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Hiking Vacations in the USA

Ready to hit the trail without all the planning hassle? Our hiking vacations in the USA will take you deep into some of the country’s most epic landscapes, led by local guides who know every hidden gem. All you need are your boots and wanderlust—we’ll handle the rest.
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Hiking Vacations in the USA Brochure
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Discover the beauty of untamed America

Wild, vast, varied: the ultimate playground for hikers of all levels

The United States offers some of the most varied and breathtaking hiking experiences in the world. Whether you’re seeking the towering peaks of the Rocky Mountains, the lush forests of the Pacific Northwest, or the vast deserts of the Southwest, America’s diverse terrain promises a hike for every adventurer. 

With hundreds of national parks and protected wilderness areas, hikers can find solitude in the backcountry, take in panoramic views from iconic summits, or enjoy a peaceful stroll along sunny coastal paths. The best part? There’s a trail for every fitness level—whether you’re a seasoned trekker chasing the challenge of the John Muir Trail or a casual hiker ready to take on shorter, scenic routes in places like Zion or Acadia. With such variety, the USA is an unrivaled destination for anyone craving discovery, challenge, and natural beauty.

A hiker looking at the landscape in Grand Teton NP, USA

Local experts lead the way

What sets our hiking vacations in the US apart is the expertise of our local guides, who bring unparalleled knowledge and passion to every adventure. They aren’t just guides—they are storytellers, environmental stewards, and seasoned navigators of the landscapes they call home. From hidden trailheads to secret viewpoints, they know the spots most travelers miss. 

Whether it’s reading the terrain, interpreting wildlife tracks, or sharing the cultural and geological history of the region, our guides bring the trail to life in ways only a true local can. With them leading the way, you’ll discover the heart and soul of America’s wilderness like never before.

Hassle-free planning & logistics

Leave the logistics to us and focus on what truly matters—enjoying the adventure. We handle all the planning, so you don’t have to worry about the details. From securing permits and arranging accommodations to coordinating transportation and gear, we take care of every step of your journey. 

Whether it’s a multi-day trek through the mountains or a weekend getaway in the desert, we ensure your trip is seamless and stress-free. With our expert planning, you’ll spend less time worrying about maps and schedules and more time savoring the breathtaking views, fresh air, and the thrill of the trail.

A family looking at a coastal view in Big Sur, USA

Your dream hike – made real

No matter your style of adventure, we have a trip designed just for you. Whether you’re seeking the camaraderie of an all-women hike, the independence of a self-guided trek, or the comfort of a luxury hiking experience, we offer a range of options to suit every type of hiker. 

Explore iconic trails like the Grand Canyon or Yosemite on our classic trips, or discover hidden gems in lesser-known national parks with our off-the-beaten-path adventures. From challenging summit hikes to leisurely nature walks, we tailor each journey to match your pace, preferences, and passion. Whether you’re a solo traveler, a group of friends, or a family, we have the perfect getaway waiting just for you.

What do people think of Hiking Vacations in the USA?
Pam Joplin

Our guides were Natalie and Shea, and they were fantastic. Very knowledgeable, personable, and supportive of the team throughout. Highly recommend!

Ellen Blys

Maddi and Natalie we\’re amazing guides. They took great care of us and were very kind and attentive.

Alan Žepec

Andy was great!! Calm, outgoing, full of knowledge, interested in helping, great to be around. We enjoyed the hike!

Linda M.

Loved the national parks (absolutely stunning!!) and the physical challenge. Guides were fantastic. Took time and effort to learn the group and our own individual needs.

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Meet the guides in the area

5
Sunny Stroeer
Lead guide and the owner of AWExpeditions
Sunny led a career-oriented life as an international strategy consultant with a Harvard MBA until a formative adventure on Aconcagua made her drop everything and take on the outdoors full-time. Before long, her exploits on high-altitude hiking and climbing routes saw her breaking speed records worldwide. When she’s not traveling and setting FKTs left and right, Sunny organizes guided adventures, celebrates the sporting life and promotes female empowerment through her writing and photography.
Matt "Gnome" Dobson
5
Matt Dobson
Blue Ridge Hiking Company
Having moved around the world pursuing other professional interests, Matt has decided Western North. He has over 12,000 trail miles on his legs, including thru-hikes of the Appalachian Trail, Continental Divide Trail, John Muir Trail, and Long Trail. He has a Plant Sciences degree from the University of Tennessee and has spent many of his hours in nature studying its science and history.
Amy Hunsucker
Blue Ridge Hiking Company
Born and raised in South Carolina, Amy grew up hiking in the Carolinas. Her love for backpacking started on the Appalachian Trail with her first overnight trip in 2012. Since then, she has thru hiked all of the triple crown trails - Appalachian Trail, Continental Divide Trail, and Pacific Crest Trail - along with other trails throughout the US, totaling over 8,000 miles of backpacking.
Hannah Brock
Blue Ridge Hiking Company
Born and raised in Georgia, Hannah’s love of the outdoors began while digging for worms in the mud and playing in the red clay. Her passion for being in nature has grown since then and she has backpacked over 3,500 miles including a southbound thru-hike of the Appalachian Trail in 2013, sections of the Pacific Crest Trail, and many smaller backcountry trails in between!
Adam Kampouris
Blue Ridge Hiking Company
Born in the Catskills of NY and raised in the Blue Ridge of NC, Adam has always called the mountains of Appalachia home. Having survived a childhood of blissful, unsupervised galavanting through the local woods, he derives great joy in sharing his love of the natural world with others, and has yet to meet an outdoor activity he doesn’t like!
Heidi Nisbett
Blue Ridge Hiking Company
Heidi grew up in the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains and after graduating from Winthrop University with a BFA in Painting and Printmaking, she found herself falling in love with hiking and the outdoors.  She thru-hiked the A.T. in 2018 and kept a detailed sketchbook of watercolor paintings to document her travels.  She has since hiked a number of shorter trails and enjoys finding new ways to incorporate her creative practice into hiking.
Laurie Baggarly
Laurie Baggarly
Laurie, a seasoned fitness coach and passionate outdoorswoman, found her true calling as a backpacking guide after her first trip to the Grand Canyon in 2014. Hailing from the lush shores of the Big Island, she brings a unique blend of experience and enthusiasm to every adventure. When she's not leading hikes, Laurie enjoys surfing, gardening, and spending quality time outdoors with her family.
Tolman Losey
Tolman Losey
Tolman has lived near the Grand Canyon South Rim for over a decade and has been guiding TSX treks in both the Canyon and the Sierra since 2017. Hailing from Northern California, he is passionate about sharing the natural wonders of the wilderness with both seasoned adventurers and newcomers. Whether exploring backcountry trails or front-country paths, Tolman’s enthusiasm for the great outdoors shines through in every adventure.
Suzanne Sanger guide
Suzanne Sanger
Suzanne is a highly experienced and certified Functional Movement practitioner and Certified Outdoor Guide, offering movement classes and functional support for both experiences. Suzanne is a Holistic Movement Specialist certified in Yoga, Pilates, The Roll Method, Personal Training, and Expressive Art Therapy from the Tamalpa Institute. She is also a certified Ayurvedic Practitioner, Bodyworker, and Reiki Level 1 practitioner. With six years as a volunteer backcountry ranger in Sequoia Kings National Park and a certificate from the Mountain Leadership School in New Hampshire's White Mountains, Suzanne brings extensive experience in emergency wilderness medicine. Her expertise ensures thoughtful trail selection, flexible and attentive guidance, and beneficial movement classes before and after hikes.
Jack Bynum is the owner and lead guide of Indigo Alpine Guides
Jack Bynum
IAG Owner and Lead Guide
Jack Bynum, owner of Indigo Alpine Guides, has 10 years of experience guiding backcountry trips around the world. He has traveled over 20,000 miles by foot, sea, bike, kayak, raft, and skis, is the youngest person to ever solo Denali, and has put up first ascents on several Himalayan peaks. 
Shantel Thilman
Shantel's love affair with cycling began in Portland, Oregon, in 2013. Since then, she's embarked on thrilling adventures, including a self-supported tour from Anchorage to Baja—a whopping 6500 miles! In 2019, she solo-toured New Zealand's South Island for three months. Movement is her mantra, whether cycling, climbing, dancing, or practicing acroyoga. Catch her refueling at local breweries or coffee shops, exploring new spots whenever she can. Drawn to sunshine and the outdoors, when not guiding, Shantel can be found on a self-supported bike tour or roaming the Pacific Coast.
Kevin Pazaski
Kevin, a proud Washington native, finds joy in exploring the breathtaking landscapes of the Pacific Northwest, whether by bicycle or on foot. Despite his extensive international travels—having visited over 60 countries—Kevin remains captivated by the beauty right in his own "backyard". When he's not out adventuring, you can spot Kevin on a bike, trail running, taking a dip in open water, or perfecting his swing on the golf course.
Jenna Moog
Jenna is an adventurous soul with a particular love for snow. From her shy beginnings, she embraced skiing and running in her teens. While studying education, she discovered a love for cycling. By 30, she'd biked from Seattle to San Diego twice and visited 30 countries. Jenna's diverse experiences include teaching skiing, launching a hostel, and working in Special Education. She's also volunteered in Mexico and Australia and studied languages in Guatemala and Ecuador. Every November, she reflects on life during the Seattle Half Marathon, prioritizing curiosity, simplicity, and laughter with loved ones—although she's not a fan of socks.
Greg Fensterman
Greg is an experienced outdoor enthusiast with a rich history in mountain exploration. His journey began with a transformative Boy Scout backpacking trip to Philmont Scout Ranch, sparking a lifelong love for the mountains. During six years in Washington’s Cascades, Greg honed his skills and shared his expertise in various outdoor skills, such as navigation, snowshoeing, avalanche awareness, rescue, winter camping, and ice ax self arrest as an instructor with the Seattle branch of the Mountaineers. In 2002 he moved to Alaska, where Wrangell-St. Elias captivated him, inspiring pioneering treks and the authoring of “Hiking Alaska’s Wrangell-St. Elias National Park”.
Anna Nordin
Anna, a seasoned wilderness guide, brings a wealth of outdoor experience to her role. With five summers as a backcountry guide, she led canoe trips in the Boundary Waters and backpacking expeditions across the lower 48 and Alaska’s Brooks Range. She also worked with the Utah Conservation Corps, gaining knowledge in plant life and invasive species. Recently, Anna delved into sled dog care, training, and racing in Alaska. Her passion lies in connecting people and creating inclusive outdoor environments while promoting respect and allyship toward wild places and each other.
Matt McIntosh
Matt as an experienced guide is no stranger to the wilds of Alaska. With extensive backcountry experience, including trekking and guiding in the Brooks Range including ANWR and Gates of the Arctic as well as the Wrangells, he brings a wealth of knowledge. Matt’s passion for history shines through in his guiding, as he shares stories of the places he visits. Currently pursuing a master’s degree in history, he’s dedicated to empowering others to connect with their past, present and future.
Scott Gehrman
Scott is the Founder and Executive Director for Lasting Adventures, Inc. and has been guiding in Yosemite since 1995, in which he has personally logged over 8,000 miles. Scott is a recognized expert on the Yosemite backcountry and is often sought out and/or referred to by the park service to offer input and advice to other visitors and/or for park planning purposes. He holds certification in Basic Backpacking Awareness, is certified as a Wilderness First Responder by the Wilderness Medicine Institute of the National Outdoor Leadership School, and is trained as an Outdoor Emergency Care professional. In addition to actively facilitating the Lasting Adventures program in Yosemite, Scott has also expanded the program to other National Parks, including Olympic, Lassen/Volcanic, Joshua Tree, and Sequoia-Kings National Parks. When not on the trails or in the Lasting Adventures office, you might be able to catch Scott on the slopes snowboarding in Tahoe, or scuba diving at some remote destination.
Jesse Dunlap
With a dad in the Marines, Jesse was born ready to move around the world and discover all its secrets. Having worked as a walking history tour guide all around NYC, he soon started sharing his outdoor passion by guiding hikes in Upstate New York. He also worked as a sea kayaking guide in Prince William Sound, a fly-in backpacking guide in the Alaskan backcountry, and he led therapeutic wilderness programs in the desert of Utah. One of Jesse’s favorite memories was backpacking the full Pacific Crest Trail. Jesse is a friendly, knowledgeable guide who will make you feel right at home in the wild. Talk to him about Russian novels, his love of scary movies, or ask him to entertain you with his storytelling skills!
Dirk Veenema
Dirk Veenema
Dirk has been guiding with TSX since 2018 and has been happy in the woods since he was a kid at the creek. Originally from the east coast and trained as a mechanical engineer, Dirk found a home in the mountains of California after moving for grad school. He loves running, hiking, cycling, paddling, or anything else that keeps him moving in nature and especially exploring in the wilderness.
Kate Hill
Kate's love for being on trail stems from a childhood spent in the Sierra as well as her history as a runner. Through she has recently dipped her toes in the world of ultra running, Kate’s primary focus is backpacking. She considers backpacking the John Muir Trail as a life-changing experience, as she then decided to thru-hike the Pacific Crest Trail, Colorado Trail, Tahoe Rim Trail, and many other multi-week trails around the West. Kate finds herself drawn to guiding because she can fuse her main career, teaching, with her love for backpacking, and helping people experience the beauty of the Sierras is a dream come true.
Anju Samuelson
AMGA Assistant Rock Guide and Apprentice Alpine Guide
Anju is an AMGA Assistant Rock Guide and Apprentice Alpine Guide. Together with her partner, she runs Beartooth Mountain Guides located in Southern Montana. She is passionate about making the outdoors accessible for underrepresented groups in a supportive and empowering way. Originally from Germany, she has lived in Turkey, Chile, and the US and loves to connect her climbing pursuits with traveling.
Elise Marquette guide
Elise Marquette
Trekking and Hiking Guide, PSIAA Level 1 Ski Instructor
Based out of Red Lodge, Montana, Elise is an experienced trekking and hiking guide and a backcountry traveler through Montana’s wilderness. She focuses on following Leave-No-Trace standards and is an Emergency Medical Technician. Her love for the mountains started early on while growing up in Colorado. Elise is also a PSIAA Level 1 Ski instructor and ventures into the winter backcountry in her free time.
Dave Fatula
Dave founded Guineafowl Adventure Company as the ultimate manifestation of a job he truly loves: being in the wilderness, making connections with others, and leading them through perspective-shifting experiences. Having worked in professional investment firms for more than 20 years, Dave realized that he could no longer sit behind a desk and watch the opportunity of adventure pass him by. After looking back at his lifetime spent hiking, trail running, camping, and biking in the mountains, he realized that his passion became his expertise over time—and that’s when he decided to create a guiding company and a space that is safe, social, and ethically thoughtful enough to help folks push themselves for the sake of growth and exploration.
Christopher Hagedorn
Christopher is the founder of Get in the Wild, professional outdoor educator, wilderness guide, and leadership expert. He’s had a passion for the outdoors for as long as he can remember—he’s been climbing, exploring, and teaching throughout North America for over a quarter of a century, spending extensive time in the North Cascades, southern Appalachian Mountains, and southern Utah. Christopher has a Bachelor of Science in Geological Science and a Master of Science in Geotechnical Engineering. He thinks of himself as a leader and educator—the satisfaction in seeing others achieve their dreams is the fuel that keeps him going as he continues his lifelong adventure.
Melissa Phillips
Born and raised in the Puget Sound region of the Pacific Northwest, Melissa has been going out on hiking outings with her family since she can remember. That combined with other interests growing up (cross country running and environmental club) helped develop her outstanding skills in outdoor education, wilderness leadership, and natural history. Melissa has Bachelor Degrees in Biology and Primate Behavior and Ecology, but also a deep passion for yoga and photography. She helped create the Yoga In The Wild program, a unique program combining the practice of yoga with wonders of the natural environment.
Serra Langone
Serra Langone
Serra grew up in Massachusetts and spent summers at a lake house in New Hampshire. It was her parents who instilled the love for nature and physical activity, which has been going strong ever since. Serra is an avid runner and ultra runner and enjoys participating in Tough Mudders and Spartan races. She understands hiking can be intimidating, but her goal is to show aspiring hikers how much fun they can have and how to push their limits. With Guineafowl Adventure, she can do just that—help people conquer new experiences and reach new heights.
Alyssa Whoa
Originally from NYC, Alyssa graduated from college and moved to Maui to experience a change of scenery and culture. When she hiked through the Pacific Crest Trail, she fell in love with backpacking. Ever since then, Alyssa’s been spending a lot of time in Antarctica, working for a research station at the South Pole. When she’s not in Antarctica, Alyssa tries to spend her time outdoors with other adventurous souls to experience some of the most pristine backcountry areas on Earth.
Kate Hill
Kate's love for being on trail stems from a childhood spent in the Sierra as well as her history as a runner. Through she has recently dipped her toes in the world of ultra running, Kate’s primary focus is backpacking. She considers backpacking the John Muir Trail as a life-changing experience, as she then decided to thru-hike the Pacific Crest Trail, Colorado Trail, Tahoe Rim Trail, and many other multi-week trails around the West. Kate finds herself drawn to guiding because she can fuse her main career, teaching, with her love for backpacking, and helping people experience the beauty of the Sierras is a dream come true.
Dara Kelly
Having grown up in suburbia, Dara escaped to Vermont’s Green Mountains at age 19. After spending several summers leading backpacking, canoeing, and rock climbing trips in New England, Dara moved out to California to work as a river guide. Since then she’s spent over a decade working in remote wilderness areas in the Pacific Northwest, Rocky Mountains, Alaska, and the Southwest. She’s passionate about breaking down barriers to the outdoors and providing transformative experiences that feel both inclusive and supportive for all.
Kevin Capps
Kevin Capps
AMGA Certified Guide
Kevin has over 15 years of mountaineering and rock climbing experience throughout the United States and overseas as well. Whether he’s leading an advanced multi-pitch climb or teaching a large group their first climbing lesson ever, Kevin is one of the most confident and reliable leaders you’ll find. His goal is to show others the pleasures and rewards of climbing in the mountains he loves.
Bill Allen, Co-Owner and Lead Guide in Mountain Trip
Bill Allen
AMGA Certified Ski Guide and Co-Owner/Lead Guide of Mountain Trip
An Oregon native, Bill grew up playing in the Cascade Mountains, where he fell in love with the outdoors. His guiding career started over 20 years ago in Alaska and has taken him to all of the Seven Summits (thrice to the top of Mount Everest). Although he spends most of his time in the San Juan Mountains, he retains his love for Alaska, where he has guided around 30 expeditions on Denali.
Nandor Szotak
Nandor Szotak
Nandor is an avid hiker on Oahu and owner of Hungaro Explorer. Hawaii has been home for many years and in that time he has volunteered in a Hawaiian trail and mountain club, volunteered as search and rescue, and has helped with local trail maintenance. Whenever he is in nature, Nandor's first priority is respecting the land he is on and the people who lived there long before him.
Heidi Wirtz
Heidi Wirtz
AMGA Certified Rock Guide, Wilderness First Responder
Heidi is a climber, yogi and philanthropist at heart. She is one of the country’s few prominent female adventure climbers, climbing for over twenty years, and letting her passion for adventure and exploration lead her to exotic and remote places around the world. In the US, she is known as Heidi Almighty for her bold and technical climbing as well as speed ascents in Yosemite Valley.
Miranda Oakley
Miranda Oakley
AMGA-Certified Rock Guide
Miranda has been a climber for over 20 years. She has been a certified rock guide with the AMGA since 2016 and has been guiding since 2007. She has done first ascents around the world including climbs in Patagonia, the eastern Sierra and British Columbia. She was also the first solo ascender of The Nose of El Capitan, climbing it in less than a day! Miranda loves sharing her knowledge on rock climbing and is passionate about teaching people how to become confident and self-sufficient in the vertical world.
Elaina Arenz
Elaina Arenz
Elaina is an AMGA Certified Rock Guide and has been climbing professionally for over 20 years. She is an AMGA SPI Course Provider and a Warrior’s Way Trainer, a method of approaching climbing which helps one to stay focused to overcome fear of falling and improve commitment in climbing. She is also featured in photographer Chris Noble’s new book called Women Who Dare: North America’s Most Inspiring Women Climbers!
Colt Peeters
Hiking Guide and Wilderness First Responder
At 20 years old, Colt moved out of the Midwest to a small town outside of Rocky Mountain National Park, which is where he met his first true love—the mountains. In the following years, Colt spent his summers summiting 14ers, climbing the next big wall, or backpacking through the many wilderness areas of Colorado, Wyoming, and Utah. Finally, Colt moved to Oregon, where he became a wilderness therapy guide and where he worked closely with struggling youth and young adults.
Nastia Bendebury
Hiking Guide and Wilderness First Responder
Nastia has loved the wilderness since she saw the raw night sky full of stars in the Sierra Mountains. She has skied, climbed, and hiked her way across some of the most beautiful routes of North America, and is lucky enough to have landed as a guide in the Pacific Northwest — the place with some of the most luscious landscapes in existence.
Seth Pettit
Seth Pettit
AMGA Single Pitch Instructor and Rock Climbing Instructor
Seth has been a Joshua Tree resident, enjoying the National Park and it's exceptional rock climbing, since 2013. In 2013, following an intensive training period and subsequent exam, he earned an AMGA Rock Instructor Certification. This certification covers all rock climbing terrain available in Joshua Tree National Park! He has now worked with thousands of clients, through ten different organizations, in seven states.
Cody York
A self-taught professional photographer, Cody has established himself as a leading talent in the industry. With a focus on technical proficiency, creative lighting, and innovative concepts, Cody's work has graced the pages of renowned publications and notable ad campaigns. His journey began at the age of 15, fueled by his father's passion for photography and his own love for BMX. After gaining recognition in the BMX world, Cody embarked on an illustrious career, working with esteemed clients such as ESPN, New York Times, NBC, Red Bull, and Sports Illustrated. In 2011, he transitioned to full-time freelance photography, expanding his repertoire to encompass commercial, editorial, and advertisement work. Based in Cleveland, Ohio, Cody continues to capture breathtaking landscapes and imparting valuable insights and techniques to help others elevate their craft
sam magro
Sam Magro
Sam is the owner and Lead Guide for Montana Alpine Guides. He has guided professionally on rock, ice, skis, and alpine since 2004 throughout the world. Sam has experience in guiding ascents in all disciplines including 2,000′ 5.12 rock climbs, link-ups of WI6 ice routes, technical mountaineering in Peru and Alaska, and ski descents of couloirs up to 50 degrees. He firmly believes a good guide should be dedicated to high personal goals in order to always improve, learn, and maintain their skills!
Kaden Anderson
With more than a decade worth of experience in canyoning, and guiding experience in three continents and in both hemispheres, Kaden decided to focus on the sites in Colorado, more specifically the Ouray area because he fell in love with the place. His goal is to provide life-changing canyoning experiences to his guests.
Lindsay Hoffman
Lindsay Hoffman
Lindsay was born and raised in San Diego, making her an expert guide in her own back yard. Her lust for adventure, the outdoors and new experiences grew at a young age. She has since traveled all over the US and international destinations. Her greatest passion is getting people active in the outdoors. She has been a certified trail guide since 2011, a certified Wilderness First Responder since 2014, and a certified Tour Guide with the San Diego Professional Tour Guide Association since 2015!

Frequently asked questions about hiking vacations in the USA

  • Asking which U.S. state has the best hiking tours is like asking an alpinist to choose their favorite peak—it all depends on what you’re after.

    That said, if you want to have as much choice as possible, we’d recommend going to California. With its unrivaled diversity of terrain, the Golden State offers everything from coastal walks along the rugged cliffs of Big Sur to high-altitude scrambles in the Sierra Nevada, home to the iconic John Muir Trail and Mount Whitney, the tallest peak in the lower 48.

    For desert lovers, Joshua Tree and Death Valley present otherworldly landscapes, while the towering redwoods of NorCal will leave you feeling like a speck in nature’s cathedral. Want a peaceful day hike through the wildflower meadows of the Eastern Sierra or a grueling multi-day trek along the Pacific Crest Trail? California has something for you. It’s a state where you can hike year-round, each season revealing a different side of its vast wilderness.

  • The most famous hiking trail in the U.S. is undoubtedly the Appalachian Trail (AT), a legendary path stretching over 2,190 miles from Springer Mountain in Georgia to Mount Katahdin in Maine.

    This iconic trail is beloved by both seasoned thru-hikers and casual wanderers, offering breathtaking vistas and diverse ecosystems as it weaves through 14 states. From lush rhododendron thickets to rocky ridgelines, each section presents its own unique character, whether it’s the dramatic peaks of the Smokies or the rugged terrain of the Whites. With its rich history and vibrant trail community, the AT is more than just a hike—it’s a pilgrimage for anyone who feels the call of the wild.

  • Whether or not you need a permit depends on the specific trail, the location, and the length of your hike.

    Many best backpacking trip destinations in the US (the national parks and wilderness areas) require permits for backcountry camping or overnight hikes to help manage visitor impact and preserve the natural environment. For instance, the John Muir Trail and parts of the Pacific Crest Trail necessitate permits, while the more popular trails in the Grand Canyon and Yosemite also have specific regulations.

    Day hikes typically don’t require permits in most parks, but it’s always best to check the regulations for the specific trail you plan to tackle. Additionally, some states and regions have their own guidelines, so it’s wise to research local rules or consult park websites before hitting the trail.

  • The “Triple Crown”, or the three major hiking trails in the USA are:

    1. Appalachian Trail (AT): Spanning over 2,190 miles from Springer Mountain in Georgia to Mount Katahdin in Maine, the AT is arguably the world’s most famous long-distance trail, traversing 14 states through lush forests, rugged mountains, and charming towns.
    2. Pacific Crest Trail (PCT): This iconic trail runs approximately 2,650 miles from the Mexican border in California to the Canadian border in Washington. The PCT showcases diverse landscapes, including arid deserts and alpine ranges like the Sierra Nevada and Cascades.
    3. Continental Divide Trail (CDT): Stretching about 3,100 miles from Mexico to Canada, the CDT follows the Rocky Mountains along the Continental Divide, hence the name. Known for its remote and challenging terrain, it offers breathtaking views and a rugged backcountry experience.
  • America has many challenging hikes, and it’s tough to choose the hardest one. If we had to, we’d point to the Great Smoky Mountains End-to-End trail a true test of endurance and skill.

    Spanning approximately 70 miles from the southernmost point at Fontana Dam to the northern terminus at Davenport Gap, this rugged trail traverses the heart of the Smokies, demanding endurance, resilience, and a deep appreciation for nature’s beauty.

    The End-to-End Trail features steep ascents and descents, with elevation gains that can exceed 4,000 feet, all while navigating through dense forests, rocky outcrops, and often unpredictable weather conditions. Hikers must be prepared for everything from rainstorms to sweltering sun, as the trail weaves through some of the most biodiverse ecosystems in North America.

  • Denver, Colorado, often dubbed the “Mile High City,” is widely regarded as the city with the most hiking trails in the USA.

    Due to its location at the foot of the Rocky Mountains, Denver provides easy access to over 112 trails. Within the city limits, you’ll find a variety of parks and open spaces, such as Red Rocks Park and Amphitheatre and Bear Creek Park, offering scenic hikes that showcase stunning rock formations and vibrant landscapes.

    However, what truly sets Denver apart is its proximity to trailheads leading into the surrounding wilderness areas. The nearby foothills of the Rockies, including the Flatirons in Boulder and trails in the Mount Evans and Golden Gate Canyon areas, provide countless opportunities for outdoor enthusiasts.

  • Colorado is often considered the best place for winter hiking and backpacking trips in the USA. This is thanks to its mountainous landscapes, well-maintained trails, and abundant sunshine.

    Popular destinations like Rocky Mountain National Park offer breathtaking views and trails suitable for various skill levels, including the picturesque Bear Lake area, where trails are often packed down for easier access in winter. If you want to go more rugged, the San Juan Mountains in southwestern Colorado will provide dramatic backdrops and many backcountry routes that promise both challenge and solitude.

    Colorado’s relatively mild winter climate—often characterized by sunny days and dry conditions—allows for extended hiking seasons and less snow accumulation in many areas. Additionally, winter hikers can enjoy activities such as snowshoeing and ice climbing, making Colorado a versatile playground for outdoor enthusiasts during the colder months.

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