Peak Pursuits
From soaring summits to hidden gems, find your next adventure on the country's most breathtaking trails.
|
|
Chapel Loop:
Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore, Michigan
10.4 miles, 754' elevation gain, loop
This challenging circuit weaves the allure of Lake Superior's shoreline with the rugged Michigan wilderness, offering a blend of terrains and a symphony of colors—including turquoise hues of the lake and vibrant red-orange sandstone cliffs. Along the way, you'll find waterfalls, secluded beaches and the iconic Chapel Rock.
Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore, Michigan
10.4 miles, 754' elevation gain, loop
This challenging circuit weaves the allure of Lake Superior's shoreline with the rugged Michigan wilderness, offering a blend of terrains and a symphony of colors—including turquoise hues of the lake and vibrant red-orange sandstone cliffs. Along the way, you'll find waterfalls, secluded beaches and the iconic Chapel Rock.
Angels Landing
Zion National Park, Utah
4.3 miles, 1,827' elevation gain, out & back
Ascending Angels Landing is an adrenaline-pumping adventure. To reach the summit, you'll first have to conquer Walter's Wiggles, a challenging series of switchbacks, scramble over boulders and navigate an exposed ridge, but your bravery is rewarded with jaw-dropping views of Zion's majestic canyons, sculpted cliffs and the Virgin River below.
Zion National Park, Utah
4.3 miles, 1,827' elevation gain, out & back
Ascending Angels Landing is an adrenaline-pumping adventure. To reach the summit, you'll first have to conquer Walter's Wiggles, a challenging series of switchbacks, scramble over boulders and navigate an exposed ridge, but your bravery is rewarded with jaw-dropping views of Zion's majestic canyons, sculpted cliffs and the Virgin River below.
Outcroppings Trail
Chimney Rock State Park, North Carolina
.5 miles, 315' elevation gain, out & back
Named one of the best parks in the nation, Chimney Rock State Park offers several trails worth exploring. But it’s the short, challenging staircase to the top of Chimney Rock, a 535-million-year-old monolith, that will earn you bragging rights, especially if the rest of your group opts to take the elevator to the top.
Chimney Rock State Park, North Carolina
.5 miles, 315' elevation gain, out & back
Named one of the best parks in the nation, Chimney Rock State Park offers several trails worth exploring. But it’s the short, challenging staircase to the top of Chimney Rock, a 535-million-year-old monolith, that will earn you bragging rights, especially if the rest of your group opts to take the elevator to the top.
|
|
Half Dome
Yosemite National Park, California
16.5 miles, 5,305' elevation gain, out & back
A testament to the untamed beauty of the Sierra Nevada Mountains, this strenuous hike pushes even the most seasoned hiker to their limits but offers shade from towering Sequoias, lush views of the Vernal and Nevada waterfalls, and an alpine wonderland along the way. Ascend the cables to conquer the summit and take in the majestic views of Yosemite Valley.
Yosemite National Park, California
16.5 miles, 5,305' elevation gain, out & back
A testament to the untamed beauty of the Sierra Nevada Mountains, this strenuous hike pushes even the most seasoned hiker to their limits but offers shade from towering Sequoias, lush views of the Vernal and Nevada waterfalls, and an alpine wonderland along the way. Ascend the cables to conquer the summit and take in the majestic views of Yosemite Valley.
Bass Harbor Head Light Trail
Acadia National Park, Maine
.4 miles, 62' elevation gain, out & back
This short trail, popular for birding and photography, leads you through a coastal dreamscape where salty sea air mingles with the scent of pine. Make your way to the Atlantic panorama for views of the historic, picturesque lighthouse perched atop dramatic cliffs.
Acadia National Park, Maine
.4 miles, 62' elevation gain, out & back
This short trail, popular for birding and photography, leads you through a coastal dreamscape where salty sea air mingles with the scent of pine. Make your way to the Atlantic panorama for views of the historic, picturesque lighthouse perched atop dramatic cliffs.
The Wave Trail
Vermillion Cliffs National Monument, Arizona
6.7 miles, 1,233' elevation gain, out & back
A permit is required for this surreal adventure through Navajo sandstone mazes and slickrock terrain, where visitors often liken their experience to a dream. The trail serves as a gateway to The Wave, a geological masterpiece with swirling patterns and kaleidoscopic colors painted by millennia of erosion.
Vermillion Cliffs National Monument, Arizona
6.7 miles, 1,233' elevation gain, out & back
A permit is required for this surreal adventure through Navajo sandstone mazes and slickrock terrain, where visitors often liken their experience to a dream. The trail serves as a gateway to The Wave, a geological masterpiece with swirling patterns and kaleidoscopic colors painted by millennia of erosion.
|
Mount Hollywood Trail
Griffith Park, California 5 miles, 1292' elevation gain, loop For a star-studded journey, the Mount Hollywood Trail in Los Angeles takes you by the original Batcave and behind the famous Hollywood sign to picture-perfect views of Tinseltown below. Popular for runners, this moderately challenging route is gradual but sure to get your heart pumping. We suggest visiting at sunset to look through the telescope at Griffith Observatory. |
|
|
|
Trail #3
Turkey Run State Park, Indiana
1.9 miles, 354' elevation gain, loop
This rugged loop was recently named the best hike in the Midwest by Midwest Living. This legendary, moss-covered trek through Indiana's enchanting woodlands starts at the suspension bridge and follows the cliffs along Sugar Creek, through the glacial Punch Bowl, up ladders and between the steep walls of Rocky Hollow.
Turkey Run State Park, Indiana
1.9 miles, 354' elevation gain, loop
This rugged loop was recently named the best hike in the Midwest by Midwest Living. This legendary, moss-covered trek through Indiana's enchanting woodlands starts at the suspension bridge and follows the cliffs along Sugar Creek, through the glacial Punch Bowl, up ladders and between the steep walls of Rocky Hollow.