hike in Texas is Guadalupe Mountains National Park, where you can hike to the highest point in Texas, Guadalupe Peak. The 8-mile trek is strenuous and steep, but worth it.

Texas’ other national park, Big Bend, is also incredible for hiking. There are some beautiful mountain trails, such as the Lost Mine Trail, plus trails that center around the desert and Rio Grande River. One hike that provides incredible river views with tall canyon walls is the Santa Elena Canyon Trail.

Texas also has some amazing state parks. One of the best is Palo Duro Canyon (known as the Grand Canyon of Texas), where I recommend hiking to Lighthouse Rock. Another one of my favorite Texas state parks is Enchanted Rock, where you can hike to the top of a giant, pink granite rock.

Read about the best outdoor adventures across Texas

Utah

Utah is one of my favorite states for hiking in the country! You have incredible desert landscapes in Southern Utah, and mountains, hot springs and alpine lakes in the area surrounding Salt Lake City. There is so much variety.

You can’t go wrong with a Utah Mighty Five road trip. The ‘Mighty 5’ refers to the five national parks in Utah - Arches, Canyonlands, Capitol Reef, Bryce Canyon and Zion.

I especially love the Fiery Furnace and Devil’s Garden trails in Arches National Park. Fiery Furnace requires a permit and an orientation, and can be tough to navigate. However, it’s worth it if you’re up for an adventure. The hike will lead you through a series of narrow passages through tall, sandstone walls. There is also an option for a ranger-led tour.

Devil’s Garden is an epic loop trail in Arches that leads to views of several major arches. You’ll pass 7 arches, but the most famous is Landscape Arch, the longest arch in North America. The backcountry portion of the Devil’s Garden loop can be tough to navigate, so be sure to download the All Trails map and pay attention to where you’re going.

When it comes to the best hikes near Salt Lake City, you can’t go wrong with the hike to Lake Blanche. A steep climb will lead you up to a stunning alpine lake and a pointed mountain directly behind it.

Vermont

Vermont is known as the Green Mountain State, so there are plenty of spectacular mountainous trails. I loved hiking to the second highest peak in the state, Mt Killington. There are a few different routes to the top, but I hiked the Bucklin Trail. The top can also be reached from a gondola on the opposite side of the mountain.

In Northern Vermont, I loved the hike to Nichol’s Ledge. It’s a short trail that leads to an incredible view of a lake and the surrounding rolling hills. There is limited parking, so go early.

Read my Vermont and New Hampshire fall road trip itinerary

Virginia

Virginia is a mountainous state full of epic trails. So far, I’ve only hiked in Shenandoah National Park.

My favorite trails in Shenandoah so far are the Hawksbill Gap Loop and Dark Hollow Falls. The Hawksbill Gap loop has incredible mountain views, while Dark Hollow Falls leads to some multiple waterfalls as you hike further. Plus, driving around Shenandoah is an experience in itself, as there are tons of viewpoints on the famous Skyline Drive.

Washington

The state of Washington is well known for its beauty and hiking opportunities. It’s a very mountainous state, plus there are miles of coastline. You can’t go wrong with visiting any of the three Washington National Parks. My favorite trail in the Washington national parks (so far) is the Maple Pass Loop in North Cascades.

The Maple Pass Loop provides incredible views of mountains as you hike high above a small lake. It’s a very picturesque trail.

Olympic National Park and Mt Rainier also have many incredible trails. One great trail in Olympic is Sol Duc Falls, which is essentially a triple waterfall. A trail I love in Rainier is the Bench and Snow Lakes Trail, which leads to some beautiful lakes.

Another bucket-list area in Washington for hiking is the Enchantments.

Read my guide to visiting the North Cascades

West Virginia

From a via ferrata to white water rafting to a bridge walk below one of the highest bridges in the United States, West Virginia is full of adventure. So far, I’ve hiked in New River Gorge National Park, which has a lot to offer.

One trail not to miss is the Endless Wall Trail, which has many views of the New River Gorge. Another great one for gorge views, plus beautiful rocks, is the Castle Rock Trail. If you enjoy historic elements while hiking, I also recommend checking out the Kaymoor Miners Trail, which leads to the ruins of a historic mine.

Wisconsin

Wisconsin is another state that is probably more beautiful than you expect. The state borders both Lake Superior and Lake Michigan, and regions like the Wisconsin Dells are full of smaller lakes and areas to hike.

My favorite place to hike in Wisconsin is Devil’s Lake State Park. You can hike all the way around the lake, and enjoy some interesting rock formations along the way. Don’t miss the iconic Devil’s Doorway.

Other beautiful areas in Wisconsin include Apostle Islands National Lakeshore and Door County. If you visit Door County, Peninsula State Park has some lovely hikes and a neat observation tower.

Wyoming

Last but not least, we have Wyoming! This state is home to two of the most famous national parks in the country - Yellowstone and Grand Teton. Yellowstone is well known for its hot springs, geysers and other thermal formations, and there are many hikes that lead you to see them.

A couple of hikes in Yellowstone that I love (that also aren't super crowded) are the trail to Hellroaring Suspension Bridge, and the Bunsen Peak Trail.

Grand Teton is even better for epic trails that lead to incredible mountain views. I loved the hike to Delta Lake, but keep in mind that it’s a strenuous hike that requires some route-finding. Another amazing hike is the Cascade Canyon Trail.

Tip: Both Yellowstone and Grand Teton charge admission. It makes sense to purchase an America the Beautiful Pass if you’ll be traveling to multiple national parks in the course of a year.

Another area of Wyoming to hike (that is not as well known) is the Medicine Bow-Routt National Forest. The area has beautiful mountains and lakes. I loved the loop hike that included Medicine Bow Peak.

Final Thoughts

If there is one thing I’ve learned from hiking in every state, it’s that every single state and region has beauty if you’re willing to seek it out. From marshlands to mountain peaks, the United States is incredibly diverse. I hope this gives you some inspiration and ideas for an off-the-beaten-path place to hike, or to spend more time traveling around the US. Our public lands are full of breathtaking destinations that will take your breath away.

For more USA hiking guides, check out these blogs:

• The Best Hiking near Cincinnati
• The Best Hiking near Ithaca, NY
• The Best Hikes in Salt Lake City
• The Best Minnesota North Shore Hiking Trails
• The Best Hikes in Acadia National Park
• The Best Hikes in Arkansas
• The Best Hikes near Dallas, TX
• The Best Hikes in the New Hampshire White Mountains

Thanks for Reading!