When you get the itch to hit the trail, there are plenty of options for hiking, biking and riding ATVs or other off-road vehicles (ORVs). Here are just a few worthy hiking trails found in the U.S.
Black Mountain Loop, N.Y.
At the summit of this 5.6-mile Adirondack trail are outstanding views of Lake George, a windmill and one of the area’s few remaining fire towers.
Chain Lakes, Wash.
Follow this trail into the Chain Lakes Basin, where you will find pristine alpine lakes and perhaps snowfields, which sometimes never melt.
Clingmans Dome, Tenn.
Located in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, this is the third highest mountain east of the Mississippi at 6,643 feet above sea level. A steep half-mile hike leads to an observation tower with 360-degree views.
Grand Canyon National Park, Ariz.
Spectacular views are the norm when hiking the Grand Canyon. Challenges include extreme temperature changes and a lack of water, so pack layers and a full canteen!
Hawk Mountain Sanctuary, Pa.
Hawks, eagles and falcons are easily spotted at this Appalachian wild bird sanctuary, a favorite hiking destination of Cabin Life Facebook follower Margaret Hack Merlino.
Katahdin, Maine
Maine’s highest peak is the focus of this trail system in Baxter State Park. It also marks the northern terminus of the famed Appalachian Trail, which stretches 2,181 miles south, all the way to Springer Mountain in Georgia.
Mount Whitney, Calif.
Because this is the most frequently climbed peak in the Sierra Nevada, all hikers are required to obtain a permit. Go between mid-July and early October to avoid the need for ice axes and crampons.
Skyline Trail, Alaska
Located on the Kenai National Wildlife Refuge, this strenuous trail is only for the serious hiker looking to spot dall sheep, moose and brown bear. There are also spectacular views of the Kenai Mountains, and Mt. McKinley can be seen on a clear day.
Superior Hiking Trail, Minn.
This 296-mile route is a family-friendly way to follow the North Shore of Lake Superior. There are trailheads every 5-10 miles, so it’s perfect for both day hikers and backpackers.
Zion National Park, Utah
A great choice for the well-planned backpacking trip, this park has more than 90 miles of trails and 37 designated backpacking sites. Wilderness permits required.
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