Top Cities for Hiking in the U.S.: Urban Adventures in Nature
Exploring cities doesn’t have to mean trading fresh air for bustling streets. Some of the best destinations in the U.S. offer incredible access to hiking trails, blending urban comforts with the beauty of nature. From desert landscapes to lush forests and coastal cliffs, these cities are a hiker’s paradise.
Boise, Idaho
Boise’s proximity to the foothills makes it an underrated gem for hiking enthusiasts. The Boise River Greenbelt offers an easy introduction, while trails like Table Rock reward you with panoramic views of the city. For a challenge, head to Camel’s Back Park or explore the expansive Hulls Gulch Reserve.
Salt Lake City, Utah
Nestled against the Wasatch Mountains, Salt Lake City boasts stunning trails for every skill level. The Living Room Lookout Trail offers sweeping views with a quirky touch (rock “chairs” await at the top). For more intense climbs, try Grandeur Peak or Donut Falls, where you can spot a waterfall that flows through a cave. Salt Lake City is also in close proximity to Park City, which has more hiking options and is under an hour away.
Burlington, Vermont
A small city with a big love for nature, Burlington offers access to the beautiful Green Mountains and Lake Champlain. The Mount Philo Trail is a short hike with rewarding views of the lake, while the nearby Camel’s Hump trail provides a classic Vermont wilderness experience.
Asheville, North Carolina
Known for its artsy vibe and Blue Ridge Mountain backdrop, Asheville is a gateway to the Pisgah National Forest and Blue Ridge Parkway. The Craggy Pinnacle Trail offers breathtaking views, and the iconic Chimney Rock State Park features a towering rock formation perfect for a post-hike photo ops
San Francisco, California
Hiking in San Francisco means trading skyscrapers for sweeping coastal views. Lands End Trail offers stunning Pacific Ocean vistas, while nearby Muir Woods lets you wander among ancient redwoods. For a unique experience, cross the Golden Gate Bridge and hike the Marin Headlands. Not to mention San Francisco is near Oakland which offers even more hiking opportunities, and is only a 3 hour drive from Yosemite National Park, making it a decent home base before heading to one of the most glorious hiking destinations in the country.
Sedona, Arizona
Known for its red rock formations and spiritual energy, Sedona is a hiking paradise. Trails like Cathedral Rock and Devil’s Bridge are iconic, offering jaw-dropping views of sandstone cliffs. The Boynton Canyon Trail provides a quieter, more meditative experience. Sedona is also close to Phoenix, which offers more hiking opportunities, and only a 2 hour drive from the Grand Canyon!
Milwaukee, Wisconsin
This Midwestern city surprises with its green spaces and waterfront trails. The Seven Bridges Trail in Grant Park is a short hike with scenic bridges and lake views. For a longer adventure, explore the Oak Leaf Trail, which winds through parks and along Lake Michigan. Milwaukee is also the beginning of the 1,000 mile Ice Age trail, which leads up into the north and near the Michigan peninsulas.
Los Angeles, California
L.A. isn’t just about Hollywood—it’s home to incredible hiking spots. The Griffith Observatory Trail leads to panoramic city views, while Runyon Canyon is perfect for star-spotting and sunset hikes. For an escape from the city, try Topanga State Park or the iconic Santa Monica Mountains. Not to mention Los Angeles is an amazing jumping off point to reach great hiking areas like Joshua Tree, San Diego, and Santa Ynez.
Seattle, Washington
With mountains, forests, and water all around, Seattle offers countless trails. Discovery Park features coastal bluffs and Puget Sound views. For a more challenging hike, head to Mount Si or Rattlesnake Ledge in nearby North Bend. Rain or shine, the Pacific Northwest never disappoints.
Portland, Oregon
Portland’s reputation as an outdoorsy city is well-earned. The Forest Park trails provide an urban escape, while the Columbia River Gorge (just a short drive away) features legendary hikes like Multnomah Falls and Angel’s Rest. Don’t forget to visit the iconic Mount Hood for alpine adventures.
Denver, Colorado
Known as the Mile-High City, Denver is a hiker’s dream. Nearby trails like Red Rocks Park and Mount Falcon combine stunning scenery with geological wonders. For a full-day adventure, try Bear Peak in Boulder or head to the iconic Rocky Mountain National Park. Another benefit to Denver, is it's roughly an hour drive south to Colorado Springs, which is home to tons of incredible hikes, most famously the Garden of the Gods.
Honolulu, Hawaii
Hiking in Honolulu offers a mix of tropical beauty and volcanic landscapes. The Diamond Head Crater is a must-see, offering panoramic views of the ocean and city. For a more secluded experience, explore the lush Manoa Falls Trail or take on the challenging Koko Crater Trail.
Las Vegas, Nevada
Beyond the neon lights, Las Vegas boasts incredible desert hikes. Red Rock Canyon offers a variety of trails with colorful sandstone formations, while Mount Charleston provides a cooler, alpine hiking experience. The Valley of Fire State Park, just an hour away, is another must-visit.