Best States for Hiking: The Ultimate Guide to America’s Top Trail Destinations

I still remember the moment I fell in love with hiking – standing on a Colorado peak at sunrise, watching the first golden rays paint the Rocky Mountains in shades of amber and rose. That breathtaking experience launched a decades-long quest to explore America’s finest hiking destinations, from the towering redwoods of California to the rugged wilderness of Alaska. After walking hundreds of trails across dozens of states, I’ve learned that while every state offers outdoor adventures, some truly shine as hiking paradises.

Whether you’re a weekend warrior seeking nearby escapes or a serious hiker planning cross-country adventures, understanding which states offer the best combination of trail variety, scenic beauty, and year-round accessibility can transform your outdoor experiences. From desert canyons to alpine peaks, coastal cliffs to prairie vistas, America’s diverse landscapes provide endless opportunities for exploration.

If you’re just beginning your hiking journey, you might find it helpful to explore our guide on hiking for beginners to build essential skills and knowledge for tackling trails safely.

What Makes a State Great for Hiking?

Before diving into specific states, it’s important to understand the criteria that separate good hiking destinations from truly exceptional ones. The best hiking states share several key characteristics that create optimal conditions for outdoor adventures.

Trail Quality and Variety

Exceptional hiking states offer diverse terrain that caters to all skill levels and interests. This includes everything from gentle nature walks suitable for families to challenging multi-day backpacking routes for experienced adventurers. The best states provide well-maintained trails with clear marking, reliable maps, and active maintenance programs that keep paths safe and accessible.

Year-Round Accessibility

Climate considerations play a crucial role in hiking quality. States with moderate precipitation and favorable weather patterns allow for extended hiking seasons, while extreme weather can limit access to trails for months at a time. The ideal hiking destinations offer opportunities in multiple seasons, with trails accessible when other regions are experiencing harsh conditions.

Protected Wilderness Areas

National and state parks provide the backbone of any state’s hiking infrastructure. These protected areas ensure trail preservation, offer visitor services, and maintain the pristine environments that make hiking memorable. States with robust park systems typically offer better hiking experiences with reliable facilities and professional management.

Community and Infrastructure

Trail accessibility and support services distinguish great hiking states from merely good ones. This includes trailhead parking, restroom facilities, visitor centers, and local businesses that support outdoor recreation. The best hiking destinations have engaged outdoor communities that contribute to trail maintenance and provide resources for visitors.

The Top 10 Best States for Hiking

Based on a comprehensive analysis of trail ratings, variety, accessibility, and outdoor infrastructure, these ten states consistently deliver exceptional hiking experiences across diverse landscapes and conditions.

1. California: The Golden Standard

California dominates American hiking with an unmatched combination of trail quantity, diversity, and iconic destinations. With 13,175 documented hiking trails spanning desert to coastline to alpine peaks, the Golden State offers more hiking opportunities than any other region.

What Makes California Special:

• Nine National Parks, including Yosemite, Sequoia, Joshua Tree, and Death Valley
  
• 280 State Parks providing local access across diverse regions
  
• Year-round hiking opportunities due to the varied climate zones
  
• 4.4 average trail rating, indicating consistently high-quality experiences
  

Must-Experience Destinations:

• Yosemite Valley offers world-class granite climbing and waterfall hikes
  
• Point Reyes provides stunning coastal hiking with marine wildlife.
  
• Joshua Tree combines unique desert landscapes with accessible rock formations.
  
• Sequoia National Park features ancient giant trees and the High Sierra wilderness.
  

California’s incredible diversity means you can hike desert canyons in the morning and coastal redwoods in the afternoon, making it the ultimate destination for serious hiking enthusiasts.

2. Colorado: Rocky Mountain Paradise

Colorado’s reputation as a hiking mecca stems from its 4,802 diverse trails winding through some of America’s most spectacular mountain scenery. With an impressive 4.4 average trail rating and over 2.4 million trail reviews, Colorado consistently delivers world-class hiking experiences.

Colorado’s Hiking Advantages:

• Four National Parks, including the Rocky Mountains and the Great Sand Dunes
  
• High altitude training opportunities for serious athletes
  
• 300+ sunny days annually, creating ideal hiking conditions
  
• Extensive 14er network with 58 peaks over 14,000 feet
  

Iconic Colorado Experiences:

• Maroon Bells provide postcard-perfect alpine lake reflections
  
• The Trail Ridge Road area offers high-altitude tundra hiking.
  
• The Colorado Trail spans 500 miles of diverse mountain terrain.
  
• The San Juan Mountains feature remote wilderness and mining history.
  

Colorado’s combination of accessibility and challenge makes it perfect for hikers seeking to push their limits while enjoying breathtaking mountain vistas.

3. Utah: Desert Wonderland

Utah’s 2,763 hiking trails traverse some of Earth’s most otherworldly landscapes, earning the state a 4.4 average trail rating and a reputation as a desert hiking paradise. Home to “The Mighty Five” national parks, Utah offers unique geological formations found nowhere else.

Utah’s Unique Appeal:

• Dry climate allows year-round hiking in many areas
  
• Five National Parks showcasing diverse desert ecosystems
  
• Slot canyons provide unique, narrow gorge experiences.
  
• Red rock formations create stunning photographic opportunities.
  

Must-See Utah Destinations:

• Zion’s Narrows offers river hiking through towering canyon walls
  
• Arches National Park features natural stone arches and balanced rocks.
  
• Bryce Canyon showcases intricate hoodoo formations.
  
• Canyonlands provides vast wilderness and remote backcountry.
  

Utah’s reliable weather and unique geology make it an ideal destination for hikers seeking distinctive landscapes and consistent trail conditions.

For those interested in exploring Texas’s hiking opportunities, our comprehensive guide to the best hiking trails in Texas provides detailed information about the Lone Star State’s diverse outdoor offerings.

4. Arizona: Desert Majesty

Arizona’s 2,953 hiking trails offer some of America’s most dramatic desert hiking, with a 4.4 average trail rating reflecting the state’s exceptional trail quality and stunning scenery. The Grand Canyon State provides year-round hiking opportunities in one of the world’s most iconic landscapes.

Arizona’s Hiking Highlights:

• Grand Canyon offers an unparalleled geological spectacle
  
• Saguaro cacti create unique Sonoran Desert experiences.
  
• Dry climate ensures consistent hiking conditions.
  
• Three National Parks, including the Grand Canyon and the Petrified Forest
  

Essential Arizona Trails:

• Grand Canyon South Rim provides accessible views and day hikes
  
• Camelback Mountain offers challenging Phoenix-area summit hikes.
  
• Sedona red rocks feature spiritual vortex sites and stunning formations.
  
• Antelope Canyon showcases incredible slot canyon photography.
  

Arizona’s reliable weather and world-famous landmarks make it a bucket-list destination for hikers seeking iconic American landscapes.

5. Oregon: Pacific Northwest Paradise

Oregon’s 3,155 hiking trails wind through some of America’s most diverse and beautiful landscapes, earning a 4.3 average trail rating despite the region’s reputation for rain. With over 255 state parks, Oregon provides incredible hiking variety from coast to mountains.

Oregon’s Natural Diversity:

• Cascade Mountains offer volcanic peaks and alpine lakes
  
• Pacific Coast provides a rugged shoreline and marine ecosystems.
  
• The Columbia River Gorge features spectacular waterfalls.
  
• Dense forests create lush, green hiking environments.
  

Iconic Oregon Destinations:

• Crater Lake showcases the deep blue volcanic lake beauty
  
• Mount Hood provides challenging alpine climbing opportunities.
  
• The Oregon Coast Trail offers 400+ miles of shoreline hiking.
  
• Columbia River waterfalls include stunning Multnomah Falls.
  

Oregon’s incredible biodiversity and scenic beauty make it perfect for hikers who appreciate lush forests and dramatic coastal landscapes.

6. Washington: Mountain and Sea

Washington State’s 4,426 hiking trails provide access to incredible diversity, from temperate rainforests to glacier-covered peaks. With a 4.3 average trail rating and three national parks, Washington offers world-class hiking in pristine wilderness settings.

Washington’s Hiking Assets:

• Olympic National Park features temperate rainforest and rugged coast
  
• Mount Rainier offers challenging glacier and alpine hiking.
  
• The North Cascades provide remote wilderness and dramatic peaks.
  
• Puget Sound creates unique island and coastal hiking opportunities.
  

Premier Washington Experiences:

• Olympic Peninsula rainforest hikes through ancient moss-covered trees
  
• Mount Rainier wildflower meadows and glacier views
  
• The San Juan Islands offer coastal hiking and marine wildlife.
  
• Cascade Pass provides classic North Cascades mountain scenery.
  

Washington’s combination of mountains, forests, and coastline creates unparalleled hiking diversity in a compact geographic area.

7. New York: More Than the City

New York’s 4,416 hiking trails might surprise those who associate the state only with urban areas. With 180 state parks and a 4.3 average trail rating, the Empire State offers extensive hiking opportunities throughout the Adirondacks, Catskills, and beyond.

New York’s Hidden Hiking Gems:

• Adirondack Park provides 6 million acres of wilderness
  
• The Catskill Mountains offer classic Northeastern mountain hiking.
  
• The Finger Lakes region features lake shore and vineyard trails.
  
• Long Island provides coastal hiking and nature preserves.
  

Notable New York Destinations:

• Mount Marcy stands as the state’s highest peak
  
• Ausable Chasm offers unique gorge hiking experiences.
  
• Watkins Glen features stunning waterfall and gorge trails.
  
• Bear Mountain provides accessible hiking near New York City.
  

New York proves that incredible hiking exists even in heavily populated states, offering excellent escapes from urban environments.

8. North Carolina: Southern Mountain Beauty

North Carolina’s 2,437 hiking trails earn an impressive 4.4 average trail rating, showcasing the state’s commitment to trail quality and natural beauty. From the Blue Ridge Mountains to coastal plains, North Carolina offers diverse hiking experiences with legendary fall foliage.

North Carolina’s Hiking Strengths:

• The Great Smoky Mountains provide ancient mountain ecosystems
  
• Blue Ridge Parkway offers scenic mountain ridge hiking.
  
• The Outer Banks feature unique coastal dune environments.
  
• Diverse ecosystems from mountains to coast within driving distance
  

Signature North Carolina Trails:

• Mount Mitchell reaches the highest peak east of the Mississippi
  
• Grandfather Mountain offers challenging rock scrambles and views.
  
• Cape Hatteras provides coastal hiking and lighthouse visits.
  
• Appalachian Trail traverses the state’s mountain spine.
  

North Carolina’s biodiversity and seasonal beauty make it exceptional for hikers seeking traditional Eastern mountain experiences.

9. Texas: Big Sky Country

Texas may surprise many with its inclusion among the top hiking states, but the Lone Star State’s 1,832 high-quality trails earn an impressive 4.4 average trail rating. Texas offers unique hiking experiences that showcase the state’s diverse geography and bold character.

Texas Hiking Characteristics:

• Big Bend provides a remote desert wilderness
  
• Hill Country offers spring wildflower displays.
  
• East Texas forests feature humid subtropical ecosystems.
  
• Gulf Coast provides coastal prairie and wetland hiking.
  

Essential Texas Hiking:

• Big Bend National Park showcases Chihuahuan Desert beauty
  
• Lost Maples provides spectacular fall color displays.
  
• Palo Duro Canyon offers dramatic “Grand Canyon of Texas” scenery.
  
• The East Texas Piney Woods feature humid forest environments.
  

Texas proves that great hiking exists in unexpected places, offering experiences as big and bold as the state’s reputation.

For more detailed information about Texas hiking opportunities, explore our comprehensive guide to hiking in Austin, which covers some of the state’s most accessible and beautiful trails.

10. Alaska: Last Frontier Wilderness

Alaska rounds out the top ten with 1,000 documented trails that provide access to America’s last great wilderness. With eight national parks – more than any state except California – Alaska offers unparalleled opportunities for remote, pristine hiking experiences.

Alaska’s Unique Offerings:

• Denali National Park features North America’s highest peak
  
• Glacier Bay provides tidewater glaciers and maritime hiking.
  
• The Arctic wilderness offers experiences unavailable anywhere else.
  
• Wildlife viewing includes bears, moose, and marine mammals.
  

Iconic Alaska Experiences:

• Denali provides subarctic tundra and mountain hiking
  
• The Kenai Peninsula offers accessible glacier and coastal trails.
  
• The Chugach Mountains provide dramatic peaks near Anchorage.
  
• Inside Passage features temperate rainforest and fjord hiking
  

Alaska’s raw wilderness scale and pristine environments make it the ultimate destination for hikers seeking authentic frontier experiences.

Regional Hiking Characteristics

Understanding regional patterns helps hikers choose destinations that match their preferences and skill levels.

Western States: Desert and Mountain Majesty

Western states dominate hiking rankings due to diverse terrain, favorable climate, and extensive public lands. These regions offer year-round hiking opportunities with dramatic scenery and well-developed trail infrastructure.

Key Advantages:

• Low precipitation creates consistent trail conditions.
  
• Varied elevation provides options for all seasons.
  
• Large wilderness areas offer remote experiences.
  
• Strong outdoor communities maintain excellent trail systems.
  

Eastern States: Forest and Mountain Tradition

Eastern hiking emphasizes forested mountain trails, waterfalls, and traditional Appalachian experiences. While the weather can be more challenging, these regions offer lush environments and rich hiking history.

Notable Features:

• Dense forest cover provides shade and a wildlife habitat
  
• Waterfall abundance creates scenic trail destinations.
  
• Historical significance includes the Civil War and early American sites.
  
• Seasonal variety offers distinct experiences throughout the year.
  

Seasonal Considerations for State Selection

Spring Hiking Opportunities

Spring hiking varies dramatically by region, with southern and western states providing earlier access while northern states may still have snow. Desert states like Arizona and Utah offer ideal spring conditions, while mountain states may require lower elevation trails.

Best Spring States:

• California: Wildflower blooms in desert regions
  
• Texas: Hill Country wildflower displays
  
• Arizona: Optimal temperature before summer heat
  
• North Carolina: Early mountain wildflowers
  

Summer Mountain Access

Summer opens high-altitude trails in mountain states while making desert hiking challenging during midday hours. This season favors northern and high-elevation destinations.

Premier Summer Destinations:

• Colorado: High-altitude trail access
  
• Washington: Alpine meadow wildflowers
  
• Alaska: Peak accessibility and weather
  
• New York: Comfortable mountain conditions
  

Fall Color Spectacles

Autumn hiking provides incredible foliage displays, particularly in eastern states, while western states offer comfortable temperatures and clear skies.

Top Fall Hiking:

• North Carolina: Legendary Blue Ridge color
  
• New York: Adirondack and Catskill foliage
  
• Colorado: Golden aspen displays
  
• Utah: Comfortable temperatures return
  

Winter Opportunities

Winter hiking varies from impossible in some northern states to ideal in desert regions. Understanding seasonal patterns helps maximize hiking opportunities year-round.

Best Winter Options:

• Arizona: Prime hiking season
  
• California: Southern desert ideal conditions
  
• Texas: Comfortable temperatures
  
• Utah: Lower elevation accessibility
  

For those planning winter outdoor adventures, learning about camping in the snow can provide valuable insights for cold-weather hiking preparation.

Planning Your Multi-State Hiking Adventures

Creating Hiking Road Trips

Multi-state hiking trips allow adventurers to experience diverse landscapes and compare different hiking cultures. Popular routes include Southwest desert tours, Rocky Mountain expeditions, and Pacific Coast journeys.

Classic Hiking Routes:

• Southwest Circle: Utah, Arizona, Colorado, New Mexico
  
• Pacific Trail: California, Oregon, Washington
  
• Appalachian Explorer: North Carolina, Virginia, New York
  
• Rocky Mountain High: Colorado, Utah, Wyoming, Montana
  

Budget Considerations by State

Hiking costs vary significantly by state, influenced by camping fees, permit requirements, fuel costs, and local service prices. Planning budgets around state-specific costs helps manage expenses.

Budget-Friendly Options:

• Texas: Low camping fees, abundant free dispersed camping
  
• Utah: Reasonable national park access, free BLM lands
  
• Arizona: Winter camping bargains, free desert access
  

Higher-Cost Destinations:

• California: Premium camping fees, higher fuel costs
  
• Alaska: Expensive logistics, limited infrastructure
  
• Washington: Higher service costs, competitive camping
  

Transportation and Logistics

Getting to trailheads represents a major consideration when choosing hiking destinations. States with extensive trail networks near population centers offer easier access, while remote wilderness requires more complex logistics.

According to the comprehensive outdoor recreation guide from Outside Magazine, careful planning ensures optimal experiences at each destination.

Special Considerations for Different Hiking Styles

Backpacking and Multi-Day Trips

Serious backpackers require states with extensive wilderness areas, reliable water sources, and established backcountry camping systems. Western states generally offer superior infrastructure for extended trips.

Best Backpacking States:

• Colorado: Abundant high-country camping
  
• California: John Muir and Pacific Crest Trails
  
• Washington: Olympic and North Cascades wilderness
  
• Utah: Unique slot canyon and desert experiences
  

Day Hiking and Family Adventures

Day hikers and families benefit from states with numerous shorter trails, good facilities, and varied difficulty options. These destinations provide excellent introductions to hiking without camping requirements.

Family-Friendly Leaders:

• New York: Accessible trails near population centers
  
• North Carolina: Moderate mountain hiking with facilities
  
• Oregon: Diverse options from easy to challenging
  
• Texas: Unique landscapes with manageable distances
  

Extreme and Challenge Hiking

Advanced hikers seeking technical challenges and remote experiences require states with serious wilderness access and demanding terrain.

Challenge Destinations:

• Alaska: Ultimate wilderness and self-sufficiency tests
  
• Colorado: High-altitude endurance challenges
  
• Washington: Technical alpine and glacier approaches
  
• California: Long-distance trail systems
  

State-by-State Trail Resources

Official State Resources

Most top hiking states maintain comprehensive trail databases and planning resources:

• California: California State Parks and AllTrails integration
  
• Colorado: Colorado Trail Foundation and 14ers.com
  
• Utah: Utah Office of Tourism trail guides
  
• Arizona: Arizona State Parks’ comprehensive databases
  

Local Hiking Communities

Strong hiking communities characterize the best hiking states, providing trail maintenance, safety information, and social connections for visiting hikers.

Guided Services and Outfitters

Professional guide services can enhance experiences in challenging terrain or for visitors unfamiliar with local conditions. Most top hiking states offer extensive guide services and outdoor education opportunities.

Making Your State Selection

Matching Preferences to Destinations

Personal preferences should drive state selection more than rankings alone. Consider climate preferences, desired difficulty levels, scenery types, and logistical constraints when choosing destinations.

Climate Considerations:

• Desert lovers: Arizona, Utah, parts of California
  
• Mountain enthusiasts: Colorado, Washington, Alaska
  
• Forest hikers: Oregon, North Carolina, New York
  
• Coastal fans: California, Oregon, Washington
  

Difficulty Preferences:

• Challenging terrain: Colorado, Alaska, Washington
  
• Moderate hiking: North Carolina, New York, Oregon
  
• Family-friendly: Texas, Arizona (winter), Utah
  

Building Hiking Skills Progressively

Skill development benefits from progressive challenges across different states. Starting with moderate destinations and advancing to more demanding environments builds confidence and capability safely.

For those beginning their hiking journey, exploring resources about how to train for hiking provides valuable preparation techniques for tackling different states’ unique challenges.

Creating Personal Hiking Goals

Long-term hiking goals might include visiting all top hiking states, completing state high points, or exploring specific trail systems. Having clear objectives helps prioritize destinations and plan adventures systematically.

America’s diverse hiking landscapes offer endless opportunities for exploration and adventure. Whether you’re drawn to desert canyons, alpine peaks, coastal cliffs, or forest trails, these ten states provide the finest hiking experiences our country offers. Each destination brings unique characteristics, challenges, and rewards that contribute to a lifetime of outdoor memories.

The beauty of American hiking lies in this diversity – you can experience completely different worlds within a single country’s borders. From the saguaro-studded trails of Arizona to the moss-covered paths of Washington, from the red rock arches of Utah to the granite faces of California, each state offers its own interpretation of natural beauty and outdoor adventure.

Start planning your next hiking adventure by considering which landscapes call to you most strongly. Whether you choose the reliable sunshine of the Southwest, the alpine grandeur of Colorado, or the forest depths of the Pacific Northwest, incredible trails and unforgettable experiences await in America’s finest hiking destinations.

Frequently Asked Questions