There’s no doubt about it — summer is the season for hiking. Whether you’re a novice or an expert, there are some trails that belong on everyone’s bucket list. As we slowly approach the summer season, now’s the perfect time to plan for some memorable hiking experiences. Take a look at the top five best hikes in the U.S. that are summer-friendly and see which ones you’d like to conquer during the season:

1. Harding Icefield Trail (Alaska)
Harding Icefield Trailhead, Exit Glacier Rd, Seward, AK 99664, USA
Amy Meredith/flickr
Experiencing Alaska's mesmerizing glaciers is a once-in-a-lifetime experience. Head to Kenai Fjords National Park in the summertime and you'll be able to experience this stunning landmark via a meandering trail through alpine meadows. It's one of the most scenic hikes in the U.S.

Read our previous coverage to learn more about the Harding Icefield Trail.
2. Cadillac Mountain North Ridge Trail (Maine)
Acadia National Park Pond, Bar Harbor, ME 04609, USA
Ryan Hyde/flickr
Acadia National Park is nothing short of magical if you're enchanted by coastal views. Cadillac Mountain just so happens to be the tallest peak on the eastern seaboard, and you can bet the trail boasts some incredible views. While the hike may be challenging, it's only four miles round trip so you'll have plenty of time for a picnic along the way or afterwards. It's one of the best hikes in the U.S.

Read our previous coverage to learn more about the Cadillac Mountain North Ridge Trail.
3. Mist Trail at Yosemite National Park (California)
Mist Trail, California, USA
Yi-Liang (Lucas) Liu/flickr
One of the most iconic treks in Yosemite, the aptly-named Mist Trail meanders past two massive waterfalls (Vernal Fall and Nevada Fall) that have been known to mist hikers along the way. What could be more perfect on a hot summer afternoon?

Visit AllTrails to learn more about hiking the Mist Trail.
4. Hoh River Trail (Washington)
Hoh River Park Drive, Hoh River Park Dr, Washington 98331, USA
Steve Voght/flickr
Tucked away in Olympic National Park, the Hoh River Trail offers exquisite views of the Washington state forest. Along the way, you'll notice evergreens, the Hoh River, and most certainly some wildlife. It's one of the most scenic hikes in the U.S.

Read our previous coverage to learn more about the Hoh River Trail.
5. Highline Trail (Montana)
Highline Trail, West Glacier, MT 59936, USA
Frank Fujimoto/flickr
Boasting exquisite views of the Continental Divide, the Highline Trail in Glacier National Park offers countless picturesque overlooks. On a gorgeous summer day, it's perfect hike for outdoor lovers and nature enthusiasts alike.

Read our previous coverage to learn more about the Highline Trail!

What are your thoughts on these beautiful hiking trails? Do you agree that they are some of the best hikes in the U.S.? Which have you completed in the past? Be sure to share your experiences with us!

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Best Hikes In The U.S.

Melissa M. | March 11, 2022

Are there any kid-friendly hikes in the U.S.?

Each and every state has its own kid-friendly hikes that are perfect for the entire family to enjoy together! You can take the kids on one of these seven easy trails in Alabama, an easy trail under one mile in Virginia, a scenic trail through the woods in Idaho…the possibilities are endless! You can always do a search on OnlyInYourState and find where you would like take the family on a kid-friendly hike.

What are the easiest hikes to take in the U.S.?

Every state has its own version of an easy hike, and we handpicked one in each state. In our article, 50 Best Short And Scenic Hikes In All 50 States, you’ll be able to plan what easy hike you would like to take in your own state or a state you are visiting. If you’re in Alabama, how about a hike to a cave at Stephens Gap? At Cape Henlopen State Park in Delaware, you can take a scenic trail along the beach for over four miles! And how about a hike through all the beauty and splendor at Starved Rock State Park in Illinois?

What are the best camping spots in the U.S.?

The United States has some of the most incredible camping spots in the world. You can camp in many parks, both state and national. For example, wouldn’t you just love to go camping on the beach in Hawaii along the Na Pali Coast? This gorgeous stretch of coastline is unlike anywhere else to camp in the country. If you enjoy stargazing, spending the night at Cosmic Campground in New Mexico, the first international dark sky sanctuary in the country, is a must.

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