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These Hiking Trails Took Over Google Maps In 2024 (And They’re Just As Epic In Person)
There’s something about hiking that gets everyone talking (or typing and searching, apparently). And last year, trails weren’t just for muddy boots and wildlife; they became the stars of everyone’s searches.
While each location brought its own flavor of adventure (some peaceful, some downright quad-burning), it’s clear that hikers everywhere had a lot to say about where to go, how to get there, and what was worth every step… or slip.
What made these spots so widely searched? Was it the challenge, the scenery, or just the overwhelming urge to stretch some legs after binge-watching everyone else’s exploits online?
Whatever the sparks were, these destinations didn’t just show up on Google Maps; they dominated. And now, it’s time to see why. So get your walking shoes (and your curiosity) ready; let’s take a look.
Dater Mountain Nature Park – Sloatsburg, New York
Located in the wild heart of Sloatsburg, where cell signals vanish faster than your snacks, Dater Mountain offers trails that feel like they were pulled straight from a storybook. If storybooks had lots of uphill climbs, that is. The park is steeped in history, rumored to have been stomping grounds for Dutch settlers and bootleggers alike (hint, hint, think Prohibition-style shenanigans).
Today, it’s a sanctuary for anyone craving solitude, incredible views, and the smell of pine so fresh it practically punches your senses. Who said New York was just skyscrapers?
Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area – Oregon
Step into the Columbia River Gorge and prepare to feel tiny in the best way possible. Towering cliffs, cascading waterfalls, and a river so powerful it could convince you it’s plotting world domination.
Beyond the jaw-dropping scenery, the gorge carries layers of history, from indigenous tribes to Lewis and Clark’s big adventure. And chasing one waterfall is a rookie move. There are dozens.
Garden Of The Gods – Colorado Springs, Colorado
The phrase “otherworldly beauty” gets tossed around a lot, but Garden of the Gods earns it with blood-red rock formations so dramatic they’re practically auditioning for a sci-fi movie. Legend has it this area was sacred to the Ute people long before tourists started mispronouncing “kissing camels” (yes, it’s a rock name).
Walking among the towering spires and monoliths, you’d half expect to see dinosaurs (or at least someone dressed as one). The best part? It’s free to visit… unless you count the gas money getting there.
Looking Glass Falls – Asheville, North Carolina
Just so you know, you don’t actually get to look through the waterfall like a giant magnifying glass, but no one’s complaining. Looking Glass Falls is the kind of spot that stops you in your tracks with a “Wait, that’s real?”.
Its shimmering curtain of water crashing into a picturesque pool is both hypnotic and, for better or worse, totally social sharing worthy. Named after the nearby Looking Glass Rock, which glistens in the winter, this spot is a crowd-pleaser and a peaceful retreat wrapped into one.
Diamond Head Crater Trailhead – Honolulu, Hawaii
Diamond Head’s volcanic crater has seen everything from fiery eruptions 300,000 years ago to military bunkers keeping watch during WWII. And now? It’s your cardio’s worst nightmare, with steep switchbacks and tunnels that eventually lead to panoramic views so mind-blowing that they could probably stop wars.
The smell of salty ocean breezes mingle with sunscreen, and the terrain demands sturdy shoes. Question is… are you ready to conquer the crown jewel of Oahu hikes?
The Wave – Coconino County, Arizona
The Wave is like stepping onto Mars, except you didn’t need a SpaceX ticket (or a spacesuit). This geological masterpiece, located in the Arizona desert, looks like nature decided to test its abstract artistry skills.
Its swirling sandstone ridges, sculpted over 190 million years, are so otherworldly you half-expect to see UFOs hover by. But don’t be fooled; getting here isn’t a casual stroll. A 6-mile round-trip hike through sandy terrain leaves you sweaty and sunburnt. Until that first glimpse of the Wave fully rewires your brain.
Hole In The Rock – Phoenix, Arizona
Who says rocks can’t multitask? Hole in the Rock is part cave, part ridiculously large window, and all Arizona charm. Once a natural shelter for ancient peoples (who wouldn’t want a room with that view?), this quirky formation has been carving its spot in Arizona’s heart since the Hohokam culture reigned around 1,400 years ago.
Today, it’s a quick, low-effort climb from Papago Park to the perfect perch for Phoenix sunsets. And those sunset hues? They’ll make you want to name every shade… if you survive tiptoeing over the rocky edges first.
Annie’s Canyon Trail – Solana Beach, California
Feeling claustrophobic? No? Excellent. Because Annie’s Canyon Trail doesn’t just flirt with tight spaces; it marries them. This short-but-sweet trek winds through sandstone slot canyons, teasing you with twisting, graffiti-covered walls.
Once used as a party zone, this now-restored gem crams you into spots that make squeezing through airplane aisles feel spacious. Emerge at the overlook all sandy-handed and vaguely victorious, and you might just catch ocean breezes whispering, “Admit it, you kinda loved it.”
Devil’s Bridge Trailhead – Sedona, Arizona
Devil’s Bridge is proof that gravity occasionally takes a day off. This sandstone arch (arching far more than your grocery budget) feels like nature dared itself to defy logic. Located in the crimson cliffs of Sedona, it’s a brisk 4-mile round trip to this daredevil destination.
Once there, stepping out onto the bridge feels equal parts thrilling and terrifying, especially as you glance at the massive canyon yawning beneath. The reward? Stunning views and the bragging rights to tell everyone you literally danced with danger (or strategically shuffled, which still counts).
Peekamoose Blue Hole – Sundown, New York
Situated in the Catskills, Peekamoose Blue Hole sounds innocent enough… until you plunge into its unforgiving, arctic-level waters. And this glacier-fed gem isn’t for the faint-hearted (think “refreshing” with a hard slap of reality).
Popular among adventurous swimmers and polar bear souls, Peekamoose is a natural ode to everything unheated. But beyond its liquid frostbite, the surrounding forest is a peaceful retreat, humming with the sound of wind brushing leaves and an occasional mosquito plotting its next move.
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