Top 10 Amazing Hiking Trails on the USA’s East Coast : Travel
Beyond the big cities, the eastern USA is criss-crossed with glorious hiking trails that take you from lush forests to mountain meadows, or from rugged peaks to tumbling waterfalls. Whether you’re after a day hike or a long-distance trek, Donna Dailey has the best routes for discovering America’s great outdoors.
1. Appalachian Trail
Best for: bragging rights
Total distance: 2,200 miles (3,540 km)
Total duration: 5–7 months
The East Coast’s most famous long-distance trail features on every keen hiker’s bucket list. Known as the A.T., it passes through 14 states on its way from Springer Mountain in northern Georgia to Mount Katahdin in Maine.
Thru-hikers generally begin in the spring, and tackle the route from south to north. Running through green forestland or along mountain ridges, the trail is well-marked and easy to navigate, often emerging near roads and towns.