Taking in the great outdoors is always a good idea, so we’ve highlighted 17 of our favorite parks and trails around the country. From easy strolls to challenging treks, there’s something for everyone. So grab your gear, pack the car, and get ready for an adventure of a lifetime.
Great Smoky Mountains National Park | Tennessee
America’s most visited national park, this Tennessee haven is free of charge to enter year-round. There are over 800 miles of trails, 80+ historic structures, many different elevations to choose from, and a wide range of plants and animals to explore.
Top hikes:
- Rainbow Falls Trail: This moderately challenging route is about 5 miles and takes around 3 hours to complete, but the waterfall at the end is worth it. Pro tip: Get an early start to beat the crowds, especially in the summer.
- Laurel Falls: If you’re looking for something a little easier, this 2.5-mile paved trail is for you. It’s short, sweet, and leads to the park’s most famous waterfall.
Grand Canyon | Arizona
One of the world’s most famous natural wonders, the Grand Canyon, never fails to amaze. Pro tip: The best views are from the bottom of the canyon, but these hikes require a bit more effort.
Top hikes:
- South Kaibab Trail to Ooh Aah Point: A 1.8-mile journey with unbeatable canyon views. Just remember, it’s all downhill at first, so the return will be a bit of a workout.
- Horseshoe Bend: This easy, 35-minute walk will take you to one of the most photographed spots in the U.S. With its turquoise blue waters and dramatic red backdrop, it’s a must-see, and it’s accessible for all levels of hikers.
- Antelope Canyon: Known for its light beams and winding passageways, this easy 0.6-mile hike is best experienced on a sunny day. Reminder: You need to book through a tour company in advance, as this hike is on Navajo land.
Zion National Park | Utah
Zion is a hiker’s dream with its high cliffs, narrow gorges, rivers & waterfalls, and of course, views for days.
Top hikes:
- Zion Narrows Bottom Up to Big Springs: This 9-mile hike takes you through one of the park’s most iconic spots. The towering canyon walls and flowing river make for an unforgettable experience. Water hiking shoes and poles are recommended.
- Angel’s Landing: This challenging 4.5-mile hike is one of Zion’s most famous. With steep climbs and chain-assisted sections, the views at the top are worth the sweat.
- Emerald Pools: A 3-mile moderate hike with beautiful pools and waterfalls along the way. It has a little bit of everything: canyons, water, and maybe even some wildlife by the trail.
Joshua Tree National Park | California
Located in southeastern California, just north of Palm Springs, this park is named after the Joshua trees native to the region. Joshua Tree is broken down into two deserts: the higher Mojave Desert and the lower Colorado Desert, providing two distinct ecosystems, with their own plants and wildlife.
Top hikes:
- Lost Palms Oasis: This 7.5-mile moderate hike leads you through the desert landscape and past two palm-filled oases. It’s a peaceful hike with a touch of adventure.
- Cholla Cactus Garden: Want a quick stroll through a cactus-filled garden? This short, easy 0.25-mile trail will give you just that.
- Ryan Mountain: This moderate 3-mile hike is packed with Joshua trees and is one of the most popular treks in the park. It does require you to climb up the mountain, but it’s well-shaded and well-maintained, so there’s no surprises along the way (other than the occasional big-horn sheep and rattlesnakes).
Grand Tetons National Park | Wyoming
With towering peaks, alpine lakes, and plenty of wildlife, the Grand Tetons offer some of the best hikes in the country.
Top hikes:
- Delta Lake: This 7.4-mile hike is on the challenging side, but the payoff is worth it with a crystal-clear lake surrounded by rugged mountain views on the other side. Reminder: This trail is a bit of a scramble, so it’s best if you’re an experienced hiker.
- Taggart Lake Loop: A 4-mile hike that’s perfect for a leisurely day out. You might even spot some wildlife along the way, like a wild moose.
- Hidden Falls: A short, easy 1-mile hike that takes you to, you guessed it, a hidden waterfall.
Glacier National Park | Montana
This park is one of the top reasons to take a trip to Montana. Sitting on the Canadian border, next to Waterton Lakes National Park in Alberta, Glacier National Park boasts over 700 miles of hikeable trails.
Top hikes:
- Highline Trail: This 15-mile hike is one of the most popular in the park, offering breathtaking views the entire way. If you’re up for a long day of hiking, this one’s for you.
- Avalanche Lake: A 6-mile hike with some easy terrain and a waterfall to enjoy along the way. The lake at the end is worth the hike, and you might even spot some wildlife on your trek.
- Hidden Lake: This 5.2-mile hike takes you to a secluded lake, perfect for a refreshing dip if the weather’s right. Keep an eye out for grizzly bears in the area and know that bear sightings sometimes cause the trail to close, so have a backup hike just in case.
- Bonus: Going-to-the-Sun Road: While it’s not exactly a hike, this stunning drive takes you to some of the most iconic spots in Glacier. It’s perfect for soaking in the incredible views if you’re not up for a long hike. Pro tip: Purchase a timed entry vehicle reservation before going to ensure entry onto the road.
Domestic adventures
There’s so much to explore when it comes to America’s great outdoors. From its national parks to its big cities and small towns, there’s something for everyone, and there’s no better way to enjoy it than by having some peace of mind.
Protect all your adventures, international and domestic, with Faye Travel Insurance.
