10 Epic Hiking Vacations in the United States

Plan an Unforgettable Adventure in the USA, Canada and Mexico

May 28, 2026

The United States is a dream destination for anyone who loves to hike and explore wild spaces. Boasting an astonishing array of hikes to choose from, the USA is as varied as it is dramatic. With 63 national parks and 803 wilderness areas, the number of choices feels almost endless. 

Let’s face it, that level of choice can be overwhelming. So, we have identified 10 epic hiking vacations that every adventurous traveler should consider. These are the hikes that our program managers and guides at MT Sobek love the most. These are the trips we go on when we want to stay close to home and enjoy our own backyard.

At MT Sobek, we have been pioneering adventure travel in the United States and beyond for more than 50 years. We know the best places to hike and raft, the best places to observe wildlife, the best places to discover not only new parts of the planet, but new aspects of ourselves. We have been guiding guests to these places since 1969.

This is a guide to our 10 favorite hiking vacations here in our home country with recommended itineraries, accommodations, packing lists and more. Enjoy!

Table of Contents

Sunrise over the Grand Canyon, with sunlight illuminating layered rock formations and dramatic clouds in the sky.

1. Hike Rim to Rim in Grand Canyon National Park

Destination Overview

Grand Canyon National Park is one of the most awe-inspiring landscapes in the world, carved by the mighty Colorado River over millions of years. The canyon is immense—over a mile deep, 10+ miles across, 300+ miles long, with more than 400 miles of hiking trails. Combine its massive scale with its two billion years of geological history, breathtaking views, and extraordinary options for adventure, and you have one of the most memorable trekking destinations on Earth.

Hike Overview

Originally selected as one of the “50 Classic Hikes in North America” by famed adventure journalist Peter Potterfield, Rim to Rim in the Grand Canyon is truly epic. The journey takes you from one rim, all the way to the bottom of the canyon and up the other side. On the way you get to experience waterfalls, box canyons, the mighty Colorado River, and more.

Rim to Rim can be done as a day hike, backpacking trip, or lodge-based trip while staying at Phantom Ranch.


Grand Canyon guided tours to Phantom Ranch with MT Sobek

Rim to Rim Day Hike

Start: North Kaibab Trailhead
End: Bright Angel Trailhead or South Kaibab Trailhead
Time: 8-20 hours
Mileage: 24 miles (21 miles if exiting on the South Kaibab Trail)
Difficulty: Very strenuous
Permit: not required

Rim to Rim Backpacking Trip

Start: North Kaibab Trailhead
End: Bright Angel Trailhead or South Kaibab Trailhead
Time: 3-4 days
Campsites: Cottonwood, Bright Angel, Havasupai Gardens (for a 3-day trip, skip either Cottonwood or Havasupai Gardens)
Mileage: 24 miles (21 miles if exiting on the South Kaibab Trail)
Difficulty: Moderately strenuous
Permit: Required via lottery system

hiker woman hiking in grand canyon walking with hiking poles
Grand Canyon fall colors at Phantom Ranch on an MT Sobek guided tour

Phantom Ranch Rim to Rim Hike

Start: North Kaibab Trailhead
End: Bright Angel Trailhead or South Kaibab Trailhead
Time: 2-4 days
Mileage: 24 miles (21 miles if exiting on the South Kaibab Trail)
Difficulty: Moderately strenuous
Permit: Not required, but Phantom Ranch reservations required


Best Time

The North Rim is closed from the first significant snowfall after October 15 (or by mid-November at the latest) through May 14 each spring. It is possible to hike rim to rim in June, July, August and September but can be extremely hot (105°F+ in the shade). Therefore, the best times to hike Rim to Rim are May 15–30 and October 1–November 15. 

Essentials: What to Pack

  • 3–4 liters water capacity
  • Cotton sun hoody (cotton retains moisture)
  • Hiking shorts and pants
  • Rain gear
  • A warm fleece layer
  • Headlamp
  • Plenty of sweet, salty snacks and meals (2x your normal calorie intake)
  • Backpacking gear if backpacking
  • trekking poles
  • First aid kit
  • Emergency communication device

mt sobek yellowstone wildlife in national parks

2. Explore Wildlife & Geysers in Yellowstone National Park

Destination Overview

Yellowstone National Park was America’s first national park, and justifiably so. It is a profoundly unique geothermal wonderland filled with geysers, hot springs, mudpots, and more. It boasts the highest concentration of geothermal features in the world. However, Yellowstone’s appeal goes far beyond geysers. It is also home to pristine rivers and lakes, waterfalls, vast meadow systems, remote mountains, and rich wildlife habitat. Hiking Yellowstone combines gorgeous mountain scenery with opportunities to see bison, wolves, elk, moose, bears, and more.

Itinerary Overview

There are many ways to enjoy Yellowstone: hotel-based hiking, camping-based hiking, backpacking, horseback riding, canoeing, cycling, and more. Our recommendation for Yellowstone is a hotel-based hiking vacation that combines historic lodging with daily forays into its diverse wilderness.

Sample 5- Day Itinerary

Day 1: Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone River (3–10 miles)
Day 2: Lamar Valley wildlife and hiking (5–8 miles)
Day 3: Mount Washburn (7 miles)
Day 4: Fairy Falls, Spray and Imperial Geysers (4.5 miles)
Day 5: Lonestar Geyser and the Firehole River (5.5 miles)

Difficulty

Easy to moderate


Best Time

June–September

What to Pack

  • Non-cotton, layered hiking clothing
  • Non-cotton hiking socks
  • Hiking shoes or boots
  • A warm fleece or wool layer
  • Rain gear
  • Comfortable day pack
  • Trekking poles
  • Bear spray
  • Water and snacks
  • Headlamp
  • Emergency communication device
  • Non-hiking clothing and footwear for evenings

old faithful snow lodge accommodation in yellowstone national park
Yosemite national park in california.

3. Discover Waterfalls & Granite Domes in Yosemite National Park

Destination Overview

Yosemite National Park is perhaps the United States’ most recognizable park. It’s famous for colossal granite cliffs, plunging waterfalls, and high alpine wilderness. Landmarks like Half Dome, El Capitan, and Yosemite Falls define people’s perception of Yosemite, however vast backcountry areas offer lesser-known, quieter, spectacular alpine hiking.

Itinerary Overview

Yosemite is a fantastic destination for many different types of hiking and backpacking. To make the most of Yosemite’s diverse scenery and myriad of hiking options, our recommendation is a hotel-based vacation that hits the major highlights on a series of day hikes.


A person enjoying adventure travel on top of a mountain.

Sample 5-Day Itinerary

Day 1: Mist Trail to Vernal and Nevada Falls (7 miles)
Day 2: Taft Point and Sentinel Dome loop (5–8 miles)
Day 3: May Lake and Mount Hoffman (6 miles)
Day 4: Tuolumne Meadows (4–10 miles)
Day 5: Mariposa Grove (7 miles)

Difficulty

Moderate to strenuous


Best Time

May–October

What to Pack

  • Non-cotton, layered hiking clothing
  • Non-cotton hiking socks
  • Hiking shoes or boots
  • A warm fleece or wool layer
  • Rain gear
  • Comfortable day pack
  • Trekking poles
  • Water and snacks
  • Headlamp
  • Emergency communication device
  • Non-hiking clothing and footwear for evening

A custom-built stone building nestled in front of a majestic mountain.
glacier national park hiking in alpine wonderland

4. Hike in the Alpine Wonderland of Glacier National Park

Destination Overview

Glacier National Park is often referred to as the “Crown of the Continent,” and justifiably so. Glacier’s towering, picturesque mountains in many ways feel more like the Canadian Rockies than they do like America’s Rockies. They feature jagged alpine peaks, glacial-carved valleys, turquoise mountain lakes, and over 700 miles of hiking trails. Glacier is a dream destination for a hiking vacation. 

Itinerary Overview

Like other national parks in the Rocky Mountains, Glacier is a world-renowned destination for hiking and backpacking alike. To make the most of your time in Glacier, our recommendation is a trip that combines the diverse highlights of the park into a 6-day, hotel-based hiking itinerary.


Sample 6- Day Itinerary

Day 1: West Glacier (6 miles)
Day 2: Grinnell Glacier (11 miles)
Day 3: Iceberg Lake (9 miles)
Day 4: Two Medicine Valley (8 miles)
Day 5: Lion Mountain Trail (2.5 miles)

Difficulty

Moderate to strenuous

group of hikes on glacial hiking trail in iceberg mountain in Glacier National Park, Montana, North America

Best Time

July–September

What to Pack

  • Non-cotton, layered hiking clothing
  • Non-cotton hiking socks
  • Hiking shoes or boots
  • A warm fleece or wool layer
  • Rain gear
  • Comfortable day pack
  • Trekking poles
  • Water and snacks
  • Headlamp
  • Bear spray
  • Emergency communication device
  • Non-hiking clothing and footwear for evenings

Grouse Mountain Lodge lobby in Glacier National Park in Montana, USA
mount rainier custom hiking adventure

5. Experience the Best of Olympic & Mount Rainier National Parks 

Destination Overview

Olympic National Park and Mount Rainier National Park together offer one of the most exciting and scenic hiking experiences in the United States. These parks are also extremely varied, featuring many different types of ecosystems in a relatively small area. From glacier-covered volcanoes and alpine meadows to temperate rainforests and rugged Pacific coastline, these parks deliver unforgettable hikes. Combining Olympic and Rainier—each a world class destination on its own—into one grand Pacific Northwest adventure is an experience that will stick with you long after the hiking is over.

Itinerary Overview

To combine Olympic and Rainier, the best approach is a hotel-based itinerary with day hikes into the backcountry. You can start with either park, however our recommendation is to begin with Olympic due to its proximity to Seattle. The hikes will take you to rich rainforests, dramatic waterfalls, gorgeous alpine lakes, vast meadows filled with wildflowers, and wildly beautiful coastlines.


olympic national park lodge based camping and hiking

Sample 6- Day Itinerary

Day 1: Hurricane Ridge and Klahhane Ridge in Olympic (6 miles total)
Day 2: Mount Storm King (4 miles)
Day 3: Rialto Beach to Hole-in-the-Wall (4 miles)
Day 4: Burroughs Mountain in Mount Rainier (9 miles)
Day 5: Camp Muir (8 miles)
Day 6: Reflection Lakes (3 miles)

Difficulty

Moderate to Strenuous (the Mount Rainier hikes are more strenuous)


Best Time

July–September

What to Pack

  • Non-cotton, layered hiking clothing
  • Non-cotton hiking socks
  • Hiking shoes or boots
  • A warm fleece or wool layer
  • Rain gear
  • Comfortable day pack
  • Trekking poles
  • Water and snacks
  • Headlamp
  • Emergency communication device
  • Non-hiking clothing and footwear for evenings

lake crescent lodge accommodation olympic national park
paradise inn accommodation overnight stay at mount rainier
southwest hiking tours in USA including Grand Canyon and Utah National Parks

6. Utah’s Mighty Five National Parks Hiking Tour

Destination Overview

One of the most popular regions in the United States for hiking, Utah offers adventurous visitors extensive options for exploration. Utah’s Mighty Five—Zion National Park, Bryce Canyon National Park, Arches National Park, Canyonlands National Park, and Capitol Reef National Park—showcase some of the most vibrant and colorful desert landscapes in North America. Hike through narrow slot canyons, to sandstone arches, past other-worldly hoodoos, into vast oceans of slickrock, to waterfalls and more. Southern Utah’s national parks also offer a fascinating and immersive cultural experience. As you hike, you are following in the footsteps of people who have been walking these paths for millennia, and evidence of their lives exists today. Ancient rock art, cliff dwellings, and legendary stories of their customs and lifestyles help the landscape come to life. This is especially true on Utah hiking tours with a guide who can point out sites and regale you with stories.

Itinerary Overview

Combining five national parks into one trip is an ambitious endeavor. Fortunately, in Utah, it’s absolutely possible, and in fact is a spectacular way to experience these parks. The best way to hike all five is on a hotel-based trip. We recommend flying into Grand Junction, Colorado or Moab, Utah and visiting the parks in this order: Arches, Canyonlands, Capitol Reef, Bryce, and Zion.


Sample 10- Day Itinerary

Day 1: Fly into Grand Junction, Colorado and hike to Fisher Towers outside Moab (3-4 miles)
Day 2: Delicate Arch and Devil’s Garden Trail in Arches National Park (5-8 miles)
Day 3: Newspaper Rock plus Needles District in Canyonlands National Park (~6 miles)
Day 4: Grandview Point at Island in the Sky in Canyonlands  (4-6 miles)
Day 5: Grand Wash Trail in Capitol Reef National Park (4-6 miles)
Day 6: Queens Garden – Navajo Loop in Bryce Canyon National Park (6.4 miles)
Day 7: Virgin River Narrows in Zion National Park (5-6 miles)
Day 8: Watchman Trail in Zion, then depart from Las Vegas

Difficulty

Moderate

Views of the Delicate Arch in Arches National Park near Moab on August 28 2015. The Delicate Arch is a famous picture motive for photographer

Best Time

March–May, September–November

What to Pack

  • 2-3 liters water capacity
  • Cotton sun hoody (cotton retains moisture)
  • Non-cotton hiking layers (in case of cold weather)
  • Hiking shorts and pants
  • Rain gear
  • A warm fleece layer
  • Headlamp
  • Plenty of sweet, salty snacks and meals (2x your normal calorie intake)
  • Trekking poles
  • Emergency communication device

Learn More: MT Sobek Utah Adventure Travel Webinar | 5 Things To Know About Hiking Utah’s Mighty 5 National Parks


The entrance to a lodge in Zion National Park, one of Utah's Mighty Five national parks.
bryce canyon lodge accommodation national park
capitol reef resort accommodation in national park
red cliffs lodge in moab near national park

7. Sedona Red Rock Hiking in Arizona

Destination Overview

The town of Sedona, Arizona and surrounding landscapes are famous for their gorgeous red rock formations, forested canyons and scenic desert trails. The landscape features towering sandstone buttes, arches, and mesas that rise up above spring-fed desert creeks. With more than 400 miles of trails, the Sedona area is a premier hiking destination.

Itinerary Overview

The best way to experience Sedona is on a hotel-based hiking itinerary. The town features fantastic lodging and restaurants to reward your efforts after each day’s hike. 


A girl with a backpack looking at red rocks in sedona, arizona.

Sample 4- Day Itinerary

Day 1: Cathedral Rock Loop (7.5 miles)
Day 2: Hangover Loop (8 miles)
Day 3: Loy Canyon Trail (12 miles)
Day 4: Seven Sacred Pools from Soldiers Pass (1.5 miles)

Difficulty

Easy to moderate


Best Time

Fall–spring

What to Pack

  • 2-3 liters water capacity
  • Cotton sun hoody (cotton retains moisture)
  • Non-cotton hiking layers (in case of cold weather)
  • Hiking shorts and pants
  • Rain gear
  • A warm fleece layer
  • Headlamp
  • Plenty of sweet, salty snacks and meals (2x your normal calorie intake)
  • Trekking poles
  • Emergency communication device

briar patch inn accommodation
tennessee smoky mountains hiking

8. Great Smoky Mountains Hiking Adventure

Destination Overview

Great Smoky Mountains National Park provides exceptional hiking opportunities in the Eastern United States. This historic national park features lush forests, abundant wildlife, and one of the most biodiverse ecosystems in North America. Mist-covered mountains, cascading waterfalls, and more than 3,000 miles of waterways (creeks and rivers) define the hiking experience. 

You may be surprised by the significant elevation gains and losses of these mountains. While older and not as dramatic as the Western ranges, the Smokies are big mountains with big adventure. As you ascend to high ridges and passes, then descend into river valleys, these mountains feel every bit as challenging as the Rockies, Cascades, or Sierra Nevada.

Itinerary Overview

One of the most famous aspects of Great Smoky Mountains National Park is the iconic Appalachian Trail (AT), which cuts through the park along its high ridges. To hike this park in classic style, a backpacking segment adds a culturally significant experience. However, there are many highlights that you won’t see on the AT, so our recommended itinerary combines a 3-day backpacking trip with 3 days of hotel-based hiking.


Sample 6- Day Itinerary

Day 1–3: Gregory Bald Loop backpacking (see below)
Day 4: Ramsey Cascades (8 miles)
Day 5: Charlies Bunion (9 miles)
Day 6: Clingman’s Dome and Andrews Bald (5 miles)

tennessee smoky mountains hiking
male hiker hiking tennessee great smoky mountains

Gregory Bald Backpacking Trip

Start: Gregory Ridge Trailhead
End: Gregory Ridge Trailhead
Time: 3 days
Campsites: Campsite 13 (Sheep Pen Gap)
Mileage: 11 miles plus day hiking
Difficulty: Moderately strenuous
Permit: Required via lottery system

Difficulty

Easy to moderate


Best Time

April–June, October

What to Pack

  • 2 liters water capacity
  • Non-cotton hiking shirt
  • Hiking shorts and pants
  • Rain gear
  • A warm fleece layer
  • Headlamp
  • Plenty of sweet, salty snacks and meals (2x your normal calorie intake)
  • Backpacking gear
  • Trekking poles
  • Emergency communication device

accommodation dancing bear cabins in tennessee great smoky mountains
rocky mountains national park scenery and trees

9. Rocky Mountain National Park Alpine Adventure

Destination Overview

Rocky Mountain National Park is famous for its high alpine peaks, glacial lakes, and panoramic mountain vistas. Trails climb above tree line into dramatic landscapes shaped by glaciers and extreme weather. With more than 350 miles of trails and the highest continuous paved highway in the United States (Trail Ridge Road), Rocky offers some of the most exciting and accessible alpine hiking in the United States.

Itinerary Overview

Rocky Mountain National Park is one of the most accessible parks in the country. You can access nearly every part of the park on day hikes. For this reason, we recommend enjoying this park on a series of day hikes based at a hotel in Estes Park, Colorado. Estes has wonderful lodging and fantastic restaurants, rounding out an already memorable hiking vacation. If you prefer a lodging experience with more solitude, staying on the western side of the mountains in Grand Lake is also an option.


Sample 4- Day Itinerary

Day 1: Alberta Falls and Sky Pond (10 miles)
Day 2: Chasm Lake (9 miles)
Day 3: Mount Ida (10 miles)
Day 4: Gem Lake (3.5 miles)

Difficulty

Moderate to strenuous

gem lake rocky mountains national park visit

Best Time

June–September

What to Pack

  • Non-cotton, layered hiking clothing
  • Non-cotton hiking socks
  • Hiking shoes or boots
  • A warm fleece or wool layer
  • Rain gear
  • Comfortable day pack
  • Trekking poles
  • Water and snacks
  • Headlamp
  • Emergency communication device
  • Non-hiking clothing and footwear for evenings

inn on the fall river accommodation in rocky mountains
white mountains trails in new hampshire

10. White Mountains Hiking in New Hampshire

Destination Overview
The White Mountains of New Hampshire are among the most rugged and spectacular hiking destinations in the eastern United States. Known for their steep, rocky trails; exposed ridgelines; and unpredictable weather, they offer an authentic alpine experience in the Northeast.

People are often surprised by the ruggedness and challenging nature of the trails in the White Mountains. These trails tend to go straight up the mountainside, and switchbacks are rare. Train and be prepared, because the hiking here is serious. And it’s well worth it.

Itinerary Overview
There are many ways to enjoy New Hampshire’s White Mountains. However, the most iconic way to hike these mountains is on a hut-to-hut backcountry trip. The Appalachian Mountain Club (AMC) manages a series of wilderness huts that can be connected on multi-day hikes. While hut-to-hut hiking is very popular in Europe and elsewhere, New Hampshire is one of the few places in the United States where you can experience this unique form of wilderness travel.


female hiker taking photography at white mountains trail

Sample 3- Day Itinerary

Day 1: Lake of the Clouds Hut and Mount Washington (6 miles)
Day 2: Mount Munroe and Mount Eisenhower (5 miles)
Day 3: Exit to trailhead (6 miles)

Hut to Hut Trip

Start: Ammonoosuc Ravine
End: AMC Highland Center
Time: 3 days
Mileage: 12 miles plus day hiking
Difficulty: Strenuous
Permit: Not required, but hut reservations are required

Difficulty

Strenuous

hiking trail near amc highland center at white mountains

Best Time

June–October

What to Pack

  • Non-cotton, layered hiking clothing
  • Non-cotton hiking socks
  • Hiking shoes or boots
  • A warm fleece or wool layer
  • Rain gear
  • Comfortable day pack
  • Trekking poles
  • Water and snacks
  • Headlamp
  • Emergency communication device
  • Non-hiking clothing and footwear for evenings
  • Sleeping bag

A person with a teal backpack sits on a rocky ledge overlooking a wide canyon landscape with layered red rock formations and scattered shrubs under a cloudy sky.

Experience why.

Why Hike the United States with MT Sobek?

Hiking the USA with MT Sobek means exploring some of the country’s most spectacular landscapes with a company that has been pioneering adventure travel since 1969. From the alpine peaks of Glacier National Park to Alaska’s vast wilderness and the canyonlands of the American Southwest, MT Sobek designs journeys that combine iconic destinations with lesser-known trails. With expert guides, small groups, and thoughtfully crafted itineraries, travelers can focus on the experience of the hike while the logistics are handled seamlessly.

Why hike North America with MT Sobek:

  • Decades of expertise: A pioneer in adventure travel since 1969 with a long legacy of leading exceptional guided hiking adventures and rafting journeys across the USA and the world.
  • Expert guides: Knowledgeable leaders share insights into local ecology, geology, wildlife, and cultural history, and ensure a commitment to safety and enjoyment throughout the journey.
  • Carefully designed itineraries: A balance of iconic trails and hidden gems for a deeper experience of each destination. MT Sobek’s hiking adventures immerse travelers in the natural beauty and cultural heritage of each destination.
  • Seamless travel logistics: Permits, transportation, and accommodations are expertly arranged so you can focus on the adventure.
  • Comfort and immersion: Rewarding hikes paired with premier lodging and memorable meals create a rewarding and relaxing experience.

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FAQs

When is the Best Time for Adventure Travel in US National Parks?

The best time depends on the region and activity. Summer (June–September) is ideal for mountain adventures in the Rockies, Sierra Nevada, and Alaska. Spring and fall are best for desert destinations like Utah and Arizona. Winter opens up opportunities for skiing, snowshoeing, and northern lights experiences in the mountains, and peaceful hiking in the deserts and canyons.

What Are the Best Hiking Vacations in the United States?

Highlights include the Canadian Rockies, Glacier National Park, Yosemite, and the desert parks of the Southwest. From alpine peaks to red rock canyons, each region offers a dramatically different experience!

What Should I Pack for a Hiking Vacation in the United States?

Packing will depend on the specific environment and trip length, but there are essential items every traveler should bring. Proper footwear, layered clothing for changing weather, and protection from the elements are critical, along with adequate hydration, nutrition, and basic safety gear such as navigation tools and a first aid kit.

Do You Need Permits to Hike in US National Parks?

Many popular national parks require permits for backcountry hiking, overnight trips, or high-demand trails like Half Dome in Yosemite or Rim-to-Rim in the Grand Canyon. Day hikes typically don’t require permits, but it’s important to check each park’s regulations in advance.

Can Beginners Go on Hiking Vacations in the United States?

Yes, many U.S. hiking destinations are beginner-friendly. Parks like Yellowstone, Yosemite Valley, Sedona, and the Great Smoky Mountains offer well-maintained trails with varying difficulty levels, making them ideal for those new to hiking. Many travelers opt for guided tours like MT Sobek to ensure safety, logistics support, and expert navigation in remote areas. Contact a Trip Consultant to start planning your next US National Park hiking trip!