Of all the paths you take in life, make sure a few of them are dirt.
If North America's snowcapped peaks, jagged cliffs, towering volcanoes and old-growth forests are calling your name, then there's no time like the present to grab your boots and hit the trails.
The trails are calling and I must go. . .
Glacier National Park Glacier National Park offers more than 700 miles of hiking trails that crisscross the northern Montana park's roughly 1 million acres of wilderness. Keep an eye out for the bears, beavers and bighorn sheep that populate the park while you trek up, across and around its towering mountains and freshwater streams. You'll find trails that appeal to everyone, including several that are wheelchair accessible. Before starting your journey, stop by a visitor center or ranger station to plan the perfect adventure. READ MORE
Yosemite Most travelers flock to the Yosemite Valley area of Yosemite National Park to trek some of the park's most popular trails. Though you may have to rub elbows with other hikers as you traverse world-renowned paths like the daunting Half Dome Trail, you'll be rewarded with stunning vistas. For a less-crowded atmosphere and gorgeous views of kaleidoscopic wildflowers, timeworn sequoias and jaw-dropping rock formations, consider hiking quieter routes like the Four Mile Trail and the Swinging Bridge Trail. You'll have about 800 miles of trails to choose from in this nearly 750,000-acre park in central California. READ MORE
Yellowstone Yellowstone National Park in Wyoming, Montana and Idaho is a hiker's paradise, with approximately 1,000 miles of hiking trails across more than 2.2 million acres. These trails include 15-plus miles of boardwalk, which travelers can use to reach thermal attractions like Old Faithful and Mammoth Hot Springs. Other popular routes include those found in the Canyon Village and Lake Village areas. Backcountry trails provide a more solitary experience, though visitors may encounter moose, wolves and grizzly bears, among other animal species. For optimal conditions, visit during the summer or fall. Just remember to avoid straying from Yellowstone's marked trails. READ MORE
Zion National Park Sandstone cliffs with varying shades of red tower over visitors at Zion National Park. Three areas house this Utah national park's trails and attractions: Zion Canyon, the Kolob Canyons and the Zion Wilderness. The Kolob Canyons and Zion Wilderness sections appeal to explorers due to their group size limits and primitive amenities. Meanwhile, Zion Canyon is the easiest to reach thanks to its shuttle service to multiple trailheads, including the famous and challenging Narrows. Keep in mind, though, that the shuttle only runs from spring to fall. READ MORE
Grand Canyon Even for seasoned hikers, the combination of this Arizona national park's immense size and its unique climate make for an unforgettable adventure. The Grand Canyon's rims provide trails with varying degrees of difficulty and panoramic views. You'll find frequented routes like the Bright Angel Trail and the Rim Trail along the canyon's South Rim. If you're looking to avoid the crowds, head to the North Rim to trek paths like the challenging North Kaibab Trail. No matter which trails you plan on exploring, you'll want to set aside several days and map out your visit ahead of time. READ MORE