3 Must do Hikes in the USA

The U.S. is home to some of the most breathtaking hiking trails in the world, but a few stand out as absolute must-dos for any adventure lover. Whether you’re chasing glaciers, alpine lakes, or waterfalls, these three hikes offer unforgettable scenery, challenging terrain, and epic rewards.

1. Grinnell Glacier – Glacier National Park, MT

🏔 Distance: 10.6 miles round trip📈 Elevation Gain: 1,600 feet⏳ Difficulty: Moderate to Challenging

If you’re going to do one hike in Glacier National Park, make it Grinnell Glacier. This trail offers everything that makes Montana’s landscapes legendary—turquoise lakes, wildflower-filled meadows, and jaw-dropping glacier views.

🔥 Why It’s a Must-Do:✔ Stunning views of Grinnell Lake and Swiftcurrent Lake along the way✔ Frequent wildlife sightings (mountain goats, bighorn sheep, and sometimes bears!)✔ Ends at Grinnell Glacier, where you can see the icy-blue remains of one of the park’s most famous glaciers

💡 Pro Tip: Start early to avoid crowds and catch the morning light on the lakes! If you want to shorten the hike, take the boat across Swiftcurrent Lake to cut off a few miles.

2. Ice Lake & Island Lake – San Juan Mountains, CO

🏔 Distance: 8.3 miles round trip📈 Elevation Gain: 2,500 feet⏳ Difficulty: Challenging

Nestled in Colorado’s rugged San Juan Mountains, the hike to Ice Lake and Island Lake is one of the most surreal alpine experiences you’ll ever have. The lakes look Photoshopped—vibrant blues and greens, surrounded by dramatic peaks.

🔥 Why It’s a Must-Do:✔ Ice Lake’s unreal electric-blue water is one of the most photogenic spots in Colorado✔ The extra trek to Island Lake is worth it—less crowded and equally stunning✔ A perfect high-alpine challenge for experienced hikers

💡 Pro Tip: This hike starts at 9,800 feet and tops out above 12,000 feet—take your time, stay hydrated, and be prepared for sudden weather changes!

3. Trail of Ten Falls – Silver Falls State Park, OR

💦 Distance: 7.8 miles loop📈 Elevation Gain: 1,300 feet⏳ Difficulty: Moderate

Ever wanted to walk behind waterfalls? You can do that multiple times on the Trail of Ten Falls in Oregon’s Silver Falls State Park. This loop weaves through a lush rainforest and takes you past (and behind!) some of the most stunning waterfalls in the Pacific Northwest.

🔥 Why It’s a Must-Do:✔ Walk behind the 177-foot South Falls—one of the most famous waterfalls in Oregon✔ See ten waterfalls in one hike, including Lower South Falls and Middle North Falls✔ A gorgeous year-round hike—green and misty even in winter!

💡 Pro Tip: Visit in the fall for peak autumn colors or in spring when the waterfalls are at their fullest!

Final Thoughts

If you love adventure, jaw-dropping scenery, and bucket-list-worthy hikes, these three trails deserve a spot on your itinerary. From Montana’s glaciers to Colorado’s alpine lakes to Oregon’s waterfall wonderland, these hikes will push you, inspire you, and reward you with some of the best views in the country.

Which one would you hike first? Let us know! ⛰✨