Top 10 National Parks For Hiking In the West of the US

A recent nationwide poll revealed something inspiring: two out of every three Americans are gearing up to explore a national park this year. And they’re not just going for the scenic drives — hiking is the activity of choice for 83% of them.

According to Kuru Footwear, which analysed national park data using metrics like trail availability, visitor volume, and average hiker ratings, the West still dominates when it comes to top hiking destinations, though the East Coast isn’t completely left out.

"Each park tells its own story," Kuru notes. “Whether you're gazing at mountain peaks, wandering coastal paths, or trekking through forested valleys, every trail brings a fresh perspective.”

Here is the list of the Top 10 National Parks for Hiking in the West of the US

Brief Overview of the Top 10 National Parks for Hiking in the West of the US

1. Great Smoky Mountains National Park (North Carolina & Tennessee)

If variety is your thing, the Smokies have it all — misty forests, cascading waterfalls, wildlife sightings, and over 340 hiking trails to choose from. No wonder it's the most visited park in the country. Whether you're a casual walker or a seasoned trekker, you’ll find something here that fits your pace. Think of it as nature’s ultimate playground in the Appalachians.

2. Yellowstone National Park (Wyoming)

Welcome to America’s first national park — and still one of its wildest. Yellowstone feels like another planet with its bubbling geysers, colourful hot springs, and open valleys full of bison. With 250+ trails, you can spend days wandering from forested paths to high alpine ridges. It’s not just a park — it’s an adventure in geothermal wonder.

3. Rocky Mountain National Park (Colorado)

Ready to catch your breath — literally? Rocky Mountain National Park takes you to dizzying heights with alpine trails, glacier-carved lakes, and panoramic views that feel straight out of a postcard. With 220 hikes, ranging from family-friendly strolls to tough climbs, this park invites you to experience Colorado’s rugged spirit firsthand.

4. Yosemite National Park (California)

Yosemite is like a cathedral carved by nature. Famous for its granite giants — Half Dome and El Capitan — it offers nearly 300 ways to explore waterfalls, meadows, cliffs, and quiet forest paths. Every hike feels like a moment in history, especially since this is the park that helped spark the U.S. conservation movement.

5. Acadia National Park (Maine)

On the Atlantic coast, Acadia is a smaller park that punches way above its weight. Where else can you climb a mountain in the morning and walk along the ocean by afternoon? With 239 trails, it’s the East Coast’s hiking gem — full of charm, color, and those magical sunrise views from Cadillac Mountain.

6. Olympic National Park (Washington)

Few parks are as diverse as Olympic. You’ve got lush rainforests, wild beaches, and snowy peaks — all within one park boundary. Hiking here feels like traveling between worlds. With 188 trails, you can explore misty moss-covered trails one day and summit a mountain the next. It’s raw, rich, and unlike anywhere else.

7. Grand Canyon National Park (Arizona)

You’ve seen the photos, but nothing prepares you for hiking inside the Grand Canyon. With 116 trails, it’s less about quantity and more about the experience. Descending into the canyon is like walking through time — you’re surrounded by nearly two billion years of Earth's story in stone. Just remember: the hike back up is the real challenge!

8. Glacier National Park (Montana)

This is as wild and untamed as it gets. Glacier is full of jaw-dropping views, glacial lakes, and trails that often feel like they belong in Switzerland. With 165 hiking routes, it's a paradise for solitude-seekers and adventurers. The best part? You might see mountain goats, grizzlies, and maybe even a slice of the park’s vanishing glaciers.

9. Zion National Park (Utah)

Zion is bold, dramatic, and full of red rock magic. With only 93 trails, it’s the smallest list here — but don’t let that fool you. Some of the most famous hikes in the world are packed into this park, like Angels Landing and The Narrows. It’s less about how many trails and more about how unforgettable they are.

10. Grand Teton National Park (Wyoming)

If the Tetons were a painting, they’d be a masterpiece. Towering peaks, crystal-clear lakes, and reflective waters define this place. With 119 trails, it’s a hiker’s dream, especially in early summer when wildflowers bloom along alpine paths. Whether you're looking for scenic serenity or heart-pumping elevation, Grand Teton delivers both with elegance.

Why These Parks Stand Out

• The Great Smoky Mountains tops the list — not just in popularity but also for sheer trail variety, with 348 trails crisscrossing this biodiversity hotspot.

• Yellowstone, with its geothermal marvels and open landscapes, continues to wow with over 250 trails rated highly by visitors.

• Yosemite and Acadia shine for their iconic views, while the Grand Canyon offers a one-of-a-kind descent into ancient geological history.

And let’s not overlook Olympic and Glacier, two underrated gems where the beauty is wild, diverse, and often uncrowded.

Final Thoughts

These parks aren’t just locations — they’re living landscapes full of stories, history, and soul-stirring views. Whether you want a peaceful walk in the woods or a trek to the top of the world, there’s a trail out there waiting for you.