Some people collect souvenirs. I collect trails. While I’m an avid world traveler and love hiking in global destinations, I’ve gathered some of my most epic hiking and backpacking experiences on iconic and lesser-known trails right here in the U.S. Wandering paths leading to misty mountain peaks, down rugged desert trails, past glimmering alpine lakes, and into vast wilderness landscapes keeps me excited about exploring every wild and wonderful inch of this nation.

I thought sitting down to build a list of the hiking and backpacking trails to do before you die would be excrutiatingly difficult.

But after reviewing some of the best trails I’ve hiked and backpacked over the years, I realized that coming up with the most bucket list-worthy trails in the U.S. was actually simpler than I thought.

While there are countless awesome hiking paths and backpacking routes criss-crossing this country, those that stood out the most in my mind—the ones that really blew me away with incredible views and sometimes kicked my butt with elevation gains and rock scrambling—had formed the basis of some of my favorite hiking and backpacking memories.

When you’re reading the list below, yes, you’ll see the 19 trails to do before you die. But you’re also looking at the trails I’ve found around the U.S. that have a way of making you feel more alive than ever and adopting an amazing new perspective on the diversity and beauty of our natural world.

19 Trails to Do Before You Die in the U.S.

Over the last decade, I’ve hiked and backpacked across some of the most incredible landscapes in the U.S.—from the jagged peaks of the Rockies and the deep canyons of the Southwest, to the dense forests of the Pacific Northwest and the wild, untamed backcountry of Alaska. And along the way, I’ve found that some trails that are more than just hikes—they’re life-changing experiences.

These are the hiking and backpacking trails you HAVE to do before you die—the ones that will test your limits, blow your mind, and leave you with stories you’ll be telling for the rest of your life. Let’s dive in.

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1. Cloud’s Rest-Half Dome-Vernal Falls: California

This multi-day, 30-plus-mile backpacking route in Yosemite National Park is a true bucket list trek. The scenery will take your breath away—and the nearly 10,000 feet of elevation gains might, too! Stand shrouded in the mist of waterfalls on the approach from the Mist Trail with iconic rock formations towering above you, tackle the challenge of climbing Half Dome, spend the night among the forest with spectacular stars above and summit Cloud’s Rest Mountain which has one of the best views in the park, looking down on half dome from above.

This trail can be hiked in a few different ways, you can start and end in the Yosemite Valley on the Mist Trailhead or take the longer route on Tioga Pass Road at the Sunrise Lakes Trailhead before descending down and hitting clouds rest first before making your way up Half Dome.

Note: You will need a permit for any backcountry camping in Yosemite and an additional permit to climb Half Dome when the cables are up from late May to mid-October.

Gear for Half dome: Wondering what climbing gear you will need for Half Dome? Check out this list right here. 

2. John Muir Trail: California

Undoubtedly one of the best backpacking trails in the country, the John Muir Trail spans 211 miles of California wilderness, stretching from the Yosemite Valley all the way to the highest point in the Lower 48, Mount Whitney. Hike through the rugged Sierra Nevada mountains, 3 national parks, and jaw-dropping natural formations from glittering lakes and jagged granite cliffs to rocky canyons and peaceful wildflower filled meadows.

It takes about 3 weeks to hike the trail in its entirety. You wouldn’t expect anything less from one of the top U.S. backpacking trails to do before you die!

Note: You’ll need a permit to hike the John Muir Trail, and some planning is required because the process is highly competitive.

3. Avalanche Lake: Montana

Day hikes like the trail to Avalanche Lake in Montana’s Glacier National Park show you just how diverse and stunning our nation’s parks can be. This out-and-back trail wanders for nearly 6 miles from  Going-to-the-Sun Road and exposes you to soaring mountain views when you reach the hypnotically blue waters of Avalanche Lake. 

Walk over the Avalanche Gorge Footbridge, following the Trail of the Cedars through a shady forest as you step alongside Avalanche Creek. Hundreds of trees downed by a historic avalanche litter the ground where Avalanche meets Hidden Creek, and lake sits in the shadow of the mighty Bearhat Mountain. It’s a day hike you’ll never forget.

4. Laughton Glacier: Alaska

Alaska’s Laughton Glacier trail is relatively short and moderately challenging at just 4.4 miles on the way to the majestic Laughton Glacier, but what makes this trail different and bucket-list worthy is the way you get there. You’ll take a train ride through the Yukon and get dropped off in the middle of the wilderness to reach the trailhead.

I did this hike back in 2023 and will never forget the feeling of waving to the passengers on the train as it pulled away and left us in the woods. You can book a remote cabin to turn this just over 2-hour day hike into an awesome overnight trip!

Meander over wooden bridges and wander alongside the glacier-fed Laughton Creek in a place that feels forgotten by time as you make your way to a rustic cabin you can call home for the night. You’ll likely have the whole glacier to yourself and a careful walk on the moraines will give you the best views, where you see the glacier tumbling down through the rocky peaks.

Tip: If you’re up for it, you can dip into the icy pools of glacier water before cozying up for the night.

5. Cascade Pass to Sahale Glacier: Washington

This is, hands-down, one of my favorite hikes I’ve ever done. With options to hike or backpack, the route from Cascade Pass to Sahale Glacier in Washington’s North Cascades National Park is one for the books. Adventurous trekkers can settle in for a 2-day hike, beginning at the Cascade Pass Trailhead to Basin Creek camp and Sahale Arm before returning.

With nearly 12 miles of challenging terrain to conquer, you’ll step along rocky ground and alpine meadows, wind around switchbacks and steep ridges, and face incredible mountain views as far as the eye can see.

The Sahale Glacier shimmers down the slopes to Doubtful Lake, which appears like a hidden wonder in the mountainous landscape. Make sure you leave time for a swim in its frigid waters! The climbs are difficult at times, but the scenery is some of the best in the Pacific Northwest.  If you’re camping on the glacier, you’ll be afforded some of the best camp views in the lower 48 states.

Tip: Read more about this hike and others nearby here: Hike to Glaciers, Waterfalls, and Geysers on the Ultimate 7-Day Road Trip. You’ll likely be visited by some mountain goats who frequent the higher elevation in the park.

6. Big Pine Lakes: California

Another California classic, Big Pine Lakes is an all-day, 15-mile hike in the John Muir Wilderness. This is part of Inyo National Forest in the eastern Sierras, and it’s one hike you have to do before you leave this Earth. It’s rugged and physically taxing in the best way with nearly 9,000 feet of elevation gain. This a scenic trip through the Sierras, waterfalls, and colorful wildflowers when it’s warm. I went without a tent or sleeping bag (check it out in the video above)!

You can hike or backpack this trail and decide to visit anywhere from one lake to all seven. You’ll follow the North Fork Big Pine Creek Trail, which starts at a historic cabin and passes mountain meadows before reaching the first lake.  I’ve done this trail a few times—once as a day hike and once as an overnight trip.

Tip: You can grab a backcountry permit in advance and pitch a tent to camp under the stars next to these alpine gems. I camped at lake 5 on my last trip here and woke up to the most amazing views.

7. Beehive Trail: Maine

When the views and diverse terrain are this good, a short-and-sweet trail like the Beehive Trail in Maine’s Acadia National Park can compete with more challenging, multi-day treks. This 1.5-mile loop is deceptively simple because it’s short, but make no mistake—you’ll be doing some rock scrambling, tackling rung and ladder sections, and climbing granite stairs to reach beautiful views of the park’s coastal landscapes and cliffs by summiting the Beehive granite knob. Not meant for children or pets this trail is exhilarating and has some phenomenal views of desert Island and the ocean below. Check out some of Acadia’s other trails in this guide to Acadia National Park. 

Note that the trail has sheer drop-offs. Start from Sand Beach (you’ll be so glad to relax here when you finish the trail!) to climb the knob, reach Bowl Pond, and loop back to the cliff-ringed beach to catch your breath. 

8. False Kiva: Utah

If using cairns to navigate a trail leading to an ancient Puebloan archaeological site appeals to you, venture to Canyonlands National Park to find the elusive False Kiva trail. You won’t see it on any maps, but eagle-eyed hikers can look for a fence-like row of juniper logs to locate this gem of a trail.

Traipse through the red-rock desert with canyons and rock towers looming ahead of you. When you reach the canyon rim, you’ll descend and wind across a rock shelf to reach the false kiva. A quick scramble up a sandstone incline leads you right to the ring-shaped kiva, tucked away in an alcove with stunning views of the canyons before you.

The false kiva itself is closed to visitors to protect the site, but you can observe from nearby in the place where Pueblo people must have once sat, looking out at the great valley beyond. It’s a place to sit and be still, listen to wind and remind yourself of the people that came before us.

Note: This is an archeological site and the utmost care and respect for history is a must if heading out to hike this trail.

9. West Rim Loop Trail & Waterfall Trail: Georgia

Cloudland Canyon State Park in Georgia is most famous for its 5-mile West Rim Loop Trail, which features chances to stroll through forests and woodlands before popping out to some of the most picturesque overlooks in northern Georgia’s mountains. But for the best experience, you will want to combine this loop trail with the waterfall trail to see both Hemlock Falls and Cherokee Falls, two of Georgia’s most beautiful waterfalls.

As you continue onto the West Rim Trail, you can peer down into one of the deepest gorges in Georgia at more than 1,000 feet deep. There are multiple viewpoints and lots of wonderful scenery to behold. This trail is moderately challenging with the ups and downs, but it’s earned a place as one of the best hiking trails to do before you die because the views are that amazing.

Tip: During the summer months, you can swim in the waterfall pools and during the spring and fall just marvel at the force of the water as it cascades over the rocks.

10. Kings Peak: Utah

This 25-mile trail is a climber and backpacker’s paradise, giving you the chance to summit Utah’s tallest mountain at over 13,500 feet. You can hike Kings Peak from Henry’s Fork Trail in the Uinta-Wasatch National Forest—truly unspoiled lands with massive boulders, soaring peaks, and seriously challenging terrain that makes this trek one of the best for backpackers in the U.S and easily one of the top trails to do before you die.

The first 11 miles are pretty straightforward, but from mile 12 and beyond, prepare to do some serious scrambling as you make your path through thousands of giant boulders and loose rocks. If you’re successful, you can say you’ve been to Utah’s highest point and crown yourself climbing royalty for reaching Kings Peak. The views from the summit are epic.

Tip: Campers will likely want to camp near some of the lakes along the trail where you’ll find plenty of free flowing water and a hefty dose of mosquitos too.

11. Colorado Trail: Colorado

One of the few trails that’s almost as popular with mountain bikers and horseback riders as it is hikers and backpackers, the 486-mile Colorado Trail is one you’ll want to cross off your bucket list soon. “Life-changing” and “breathtaking” are words people use to describe this long, wild trail between that starts near Durango and ends not too far from Denver. It passes through some of the most spectacular backcountry areas of the Colorado Rockies in the high elevations, averaging above 10,000 feet the whole way.

Because it’s split into 33 sections, it’s easy enough to hike part of it if you’re not up for a 4-6 day thru-hiking marathon. Dramatic views of craggy mountains, lush meadows, alpine lakes, and evergreen forests wait for you on this iconic trail. You are also likely to meet some of Colorado’s most famous alpine residents, like bears and pika.

12. Rattlesnake Arches: Colorado

I’ve called Rattlesnake Arches the best hike in Western Colorado—it’s one that every outdoor lover should tackle because of the 40+ unusual natural formations that can be found along the trail. With more sandstone arches than anywhere else in the world in this region, you’ll see the best of the McInnis Canyon area with yawning canyons, desert wildflowers, and sandstone monoliths and arches standing tall like desert skyscrapers and art exhibits. 

Tip: Take the exhilarating 15-mile round trip trek from the trailhead to reach the Rattlesnake Arches, or drive a 4×4 trail and do a 5-mile hike for an easier approach.

13. Double O Arch: Utah

Part of the Utah Mighty 5, Arches National Park is home to another of the United States’ bucket list hikes: Double O Arch. Only Landscape Arch is bigger in the park, and this formation features window-like twin arches that stand 41 feet tall, with the bigger arch spanning 71 feet wide. You can watch me hike it on my PBS show, Alice’s Adventures on Earth, here.

One of the coolest things about this trail is that you’ll get to see Double O and Landscape Arch! The trail is mostly flat from the Devil’s Garden Primitive Loop, but involves a 4.2-mile hike that gets more difficult as you near Double O Arch. Since most visitors will stop at the Landscape Arch, this trail is often much less crowded and takes you along some long and narrow sandstone walls that are high above the rocky ground.

The scenery on this back part of the park is even more varied and interesting to look at it. Double O Arch itself is a geologic wonder and certainly one that most park visitors never see.

14. Havasupai Trail: Arizona

Deep in the Havasupai Indian Reservation that spans Havasu Canyon in Arizona, this 24.4-mile trail is one of the top options for backpackers who want to wander far off the beaten path—if you’re able to score a permit and make reservations to stay at the lodge or campgrounds here. No day hiking is allowed, so make a plan to spend a few days trekking this wild and unbridled wilderness. 

You’ll approach Havasu Falls, which thunders down 5 tiers into a pool that shines a brilliant turquoise color in the sun, and cross challenging switchbacks and inclines with unstable, rocky ground under your feet keeping you centered in the moment. Mooney and Beaver Falls are also nearby, and with limited shade on the trail, you’ll be so glad for a chance to cool off in one of the best backcountry swimming holes in the U.S. on this adventure of a lifetime.

Note: This trail requires reservations for an overnight stay on the Reservation in lieu of a permit. It has become wildly popular and has been known to have flash floods, so make sure to check the weather and don’t hike during monsoon season. 

15. Kalalau Trail: Hawaii

Hawaii’s Garden Isle, Kauai, is home to the lush coastal—and dangerous—Kalalau Trail on the postcard-worthy Na Pali Coast. You’ll stroll the ocean’s edge, cross over verdant valleys, and make your way along sea cliffs jutting out over the water as you hike this 11-mile trail in one of Hawaii’s most rugged and wild areas. It’s truly one of the best trails to do before you die.

The trail dips down to the beach in parts, but the choppy waters of these beaches have claimed the lives of 100+ hikers. Admire the coastal views and lava rock shelves, but be careful for eroded areas and narrow sections with steep drop-offs. I listed it as one of the best trails to hike on Kauai here.

Note: You’ll need a permit in advance from the State of Hawaii website to hike this trail.

16. Franconia Ridge Loop: New Hampshire

New Hampshire’s Franconia Notch State Park in the White Mountains hides a trail that’s been named as one of National Geographic’s top 20 dream trails. Growing up in New Hampshire, I’ve hiked this scenic ridgeline loop many times and trust me—it’s one of those hikes you have to experience. 

It takes about 9 hours to finish the trail, crossing Mount Lafayette, Mount Lincoln, and Little Haystack on the way with head-spinning views of the mountains surrounding you. With nearly 3,500 feet of elevation gain in just 4 miles, it’s tough but doable for the views. Take the Falling Waters Trail or less-crowded Old Bridle Path up.

Tip: It’s a popular hike, but setting out early can help you beat the crowds to cross this one off your list.

17. Longs Peak: Colorado

Longs Peak is a famous 14’er in Colorado’s Rocky Mountain National Park and maybe one of the scariest hikes in Colorado. I solo backpacked Longs Peak, taking the 15-mile trail up to the summit. I found it to be one of the most life-changing experiences I’ve had on a trail. Passing through beautiful forest, a wildflower-blanketed alpine zone, serene Chasm Lake, and being surrounded by the Rockies makes it truly breathtaking here.

Don’t make the mistakes I did—overpacking, setting out late in the day, and losing my phone down the mountain! I did reach camp by nightfall and conquered the summit on Day 2 after swallowing my fear in the dangerous Narrows section.

Note: Backcountry permits and bear boxes are required if you’ll be camping, so make arrangements in advance. 

18. Lost Coast Trail: California

The 38-mile Lost Coast Trail hugs California’s Pacific coastline, bringing you to black sand beaches, cliffs and bluffs, forests, and stunning natural formations that make it one of the most amazing backpacking trails in the country. Take the almost-25-mile northern section through Mattole and Black Sands Beach, then continue 19 miles further on the southern section to see the unique Sinkyone Wilderness State Park, including Hidden Valley and Needle Rock. The otherworldly scenery and remoteness of the trail are unbeatable if you’re looking for an unforgettable 2-4 day hike.

Note: You’ll need a permit (released every October), which can be tough to score.

19. Teton Crest Trail: Wyoming

High up in the Tetons of Wyoming, the Teton Crest Trail spreads out over 40 miles, encompassing mountain passes, dense national forests teeming with wildlife and unique plant species, and sparkling high-elevation lakes. With over 9,000 feet of elevation gains and a minimum of 3 days to hike, it’s a tough trail in spots, but you’ll struggle to find a more rewarding trek.

Wide-open, 360-degree views of the mountains await you, along with glaciers, slopes painted in color from wildflowers and steep, dramatic ridges. You’ll cross Rendezvous Mountain, reach Marion Lake, and a path along the ridge to the Death Canyon Shelf on this hike—certainly one of the top trails to do before you die. 

Which Trail Will You Hike First?

If you’re a lover of the great outdoors, you already know that great hike or backpacking trip can impact your life in the best way. Next time you’re planning an adventure, make sure it’s one of these bucket list trails to do before you die—you’ll come out of the trek feeling empowered, confident, and filled with a renewed appreciation of the natural world that’s still waiting for us outside the confines of the city.