Hiking in North America

Find your hiking trail in North America

Hiking in North America is always a good idea. It’s a great continent for long-distance hiking or day hikes with a variety of trails ranging from extended thru-hikes to shorter, scenic hiking trails in national parks. Hiking in North America has everything to offer for both casual hikers and experienced thru-hikers who want to cross Canada or the United States on trails like the Pacific Crest Trail or the Great Divide Trail.

Thru-hiking in the United States

The Appalachian Trail is one of the most famous hiking trails in North America, stretching approximately 3540km (2200 mi) from Georgia to Maine, it traverses a range of mountains, forests, and wildflower meadows. Also called the green tunnel, this thru-hike is a mental and physical challenge and an adventure of a lifetime.

On the west coast, the Pacific Crest Trail covers about 4265km (2650 mi) from Mexico to Canada, passing through the states of California, Oregon, and Washington. It is known for its dramatic changes in scenery, from high desert landscapes to snowy mountain peaks and wide forests. Welcome to the most famous hiking trail in the world.

The Continental Divide Trail, which follows the Rocky Mountains from Canada to Mexico, spans about 4990km (3100 mi). It is less traveled than the Appalachian and Pacific Crest trails, offering more of a wilderness experience. The trail is known for its elevation gain and solitude, making it a unique experience to cross America.

Hiking in Canada

Canada hosts numerous trails that highlight its wild landscapes. Describing just a few trails here, Canada has so much more to offer. The West Coast Trail in British Columbia is a 75km beautiful trek through the coastal wilderness of Vancouver Island. The Skyline Trail in Jasper National Park offers a trail famous for higher altitudes and hiking above the tree line with views of the Canadian Rockies. The Bruce Trail is Canada’s oldest and longest marked footpath, stretching almost 900 kilometers from Niagara to Tobermory in Ontario.

Shorter trails in the United States

For those looking for shorter long-distance trails or day-hiking trails, the United States does not disappoint. Zion National Park in Utah offers the Zion Narrows, where you will wade through the Virgin River with towering canyon walls on either side. This hike provides a unique perspective on the park’s stunning rock formations.

Yosemite National Park’s Half Dome is a challenging day hike that ends in a steep ascent to the iconic granite dome, offering panoramic views of Yosemite Valley and the High Sierra.

Another great option in Zion National Park is Angels Landing maybe one of the most beautiful hiking trails in the United States, known for its breathtaking views and drops, this hiking trail leads you to one of the most spectacular viewpoints in the park. These are just a few trails that represent a sample of the hiking opportunities in North America.