Adventure Travel

Unforgettable Hiking Trails with Breathtaking Views

Published

August 27, 2024

Tired of the same old hiking trails? You’re not alone. Every year, millions seek new paths to explore. This article spotlights 11 stunning hikes in U.S. national parks. We’ll guide you to trails with jaw-dropping views that’ll make your heart race.

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Key Takeaways

The article lists 11 stunning hikes in U.S. national parks with amazing views.
Most parks charge an entry fee of $30-$35 per car.
The best times to hike are usually summer and early fall.
Trails range from easy half-mile walks to tough 12-mile hikes.
Hikers can see mountains, canyons, lakes, beaches, and even ice fields.

Sentinel Dome and Taft Point Loop, Yosemite National Park, California

A hiker stands at the summit of Sentinel Dome admiring breathtaking views.

Sentinel Dome and Taft Point Loop is a gem in Yosemite National Park. This 5.1-mile trail offers jaw-dropping views of Yosemite Valley, El Capitan, and the Merced River. Hikers love this path for its mix of easy walks and steep climbs.

The best part? You’ll see amazing sights without the crowds at Glacier Point.

Summer and early fall are perfect times to hit this trail. The weather is nice, and the paths are clear. Don’t forget to bring $35 for the park fee. Once you reach the top, you’ll get a 360-degree view that will take your breath away.

It’s a bit tough in some spots, but the payoff is worth every step.

Precipice and North Ridge Trails, Acadia National Park, Maine

Acadia National Park’s Precipice Trail is a thrilling hike. It’s short but tough. The trail climbs 1,000 feet in just 0.9 miles. You’ll use iron rungs and ladders to scale steep cliffs.

The views of the Atlantic coast are worth the effort. Hikers love this trail in summer and fall. The fall colors make it extra special.

For a safer option, try the North Ridge Trail. It’s longer but less steep. Both trails offer amazing views of the park. You can see forests, lakes, and the ocean from up high. Don’t forget to bring $35 for the park fee.

It’s a small price for big adventure.

Watchman Peak Trail, Crater Lake National Park, Oregon

Watchman Peak Trail offers a stunning view of Crater Lake. This short hike packs a big punch. You’ll climb 420 feet in less than a mile. At the top, you’ll find an old fire lookout.

From there, you can see the whole lake spread out below you. It’s a sight you won’t forget.

The best time to hike this trail is summer or early fall. The park charges $30 per car to enter. But the views are worth every penny. This 1.6-mile round trip hike is perfect for most skill levels.

Just take your time and bring water. The panorama at the summit will take your breath away.

Bright Angel to Plateau Point Trail, Grand Canyon National Park, Arizona

Bright Angel to Plateau Point Trail is a tough but amazing hike in Grand Canyon National Park. It’s a 12-mile round trip that drops 3,200 feet over six miles. The trail leads to Plateau Point, which sits 2,000 feet above the Colorado River.

From here, you get jaw-dropping views of the canyon and river below.

You can hike this trail all year, but spring and fall are best. It costs $35 per car to enter the park. The trail starts on Desert View Drive on the South Rim. Make sure to bring lots of water and snacks.

The climb back up is hard, so take your time and rest often. This hike is not for beginners, but the views are worth the effort for those who can do it.

Forney Ridge Trail to Andrews Bald, Great Smoky Mountains, North Carolina and Tennessee

Forney Ridge Trail to Andrews Bald is a gem in the Great Smoky Mountains. This 3.6-mile out-and-back trail starts at Clingman’s Dome parking lot. You can hike it any time of year. The trail is free, but you need a $5 parking tag.

The path takes you through lush forests to Andrews Bald. At the top, you’ll see stunning views of the Smokies. Spring brings wild flowers, while fall offers colorful leaves. The hike is not too hard, making it great for families.

Pack a picnic to enjoy at the bald. Don’t forget your camera to capture the amazing sights!

High Dune, Great Sand Dunes National Park and Preserve, Colorado

High Dune in Great Sand Dunes National Park is a must-see spot. It’s part of the tallest dunes in North America, reaching up to 741 feet high. The hike is short but tough, just 2.5 miles round trip.

You’ll feel like you’re in a desert, even though you’re in Colorado.

Spring and fall are the best times to visit. The weather is nicer then. It costs $25 per car to enter the park. Once you’re there, you can climb the dunes, slide down them, or just enjoy the view.

It’s a fun trip for the whole family.

Mesa Arch, Canyonlands National Park, Utah

Mesa Arch is a must-see spot in Canyonlands National Park. This small arch sits on a cliff edge, giving hikers a jaw-dropping view. The trail to reach it is short and sweet – just half a mile there and back.

But don’t let the easy walk fool you. The sight waiting at the end will take your breath away.

For the best experience, visit Mesa Arch at sunrise. The sun peeks through the arch, lighting up the rock in warm, golden hues. It’s a sight that will stick with you long after you leave.

The park charges $30 per car to enter. This fee lets you explore all the wonders Canyonlands has to offer, including this 27-foot-wide natural window to the canyons below.

Highline Trail, Glacier National Park, Montana

The Highline Trail in Glacier National Park is a must-do hike. It runs for 12 miles one way and starts at Logan Pass. The trail offers amazing views of Mt. Cannon, Mt. Oberlin, and Heavens Peak.

Hikers pass through Haystack Pass and can stop at Granite Park Chalet. The best time to hike is late summer or early fall.

To enjoy this trail, you need to plan ahead. The park charges a $35 fee to enter. You also need to book a spot on the Going-to-the-Sun Road for $2. This road takes you to the trailhead.

The hike is long, but the sights make it worth it. You’ll see big mountains, wide valleys, and maybe even some wildlife.

Glacier Gorge Trail to Sky Pond, Rocky Mountain National Park, Colorado

Glacier Gorge Trail to Sky Pond is a gem in Rocky Mountain National Park. This 8.5-mile hike packs a punch with stunning views. You’ll see Alberta Falls, Loch Vale, and Timberline Falls on your way up.

The trail ends at Sky Pond, a crystal-clear alpine lake. It’s best to go in summer or early fall when the weather is nice.

You need to plan ahead for this hike. The park charges $35 to enter, and you must book a spot on Bear Lake Road for $2. Start at Glacier Gorge Trailhead and bring plenty of water. The path gets steep, but the sights are worth it.

You’ll feel on top of the world when you reach Sky Pond.

Harding Icefield Trail, Kenai Fjords National Park, Alaska

Harding Icefield Trail in Kenai Fjords National Park is a tough but rewarding hike. It’s 8.2 miles round trip and climbs 3,000 feet. You’ll walk through forests and meadows before reaching Cliffs Overlook.

The views of the massive ice field are amazing. Late summer is the best time to go when most of the snow has melted.

This trail is free to hike, but you need to be ready for a challenge. The path is steep and can be slippery. Bring lots of water and snacks. Wear good hiking boots and layers. The weather can change fast up there.

But if you make it to the top, you’ll see a view like no other. It’s like looking back in time to the ice age.

Hole-In-the-Wall, Rialto Beach, Olympic National Park, Washington

Hole-In-the-Wall at Rialto Beach is a must-see spot in Olympic National Park. This 3.4-mile hike takes you to a stunning black sand beach with tall sea stacks and a cool rock arch.

Summer is the best time to go, when the weather is nice and the tide is low. You’ll need to pay $30 per car to enter the park, but it’s worth it for the amazing views.

The trail is full of fun things to see. You’ll walk along the beach, climb over driftwood, and maybe even spot some sea creatures in tide pools. The big rock arch is the star of the show.

You can walk through it at low tide for a great photo op. Just be careful and watch the tide so you don’t get stuck!

Conclusion

Wow! These trails are amazing. They show off the best parts of America’s parks. From tall mountains to deep canyons, there’s so much to see. Each hike offers a special view you can’t get anywhere else.

So grab your boots and hit the trails. The great outdoors is calling!

References

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