Nothing quite compares to the freedom and exhilaration of a hiking vacation. Whether you're an avid adventurer or someone looking to immerse yourself in nature for the first time, hitting the trails offers an unbeatable way to experience the world. I've been fortunate enough to trek through some of the most breathtaking landscapes, and let me tell you — there's nothing like watching the sunrise over Yellowstone National Park or feeling the mist of a Smoky Mountain waterfall on your skin. If you're looking to embark on a hiking trip of your own, this guide will help you find the perfect destination and ensure you're well-prepared for the adventure ahead. Benefits of a Hiking Vacation Hiking vacations offer a unique blend of adventure, exercise, and relaxation. Here are a few reasons to consider one for your next getaway: Unparalleled scenery – From rugged mountain peaks to lush forests, the views on hiking trails are unforgettable. Physical and mental health benefits – Hiking is great for both body and mind, reducing stress and boosting endurance. Immersion in nature – Unlike traditional sightseeing, hiking lets you truly connect with the natural world. Flexible options – Whether you prefer solo hikes or guided hiking tours, there's something for everyone. Top Hiking Destinations in the USA The U.S. is home to some of the most scenic hiking destinations in the world. Here's a breakdown of the best places to go, whether you're a beginner or an experienced hiker. 1. Great Smoky Mountains National Park Hikes Best trails for beginner hikers: Lynn Camp Prong Cascades (2.3 miles round trip) – A wooded path leading to a stunning waterfall. Kuwohi (formerly Clingmans Dome) (1 mile round trip) – A paved short but steep hike to the highest point in the park with panoramic views. Best trails for experienced hikers: Alum Cave Trail (4.6 miles round trip) and continue to Mount LeConte (10 miles round trip) – Features striking rock formations – including Arch Rock – and lush forest. Beyond Arch Rock, the hike gets more strenuous, but the breathtaking summit views are very rewarding. Charlie's Bunion (8 miles round trip) – A scenic hike along the Appalachian Trail with sweeping vistas of rugged mountain ridges and dramatic cliffs and a rocky outcrop. Where to Stay Westgate Smoky Mountain Resort & Water Park 915 Westgate Resorts Rd, Gatlinburg, TN 37738 | (800) 428-1932 Amenities include: On-site dining, two heated outdoor pools, hot tubs, marketplace, free self parking, water park, laundry facilities. FIND DATES 2. Rocky Mountain National Park Hikes Best trails for beginner hikers: Bear, Nymph, Dream, Emerald Lakes (3.8 miles) – A popular, family-friendly trail passing through four stunning alpine lakes set against dramatic mountain backdrops. You also have the opportunity to extend your hike to Lake Haiyaha. This part of the hike is a bit more challenging, but is so worth it. Sprague Lake Loop (0.7 miles) – A flat, wheelchair and stroller accessible trail with stunning mountain reflections in the lake and plenty of wildlife sightings. Best trails for experienced hikers: Chasm Lake (8.4 miles round trip) – A challenging hike culminating at a stunning lake nestled beneath the towering Long's Peak, offering unforgettable alpine views. Flattop Mountain (8.8 miles round trip) – A strenuous trail to one of Colorado's most iconic summits, offering panoramic views of the surrounding peaks and valleys. Where to Stay WorldMark Estes Park 701 Riverside Dr, Estes Park, Colorado 80517 | (970) 577-7517 Amenities include: Heated pool, three hot tubs, fitness center, laundry facilities, picnic and barbecue area. FIND DATES 3. Arches National Park Hikes Best trails for beginner hikers: Balanced Rock Trail (0.3 miles round trip) – A short, mostly flat loop around one of the park's most iconic formations—great for photos and sunset views. The Windows Viewpoint (1 mile round trip) – Easy access to several massive arches, with sweeping desert vistas and red rock all around. Best trails for experienced hikers: Delicate Arch Trail (3 miles round trip) – A moderately short, but strenuous hike to the park's most famous natural arch—especially stunning at sunrise or sunset. Devils Garden Trail (7.9 miles round trip) – A challenging adventure featuring narrow ledges, sandstone slabs, and access to multiple arches, including Landscape Arch, the longest arch in North America. Where to Stay WorldMark Moab 1435 N Hwy 191, Moab, Utah 84532 | (435) 719-2400 Amenities include: Swimming pool, hot tub, fitness center, on-site dining, game room, fire pit. FIND DATES 4. Yellowstone National Park Hikes Best trails for beginner hikers: Fairy Falls Trail (4.5 miles round trip) – A mostly flat trail through lodgepole pine forest to a dramatic 200-foot waterfall. Lone Star Geyser Trail (5.3 miles round trip) – A peaceful riverside hike on an old service road to a cone geyser that erupts roughly every three hours. Best trails for experienced hikers: Dunraven Pass - Mount Washburn Trail (7 miles round trip) – A steady climb to a panoramic summit with sweeping views of Yellowstone's rugged terrain, wildflowers, and frequent bighorn sheep sightings. Seven Mile Hole Trail (10.1 miles round trip) – A demanding hike that descends steeply into the Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone, offering dramatic canyon views and geothermal features along the way. Where to Stay WorldMark West Yellowstone 110 Gray Wolf Avenue, West Yellowstone, MT 59758 | (406) 646-7561 Amenities include: Heated indoor pool, two hot tubs, fitness center, game room, RV and trailer parking. FIND DATES Lesser-Known Destinations for Adventurous Travelers 1. Pocono Mountains, PA Best trail for beginner hikers: Bushkill Falls Trails (2 miles) – A series of well-maintained paths leading to stunning waterfalls. Great for families with kids! Best trail for experienced hikers: Mount Minsi Trail (5.3 miles round trip) – A rewarding climb with breathtaking Delaware Water Gap views of Mount Tammany, Kittatinny Ridge and the Delaware River. Where to Stay Club Wyndham Shawnee Village 5242 Buttermilk Falls Road, Shawnee On Delaware, PA 18301 | (570) 421-1500 Amenities include: Indoor and outdoor pools, hot tub, mini golf, fitness center, picnic and barbecue area. FIND DATES 2. Big Island, HI Best trail for beginner hikers: Pu‘uhonua o Hōnaunau Trail (2 miles round trip) – A gentle coastal trail through a sacred historic site with palm-lined beaches, lava rock paths, and tide pools. Best trail for experienced hikers: Kīlauea Iki Trail (3.3 miles round trip) – Descend through rainforest into a vast, hardened lava lake from a 1959 eruption. Expect surreal volcanic scenery and possible steam vents. Where to Stay Shell Vacations Club Kona Coast Resort 78-6780 Alii Dr, Kailua Kona, Hawaii 96740 | (808) 324-1721 Amenities include: Two pools, three hot tubs, on-site dining, golf course access, fitness center. FIND DATES 3. Smugglers' Notch, VT Best trail for beginner hikers: Moss Glen Falls (1 mile round trip) – A short trail through the woods leading to a picturesque viewing spot of a breathtaking waterfall. Best trail for experienced hikers: Hell Brook Trail (5.1 miles round trip) – A steep and rugged ascent up Mount Mansfield. Where to Stay Club Wyndham Smugglers' Notch Vermont® 4323 Vermont Route 108 South, Smugglers Notch, Vermont 05464 | (802) 332-6854 Amenities include: Heated outdoor pools, fitness center, on-site dining, mini golf, game room, live entertainment, bar and lounge. FIND DATES Guided Hiking Tours Advantages of Joining a Guided Tour If you're new to hiking or simply want a more immersive experience, a guided hiking tour can be a game-changer. Most national parks offer guided hiking tours through park services and in popular hiking destinations, there are often many private companies that specialize in guided tours. Here are some key reasons to consider a guided tour on your hiking vacation: No stress – The guide handles logistics like permits, navigation, and pace-setting. Safety first – Trained guides know how to deal with unexpected weather, wildlife encounters, and injuries. Educational value – Learn about native plants, animals, and the history of the trail from a local expert. Small group experiences – Many guided hiking tours emphasize small group dynamics which allow for personal interaction with guides and camaraderie and shared memories with the group. Tips for Preparing for Your Hiking Adventure Factors to Consider When Planning Your Trip A successful hiking vacation doesn't happen by accident—it takes planning. Choose the right season – Some trails are impassable in winter, while others are too hot in summer. Research trail difficulty – Know your limits and pick hikes that match your fitness level. Book accommodations early – National parks get busy, so reserve your lodging and any necessary tickets well in advance. Packing: Essential Gear and Preparation Packing smart is the key to a successful hiking trip: Footwear: Well-fitted hiking boots or shoes with good tread. Backpack: Comfortable and lightweight with water storage. Safety essentials: First aid kit, multi-tool, sunscreen, insect repellent, bear spray Layers: Weather can change quickly, so bring a moisture-wicking base layer, insulating layer, and waterproof outer shell Insights on Trekking vs. Hiking “Hiking” typically refers to day trips, while “trekking” involves multi-day journeys with overnight stays. Both offer incredible experiences—just choose what suits your level of adventure! Safety and the Golden Rule of Hiking Tell someone your plans before you head out Download your hike on the AllTrails app with an AllTrails+ subscription so you can access it even if you don't have service – essential for some of the more advanced trails Stay on marked trails Carry enough water and snacks Respect wildlife and leave no trace The golden rule: Leave it better than you found it. Frequently Asked Questions about Hiking Vacations What is the best hiking trip? That depends on your interests! If you love waterfalls and forests, the Smokies are a dream. Craving dramatic cliffs and desert vibes? Arches will blow your mind. What is the best time of year for a hiking trip? Spring (March–May): Great for wildflowers and mild temps Summer (June–August): Ideal for high-elevation trails, but busier with increased crowds Fall (September–November): Crisp weather and beautiful foliage Winter (December–February): Great for desert hikes or snowshoeing in select parks Ready to hit the trails? Whether you're heading to a national park or exploring a lesser-known gem, a hiking vacation is one of the best ways to experience the great outdoors. Pack your bags, lace up your boots, and embark on an adventure you'll never forget!
