Although summer is definitely an outstanding season for hikes and walks, I prefer this time of year. Autumn, this fleeting season, is truly one of the most beautiful seasons for a hiking trip. It is the golden light, the incredible color of trees--we can capture all of these breathtaking scenes while hiking.
Do you get ready to view the most exemplary palette of bright and subdued hues? Pick a suitable one from 10 must-visit hiking spots in the USA listed here to enjoy.
1. GRINNELL GLACIER TRAIL
The park has several hikes options. As the trail continues to climb hikers will pass through beautiful alpine meadows with numerous wildflowers. You'll also notice a couple of small waterfalls tumbling down the steep slopes of 8851-foot Mt. Grinnell on your right. At roughly 1.8 miles from the boat landing, after climbing a series of switchbacks, take a look above Grinnell Falls for your first good view of Grinnell Glacier.
2. WEST MAROON CREEK TRAIL
West Maroon Trail is a 20.4 mile moderately trafficked out and back trail located near Aspen, Colorado that features a lake and is rated as difficult. This 10-mile jaunt follows a lush glacial valley before heading up and over the breathtaking 12,480-foot Maroon Pass, linking the dreamscapes known as Aspen and Crested Butte.
3. ZION NATIONAL PARK
Some of the most popular trails in the national park are located in Zion Canyon, such as Pa'rus Trail, Lower and Upper Emerald Pools Trails, Riverside Walk, Watchman Trail, Angels Landing, Observation Point... you can view wading through its Virgin River or ascending Angels Landing, with each bend in the river or turn in the trail affording an even more breathtaking view.
4. CANYON TO RIM LOOP
Smith Rock State Park in Oregon has hikes ranging from 2 to 7 miles and easy to moderately difficult terrain. The park suggests visitors arrive early in the morning for sightings of geese and ducks on the banks of the river, and later in the afternoon to catch a glimpse of wildlife along the Crooked River, the densest vegetation and "cave" rocks in the park, the bald eagles nest along the rim and spectacular canyon views.
5. RED RIVER GORGE
This intricate canyon system features an abundance of high sandstone cliffs, rock shelters, waterfalls, and natural bridges. There are more than 100 natural sandstone arches in the Red River Gorge Geological Area. The multitude of sandstone and cliff-lines have helped this area become one of the world's top rock climbing destinations and is home to the Red River Gorge Climbers' Coalition. The area is nicknamed the Red by climbers.
6. KALALAU TRAIL
The Kalalau Trail provides the only land access to this part of the rugged coast. The trail traverses 5 valleys before ending at Kalalau Beach where it is blocked by sheer, fluted pali. The 11-mile trail is graded but almost never level as it crosses above towering sea cliffs and through lush valleys.
7. CHARLIES BUNION HIKE
The park has miles of official and backcountry trails with views of waterfalls and old-growth forests. At roughly two-thirds of a mile, you'll enjoy grand views of the North Carolina Smokies towards the south. Hikers will also enjoy a wide variety of wildflowers that bloom at these elevations during the spring and early summer, including varieties such as violets, spring beauty, and trout lilies.
8. BURROUGHS MOUNTAIN HIKE
The Burroughs Mountains can be reached via several trail routes. The park has more than 260 miles of maintained trails that lead visitors through peaceful old-growth forest, river valleys, and subalpine meadows. Check out the Burroughs Mountain hike for stunning views of Mount Rainer and the alpine landscape.
9. GREENSTONE RIDGE TRAIL
The Greenstone Ridge Trail is a 40-mile-long path that extends from Windigo Harbor and the Windigo Ranger Station on the island's western end, east across Isle Royale, to Rock Harbor and the Rock Harbor Lodge. Isle Royale, the largest island on Lake Superior, is one big national park. The Greenstone Ridge Trail is a high ridge in the center that runs from one end of the island to the other. Gaze out over the rocky shoreline to the cobalt blue lake and the 400 smaller surrounding islands. As one of the least well-known national parks, you’ll likely have the trails of Isle Royale to yourself.
10. BILLY GOAT TRAIL
The Billy Goat Trail, one of the busiest trails in the D.C. area, contains three different sections that total eight miles and provide fun and adventure for all ages. Here, hikers can experience the raging Potomac River and the rocky crags of Great Falls. The hike is incredibly popular, so visit early to beat the crowds.
Happy walking!