10 best hiking destinations in the US
Peak adventures meet peak relaxation
The United States serves up world-class trails—you deserve a basecamp that matches. Vacation homes plant you near iconic bucket list hikes and hidden alpine lakes, then offer the space, silence, and hot tub you've absolutely earned. Adventure hard, recover harder.
Red rock scrambles and desert vistas reward every step. Return to rentals with pools and sunset-soaked patios.
This iconic trail is short but powerful—rising steeply over slickrock to panoramic views of Sedona’s most famous rock formation. Best enjoyed at sunrise or sunset for glowing red views.
Another must-hike, this trail leads to the largest natural sandstone arch in the area. It’s a great photo op and generally suitable for families and casual hikers alike.
Don’t let the name fool you—this challenging trail isn’t just for experts, but it does climb nearly 2,000 feet to jaw-dropping vistas. You’ll be rewarded with sweeping views of the Verde Valley, Mingus Mountain, and beyond.
From valley floors to alpine lakes, Yosemite delivers drama. Vacation homes deliver fireplaces, decks, and well-earned tranquility.
This dramatic out-and-back hike climbs alongside two of Yosemite's most powerful waterfalls. Expect misty switchbacks, lush greenery, and exhilarating views—especially in spring and early summer when the water flow peaks.
Climb nearly 3,200 feet for a sweeping view of Yosemite Valley, Half Dome, and the High Sierra. You can hike it as an out-and-back trail—or time it with shuttle options for a point-to-point version.
Escape the crowds of the valley floor and head to Yosemite’s lesser-known alpine paradise. Options like the Soda Springs/Parsons Lodge Trail or Cathedral Lakes Trail treat hikers to peace, granite domes, and wildflower-filled meadows.
Towering sandstone cliffs and narrow slot canyons test your mettle. Your vacation rental's comfort feels especially sweet after steep ascents.
Not for the faint of heart, this iconic hike takes you up steep switchbacks and along a narrow sandstone ridge (with anchored chains) to one of the most spectacular viewpoints in the park. Now regulated through a permit system, it's a true bucket list hike.
This one-of-a-kind trail winds upstream through the Virgin River, flanked by thousand-foot canyon walls. Hike as far as you're comfortable and embrace the ankle-to-waist deep water—you’ll be talking about this one for years.
For those who want big views without the big climb, this short trail delivers. Starting just outside the east tunnel entrance, it ends with an epic overlook above the Zion canyon—perfect for sunrise or sunset.
Explore grizzly country and glacier-carved cirques where the Rocky Mountains showcase their finest. Return to wood-fired hot tubs under magnificent starscapes.
This scenic stunner follows the Garden Wall along the Continental Divide, with sweeping views the entire way. It’s one of the park’s most iconic hikes, and for good reason. Don't miss the stretch from Logan Pass to the Grinnell Glacier Overlook spur.
Perfect for families or anyone easing into mountain hiking, this forested trail leads to a stunning alpine lake surrounded by cliffs and waterfalls—the kind of landscape that feels straight out of a fantasy film.
If you want dramatic elevation gain and intimate views of one of the park’s namesake glaciers, this one’s for you. The trail traverses turquoise lakes, wildflower fields, and rugged cliffs all the way to a view of an actual glacier-fed lake.
Hike mist-soaked ridges and waterfall-studded trails through America's most-visited park. Settle into classic mountain cabins with rocking chairs and profound peace.
This tough but rewarding trail winds past natural archways, exposed bluff overlooks, and sweeping vistas as it climbs one of the park’s most iconic peaks. For dedicated hikers, an overnight stay at the LeConte Lodge (reservations required) is a bucket-list experience.
Short and steep, this paved path leads to the highest point in the Smokies—offering 360-degree views that stretch into seven states on a clear day. A must at sunrise or during fall foliage season.
Ideal for families or casual hikers, this paved trail leads to a picturesque, multi-tiered waterfall. Go early in the day to avoid crowds and enjoy the tranquil soundtrack of rushing water and songbirds.
Follow popular trails circling America's clearest alpine water that deliver nonstop wonder. Experience vacation homes blending mountain character with lakeside luxury.
Arguably one of the region’s most iconic hikes, this rugged climb rewards hikers with sweeping views over Emerald Bay and the entire Tahoe Basin. Expect snow into early summer—but also one of the most scenic summits in the Sierra.
Perfect for a quick adventure, this popular Desolation Wilderness hike offers big beauty with minimal effort. Cross a wooden bridge, wind through granite outcroppings, and end at a tranquil alpine lake tucked between the cliffs.
You don’t need to hike the whole thing (unless you want to). The 13-mile segment from Spooner Summit to Kingsbury Grade offers stunning overlooks, dips into shady pine forest, and unbeatable lake views along the ridge.
Journey from moss-draped temperate jungle to rugged Pacific coastline in one remarkable park. Warm up in cozy homes after adventuring through Washington's signature mist.
Towering old-growth trees, blankets of moss, and soft, spongy forest floor—it’s as enchanting as it sounds. Stick to the 1-mile Hall of Mosses loop or venture deeper into the forest for solitude and birdsong.
Starting from the Hurricane Ridge Visitor Center, this short but rewarding alpine hike offers wide-open views of the Olympic Mountains and, on clear days, even Mount Baker and Vancouver Island.
Take a gentle descent through lush coastal forest to emerge on a wild and windswept beach scattered with sea stacks and driftwood. Time your visit with low tide for tidepool exploring, or stay for sunset.
Navigate tundra trails to pristine alpine lakes above 11,000 feet in Colorado's crown jewel. Soak in your vacation home's hot tub for essential restoration.
This postcard-perfect alpine hike passes by three stunning lakes—Nymph, Dream, and Emerald—each backed by rising cliffs and often reflecting the surrounding peaks. A must-do for first-time visitors.
This adventurous trail takes hikers through waterfalls, narrow rock chutes, and dramatic alpine terrain—all culminating at Sky Pond, a glassy lake nestled beneath cathedral-like rock walls.
Starting above the treeline, this trail offers panoramic views of the alpine tundra and feels worlds away from the dense pine forests of the lower park. A peaceful and underrated gem.
Challenge granite peaks where weather changes hourly and summit signs feel truly earned. Find fireside restoration at classic New England cabins.
This bucket-list-worthy loop connects three major peaks—Little Haystack, Mount Lincoln, and Mount Lafayette—along a spine of exposed ridgeline with 360-degree mountain views. It’s one of the most iconic (and photogenic) hikes in the eastern U.S.
For a shorter adventure, this forested trail leads to one of the largest waterfalls in New Hampshire. Surrounded by thick hardwoods and mossy rocks, it’s a favorite among families and photographers alike.
Notorious for its wild weather, Mount Washington offers one of the most challenging and legendary hikes in the East. The Tuckerman Ravine route climbs steeply through a massive glacial cirque to the highest summit in the Northeast.
Follow coastal cliff walks and forested peaks that deliver quintessential New England magic. Unwind at vacation homes with sunset decks and fresh seafood.
Climb to the tallest peak on the U.S. Atlantic coast—without the crowds of the summit road. This hike provides sweeping coastal views, granite ridge walking, and the bragging rights of catching first light at sunrise.
Short but thrilling, this steep loop includes iron rungs and ladders that scale an exposed rock face for heart-pounding views above Sand Beach. Not for the faint of heart, but unforgettable for those who complete it.
A family-friendly favorite, this scenic path runs parallel to Acadia’s dramatic coastline from Sand Beach to Otter Point. Perfect for a leisurely walk with world-class ocean views at every turn.
It is better to stay in a vacation rental for a hiking trip because you get more space, flexibility, and amenities that hotels can't match. Vacation homes offer:
Yes, you can book a vacation home near a national park—on Vacasa.com you’ll find rentals close to iconic destinations like Yosemite, Zion, Glacier, Rocky Mountain, and Olympic. These homes put you minutes from visitor centers and trailheads while providing the comfort and space you need after a day hike. Many rentals offer stunning views of the parks themselves, extending your wilderness experience from dawn to dusk.
When staying near hiking areas, bring essential gear and items that enhance both trail time and downtime:
The best time of year to plan a hiking vacation in the United States depends on your destination and preferred terrain:
Plan bucket list trips around when trails are snow-free and visitor centers are fully staffed for the best experience
