Are you tired of crowded trails and looking for some hidden gems in the great
outdoors? Look no further! Here is a list of 20 incredible hiking trails in the United
States that fly under the radar.
From coast to coast, these paths offer breathtaking views, unique landscapes, and
the solitude you crave. Lace-up your boots and get ready to explore some of
America’s best-kept secrets.
The Lost Coast Trail, California
Ever dreamed of walking along a rugged coastline where the mountains meet the
sea? The Lost Coast Trail in Northern California offers just that.
This 25-mile trektakes you through one of the most undeveloped coastal areas in the contiguous United States. You’ll navigate beach walks, rocky bluffs, and lush forests while keeping an eye out for wildlife like sea lions and Roosevelt elk.
Boundary Trail, Mount St. Helens, Washington
The Boundary Trail at Mount St. Helens offers a unique perspective on the aftermath
of the 1980 eruption. As you hike, you’ll see how life has returned to the blast zone,
with wildflowers and young forests reclaiming the landscape.
The trail provides stunning views of the mountain’s crater and the surrounding Cascade Range.
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Kalalau Trail, Hawaii
The Kalalau Trail on Kauai’s Na Pali Coast is a challenging 11-mile trek that rewards
hikers with breathtaking views of emerald valleys and pristine beaches. You’ll cross
streams, navigate narrow cliffsides, and feel like you’ve stepped into a tropical
dream.
Remember to obtain a permit before embarking on this unforgettable journey.
Wonderland Trail, Mount Rainier, Washington
The 93-mile Wonderland Trail circumnavigates Mount Rainier, offering a comprehensive tour of the iconic peak. You’ll traverse subalpine meadows, cross glacial rivers, and climb through old-growth forests.
While it’s a popular thru-hike, many sections are perfect for day trips or shorter backpacking excursions.
Sinks Canyon State Park, Wyoming
Ever seen a disappearing river? At Sinks Canyon State Park in Wyoming, you can
witness this geological marvel.
The Middle Fork of the Popo Agie River vanishes into a limestone cavern, only to reappear a quarter-mile downstream. The park offers several trails that showcase this phenomenon, along with stunning views of the Wind River Mountains.
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Black Angel Trail, White Mountain National Forest, New
Hampshire
The Black Angel Trail in New Hampshire’s White Mountains offers a rugged 9-mile
out-and-back experience. You’ll climb steep inclines and Ford streams and navigate
through dense forests.
The payoff is spectacular views of the Presidential Range and a sense of true wilderness.
Franconia Ridge Loop, New Hampshire
Craving an alpine experience without the crowds? The Franconia Ridge Loop in the
White Mountains offers a taste of above-treeline hiking that rivals more popular trails.
You’ll traverse three 5,000-foot peaks, enjoying panoramic views of the surrounding
mountains.
The exposed ridgeline provides a thrilling experience, but be prepared for rapidly changing weather.
Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore, Michigan
Who says the Midwest doesn’t have stunning coastlines? The Chapel Loop at
Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula takes you along
colorful sandstone cliffs overlooking Lake Superior.
You’ll encounter pristine beaches, waterfalls, and rock formations that seem straight out of a fairy tale. Keep an eye out for the famous Chapel Rock, a natural stone arch supporting a lone pine tree.
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Sipsey Wilderness, Alabama
Ever hiked through a canyon in Alabama? The Sipsey Wilderness, known as the ‘Land of 1000 Waterfalls,’ offers a network of trails that wind through a lush, green wonderland.
You’ll navigate narrow canyons, cross crystal-clear streams, and discover hidden waterfalls around every bend. The Big Tree Trail leads to one of the largest and oldest trees in Alabama, a testament to the area’s old-growth forest.
Parunuweap Canyon, Utah
Looking for a less crowded alternative to Zion’s Narrows? Parunuweap Canyon, just
outside Zion National Park, offers a similar slot canyon experience without the
crowds.
This challenging hike takes you through the East Fork of the Virgin River, with towering sandstone walls and unique rock formations. You’ll need to obtain a permit and be prepared for wading and possibly swimming.
Grayson Highlands State Park, Virginia
Want to hike with wild ponies? The trails in Virginia’s Grayson Highlands State Park
offer this unique experience.
As you traverse the grassy balds and rocky outcrops, you’ll likely encounter the park’s famous wild ponies grazing freely. The Rhododendron Trail connects to the Appalachian Trail, offering expansive views of the surrounding Blue Ridge Mountains.
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Bisti/De-Na-Zin Wilderness, New Mexico
Ready for a surreal desert experience? The Bisti/De-Na-Zin Wilderness in northwestern New Mexico offers a landscape that seems otherworldly.
You’ll wander through badlands filled with bizarre rock formations, petrified wood, and colorful layers of sediment. There are no marked trails here, so bring your navigation skills and a sense of adventure.
Cumberland Island National Seashore, Georgia
Ever hiked on a nearly deserted barrier island? Cumberland Island off the coast of
Georgia offers 50 miles of hiking trails through maritime forests, salt marshes, and
pristine beaches.
You might spot wild horses roaming freely or loggerhead turtles nesting on the beach. The Parallel Trail takes you through a tunnel-like canopy of live oaks draped in Spanish moss.
Rock Island State Park, Wisconsin
Rock Island State Park, accessible only by ferry, offers 10 miles of hiking trails on a
car-free island in Lake Michigan. You’ll discover rocky beaches, dense forests, and
the oldest lighthouse in Wisconsin.
The Thordarson Loop Trail takes you around the island’s perimeter, offering stunning lake views and a chance to explore the island’s Icelandic heritage.
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Wichita Mountains Wildlife Refuge, Oklahoma
The Wichita Mountains Wildlife Refuge offers a network of trails that showcase the
rugged beauty of these ancient granite peaks. The Charon’s Garden Wilderness
Area provides challenging hikes with boulder scrambles and narrow passages.
Keep an eye out for free-roaming bison, elk, and prairie dogs as you explore this unique
ecosystem.
Cascade Head Preserve, Oregon
The Nature Conservancy’s Cascade Head Preserve in Oregon offers trails that wind
through lush Sitka spruce forests before opening up to dramatic coastal views. The
Hart’s Cove Trail takes you to a hidden cove where you might spot sea lions or gray
whales.
In summer, the meadows burst with colorful wildflowers.
Cataloochee Valley, Great Smoky Mountains, North Carolina
Cataloochee Valley in the Great Smoky Mountains offers serene hiking trails and a
chance to step back in time. You’ll pass by well-preserved 19th-century buildings and
likely encounter the park’s famous elk herd.
The Boogerman Trail takes you through old-growth forest and past the remnants of early settler homesteads.
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Shawnee National Forest, Illinois
Ever heard of the ‘Garden of the Gods’ in Illinois? The Shawnee National Forest in
southern Illinois offers this hidden gem, along with many other scenic trails.
The Garden of the Gods Observation Trail takes you past unique sandstone formations
with expansive views of the surrounding forest. For a longer hike, try the River to River Trail, which spans the entire width of the state.
Apostle Islands National Lakeshore, Wisconsin
The Apostle Islands National Lakeshore in Wisconsin offers a unique blend of hiking
and kayaking opportunities. While many visitors explore the islands by water, trails
on the mainland and larger islands offer spectacular views of Lake Superior and the
opportunity to explore historic lighthouses.
The Lakeshore Trail on the mainland provides stunning cliff-top vistas and access to sea caves.
Breaks Interstate Park, Kentucky/Virginia
Breaks Interstate Park, straddling the Kentucky-Virginia border, offers breathtaking
views of the Russell Fork Gorge. The Pine Mountain Trail provides challenging hikes
with rewarding vistas, while the Geological Trail offers a fascinating look at the area’s unique rock formations.
Don’t miss the chance to see the vibrant fall colors if you visit in autumn.
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Venture Off the Beaten Path
As you plan your next hiking adventure, consider venturing off the beaten path to
explore these hidden gems. Each trail offers a unique perspective on America’s
diverse landscapes, from coastal cliffs to mountain peaks, from desert badlands to
lush forests.
Remember to always check local conditions, obtain necessary permits, and practice
Leave No Trace principles.
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