Few things are as American as hiking through national parks, the epitome of the USA’s natural beauty and variety of landscapes. Boasting more than 400 national parks that range from the rocky and rugged mountains of the Rockies, to the grassy prairies of the Great Plains, or the lush forests and long stretches of coastline along Washingtons Olympic National Park to expansive vistas in Bryce Canyon, each park promises trails like no other. 20-year veteran mountaineer and hiking enthusiast, you will learn from the best how to hike through these beautiful private properties. In this ultimate guide, we dive into must-see trails, preparation advice and the best national park options as you make your journey to experience what hiking can offer.
Why Hike in National Parks?
National parks are set aside to protect and display the natural beauty and ecological importance of a great variety of landforms. Hiking among these parks is an exceptional experience because:
1. Diverse Landscapes
National parks provide all sorts of terrain from dry and harsh deserts to lush rain forests, which deliver a wide variety of hiking. The unique style of trail and place you walk through is largely dependent on the geography and the weather in the specific park.
2. Preserved Natural Beauty
National parks are unsullied by commercialism, so when you visit them, you catch a glimpse of wildlife and landscapes unhampered by human development like most other areas on the planet. This way, the experience of hiking feels much more natural and real.
3. Varied Trail Options
With trails suited for all ability levels, whether you’re a hiker or a novice. Whether you enjoy short, scenic walks or are looking for challenging multi-day treks there is a trail to cater to everyone.
4. Educational Opportunities
National parks often feature guided tours and interpretive signs that describe the park’s geology, plants and animals, while recounting tales of their human history. By visiting these parks you can enjoy hiking and staying healthy as well as learning more about nature.
5. Outdoor Recreation
Hiking National Parks offer a bit of everything outdoors. Birdwatching,, rock climbing, kayaking and wildlife viewing are some of the activities you may also enjoy, depending on which the park.
Top National Parks for Hiking
Looking into the best national parks for hiking can enable you to arrange your adventures around the kind of activity you’re after. There are so many national parks around the country with really amazing hiking trails.
1. Yellowstone National Park (WY, MT, ID)
Summary: The oldest national park in the world, Yellowstone is most famous for its geysers, hot springs and fumaroles. The park features a range of different ecosystems from lush forests to open grasslands.
Top Trails:
Old Faithful/Fairy Falls: A moderate hike beginning at the famous Old Faithful geyser and finishing with the lovely Fairy Falls — scenic views, wild terrain.
Mount Washburn : A Strenuous hike that provides panoramic views of the park’s geothermal features and surrounding wilderness. Are drawn here by the view from summit- the Mount Margaret view.
Lamar Valley: Considered the “Serengeti of North America,” this zone is full of wildlife spottings on mostly flat walks.
Tips:
Weather: Be ready for changeable weather. Pack clothing layers as weather can quickly turn to rain or snow.
Wildlife Safety: Maintain a proper distance from wildlife to avoid disturbing them, and provide prevent great animals/human interactions by following all park regulations.
2. Yosemite National Park — California
Top Places to Stay in Yosemite National Park: Regularly visited by locals and tourists alike, a trip to Yosemite is incomplete without stopping at one of these comfortable accommodations. There are also plenty of hiking trails throughout the park, many suitable for different skill levels.
Top Trails:
Half Dome: This strenuous 14-16 mile round trip is one of the most iconic hikes in the park, taking you to the top of Half Dome for breathtaking views of the Yosemite Valley.
Mist Trail to Vernal and Nevada Falls (Difficult though!) -> best view of two of the most beautiful waterfalls you will ever see. The trail is very steep, and especially in this weather misty – nice…;-)
Glacier Point: Located off of a more simple trek, this area offers breathtaking views that give you the best panoramic look-on of Yosemite Valley, Half Dome and the High Sierra.
Tips:
Permits: Required for Half Dome Apply early as there may be a decent amount of permits available, but the demand is high as well.
Water: Always carry water, and more on hot days as much of the trails have very little shade.
3. Zion National Park (Utah)
Summary: Zion National Park, famed for its deep canyons and giant rock formations, is home to a range of ecosystems. There are trails for everyone, from meanderings to heart-pounding climbs.
Top Trails:
Angels Landing… Taking you up the side of a canyon, at the last however you are walking out along this extremely narrow ridge with steep drops either side. The scene at the top is definitely a sight to see.
Unique hike down the Virgin River and through slot canyons that hikers navigate by wading in the river. Note: This hike involves some wading and proper footwear is strongly recommended.
Observation Point: One of the best Zion hikes, an 8-mile round-trip up and down punishing switchbacks culminating in a viewpoint that provides a jaw-dropping view over the main canyon and one of its iconic formations.
Tips:
Main Canyon shuttle system: Zion operates a mandatory shuttle in the main canyon. Plan your trip and take the shuttle to reach popular trailheads.
Safety: If hiking Angles LandingBe careful of the Heights and inclement weather.
4. Grand Canyon National Park, Arizona
Highlight: With the time and many different steps that can reach you nowhere, the Grand Canyon offers an expansive view of some of the most famous natural wonders in the world. Its rough, uneven terrain offers hikes for every level.
Top Trails:
Bilght Angel Trail: An excellently maintained trail that descends into the canyon, with stunning views and access to Colorado River. 1+ DaysThe Liberty Lake Loop can also be done as a single day hike or an overnight backpacking trip.
South Kaibab Trail This incredibly scenic trail features dramatic vistas and strenuous mileage — followed by a trip into one of the canyon’s interior layers of rock.
North Kaibab Trail — 14 miles (22km) For a more isolated experience, this trail leads you to the remote North Rim and will give you access to the beautiful Roaring Springs.
Tips:
Beat the Heat: The canyon gets incredibly hot in summer. For the Love of Hiking…Hike at the Crack of Dawn, Pack a Gallon of Water and Expect Temperatures to Swing
Altitude: Even though this is would be linked with the uphill challenge, try to know about the altitude and set your pace accordingly. The altitude may affect your breath and endurance.
5. Rocky Mountain National Park, Colorado
Summary: High elevation peaks, alpine lakes, and open meadows in Rocky Mountain National Park. The park’s guided tours are provided by the staff and view of the Grand Canyon.
Top Trails:
Longs Peak: A difficult hike to conquer the highest peak in the park. This is a strenous hike that involves the proper acclimatization and being prepared for high elevation.
Bear Lake Trail: A moderate 0.6-mile round-trip, this is a great family-friendly trail that offers panoramic vistas of Bear Lake and the alpine landscape beyond.
Sky Pond — this is by-far one of the most difficult hikes that comes complete with gorgeous waterfalls and a beautiful alpine lake nestled into an impossibly rugged cirque.
Tips:
Altitude Sickness: Consider altitude sickness and acclimatize yourself properly before doing high-altitude hikes.
Weather — the Rockies are a dynamic environment and weather changes can be rapid. Layer, and be prepared for rogue rain.
National Park Hiking Etiquette
Safety Tips for Hiking in National Parks (So You Don’t Get Freakin’ Lost)
1. Plan Ahead
Learn about the park and the trails before planning to carouse. Always confirm the trail conditions, weather forecast, and alert or closure of the park. Plan your trip and get the permits you need (backcountry, campgrounds )
2. Prepare Proper Gear
She recommends wearing sturdy boots or trail shoes and moisture-wicking clothing based on the weather for the day. Bring your required equipment [map, compass/GPS, first aid kit, and enough food & water]
3. Follow Park Regulations
Follow the park rules and regulations! Remember that these exist both to keep you safe but also in place to protect the environment. Use designated routes, pack it in-pack it out and respect the Guidelines for making wildlife encounters ramble free via these ‘Fire Restricted’ areas.
4. Use Leave No Trace Principles
Reduce your impact: Leave no trace. Respect these areasoLeave natural and cultural features as you find them, do not take plants or disturb wildlife, stay on established trails or roads, and use appropriate restroom facilities.
5. Stay Hydrated and Nourished
Stay hydrated before, during and after your hike. Take tons of water and high-energy snacks. It is also important to consume enough water and get proper nutrition so you can continue throughout the day without going hungry or thirsty.
6. Know the Weather
Weather changes quickly, especially in the mountains or out of town. Before setting out, check the weather and be ready for changing conditions. Wear layers and bring rain gear, sun protection, warmer clothing where needed.
7. Hike Within Your Limits
Select trails you are capable of hiking. Dont bite off more than you can chew and be pretty turned around at any time if the going gets bad. Be aware of this and take breaks as necessary.
8. Navigation and Safety
Always have a map and compass in your gear bag or GPS if you are 20 and only hike out. Tell someone your plans and what time you expect to be back. Know the emergency procedure of the park and have a plan in case you need to call for help.
Conclusion
National parks are incredible places to get in touch with nature, test your limits through physical challenge and explore some of the most breath taking places you could imagine as they really offer it all. By doing your homework, you can really maximise your hiking experiences and make them worth remembering. Whether you choose to explore the iconic trails of Yosemite and Zion or take in the wide open spaces of Yellowstone and the Grand Canyon, there’s something for everyone at each park. Embrace
the breathtaking trails of these national park treasures, adhere to the safety guidelines, and embark on a true adventure that is as therapeutic as you allow hiking in national parks to be. Happy hiking!
A comprehensive guide on hiking in national parks — with information on the most epic trails, how to prepare, more useful tips and everything you need for a successful and enjoyable experience! This will complement expert advice with first-hand experiences, enhance your decision-making process and help you understand the beauty of hiking these natural jewels; on a pack frame (trail).
