The US is filled with fabulous options for couples who enjoy the great outdoors. If you’re looking for a memorable experience, some of the best hikes in the USA may be right in your own backyard. From long trails to short jaunts, we’ve curated a list of the top 10 best hikes in the US for couples.
What are the best hikes in the USA?
What better way to kindle love and romance than by trekking hand in hand in the great outdoors? If you and your partner want to jump in with both feet, have we got a list for you! Exploring the best hiking trails in the US together can take you on trips near and far from home.
North America has anywhere from difficult hiking trails to some of the best hikes in the US for beginners. Do your best to gauge your skill level before heading out as safety is key.
Some of the best day hikes in the US can be lengthy yet easy. Other trails are short but difficult. Talk to your partner about your goals. Then make sure to research so you can choose a hiking trip that’s best for both of you.
So, what are the best hikes in the USA? That depends on you! Peek at our list of 10 best hikes in the United States to determine which is right for you. Also, please check the sites of the individual trails to keep updated on closures and weather conditions.
10 Best Hikes in the US
The United States is a big country, and there are so many hikes from coast to coast. Our top ten best hikes in the US isn’t an exhaustive list, and some include multiple trails. Have fun deciding which pathways you’ll explore.
Appalachian Trail ~ East Coast
The Appalachian Trail is a famous hiking trail that is perfect for couples. There are over 500 miles of trails to choose from! You’ll have plenty of options for a short hike or a longer hike as well. The trail system itself is easily considered one of the best hikes in America.
The hiking trail runs from Maine to Georgia, and many die-hards have the goal of hiking from end to end. The Appalachian Trail is one of the best long hikes in the US, however, you can go on a short section for the day.
Mist Trail ~ California
If you want to visit Yosemite Park, take a hike on Mist Trail. Not only will you see an abundance of wildlife. It’s also near waterfalls, which can be a hiking highlight. Mist Trail is considered Yosemite’s signature trail, and it’s one of the best day hikes in the US.
Petroglyph Wall Trail ~ Nevada
The Petroglyph Wall Trail is especially interesting because the path contains many rock carvings—petroglyphs—that date way back. It’s important to note that these hiking trails are challenging and take quite a bit of time to do. If you’re not used to hiking, this might not be the trail for you and your better half.
Billy Goat Trail ~ Maryland
Located in Maryland, Billy Goat Trail offers fantastic views and a memorable hike. Arrive early to avoid the crowds as this hiking path is very popular with locals and tourists. The Billy Goat Trail is 4.7 miles long, follows the Potomac River, and is one of the best fall hikes in the US. If you adore waterside views, this is the journey for you!
South Rim Trail ~ Arizona
Have you ever wanted to hike the Grand Canyon? The South Rim Trail is what will make that hiking dream come true. There are stunning vantage points of the Grand Canyon, and you can take a shuttle to get there. The good news for non-hikers is that this trail is flat, so it’s doable for just about any skill level.
Cadillac Mountain North Ridge Trail ~ Maine
Have you ever wanted to hike a mountain? The Cadillac Mountain North Ridge Trail gives you that chance! Hike way up to see some of the most beautiful views that seem to go on for miles.
Bryce Canyon Rim Trail ~ Utah
Plan a hiking trip to Utah to discover the unique beauty of Rim Trail, located within the beautiful Bryce Canyon National Park. Rim Trail offers some of the best views of unique red rock formations that you’re ever going to see.
Rubicon Trail ~ California
Lake Tahoe is already one of the best places to vacation. Therefore it’s natural that it has some of the best hikes in America. If you’re headed there, you might as well make it a trip and hike the Rubicon Trail, too. The best part is that you can easily venture off and find a few beaches along the way.
Chautauqua Trail ~ Colorado
Chautauqua Trail is a gorgeous hiking trail located in Colorado and is a longstanding path. If you can make it to the top of the boulder, your reward can be one of the most stunning sunsets you’ll ever see. The best thing about the Chautauqua Trail system is there are several paths ranging in length from 0.3 to 6.9 miles in length.
Cascade Canyon Trail ~ Wyoming
The Cascade Canyon Trail is so much more than a hike. It’s an all-day excursion where you’ll get to spend the entire day soaking up all the beauty of nature with your loved one. This 14-mile hike is beautiful, and it’s one of the best backpacking hikes in the US.
Which of our 10 best hikes in the US will you take?
Short or long. East coast or west. The whole US is filled with amazing hiking trails for you to explore. If we missed your favorite (even if it’s small and local!), let us know. We’d love to learn more about exploring this fabulous country of ours.
Save our top ten best hikes in the US!
Photos by: Maddy Baker, Timo Stern, Michal Parzuchowski, Rachel Claire, Mark Mialik, Andrea Coan, Vanessa Garcia
