50 Best Walks in America: Trails to Explore Across All 50 States
From seaside boardwalks to alpine overlooks, discover nature’s most captivating walkways.
50 Best Walks in America: Scenic Trails and Inspiring Routes in Every State
America boasts an extraordinary diversity of landscapes, each offering unique walking trails that showcase natural wonders, dramatic vistas, and local character. Whether you’re a passionate hiker or someone looking for a leisurely stroll, these top 50 walks—one per state—provide the ideal way to explore the great outdoors. From lush forests and sandy shorelines to snow-capped peaks and sun-drenched deserts, here’s your definitive guide to the best walks in America.
Why Walking Trails Matter
Walking offers countless benefits for both physical and mental health. Trails invite us to immerse ourselves in nature, observe wildlife, and disconnect from daily stresses. This guide covers walks suitable for all skill levels, with tips on when to visit, what to bring, and what to expect along each path.
How to Use This Guide
- Find your state to discover the highlighted trail.
- Review key trail information: location, distance, terrain, and unique features.
- Check recommended seasons, conditions, and tips to prepare for your adventure.
Alabama: Pinhoti Trail
Location: Talladega National Forest, AL
Distance: Up to 339 miles (sections recommended)
Difficulty: Varies; popular day hikes available
The Pinhoti Trail cuts through lush woodlands and rocky ridges. Choose a manageable section for sweeping views, wildflowers, and forests teeming with life. Enjoy moderate grade trails in spring or fall for the best weather.
Alaska: Tony Knowles Coastal Trail
Location: Anchorage, AK
Distance: 11 miles (point to point)
Difficulty: Easy to moderate
Tracing the Cook Inlet coastline, this paved trail showcases breathtaking Alaskan vistas. Spot moose, bald eagles, and on clear days, distant mountains. The trail is accessible year-round, but summer is ideal for comfort and wildlife viewing.
Arizona: Bright Angel Trail
Location: Grand Canyon National Park, AZ
Distance: Choice of 4.5 to 9 miles (round-trip day hikes)
Difficulty: Challenging—steep inclines and temperature changes
This iconic path drops into the Grand Canyon, offering awe-inspiring canyon views and geological wonders. Pack extra water and plan hikes for cooler months to avoid intense summer heat.
Arkansas: Whitaker Point Trail
Location: Ozark National Forest, Pettigrew, AR
Distance: 2.9 miles (out and back)
Difficulty: Moderate
Also called Hawksbill Crag, this trail leads to a rocky outcrop with commanding vistas. Pass waterfalls, forests, and bluffs. Spring and autumn highlight the region’s full colors and are best for hiking comfort.
California: Guy Fleming Trail
Location: Torrey Pines State Reserve, La Jolla, CA
Distance: 2 to 3-mile loop
Difficulty: Easy
This coastal walk boasts panoramic Pacific views, rare Torrey pine trees, wildflowers, and dramatic cliffside scenery. Visit in late winter to see native blooms or in summer for clear beach vistas.
Colorado: Lily Pad Lake Trail
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Location: White River National Forest, Silverthorne, CO
Distance: 3.3 miles (out and back)
Difficulty: Moderate
Wander amid aspen groves, cross gentle streams, and enjoy a picnic by a serene mountain lake. Moose and other wildlife sightings add to the trail’s charm. The route is dog-friendly and beautiful year-round, especially in summer and fall.
Connecticut: Mirror Lake & Castle Craig Trail
Location: Hubbard Park, Berlin, CT
Distance: 4.4-mile loop
Difficulty: Moderate
This scenic loop leads walkers past Mirror Lake, ascends to the overlook at Castle Craig, and continues around the Merimere Reservoir. Expect some buggy spots—bring spray and trek in late spring through early autumn.
Delaware: Walking Dunes Trail
Location: Cape Henlopen State Park, Lewes, DE
Distance: 2.6-mile loop
Difficulty: Easy
Amble through wooded uplands, tidal marsh, and open dunes capped with ocean views. In spring, enjoy a colorful spectacle of wildflowers—especially Pink Lady’s Slipper and Beach Heather.
Florida: Hawks’ Bluff Trail
Location: Jensen Beach, FL
Distance: 0.8 miles
Difficulty: Easy
Explore quiet boardwalks through a rare marshland ecosystem, teeming with birds, wildflowers, and unique flora. Best visited in cooler winter months to fully enjoy the vibrant landscape and abundant wildlife.
Georgia: Cloudland Canyon Waterfalls Trail
Location: Cloudland Canyon State Park, Rising Fawn, GA
Distance: 2 miles (out and back)
Difficulty: Moderate to strenuous
This walk features dramatic canyon vistas, rock formations, and ends with breathtaking waterfalls. Spring offers lush greenery and active streams, while autumn delivers brilliant foliage.
Illinois: Chicago Botanic Garden Hike
Location: Northbrook, IL
Distance: 1.9-mile loop
Difficulty: Easy
Enjoy manicured gardens, tranquil lakes, and themed botanic displays—including the Japanese Garden and English Oak Meadow. The paved path is accessible and suitable for all skill levels, best enjoyed between April and October.
Indiana: Indiana Dunes State Park Loop
Location: Porter, IN
Distance: 1.8-mile loop
Difficulty: Easy
Walk barefoot over warm sand dunes with sweeping views of Lake Michigan. The coastal breeze and rolling dunes make this a uniquely relaxing trail, accessible in all seasons but best in late spring through summer.
Iowa: High Trestle Trail
Location: Big Creek State Park, Ankeny, IA
Distance: 24.8 miles (point to point; shorter sections recommended)
Difficulty: Easy
This paved rail trail stretches for nearly 25 miles. Walk at your own pace and turn around as you wish. Highlights include soaring bridges—especially the High Trestle Bridge with its dramatic lighting after dusk.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: What should I pack for a day walk on these trails?
A: Essentials include sturdy shoes, water, sunscreen, bug spray, a map or trail app, snacks, and weather-appropriate clothing. Some trails may require extra items for rougher terrain or cold conditions.
Q: Are these trails accessible year-round?
A: While many trails are open through all seasons, some in northern or mountainous regions may close or become hazardous in winter. Always check local park conditions before setting out.
Q: Can I take dogs on these trails?
A: Many of the listed trails are dog-friendly, but regulations vary. Always verify rules regarding pets, keep dogs leashed, and bring disposal bags.
Q: How do I find out if a trail is crowded?
A: Review park websites for updates, or use crowd-sourced trail apps and recent reviews. Visiting early in the morning or on weekdays helps avoid peak times.
Quick Reference Table: America’s Top Walks by State
| State | Top Trail | Location | Distance | Difficulty |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Arkansas | Whitaker Point Trail | Ozark National Forest | 2.9 mi | Moderate |
| California | Guy Fleming Trail | Torrey Pines State Reserve | 2-3 mi | Easy |
| Colorado | Lily Pad Lake Trail | White River NF | 3.3 mi | Moderate |
| Connecticut | Mirror Lake/Castle Craig | Hubbard Park | 4.4 mi | Moderate |
| Delaware | Walking Dunes Trail | Cape Henlopen SP | 2.6 mi | Easy |
| Florida | Hawks’ Bluff Trail | Jensen Beach | 0.8 mi | Easy |
| Illinois | Chicago Botanic Garden | Northbrook | 1.9 mi | Easy |
| Indiana | Indiana Dunes Loop | Porter | 1.8 mi | Easy |
| Iowa | High Trestle Trail | Ankeny | 24.8 mi | Easy |
Tips for a Safe and Enjoyable Walk
- Plan Ahead: Check trail conditions, weather, and accessibility updates before leaving home.
- Layer Clothing: Weather can change rapidly, especially in mountainous or coastal areas. Be prepared.
- Respect Nature: Stick to paths, observe wildlife from a distance, and leave no trace.
- Travel with Friends or Family: Walking together promotes safety and makes the experience memorable.
- Capture Memories: Bring a camera to record scenic highlights—but remember to be present and enjoy the views in real time.
Join a Walking Challenge!
Looking for motivation or camaraderie? Try joining a virtual or local walking challenge, such as a 5K walk for charity or a statewide trail passport program. These events encourage exploration and can help you reach your health and travel goals.
Ready to Walk America?
America’s top walking trails invite travelers of all backgrounds to experience the beauty, calm, and adventure of the outdoors. Whether you tackle one trail a year or aim to walk them all, each path offers its own adventure and memories to cherish. So lace up your shoes, grab a friend, and start exploring the best walks America has to offer!
References
- https://www.prevention.com/life/g27408475/best-walks-in-america/
- https://www.prevention.com/fitness/g31152265/best-walking-cities-in-us/
- https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0CFQeL5hI6A
- https://www.onthecommons.org/magazine/america%E2%80%99s-most-walkable-suburb-offers-lessons-for-towns-everywhere/index.html
- https://americawalks.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/01/P47976_proof.pdf
- https://www.yesmagazine.org/health-happiness/2015/03/31/what-your-town-can-learn-from-americas-most-walkable-suburb
- https://www.zinio.com/publications/prevention-ultimate-walking-guide/41585
- https://www.latimes.com/socal/burbank-leader/news/tn-blr-xpm-2012-03-29-tn-blr-0330-burbank-among-top-us-cities-for-walking-according-to-magazine-story.html
- https://www.utne.com/community/walkable-suburb-zbsz1504zcwil/
- https://everwalk.com/word-on-walking/
- https://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/176363996269
- https://www.shareable.net/what-americas-most-walkable-suburb-can-teach-towns-everywhere/
- https://notold-better.com/prevention-magazine-healthy-living-interview-series-walk-away-the-pain-october-2024/
- https://lkn-magazine.com/celebrating-the-power-of-walking-this-january-20th/
- https://www.target.com/p/prevention-s-complete-book-of-walking-by-maggie-spilner-paperback/-/A-83990238
- https://www.onthecommons.org/magazine/americas-walking-renaissance/index.html
- https://www.yesmagazine.org/health-happiness/2016/03/25/how-americas-worst-walking-city-got-back-on-its-feet
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