The Best Hiking Trails in the US for Campers
- 1. Yosemite National Park - Mist Trail
- 2. Grand Canyon National Park - Bright Angel Trail
- 3. Zion National Park - Angels Landing
- 4. Appalachian Trail - Georgia to Maine
- 5. Rocky Mountain National Park - Bear Lake to Alberta Falls
1. Yosemite National Park - Mist Trail
Yosemite National Park is a dream destination for both hikers and campers. One of the most popular hikes in this stunning park is the Mist Trail. This trail offers hikers a truly immersive experience with cascading waterfalls, breathtaking views, and the chance to camp under the stars. The trail takes you through dense forests and along the Merced River, with the spectacular Vernal and Nevada Falls at the end of the hike. For campers, Yosemite provides numerous campgrounds, including those that offer easy access to the Mist Trail, making it perfect for an extended adventure.
2. Grand Canyon National Park - Bright Angel Trail
One of the most iconic hikes in the US, the Bright Angel Trail in the Grand Canyon offers both a challenge and a rewarding experience. This trail is ideal for campers who want to explore the deep, rugged landscape of the canyon. The hike starts from the South Rim and descends toward the Colorado River. Campers can choose to spend a night at the Bright Angel Campground, which lies along the river. The trail itself offers stunning panoramic views, but it’s essential to be well-prepared, as the intense heat and steep terrain require extra caution.
3. Zion National Park - Angels Landing
For those seeking an exhilarating hike combined with breathtaking views, Angels Landing in Zion National Park is the perfect choice. This trail is famous for its steep, narrow sections and dramatic drop-offs, making it a must-do for adventurous hikers. The trail leads to a summit that offers sweeping vistas of Zion Canyon. For campers, Zion offers a variety of campsites, including the Watchman Campground, which serves as a great base for exploring both the Angels Landing trail and other nearby hikes.
4. Appalachian Trail - Georgia to Maine
The Appalachian Trail (AT) is one of the longest continuous hiking trails in the world, stretching over 2,100 miles from Georgia to Maine. While hiking the entire AT is an ambitious feat, campers can enjoy shorter sections that offer remarkable experiences through diverse landscapes. Popular spots for camping along the trail include Shenandoah National Park and the Great Smoky Mountains. Whether you’re looking for a short weekend hike or planning to tackle a section of the AT, the trail offers an unforgettable connection to nature and the opportunity to camp in some of the most scenic areas in the US.
5. Rocky Mountain National Park - Bear Lake to Alberta Falls
Located in Colorado, Rocky Mountain National Park is a hiker’s paradise, offering numerous trails that lead to stunning alpine lakes and waterfalls. One of the most popular hikes is the Bear Lake to Alberta Falls trail, which is perfect for hikers who want an easy-to-moderate hike with spectacular views. The trail takes you through meadows and forests, with the highlight being the majestic Alberta Falls. Campers can set up at nearby campgrounds like Moraine Park Campground, which offers easy access to this trail and many others in the park.
