June 2nd is National Trails Day! In honor of this special occasion, we’re going to help you plan your next big vacation by cluing you in on some of the best trails in the US National Park system! These are just a few of the hundreds of breathtaking trails available across the country, but will be a great starting point for deciding on which park you’ll visit next.
National Trails Day
National Trails Day is held on the first Saturday in June, created by the American Hiking Society. It’s not just about celebrating trails, though. National Trails Day encourages hikers around the country to help keep these amazing experiences pristine for future hikers and generations. You can take the pledge to improve a trail by joining a trail work project, cleaning up trails or helping clean up the parks!
If you’re a frequent trail-hiker, this is a great opportunity to help keep your trails beautiful for yourself and the millions of others who will travel them over the years.
The Best Trails in US National Parks
Trail: Hawksbill Loop
Park: Shenandoah National Park, Virginia
The Hawksbill Loop is connected to the Appalachian Trail and takes you around a 2.6-mile loop. It’s a very popular trail, mostly in the late spring and through the fall. While it’s not particularly difficult, the hilly terrain can be strenuous.
Its popularity comes from the breathtaking views offered all around the loop. The Hawksbill Summit offers a huge sight line over the gorgeous green trees around Shenandoah National Park. It’s the highest peak in the park, taking you over 4,000 feet above sea-level. You may even get a chance to see some of the park wildlife, like black bears, along the way!
Trail: Otter Point Trail
Park: Acadia National Park, Maine
Otter Cliff and Otter Point are often considered some of the must-see sights on the North Atlantic Seaboard. Otter Point Trail is, fortunately, a very easy trek between one and three miles along the coast. You’ll be right along the cliffs, so you’ll get a breathtaking view along the entire trail.
The iconic Thunder Hole and Monument Cove are also nearby, making it a great stop to take in many of the reasons to stop by the area. Available all times of year other than the winter, Otter Point and the trails in the area will easily be a favorite when you’re in the northeast!
Trail: Angels Landing
Park: Zion National Park, Utah
Not afraid of heights? Then Angels Landing is perfect for you! No trip to Zion National Park is complete without an Angels Landing hike. The unique fin-like mountain formation protrudes to the center of the main canyon, giving you the best view of one of America’s natural wonders.
It’s a strenuous hike and is certainly not recommended for children or anyone with a fear of heights. The total hike will take a few hours, and while it’s available during the winter, it’s easier during the warmer months!
Trail: Ledges Trail
Park: Cuyahoga Valley National Park, Ohio
We couldn’t ignore all of the great parks and trails we have right here in our own great state of Ohio! The Cuyahoga National Park is absolutely gorgeous and features a variety of trails for all types of hikers. The Ledges Trail, taking you to the Ledges Overlook, is considered the best trail in the park.
The full loop is only two miles, but the Ledges Overlook spans just 200 yards. This small area gives you a completely unobstructed sight over the west valley in the park. If you can, stick around for sunset for an unforgettable view!
Trail: Highline Trail
Park: Glacier National Park, Montana
When you want a trail that never stops giving you great sights, the Highline Trail at Glacier National Park in Montana is a great choice. The entire Highline Trail takes you along the Continental Divide, offering beautiful views of active wildlife, towering trees and colorful wildflowers.
The beginning three miles are relatively flat, which makes it easier for most hikers. From there, you’ll have multiple choices in how to continue your hike – with some options being steeper or than others. This makes it a great choice for wanderers of any experience level. Find the next trail that’s exciting for you!
Plan Your Next RV Trip for Great Hiking Trails
No matter how you camp in your RV or how far from the beaten path you intend to travel, there are parks with incredible trails all over the United States! There are great websites out there that can help you narrow down your search like AllTrails or even the official National Parks Service website.
Planning your trip ahead of time can make your vacation easier and even save you some money, so don’t forget to do your research before you go.
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