1. WEST MAROON CREEK TRAIL
Location: Colorado
Hike the Rocky Mountains that follows a glacial valley before heading up and over the breathtaking 12,480-foot Maroon Pass, linking the dreamscapes known as Aspen and Crested Butte. Hike West Maroon Creek Trail in July, the height of Colorado's wildflower season, when waist-high blooms in hues of red, purple, white, and yellow line the trail.
2. HARDING ICEFIELD TRAIL, KENAI FJORDS NATIONAL PARK
Location: Alaska
Hike the icefield Harding Icefield-an enormous sheet of snow and ice that stretches for over 300 square miles and spawns 40 glaciers in all directions located near Seward in Kenai Fjords National Park.
3. PRECIPICE TRAIL, ACADIA NATIONAL PARK
Location: Maine
Views of the ocean from the mountains of the Northeast. The steep trail climbs 1,000 feet up narrow ledges on the east face of Champlain Mountain in .8 miles, providing a dramatic view of the rugged coast.
4. KALALAU TRAIL
Location: Hawaii
The Napali Coast on the island of Kauai, the 11-mile Kalalau Trail leads to a secret beach from where it takes its name. Crossing five valleys for an unforgettable fusion of tropical forests, sea pali, or cliffs, and secluded beaches. Experience a private paradise at the end of the path perfect for camping.
5. MOONEY FALLS, GRAND CANYON NATIONAL PARK
Location: Arizona
Starting from the village of Supai in the Hualapai Indian Reservation, located in a remote corner of the Grand Canyon, the 3 mile trail descends through two travertine tunnels, down iron ladders, and along chains anchored into the rock face. Views of the breathtaking 200-foot falls peak through the entire route, and the reward at the bottom is the plunge pool-an aquamarine gem shimmering against red rock canyon walls-and a garden of wild grape vines surrounding the creek.
This article is copyrighted by Travelers Today, the travel news leader
