Exploring unique U.S. hiking destinations has become a passion of ours. As beginner-level hikers, we seek trails that offer stunning scenery without requiring expert-level skills. The diverse terrains and breathtaking vistas across the country provide endless opportunities for adventure. We’ve found several hikes that are manageable for most people. Here are six remarkable hiking spots that left an indelible mark on our journeys.
1. Colorado National Monument
Nestled near Grand Junction, the Colorado National Monument boasts a landscape of towering monoliths and deep canyons. We visited just after sunrise, with the barren landscape lighting up before our eyes. We entered the park from the western end, following the historic Rimrock Drive. This scenic 23-mile road follows the canyon’s curves and includes overlooks and tunnels. Our first stop was the Saddlehorn Visitor Center. Behind the center, we found a path leading to the Window Rock Nature Trail. This short trail leads along the cliff edge, offering our first views of Monument Canyon.
Otto’s Trail is just a short drive to the east and leads to views on the opposite side of the Rock Nature Trail. This trail is an out-and-back with little elevation change. Many of the pull offs provide excellent views from the roadside, while others require short hikes. Some are just paths, while others, like Coke Ovens Overlook, have rock stairs leading to a viewing platform. We noticed multiple trails leading down into the canyon but decided they should be left to hikers with more experience.
2. Garden of the Gods
Located in Colorado Springs, Garden of the Gods is a testament to nature’s artistry. The park’s dramatic red rock formations rise strikingly against the backdrop of Pikes Peak. The towering sandstone structures each have their unique shape and history. A variety of paved paths make this park accessible, allowing a wide range of visitors a chance to experience nature’s beauty. Benches are scattered along the trails, allowing a place to rest and reflect.
During our visit, we encountered a group of climbers scaling the rocks. Their determination and skill were inspiring, and it was fascinating to watch them navigate the ancient formations. The diverse plant and wildlife make this park one of our favorite unique U.S. hiking destinations. It feels like every turn revealed a new marvel, making it a place we’ve visited on numerous occasions.
3. The Flatirons in Boulder
We followed the Chautauqua Trail until it reached a split. Here we found ourselves facing an important decision. We could continue along the Flatirons Loop, which looked to have some serious elevation change. Our second option was to follow the Bluebell-Baird Trail, which turned back toward town. Our lungs and legs told us that the second option was the wise choice. As we cleared the pines, we were greeted with panoramic views of Boulder and the distant plains. Insider tip: Do the hike in the morning and then spend your afternoon exploring Pearl Street in Boulder.
4. Arches National Park
Arches National Park is home to over 2,000 natural stone arches in southeastern Utah. We had seen many other people’s photos and knew we needed to visit. Knowing it would be crowded, we started early. Arriving before sunrise, we headed for the Windows Trail. A short 3-minute hike led to North Window Arch, which offers an elevated view to the east. We sat in silence as we viewed the canvas of stars. Gradually, these faded as the arch became bathed in the early morning sunshine. It was a humbling reminder of nature’s vastness and our fleeting presence within it.
Our day was filled with various hikes, all of which we would rate as easy to moderate. Many of the most famous features were visible from the vehicle, which made it easy to find the trailheads. As the day progressed, the trails filled with visitors. The wildlife we spotted in the morning soon disappeared, but occasionally, we would spot a mule deer. While the arches are most talked about, other notable park features exist. Insider tip: Be sure to save time to visit Park Avenue, a corridor flanked by towering rock walls and spires. A long staircase leads to some impressive views.
5. Palo Duro Canyon
Did you realize that the second-largest canyon in the U.S. is in Texas? This unique U.S. hiking destination is referred to as the “Grand Canyon of Texas”. Palo Duro Canyon offers a unique blend of rugged beauty and rich history. Hiking in this park, we were surrounded by multicolored layers of rock, each telling a story of the erosive power of wind and water over millennia. We began our visit at The Canyon Gallery & Visitor Center. This native stone structure was built in 1933 and is a good spot to get your bearing before heading down to the floor of the canyon.
Palo Duro Canyon is filled with hoodoos and caves. While many of the trails are fairly flat, we often found ourselves scrambling over loose rocks. One of the most memorable hikes was a short trail that led to The Big Cave. It required traversing a hillside filled with boulders, which makes this a moderate hike. As we rested in the shadow of the cave entrance, the vastness of the canyon stretched out before us, its walls painted in hues of red, orange, and yellow. Insider tip: Make a day of it and stay to enjoy the Texas Outdoor Musical. It’s Texas-sized entertainment with the canyon as a backdrop.
6. Devils Tower
Rising abruptly from the plains of northeastern Wyoming, Devils Tower is a geological wonder and a sacred site for many Native American tribes. This unique U.S. hiking destination has captured the attention and imagination of visitors for centuries. If you plan your visit between Memorial and Labor Day, be prepared for a crowd. The park sees about 500,000 visitors annually, and 80% of them occur during summer. The nearby Sturgis Rally occurs the first week of August, which boosts attendance even further.
The Tower Trail encircles the base, offering close-up views of its unique columnar formations. While the trail is paved, we still found plenty of elevation change. Walking this path, we were struck by the sheer verticality of the monolith, its surface etched with parallel cracks that have intrigued climbers and geologists alike. During our hike, we noticed prayer cloths and bundles tied to trees, honoring the site’s cultural significance. Respecting these traditions, we moved quietly, feeling a deep sense of reverence. The surrounding ponderosa pine forest and the distant Black Hills provided a serene backdrop, making our visit a natural and spiritual journey.
Our Favorite U.S. Hiking Destinations
Each of these six unique U.S. hiking destinations offers a distinct experience, showcasing the diverse beauty of America’s landscapes. As beginner hikers, we are always looking for trails that provide adventure without being overwhelming, and these locations delivered just that. From the towering rock formations of Colorado to the desert arches of Utah and the vast canyons of Texas, we found hikes that challenged and inspired us. Exploring unique U.S. hiking destinations is more than just a pastime; it’s a way to connect with nature, push our limits, and create unforgettable memories. Whether you’re new to hiking or a seasoned adventurer, these trails offer something truly special, and we can’t wait to discover even more scenic routes in the future.
