The Best Hikes in the US: An Adventure Guide by Less Junk More Journey

By Marissa Moss of Less Junk More Journey

Exploring the beauty of the United States one trail at a time has become a passion for us at Less Junk More Journey. We believe in inspiring others to find their passions and get out into nature. Hiking wasn't always a part of my life, but I was hooked once I discovered it while traveling and seeing incredible places. Hiking is affordable, provides excellent exercise, and allows us to appreciate the beauty of God's creation. Here are some of our favorite hikes, tips for tackling them, and personal stories from our adventures. 

1.  The Wave 
2. The Kalalau Trail 
3. Angels Landing 
4. The Narrows 
5. Half Dome Via Mist Trail 
6. Other Hiking Trail Recommendations 

Securing a permit for The Wave can be challenging, but persistence is key! It took us years of applying before we finally succeeded. Applying with friends and targeting off-season and weekdays when fewer people are applying can increase your chances. 

The Wave is an incredibly beautiful, unique sandstone formation with a stunning wave-like appearance. The flowing patterns and vibrant colors make it a photographer's dream and a hiker's delight. The limited access of around 20 permits a day helps protect the fragile sandstone, making the experience even more special and exclusive. The challenge of seeing such a restricted place adds to the excitement and fulfillment. 

You don't need to tackle the entire 11 miles of the Kalalau Trail to enjoy its beauty. The first two miles can be hiked without an overnight permit and offer breathtaking views that are well worth the effort. 

Camping at Kalalau Beach is a unique experience due to its stunning scenery and the sense of accomplishment from completing a challenging hike. Be prepared for steep cliffs and potentially hazardous weather conditions. Make sure you're physically ready, pack all necessary supplies, and consider joining online communities, like Facebook Groups, for tips and encouragement to help get ready for this adventure. 

Angels Landing was our first adventurous hike, and it made me fall in love with hiking. Though nervous, the thrill of heights (which my husband, Nathan, and I both love) and the challenge of a technical hike pushed me forward. We embrace being comfortable with discomfort and always aim to push ourselves out of our comfort zones, which helps overcome any fears. 

Hiking Angels Landing is an astonishing experience. The views are breathtaking, with the sun rising over the canyon and illuminating the peaks. Sitting at the top, eating a peanut butter and jelly sandwich while taking in the stunning scenery, makes you feel accomplished and grateful. The sense of wonder and the spectacular sights make it an unforgettable adventure. 
 
Fun Fact: In 1916, a man named Frederick Fisher discovered the thin, red mesa that is now known as Angels Landing and remarked that “only an angel could land on it,” hence the name. However, despite its height, Angels Landing is not the highest point in Zion Canyon. 

Always check the water levels, as they can vary greatly throughout the year. When we hiked The Narrows, the water levels were high, so we wore wetsuits to stay warm. Nathan went without extra gear and did fine, but knowing your own tolerance for cold and your hiking needs is important. Prepare by renting necessary gear like wetsuits, neoprene socks, and hiking poles from nearby outdoor stores and seeking advice from the national park staff. 

Hiking The Narrows is unique because it involves trekking through water and even swimming in some spots. The high water levels during our hike made it an adventurous and fun experience, unlike any traditional hike. Swimming through massive canyons and floating on your back while taking in the incredible views made us feel small in the world, creating one of the most memorable hikes we've ever done. 

Half Dome is the hardest hike we've ever done, not just because of its length (over 20 miles of hiking) but also because of the mental challenge of the cables. We weren't clipped in, which added to the difficulty. The key was mind over matter and having each other's support; Nathan's encouragement was crucial. The experience was a bonding one, and we even renewed our vows at the top, making it incredibly special. 

The Mist Trail is one of the most beautiful hikes, with stunning waterfalls and rainbows creating a magical atmosphere. Even if you're not hiking Half Dome, the Mist Trail is worth it for its incredible scenic views. It's a popular hike in Yosemite, offering a great reward with its picturesque landscapes and the refreshing mist from the waterfalls. We also took our kids up the Mist Trail, and it was an unforgettable experience. 

I always bring plenty of food and clothing because I fear being cold and hungry. While this makes my pack heavier and the hike harder, it ensures I'm prepared for any situation. Additionally, researching the hike beforehand and knowing your limitations are crucial for preparation. 

We stay motivated by the stunning views, the sense of accomplishment, and the closeness we feel in our relationship through hiking. We want to set a good example for our kids and create lasting family memories. For beginners, staying in decent shape and focusing on the joy and bonding that hiking brings is key. 

Choosing a favorite hike is tough, but Half Dome stands out due to its unique challenges and exhilarating experience. Overcoming the mental hurdles on the cables was incredibly rewarding and gave me a confidence boost that carried over into other aspects of my life.  

We recently completed Havasu Falls, which had been on my bucket list for years. The beautiful scenery and the challenging climb of Mooney Falls left me feeling accomplished and in awe. Additionally, Beehive and Precipice in Acadia National Park are hikes I highly recommend for their stunning views and memorable experiences. 

I always have hikes on my bucket list, including some in Switzerland that I hope to explore one day. Climbing a big mountain like Kilimanjaro is a dream, especially after visiting Africa. Mount Whitney in California is also on my list. While we haven't been able to do multi-day hikes yet as we travel with our small children, I look forward to the day when we can tackle more adventurous journeys together as a family. 
 
Hiking has become a transformative part of our lives, allowing us to explore the beauty of nature and create lasting memories. Whether you're an experienced hiker or just starting out, there's a trail out there waiting for you. We hope our experiences inspire you to get out, enjoy nature, and tackle some of these incredible hikes!