Alright, hear me out—2025 is shaping up to be wild for hiking. Everybody and their dog’s cousin is out there chasing epic views and those “look at me, I’m outdoorsy!” Instagram moments. We’re talking about trails that’ll make you sweat, gasp, or just wander around grinning like you discovered America yourself. There’s something here for the barely-outta-bed beginner and the seasoned trail junkie who thinks “rest day” is a dirty word. These routes are blowing up on X (yeah, still calling it Twitter when nobody’s looking) and Pinterest boards everywhere. I mean, look, if you’re gonna lace up your boots, might as well make it worth the blisters.
Why You Should Care About US Hiking Trails in 2025
So, why’s everybody hiking all of a sudden? Apparently, over 50 million Americans decided to hit the trails last year. That’s a lot of granola bars, dude. People are getting hyped about spots like Angels Landing and Half Dome—just scroll X for five seconds and you’ll see. It’s not just about the physical grind, either. You get killer views, maybe a touch of that “wow, nature is healing” energy, and you might even forget your phone’s dying for a minute. Pro-tip: book permits early and don’t show up in flip-flops. Trust.
Top 10 US Hiking Trails for 2025 (aka The Bucket List)
Here’s the fun part. These are the trails you’ll wanna brag about later. Some are chill, some will kick your butt, and all of ‘em are stupidly gorgeous.
- Angels Landing, Zion NP, Utah (Intermediate/Advanced)
Yeah, this one’s legendary. Only 5.4 miles round-trip, but it’s vertical enough to make you question your life choices—steep switchbacks, wild drop-offs, and the kind of views that’ll make you forget how much your legs hurt. You gotta score a permit, though.
Why Go: It’s the OG “hold my beer” hike.
Go When: Spring or fall—summer’s a sweatbox.
Gear: Decent boots. Like, REI-level legit.
- The Narrows, Zion NP, Utah (Intermediate)
Wanna wade through a river in a slot canyon? Of course you do. It’s 9-ish miles, half walking, half splashing, with cliffs soaring above your head. Don’t forget waterproof everything unless you like squishy socks.
Why Go: It’s basically hiking in a fantasy movie.
Go When: Summer, unless you’re into hypothermia.
Gear: Water shoes, dry bags, and maybe some courage.
- Half Dome, Yosemite NP, California (Advanced)
This one’s a beast—14.5 miles and a climb that’ll destroy your calves. Cables at the top make it feel like a legit adventure movie. Permits are required, so plan ahead.
Why Go: That view from the top? Unbeatable.
Go When: May–October. Otherwise, good luck with the snow.
Gear: Breathable layers, solid grip gloves, snacks you actually like.
- Bright Angel Trail, Grand Canyon NP, Arizona (Intermediate)
It’s 9.5 miles of “oh wow, am I really in the Grand Canyon?” with water stops (thank the hiking gods). You head down, so remember: what goes down must crawl back up.
Why Go: Classic views, manageable challenge.
Go When: Spring or fall, because summer is oven-mode.
Gear: Hydration pack. Seriously.
- Appalachian Trail, Springer Mountain to Katahdin (Advanced)
This isn’t just a trail—it’s a lifestyle. 2,190 miles, 14 states, and enough blisters to last a lifetime. Thru-hikers are hardcore, but you can just do a section and pretend.
Why Go: To say you did. Bragging rights, baby.
Go When: Spring through fall unless you’re a snow person.
Gear: Lightweight everything. Your back will thank you.
- Jordan Pond Path, Acadia NP, Maine (Beginner)
Short and sweet. Only 3.3 miles around a pretty pond, with gentle paths and those Acadia granite views. You could bring Grandma and she’d crush it.
Why Go: So chill, so pretty.
Go When: Fall—do it for the foliage.
Gear: Comfy daypack, maybe a camera for the ‘gram.
- Navajo Loop, Bryce Canyon NP, Utah (Beginner/Intermediate)
1.3 miles of weird, wacky hoodoos. It’s short, but the scenery is straight out of a Dr. Seuss book.
Why Go: Wild rock formations, easy in-and-out.
Go When: Spring or fall. Summer’s busy and bright.
Gear: Hiking poles if you’re into that sort of thing.
- Grinnell Glacier Trail, Glacier NP, Montana (Intermediate)
7.6 miles of “are you kidding me?” views, ending at a blue-green glacier. You might see bears, so keep one eye open.
Why Go: Mountain lakes, glaciers, a little wildlife roulette.
Go When: July–Sept. Any earlier and it’s snow city.
Gear: Waterproof jacket, maybe bear spray.
- Hoh River Trail, Olympic NP, Washington (Beginner/Intermediate)
17.3 miles through mossy wonderland, ending at a glacier. It’s long, but the rainforest vibes are next-level.
Why Go: Feels like you’re in Tolkien land.
Go When: Summer if you want to stay (mostly) dry.
Gear: Rain gear. Duh.
- Teton Crest Trail, Grand Teton NP, Wyoming (Advanced)
40 miles of rocky, alpine madness. Meadows, lakes, and views that’ll make your phone storage cry. You need a backcountry permit, so don’t be that guy.
Why Go: It’s the pro-level hike. Epic all the way.
Go When: July–September, unless you like hiking in snowdrifts.
Gear: Backpacking tent, good socks, extra snacks (you’ll need ‘em).
Getting Ready for Your 2025 Hike
Look, don’t just show up and wing it. Check park sites for permits and trail conditions—NPS.gov is your new best friend. Train a bit, pack smart (water, snacks, first aid, the works), and invest in decent boots. And, seriously, leave the flip-flops at home. Nobody thinks it’s cool.