The Outdoor Foundation’s Participation Trends Report records a record 175.8 million participants in various outdoor activities. More than 57% of Americans ages 6 and older are outdoors. The most popular outdoor recreational activity is hiking – 20% of the population uses these trails, about double the number from 2010.
In 2022, the Outdoor Foundation and the Outdoor Industry Association found similar results. The hiking community in the United States grew by 1.5% in 2022, bringing the total to a record 59.6 million.
Statista reports an 89% increase in American hikers from 2010 to 2023. Also noted was the significant jump from 2019, when fewer than 50 million people hiked, to 2020, when more than 57.8 million Americans hit the trails.
The American Trails organization attributes the increase to the Covid-19 pandemic. As businesses and stores closed, Americans looked to alternative recreational activities like hiking. Although numbers declined in the years following the pandemic, the country continues to show a strong interest in getting outside and enjoying nature.
A May 2024 analysis by KURU Footwear identified the 10 best hiking states in the country. In determining America’s most popular hiking destinations, researchers considered the number of trails, difficulty levels, ratings, and annual rainfall amounts.
Colorado
The Centennial State is considered one of the best places to hike in the United States. Colorado offers plenty to explore, from the Rocky Mountains to the Great Sand Dunes. Brave explorers up for the challenge may consider climbing a mountain over 14,000 feet tall, known as a “14er.” The Colorado Fourteeners Initiative estimates that 279,000 hikers will have climbed 14ers in Colorado in 2022.
“My favorite easy hike in Colorado is the stunning Hanging Lake Trail. The emerald waters and lush scenery make it a truly magical experience,” says Bella Bucchiotti of xoxoBella. “If you’re looking for a more challenging adventure, my favorite hike is the Maroon Bells-Snowmass Wilderness. The rugged terrain and breathtaking views make it an unforgettable experience.”
Those coming from low-elevation areas should be cautious before heading out on Colorado’s hiking trails immediately. Give your body a few days to acclimate to the altitude, otherwise you may experience altitude sickness and subsequent headaches and nausea.
California
According to KURU Footwear, California has the most hiking opportunities among America’s top 10 states. With over 12,000 trails in popular hiking areas like Yosemite, Joshua Tree, and Sequoia National Parks, you’ll never run out of new things to see and do.
The state’s terrain ranges from expansive deserts to virgin forests to snow-capped peaks. Hikers of all experience levels can join in the fun and create unforgettable memories on trails throughout California.
Arizona
KURU Footwear reports that Arizona has the most popular hiking trails, with 54% rated 4.5 out of 5 stars. The state is famous for its desert landscapes, particularly Grand Canyon National Park.
Weather conditions in Arizona can change quickly. Pack light layers like tank tops and jackets that you can put on or take off depending on temperature changes.
“In desert areas, you have to be more cautious,” warns Catherine Xu of Day Trip Nomad. “Bring enough water, don’t let your car overheat, make sure you have enough gas for your destination, and be aware that flash floods can occur quickly when the weather changes.”
Spend a weekend in Sedona, Flagstaff or Phoenix for the best hiking experiences in Arizona. Visitors of all ages can enjoy unique sights throughout the state.
“My favorite trails lead through slot canyons, so of course the famous Antelope Canyon,” recommends Xu.
Montana
Hiking in Montana will transport you to a western movie set. Experience the state’s splendor on its thousands of miles of hiking trails. Glacier National Park is beautiful on foot, and hikers can expect native wildlife, glaciers, and rocky peaks.
The Highline Trail, a 15-mile hike that begins at a visitor center, is a must-do in Glacier National Park. Attentive explorers often spot animals such as bears and mountain goats along the trail, adding to visitors’ sense of adventure.
new York
While New York may not be the first state that springs to mind when you think of hiking, it has a surprising number of trails. Find peace in the hustle and bustle of the Big Apple by embarking on an urban adventure through the sprawling Central Park. The northern Catskill and Adirondack Mountains offer additional opportunities to escape city life.
Portions of the Appalachian Trail, a 2,000-mile-long hiking trail between Georgia and Maine, also run through the state. These areas offer a unique contrast between the tranquility of nature and the view of the New York City skyline in the distance.
Utah
Utah is home to five national parks and some of America’s most famous hiking trails. Hikers flock to the state for its striking rock formations, canyons, spires and natural arches.
There are many hiking trails in Utah worth exploring, from Delicate Arch to Angels Landing. Come prepared with sturdy and comfortable sneakers or boots with enough grip to avoid slipping on rocky trails.
Texas
While Texas is best known for its bustling cities and cowboy culture, it also offers excellent hiking opportunities. Visitors to destinations like Austin or Dallas can easily spend a weekend in nature.
Areas like Big Bend and the Guadalupe Mountains feature rugged landscapes unique to the Lone Star State. Texas hiking trails vary in difficulty, making them accessible to hikers of all experience levels.
Washington
Washington’s hiking trails allow visitors to see volcanoes, glaciers, rainforests, prairies and more. Regardless of age or fitness level, the state’s wilderness areas offer fun activities for the whole family.
“I particularly like the North Cascades, Cascade Pass and Sahale Glacier, which offer incredible views and are relatively easy to get to (compared to other areas),” says photographer and author Alec Sills-Trausch.
Despite Washington’s rainy weather, you can still have fun hiking with the right rain gear. Avoid impractical shoes like slide sandals and opt for waterproof sneakers or boots to keep your feet dry.
“Summer in Washington begins in July, when there is still snow, especially on the north slopes,” explains Sills-Trausch. “If you come to the Pacific Northwest to hike, bring your hiking gear and monitor the weather conditions.”
North Carolina
Although North Carolina has the highest rainfall of KURU’s top 10 hiking states, it’s a destination you can’t miss. The state is popular with hikers thanks to the Great Smoky Mountains, America’s most visited national park. Discover hidden waterfalls, climb rocky peaks and camp under the stars at the state’s nearly 3,000 hiking sites.
“Since we often hike with our young children, our favorite hike in North Carolina is the Max Patch Trail, which is on the Appalachian Trail and close to Asheville,” says Alex Caspero, food and travel writer at Delish Knowledge. “It’s a fairly easy hike, just a 1.5-mile loop with spectacular 360-degree views. The trail climbs slowly and the views get better and better as you reach the top. At the end, you’re standing on a bare peak and the perfect spot for a picnic.”
Oregon
Oregon is an incredibly diverse and fascinating place to hike. The high rainfall levels create the state’s signature lush greenery. Whether you’re visiting for a weekend or a week, take an afternoon to get out and go hiking in Oregon.
“Perhaps no trail captures the beauty of hiking in Oregon better than the Eagle Creek Trail in the Columbia River Gorge,” says Derek Carlson, writer at Roam the Northwest. “Although this trail is long at 12 miles round trip, it has minimal inclines and takes you past eight major waterfalls, including the fabled Tunnel Falls, where you walk through a tunnel just behind the falls.”
This article was created by Media Decision and syndicated by Wealth of Geeks.
