The Top 10 Best U.S. States For Hiking (2023)

Have you ever wondered which U.S. state offered the best hiking? Whether you’re looking for beautiful scenery, lush greenery, or amazing views, this list has got you covered.

1. Colorado

Colorado offers a massive 41 State parks, 12 national parks, 13 national forests, and some of the most breathtaking views and scenery in the country. Notable Hiking destinations include Rocky Mountain National Park, Boulder, Aspen, Maroon Bells, and Roxborough State Park.

2. Washington

Washington State boasts nearly 700 miles of beautiful hiking trails. Although nowhere near in the scope of Colorado, the scenery is just as gorgeous. Notable Hiking destinations include Olympic National Park, Mount Rainier National Park, Olallie State Park, and Mt. Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest.

3. Utah

Utah is home to the ultra-popular Zion National Park. Zion National Park is known for its distinguished deep red cliffs. This dazzling park also contains one of the scariest trails in the United States, called Angels Landing. Other notable hiking destinations include Bryce Canyon National Park, Arches National Park, and Capitol Reef National Park.

4. Oregon

You definitely won’t be bored trekking throughout Oregon! Glittering Hot Springs, sparkling waterfalls, and its famous rugged coastline – Oregon surely does not disappoint. Notable Hiking destinations include Silver Falls State Park, Mount Hood National Forest, Willamette National Forest, and Crater Lake National Park.

5. California

Home to the famous Half-Dome in Yosemite Valley. California possesses some of the most sought-after trails and views from hikers all over the world. If you are into celebrity sight-seeing – you may be able to catch a few stars hiking through Runyon Canyon, near Los Angeles. Other notable hiking destinations include Lake Tahoe, Sequoia National Park, Big Sur, and Redwood National Park.

6. Arizona

Home to one of the largest and most beautiful canyons in the world, the aptly named Grand Canyon. Much like Utah, Arizona is well-known for its famous deep, rugged cliffs. Notable hiking destinations include Sedona, Superstition Mountains, Page, and Saguaro National Park.

7. Alaska

Offering the largest landmass of all U.S States, Alaska delivers breathtaking views and a unique experience due to its climate. Notable hiking destinations include Denali National Park, Chugach State Park, and Kenai Fjords National Park.

8. Montana

Montana is known for its diverse terrain, ranging from beautiful snowy fields to its lush greenscapes. Glacier National Park is the star of the state, but other notable hiking destinations include Custer Gallatin National Forest, Big Sky, Flathead National Forest, and Bozeman.

9. Wyoming

Home to one of the most popular and historical parks in the United States, Yellowstone National Park. Other notable hiking destinations include Grand Teton National Park, Bridger Wilderness, and Caribou-Targhee National Forest.

10. Maine

Last but not least, Maine comes in at number ten. Although the smallest state on the list, Maine packs a punch with its beautiful and rocky coastlines and trails. It also marks the end of the famous Appalachian Trail. Notable hiking destinations include Acadia National Park, Four Ponds Public Reserved Land, and Pleasant Mountain Preserve.

So there you have it! I’d love to hear your thoughts!