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Hike These 17 National Parks for the Ultimate Adventure
National parks around the globe are like nature’s VIP lounges, serving up breathtaking views and hiking trails that are the envy of any outdoor enthusiast. And if you’re tired of staring at the same four walls of your living room, why not swap them for jagged peaks, lush forests, and the occasional selfie with a curious deer?
The upcoming parks offer trails ranging from “I could have done this in my slippers” to “I should have probably trained for a marathon,” ensuring everyone can find their hiking sweet spot. Plus, hiking in national parks allows you to channel your inner explorer without needing a map that looks like it was drawn by a toddler.
Rest assured, these park’s trails are tried, tested, and approved by countless adventurers who survived to tell the tale …and if they can make it, so can you. So let’s lace up those hiking boots and talk about where to head for the best hiking and a great trail to try once you are there.
Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Tennessee & North Carolina
If you think the Great Smoky Mountains National Park is just a pretty backdrop for your next vacation photo, think again! This place is a wonderland for those who enjoy sweating profusely while pretending it’s all about the views.
One trail you absolutely can’t miss is the Alum Cave Trail. Sure, it might feel like you’re climbing Everest by the time you reach the top, but the stunning vistas and unique geological features might just convince you it was worth temporarily losing your breath. Just don’t forget to take a moment to reflect…on why you decided to tackle this beast in the first place.
Banff National Park, Canada
Banff National Park is like stepping into a real-life postcard but without the annoying photo filters. With its turquoise lakes and snow-capped mountains, it practically screams, “Take my picture!”
If you indulge in hiking here, don’t even think about passing up the Plain of Six Glaciers Trail. This one will give your legs a serious workout while rewarding you with breathtaking views and the chance to sip tea at a historic shelter; because who doesn’t want to feel posh in the wild? Just remember, if your legs start feeling like jelly, you can always blame the scenery for needing a break.
Yosemite National Park, California
Yosemite National Park is the outdoor enthusiast’s version of a five-star buffet – it’s got towering cliffs, cascading waterfalls, and giant sequoias that are on steroids. And if you’re brave enough to tackle the infamous Half Dome Trail, prepare to sweat like you just binge-watched your favorite series.
This 16-mile round trip tests not just your endurance but also your willpower as you scramble up cables and contemplate your life choices. But once you reach the summit, you’ll be treated to jaw-dropping views that make you forget your quaking knees and the blisters on your feet (at least for a moment).
Torres Del Paine National Park, Chile
If you’re ready to explore a slice of Patagonia where glaciers have more drama than your last family reunion, then Torres Del Paine National Park is calling your name. This park is all about rugged peaks and vibrant lakes, offering a scenery so stunning you might be wondering how you can move here.
A must-do trail is the W trek, which sounds cool and all until you realize it’ll have you traversing through wind, rain, and possibly a few grumpy goats. But when you reach those iconic towers, you’ll hardly care if your calves are screaming at you.
Yellowstone National Park, Wyoming
Let’s talk about Yellowstone National Park, where geothermal wonders and wildlife mingle like they’re at a never-ending party. If geysers could talk, Old Faithful would probably be spilling the tea on all the drama.
For those looking to stretch their legs, the Mystic Falls Trail is an absolute must. It is a delightful 2-mile jaunt that rewards you with glorious views of a stunning waterfall and, let’s be real, a chance to catch your breath before plotting your next snack break.
Tongariro National Park, New Zealand
Tongariro National Park is not just a park; it’s nature’s way of saying, “I’ve got some seriously stunning stuff for you to check out!” Home to volcanic peaks and emerald lakes, it feels like you’ve walked onto a movie set. And not just any movie set, but one where the rocks are taller than your hopes and dreams.
Don’t miss the Tongariro Alpine Crossing; this trail is a must for hikers on their first (or tenth) visit. You’ll traverse a landscape that looks like it was ripped straight from a fantasy novel, complete with craters and lakes that will make you want to scream, “I love it here.”
Rocky Mountain National Park, Colorado
Rocky Mountain National Park is the place where your lungs come to question your life choices, and your legs decide to swear off staircases forever. But fear not, because the views are so stunning they’ll have you taking blurry selfies just to prove you were actually there.
One trail you definitely shouldn’t miss is Bear Lake Trail. It’s an easy stroll that leads you past some incredible lakes and allows ample time for deep philosophical debates about snacks. Just keep an eye out for wildlife…those deer don’t take kindly to your moral dilemmas about why you’re sweating like a sinner in church.
Lake District National Park, England
If you’re venturing into Lake District National Park, prepare to be wowed by the glorious English countryside that has inspired poets, painters, and a few overly ambitious walkers who forgot it rains here (like, a lot).
You can’t miss the enchanting Catbells Trail, which is less about feline friends and more about conquering a hill that gives you a cheeky workout while stealing your breath (literally). At the top, you’ll be rewarded with views that’ll have you wondering why you ever considered skipping leg day at the gym.
Grand Canyon National Park, Arizona
Let’s jump into the famous Grand Canyon National Park, where it feels like nature had a bit too much coffee and decided to carve out a gaping chasm just for fun. This colossal gorge is so impressive that even the rocks seem to be flexing for the camera.
If you’re up for a thrill, don’t miss the Bright Angel Trail; it’s a popular route that plunges you deep into the canyon’s heart. Just be prepared for views that’ll leave you speechless and a bit lightheaded – not from the altitude, but from sheer awe. But remember, hydration is key as it gets extremely hot in the canyon. No one wants to be the dehydrated hiker with a dramatic story.
Zion National Park, Utah
Zion National Park is basically the dramatic stage where nature decides to flex its muscles and flaunt its stunning scenery. It’s like someone took a paintbrush and went wild with reds, oranges, and yellows while towering cliffs loom overhead, judging your every step.
If you’re up for a little climb, the Angels Landing Trail is a must-do, because nothing says “vacation” like a heart-pounding scramble with a side of existential dread. The views will be so majestic that you might end up having a spiritual moment (if you can get over the sheer drops).
Tatra National Park, Poland & Slovakia
Situated on the border of Poland and Slovakia, Tatra National Park is that magical place where mountains meet whimsical fairytales – minus the charming princes, unfortunately. The landscapes are so jaw-droppingly beautiful that you might find yourself wondering if you’ve accidentally wandered into a painting by Bob Ross.
A trail you can’t afford to miss is the Valley of Five Polish Lakes. This hike promises lakes so vibrant they’ll have you questioning if they were dyed by a child on a craft bender. And brace yourself for a few steep climbs. But the views? Worth every ounce of sweat dripping down your back.
Olympic National Park, Washington
Olympic National Park is nature’s ultimate buffet, serving up everything from misty mountains to lush rainforests, all in one place. If you ever wanted a smorgasbord of ecosystems, this is your go-to spot.
Make sure to check out the Hoh Rain Forest Trail; a magical stroll that will make you think you have stumbled into the Lord of the Rings movie. You’ll meander through ancient trees and moss-covered everything, feeling totally insignificant while nature all around shares its hues of greens. Just be careful; you might end up becoming one with the forest (bonus points if the trees start whispering your name).
Snowdonia National Park, Wales
In the land of Snowdonia National Park, where mountains seem to play hide and seek, you’ll find yourself completely starry-eyed as you explore its beautiful scenery. One trail that should leap to the top of your to-do list is the hike to Snowdon’s summit.
This trek promises to deliver breathtaking views, as long as your legs don’t decide to take a permanent vacation halfway up. Prepare for a mix of sweat, laughter, and maybe some impromptu motivational speeches to keep yourself going. And hey, if you run into a sheep, remember that they’re not judging you…they’ve seen worse!
Glacier National Park, Montana
Glacier National Park is what happens when you tell nature to go big or go home. It’s a breathtaking paradise where glaciers seem to have taken a permanent vacation, and wildlife saunter around like they own the place.
If you need a trail that takes the cake, look no further than the Highline Trail. This beauty offers jaw-dropping views that might just inspire you to question all your life choices leading up to this moment. And here’s a tip: keep a protein bar handy because you’ll need the energy to climb and pretend you didn’t nearly trip over every rock in sight.
Pyrenees National Park, France
Picture soaring peaks and valleys that could easily star as the backdrop for your wildest escapades (or at least your next hiking story), and you will have Pyrenees National Park.
On a visit, be sure to check out the breathtaking GR10 trail, where scenic views collide with the exhilarating fear of accidentally stumbling off the edge. And it’s got enough twists and turns to satisfy even the most dramatic plotlines. Get ready to channel your inner goat and tread carefully, because nature doesn’t do soft landings.
Acadia National Park, Maine
Acadia National Park is the MVP of the East Coast, flaunting rugged coastlines and granite peaks like it’s auditioning for a role in a nature documentary. And If you’re looking for a mind-blowing excursion, don’t skip the Jordan Pond Path.
It’s a scenic stroll that promises views so stunning, they’ll make your morning coffee feel inadequate. And keep an eye out for those infamous popovers at the Jordan Pond House…you know, the ones that are basically a rite of passage. Just don’t blame us if you get so distracted by the scenery that you forget to take the perfect selfie for your social media feed.
Shenandoah National Park, Virginia
Located in the stunning Blue Ridge Mountains, Shenandoah National Park is where your desire for adventure and sprawling views gets a serious upgrade. And one trail you simply can’t miss is the Old Rag Mountain Trail.
Let’s just say, if you haven’t tested your mental fortitude by scrambling over rocks resembling a game of nature’s Tetris, are you even hiking? With its panoramic views, this trail is famous for pushing your limits while rewarding you with a sight that’ll make you feel like the king or queen of the world (or at least the king or queen of your OWN world).
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