The Halfdays Guide toBEAUTIFUL HIKESFeaturing our 10 Faves

There’s nothing quite like the feeling of summiting a mountain, your legs shaking and the breeze brushing your face. The satisfaction of reaching the mountain’s peak after a strenuous climb (or even a quick 15-minute-er) is unmatched. And what makes your sweat, blood, and tears even more worth it? Stunning views from the top, of course.

Because we love nothing more than fantasizing about potential future trips and adventures, we’ve compiled a list of the top 10 most beautiful hikes in North America. From East Coast to West Coast, lake views to glacier climb and super challenging to beginner friendly, we’ve got you covered on some seriously swoon-worthy trails to add to your list. Suit up in your new Halfdays fleece, pack tons of water and snacks (and your Packable Puffer, of course), and get climbing.

@smallcrazy

1. Angels Landing

Although breathtakingly beautiful, this one’s not for the faint of heart. Angels Landing trail, one of Zion National Park’s most popular trails, is known for its tight switchbacks, the final stretch of the hike even including chained-in railings. Views from the top of Zion’s sprawling canyons and cliffs are other-worldly. If you choose to brave the 1,488 feet up, be advised that hikers are now required to obtain permits in order to hike Angels Landing, so be sure to plan ahead.

Distance: 5.4 miles round trip

Duration: 4-5 hours

Difficulty: Strenuous

@majesticworldz

2. Panorama Trail

Yosemite National Park is home to many of the U.S.’ most well-known, highly trafficked hiking trails. The lesser-known Panorama Trail is a great option for experienced hikers and is arguably Yosemite’s most breathtakingly beautiful trail. Because this trail often takes hikers between 4 and 6 hours (one way), many visitors opt to park their car at the top and return for it post-hike. Be sure to bring your Packable Puffer for this one; the final section of Panorama Trail gets cool winds, and hikers pass through a number of waterfalls with the potential to get wet!

Distance: 8.5 miles one way

Duration: 4-6 hours

Difficulty: Strenuous

Horseshoebend.com

3. Horseshoe Bend

Based on the sprawling, sky-high views alone, Horseshoe Bend may appear challenging, but it’s actually extremely accessible and is fit for even the most beginner of hikers. The 1.5-mile round trip trail is mostly flat, can be done in under an hour, and leads you to one of the most beautiful and well-known views in the U.S. Talk about low risk, high reward!

Distance: 1.5 miles round trip

Duration: 1 hour

Difficulty: Easy

@freedomvert

4. Kalalau Trail

Widely known as one of the most beautiful, and dangerous hikes in the U.S., the Kalalau Trail in Kauai stretches across 11 miles of sea cliffs and vibrant tropical valleys. Hikers who want to attempt the entire 22 miles out and back are required to secure an overnight camping permit. Luckily, the first two miles of the trail are easily accessible and make a great day hike, allowing you to still take in the iconic beauty of the Kalalau Trail without the 2-day commitment.

Distance: 22 miles round trip

Duration: 2 days

Difficulty: Strenuous

@the_elevated_exposure

5. Sky Pond

Our fellow Coloradans know just how many options there are when it comes to beautiful hikes; it’s nearly impossible to pick just one or two favorites. Sky Pond, though, is a true standout. Located near Estes Park, this 9.4-mile hike is on the long and more challenging side, but reaching the pristine, mountain-surrounded lake makes it all worth it. If you choose to head up to Sky Pond, be advised that snow can linger on the trail until July, so be sure to plan ahead to avoid unexpected slips.

Distance: 9.4 miles round trip

Duration: 4 to 6 hours

Difficulty: Strenuous

@bucketlistbri

6. Queen’s Garden & Navajo Loop Trail

The Queen’s Garden and Navajo Loop combination is Bryce Canyon National Park’s most popular hike, which comes as no surprise based on the spectacular scenery. The 2.9-mile loop is fit for beginners who are up for a bit of a challenge, too. The trail sees a lot of foot traffic, but to us, potential crowds are totally worth it to experience Zion’s iconic red rock limestone in all its glory.

Distance: 2.9 miles round trip

Duration: 2-3 hours

Difficulty: Medium

Earthtrekkers.com

7. Notch Trail

Badlands National Park’s most popular trail gets you some crazy stunning views in as little as 45 minutes. See the badlands in all their glory as you wind along the flat beginnings of the trail, then head up the canyon and climb the log ladder, which puts you at an incredible vantage point with views for miles.

Distance: 1.5 miles round trip

Duration: 45-70 minutes

Difficulty: Easy

Hikingproject.com

8. Cascade Canyon Trail

Cascade Canyon in Wyoming is the place to be if you're up for an all-dayer. Hikers take a shuttle boat across Jenny Lake at the start, which brings you right to the trailhead. From there, just a casual 9.4 miles, and you’re done! Jackson Hole and the surrounding areas have so many amazing hiking trails, you can’t go wrong. But if you’re in town and are up for the challenge, Cascade Canyon is truly spectacular. Plus, Teton Valley is known for its abundance of wildlife and hiking up to Cascade Canyon, you just might see a moose or a bear!

Distance: 9.4 miles

Duration: 5-9 hours

Difficulty: Moderately Strenuous

@austinsills

9. Root Glacier Trail

The Root Glacier Trail in Alaska is a total bucket list item. Visitors can access the Root Glacier via the historic Alaskan mining town Kennecott, where a trail leads straight from town into the glacier. Exploring these massive expanses of glacial ice is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity, and this moderately easy hike makes it all the more tangible.

Distance: 4 miles round trip

Duration: 2-4 hours

Difficulty: Easy to Moderate

Earthtrekkers.com

10. Precipice Trail

This one’s for our East Coast girlies (and guys)! Precipice Trail in Acadia National Park, Maine boasts some pretty incredible ocean views with surrounding islands scattered throughout. Known as the most difficult hike in Acadia, Precipice trail leads you up some crazy steep cliffs by way of ladders and iron rungs. If you’re up for an exhilarating, super adventurous hike, Precipice trail is the hike for you.

Distance: 3.2 miles round trip

Duration: 2-3 hours

Difficulty: Strenuous