15 Best East Coast Hikes in the USA [2025]
When you think of hiking in North America, your mind probably goes to the dramatic landscapes of the southern and western United States—places like Zion, Yosemite, or the Grand Canyon. But did you know that some of the best hikes in the country are actually found on the East Coast?
From the rugged coastline of Maine to the lush forests of North Carolina, the eastern seaboard offers an incredible diversity of trails. Whether you’re exploring the ancient peaks of the Appalachians, the serene beauty of Acadia National Park, or the rolling hills of the Shenandoah Valley, there’s something here for every type of hiker.
While I’ve spent years exploring the trails of Eastern Canada (just a stone’s throw away!), I teamed up with some of my fellow travel bloggers who’ve hiked extensively across the US East Coast. Together, we’ve put together this guide to the best hikes the region has to offer—from short, family-friendly trails to challenging multi-day treks.
So, lace up your boots and get ready to explore the best East Coast hikes to add to your USA adventure list in 2025!
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The Best East Coast Hikes
1. Old Rag – Shenandoah National Park, Virginia
Old Rag is a legendary hike in Virginia’s Blue Ridge Mountains, known for its tough ascents and thrilling rock scrambles. This 15.1 km (9.4-mile) loop takes 7–8 hours and is considered one of the best—and most challenging—hikes in Shenandoah. The summit offers panoramic views, but hikers should be prepared for steep climbs and narrow passages. And, a day-use ticket is required in peak season.
2. Franconia Ridge Loop – White Mountains, New Hampshire
This iconic loop trail is a bucket-list hike in New England, traversing the ridge between Mount Lafayette, Mount Lincoln, and Little Haystack. The 13 km (8-mile) loop includes rocky ascents, alpine scenery, and 360-degree summit views. It’s best for experienced hikers and takes 6–8 hours to complete. A lot of this trail is above the treeline, so make sure to come prepared for variable weather conditions.
3. Mount Mitchell Trail – Blue Ridge Parkway, North Carolina
Climbing to the highest peak east of the Mississippi, this 18 km (11.2-mile) out-and-back trail is a demanding but rewarding trek. Hikers gain over 1,000 metres of elevation through dense forest, switchbacks, and rocky terrain. At the summit, an observation deck offers panoramic views. The hike typically takes 6–8 hours and the weather can change quickly, so come prepared.
Note – Mount Mitchell State Park and the Mount Mitchell Trail are currently closed due to extensive damage from Hurricane Helene. Please check the NC State Parks website for the latest updates before planning your visit.
4. Acadia Mountain Trail, Acadia National Park – Maine
A scenic favourite in Acadia National Park, the Acadia Mountain Trail offers panoramic views over Somes Sound and the surrounding bays. Though not the tallest summit in the park, it delivers some of the most rewarding scenery. The loop combines forest paths with rocky scrambles and sweeping coastal vistas. It’s a moderate 4 km (2.5-mile) hike that takes 1–2 hours to complete.
5. Glen Creek Gorge Trail, Watkins Glen State Park – New York
This fairytale-like hike winds through a narrow gorge, past 19 waterfalls and under picturesque stone bridges. It’s one of the most photogenic hikes on the East Coast, with well-maintained paths and dramatic rock formations. The 3.5 km (2.2-mile) out-and-back trail is moderately rated and takes 60–90 minutes. Pro tip: visit early in the day for the best lighting and fewer crowds.
6. Kaaterskill Falls – Catskill Mountains, New York
One of New York’s most iconic waterfalls, Kaaterskill Falls drops a dramatic 79 metres (260 feet) over two tiers. The short but steep 2.6 km (1.6-mile) out-and-back trail takes 45–60 minutes and leads to views from both the base and the top of the falls. While the views are rewarding, it can get slippery and crowded, so wear proper footwear and arrive early if possible.
7. Precipice Trail – Acadia National Park, Maine
The thrilling Precipice Trail in Acadia is not for the faint of heart. The 2.1 km (1.3-mile) route climbs steep cliffs with iron rungs and ladders, offering exhilarating exposure and breathtaking views of the Atlantic Ocean. It’s a challenging route suited for confident hikers with a head for heights. The trail is often closed during peregrine falcon nesting season, so check park alerts before visiting.
8. Bonticou Crag – Hudson Valley, New York
This short 3.7 km (2.3-mile) loop in the Mohonk Preserve is a hidden gem for adventurous hikers. The trail’s rock scramble section adds a fun challenge, leading to expansive views across the Hudson Valley. There’s also a bypass if you’d rather skip the scramble. The panoramic summit views are especially stunning in autumn, making this a perfect fall hike.
9. Bear Mountain Loop – Hudson Highlands, New York
Just an hour from New York City, Bear Mountain Loop is a popular and rewarding day hike. The 7.4 km (4.6-mile) loop includes forested trails, panoramic viewpoints, and a section of the Appalachian Trail. The summit offers sweeping views of the Hudson River, especially beautiful in fall. Stone stairs and a well-maintained trail make it accessible, though it still packs a moderate challenge.
11. Hawksbill Summit Trail – Blue Ridge Parkway, North Carolina
This short, steep trail leads to one of the best views in the Linville Gorge Wilderness. The 2.6 km (1.6-mile) out-and-back route climbs quickly through forest before opening up to sweeping views over the gorge. It’s a perfect sunrise or sunset hike, with a summit that offers a front-row seat to the surrounding mountains. Most hikers complete it in 60–75 minutes.
10. Table Rock Trail – Linville Gorge, North Carolina
A 3.2 km (2-mile) round trip that offers a rugged ascent to another standout viewpoint in the Linville Gorge. While similar in length and elevation to Hawksbill, the Table Rock trail includes more rock outcrops and open exposure. It’s a favourite for sunset and photography, offering panoramic views from the summit plateau. Allow 1–1.5 hours to complete the trail.
12. Catawba Falls Trail – Old Fort, North Carolina
This lush, family-friendly hike in Pisgah National Forest leads to a multi-tiered waterfall surrounded by mossy rocks and greenery. The main trail is 3.7 km (2.3 miles) round-trip, though longer options are available for more experienced hikers. And recent trail improvements have made it more accessible. Plan for 1–2 hours, or longer if you explore the upper falls.
13. Devil’s Hole & Whirlpool Rapids – Niagara Falls, New York
This rugged 8 km (5-mile) out-and-back trail skirts the edge of the Niagara Gorge, offering close-up views of the turbulent Whirlpool Rapids. The trail features lots of stairs and some uneven terrain, but the payoff includes dramatic river scenery and towering gorge walls. It’s rated as moderately difficult due to the steep up and down section. Allow 2–3 hours to complete the full route. If you’re up for the challenge, this is a great activity to add to a Niagara Falls itinerary!
14. Florida Trail (Aucilla Sinks Trailhead) – Florida
Unlike most East Coast hikes, this unique trail showcases Florida’s disappearing river and dozens of dramatic sinkholes. The 7.1 km (4.4-mile) out-and-back trail near Tallahassee offers fascinating geology and tranquil forest scenery. Best explored during the dry season, the trail takes 1.5–2 hours and is moderately challenging with a few narrow sections and roots underfoot.
15. Roaring Brook to Chimney Pond – Baxter State Park, Maine
This scenic trail in Maine’s Baxter State Park leads to Chimney Pond, a glacial basin nestled beneath Mount Katahdin. The 5.6 km (3.5-mile) one-way hike begins at the Roaring Brook Campground and winds through forested terrain with steady elevation gain and a few rocky sections. The payoff is a stunning view of the Katahdin massif reflecting off the pond. It’s a great standalone day hike or a jumping-off point for those continuing to Katahdin’s summit. Plan for 3–4 hours round trip.
Final Thoughts
So, there you have it, some of the best East Coast hikes to do in 2025!
Hopefully this list has given you some new ideas for ways to experience eastern USA, and inspires you to get outside and explore this region’s beautiful landscapes, parks and coastlines.
Want to read more about hiking in North America? Check out some of my other hiking and backpacking content
