Across America there are practically endless opportunities for
walking. USA holiday makers are spoilt for choice and sometimes, making
that decision can be a daunting task. All throughout the great land
there are dramatic landscapes in some legendary country to be
discovered. To whittle down the list and give you a starting reference,
here five top walking trails in the USA today.
Zion National Park
Out on the Colorado Plateau, the expansive 229 square mile Zion National Park has a world of canyons and cliffs to be discovered by walking. USA guides provided by the park or private operators can lead you through impressive rock formations to fresh water springs and waterfalls.
Grand Canyon National Park
Close to Zion and sharing the Colorado Plateau is the Grand Canyon National Park. The Grand Canyon has been named one of the world's seven natural wonders, and when you visit you will be left in no doubt as to why. There are both easy and expert hiking trails, and some of them are at high altitude and include step descents. You can't seriously say that you have hiked in the USA until you have walked the trails around the Grand Canyon.
Glacier Gorge
The Rocky Mountains have been inspiring poetry and music for years and it is easy to see why when you walk the Glacier Gorge trail. This trail is often given perfect scores by USA walking enthusiasts thanks to the picturesque vistas it affords. Don't forget to pack your fishing rod when you book a walking tour of Glacier Gorge, as the 9.6 mile trail wends itself past alpine lakes. The best time of year for walking Glacier Gorge is between June and October.
Conundrum Hot Springs
Close to Aspen, Conundrum Hot Springs is an 18 mile trail that is not as famous as some of the other trails in this list - but that is what adds to its charm. If you are looking for a secluded wilderness hike, then Conundrum Hot Springs is a great choice. Along the way you can soak your tired muscles in the steaming natural hot springs, which average 102 degrees Fahrenheit. This is one of the most relaxing and romantic trails in the country for walking - USA residents and tourists are only now beginning to discover its merits.
Half Dome, Yosemite
Yosemite National Park is one of the most famous national parks anywhere in the country and perhaps even the world. The pinnacle of the park is Half Dome, and scaling the peak is a popular hiker's challenge. If you want to up the ante, then you can attempt to complete the 18 mile trail in one day; for most people, however, it is much more advisable to turn it into a two day walk. The last portion of the trail is the most difficult, but it is manageable for anyone with moderate fitness levels.
The United States is a walking enthusiast's dream, with so many different paths and trails established in varied and impressive landscapes. Choose an expert, well-known company to guide you through your walking, and USA walking holidays can be some of the most rewarding and satisfying you will ever encounter.
