The Ten Best National Park Hikes | From Personal Experience

These are my Ten Best National Park Hikes from personal experience. Of course this list is subjective, but in my humble opinion, these are my ranked favorites. Video footage goes back to 2011. Individual videos of each hike is below:
The Narrows (Zion) • The Narrows | Zion Nat...
Devils Garden (Arches) • Devils Garden Loop Tra...
Skyline Trail (Mt. Rainier) • The One Trail You Can'...
Angels Landing (Zion) • How to Hike ANGELS LAN...
Sulphur Creek (Capitol Reef) • My Favorite Capitol Re...
The Precipice (Acadia) • Complete Guide to the ...
The Subway (Zion) • How to Hike the Subway...
Inner Canyon Trails (Bryce) • The Best Hikes at Bryc...
Inner Canyon Trails (Grand Canyon) • How to Hike the Grand ...
Half Dome (Yosemite) • Yosemite N.P. - How to...
0:00 Start
0:42 The Narrows (Zion)
1:32 Devils Garden (Arches)
2:29 Skyline Trail (Mt. Rainier)
3:35 Angels Landing (Zion)
4:36 Sulphur Creek (Capitol Reef)
5:29 The Precipice (Acadia)
6:34 The Subway (Zion)
7:42 Inner Canyon Trails (Bryce)
8:39 Inner Canyon Trails (Grand Canyon)
9:55 Honorable Mentions
10:38 Half Dome (Yosemite)
11:31 Conclusion
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#bestnationalparkhikes
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#besttrailsnationalparks

[@warrengross-tb4jc]

My 70 yr old body, but 40 yr old mind is now training for Half Dome in the fall. Did Angels Landing in Fall of 23, no problem. Love the succinctness of your video. Wets my appetite.😁

[@AmericasParks]

So encouraged by your zeal for adventure and desire to set impressive goals! All the best to you! Be safe and be sure you secure the necessary permit!

[@grandpatouchy8675]

Hey man you got it the hike really wasn’t that bad

[@CarrieSparkles]

Recently discovered your channel- I like watching scary hikes I would never do on my treadmill 😂 Thanks for helping us cowards get a taste of what it’s like to be brave!💖

[@louisbink]

Great list Pastor Randy - I'm also fortunate to have hiked 6 on your list. Waiting for you to hit your final parks and know you will love the Reef Bay Trail at Virgin Island NP. Its downhill from the lush jungle to the beach - but back up is steep! The hike goes to the ocean and to the Reef Bay Sugar Mill ruins. As always your ending of Leave No Trace and be kind to others is always a great reminder!

[@AmericasParks]

Thanks for the kind words! Actually, I did that trail with my wife a couple years ago - yes, incredible trail and worthy of top considerations! kzbin.info/www/bejne/f4qXm51tf7Zoe5I

[@lesliesmith7835]

Hi Randy, I love your Top 10 list of National Park hikes. I have to admit, all 63 National Parks are so unique and wonderful. You are so blessed to have experienced so much of the beauty God created... God Bless you, your family and America's Parks... Robin 🙏😊

[@AmericasParks]

Thanks dear brother! Admire your special love for creation!

[@Michaels3423]

I highly recommend the Naches Peak Loop Trail at Mt Rainier National Park. As someone who has visited Mt. Rainier almost every summer for the past 20 years, the Sunrise area is better and also less crowded than Paradise. I recommend visiting a bit later in the summer when the snow has melted and the flowers are in full bloom. The most majestic and breathtaking views of the Mountain and scenery are at Sunrise!

[@AmericasParks]

Really appreciate the tip! Made a note of your recommendation as I hope there's still yet another trip to Rainier in the future!

[@stumattingley2855]

Thanks for a great video. Being from England we went to Yosemite last month. We were so fortunate to be successful in the pre-season lottery thus enabling us to take on the once in a lifetime hike up the Half Dome. We can’t stop talking about this amazing achievement very much inspired by watching your previous video of you guys climbing it 🙏

[@AmericasParks]

What an encouraging comment! Congratulations on your successful hike and the joy of experiencing Half Dome!

[@JP-dz7zu]

I’ve been to 40 parks. Here are my top 20 hikes I would recommend. 20. Tokopah Falls in Sequoia 19. Kilauea Crater Trail in Hawaii Volcanoes 18. Alum Cave Trail in Great Smoky 17. Congress Trail in Sequoia 16. Cutthroat Lake in North Cascades 15. Bright angel Grand Canyon 14. Iceberg Lake in Glacier 13. Notch Trail in Badlands 12. Beehive Trail in Acadia 11. Hall of Mosses in Olympic 10. Gunnison Route in Black Canyon of the Gunnison. 9. Queen/Navajo Loop in Bryce. 8. Fairy Falls Trail in Yellowstone. 7. Skyline Trail in Mt Rainier. 6. Jenny Lake in Grand Teton 5. Grinnell Glacier in Glacier 4. Delicate Arch in Arches. 3. Angels Landing in Zion and 2. Narrows in Zion and 1. Mist Trail/Half Dome in Yosemite

[@AmericasParks]

You have indeed been blessed to have visited all these amazing places! Added a few of yours to my bucket list! Thanks!

[@JP-dz7zu]

@@AmericasParks I kept bugging you to visit Hawaii so I could cheat planning off of your trip, but I made it there before you! Unfortunately the lava was dried up the year I went.

[@jasonstevenson547]

I had a smile on through out the whole video! Gotta love # 6 .

[@AmericasParks]

You bet, my friend!

[@jameshouse1268]

Pastor Randy, this certainly is an awesome Top 10! I can only imagine the HOURS of thought it took for you to actually finalize it 😊. The episode is succinctly put together and edited with top-notch clips and narration…just as you always do! I’ve experienced and enjoyed many of these already and have sights set on some others. Thanks to you for your diligence and skill in putting these videos out for all of us. Take care always!

[@AmericasParks]

Those were really encouraging words, James! May you be blessed with more rewarding trips in the future!

[@tethron.]

Yes this was an excellent top 10. Thanks for all the videos must have been so much fun!

[@Chillaxing113]

Thank you for putting that together and sharing with us. You are so blessed to be able to visit our beautiful national parks and experience those breathtaking (in more ways than one) trails. Thank you so much for sharing your adventures!

[@AmericasParks]

Glad you enjoyed the video, Debra!

[@jasonmountain4643]

All excellent choices. Thank you for your videos.

[@AmericasParks]

Appreciate the feedback! Have a super week!

[@ThomasLuley]

Great choices! I’m blessed to have done 7 out of your top 10. Thank you for sharing and for encouraging adventures in our beautiful National Parks!

[@AmericasParks]

Means a lot coming for you, dear brother! Always appreciate your love for the Parks and our Lord!

[@juliesmith444]

This is a great video showing the best of the best! Really enjoyable to watch and get ideas of awesome places to visit.

[@AmericasParks]

Thanks so much, Julie!

[@starshocker]

Love seeing your favorite hikes :) Each of them feels and looks really wonderful to lay your eyes on. It makes one realize that nature should definitely be preserved and taken care of. Someday I'll go back and live my own adventures. God bless you and thank you for all the content. The channel deserves more views and love.

[@AmericasParks]

Those were rally kind and encouraging words! Thanks for the special blessing!

[@cooperstravels5725]

Thanks for sharing. I will do my best to take the family on many or all of your suggestions including your honorable mentioned trails. Thanks again

[@AmericasParks]

Appreciate hearing about your love for your family and the desire to be together in our beautiful lands!

[@davidwilliams3285]

A great list Randy, I've done a few of them and hope to do at least a few more. Thanks for your wonderful videos!

[@AmericasParks]

Thanks, my friend! Keep pressing on with your hikes!

[@kristinek2916]

Excellent info and great videos!! Thank you!!

[@AmericasParks]

Really appreciate that, thank you!

[@hbdad12]

Thanks to your videos, my family and I have been able to do some of these trails over the last few years, including the Notch at Badlands and Cascade Canyon trail this year.

[@AmericasParks]

Congratulations... those are both fantastic hikes... especially when done with family!

[@adventuringoutdoorswitheric]

This is a really good list of hikes! I've done a lot of them, and you did a good job in choosing the best! A lot of these are quite challenging but totally worth the hard work and effort put into them. Really cool video, Randy!

[@AmericasParks]

Much appreciated, Eric! Hope your summer is going well and you have a blessed week!

[@jimgreen5788]

Randy, I'd forgotten I'd already watched this when it first came out. Since I'm here again, I'll mention something I didn't the first: it's good to see the kids again. I miss the girls, but at least you have (for now) #4.

[@dougclayton1652]

Great video Brother Randy. Heading to SD at the end of the month, looking forward to some great hikes.

[@AmericasParks]

Have a fantastic time in that amazing state!

[@kjandthecrew85]

Always good stuff Randy! Love the video!

[@AmericasParks]

Really appreciate that encouraging comment!

[@christopherlands2706]

Another great video!! Thank you!

[@AmericasParks]

Thank you, my friend!

[@stepsgaming]

I have been on 4 of these. Narrows, Landscape Arch, Bryce, and Grand Canyon. I wouldn't have done that trip without your channel. Best trip I have ever been on and one I think of everyday. When I first saw Zion, I cried out of it's beauty. I have never cried due to beauty before. Alum Cave at Smokey Mountain, and Empire Bluffs at Sleeping Bear are underrated. Empire Bluffs too short, but the view. Chapel Beach/Falls in the UP underrated as well.

[@AmericasParks]

Really encouraged by your comment! Also nice to see you give our beloved Parks in the Midwest some love! :)

[@DestinationEarth]

What an achievement to be able to visit all those parks - some of them several times. This is quite the list, and an impressive list at that! Looking forward to crossing more of these off the list, as I've never really done any of them except the Grand Canyon!

[@AmericasParks]

Nice! Some of the best the USA has to offer! :)

[@dyeward24]

Wonderful list! Thank you.

[@AmericasParks]

Appreciate the kind feedback!

[@LarryManiccia]

Great top 10 list Randy. With so many trails to choose from putting this list together must have been tough. I have been on several of these trails and look forward to hitting some of the others that I have not experienced yet.

[@AmericasParks]

That is great to hear, Larry! All the best with your upcoming hikes!

[@shad3_king554]

This dude is living my dream. Just subscribed man. Love the stuff.

[@AmericasParks]

Thanks so much! It's been a good haul... thankfully I found a way to make these trips happen rather inexpensively via camping, cheap foot and airlines mikes. Hope you can get out to see some of these gems!

[@OurNationalAdventure]

Great visuals and video!

[@AmericasParks]

Thanks so much! Hope the family is doing well!

[@ThroughMyLens]

Love this list, some of my favorites as well. Skyline Trail is one of the most majestic ever, especially when the mountain is out. Hard to beat Angels Landing, Narrows, Precipe and the other choices on your list as well

[@AmericasParks]

Thanks buddy, means a lot coming from you with your vast experiences in the parks! All the best with your adventures and the growth of your channel!

[@21Swayzee]

Hey Randy, summer has been rocking, but had to check out your top 10...I knew they'd be amazing and beautiful. Loved the narrows, and the Mt. Rainer area, angels landing was fun too...man need to get to Arches! Great choices, continue to rock summer!

[@AmericasParks]

Thanks for the great words! Keep getting the most out of this amazing life that God has given us!

[@marcelsilveira1117]

Great video and list. Of course, I have to throw my favorite hike in too. If you get a chance, go to Mount Leconte in the smoky mountains National park.

[@AmericasParks]

Appreciate the comment and suggestion. Made a note of your fine recommendation!

[@jymnmeier3527]

What a great video! Proud to say I guessed 8/10 of these, missing only the subway and Sulfer Creek. I laughed when you mentioned that we viewers would be surprised Angel's Landing was ranked where it was...and I was LOL. I teared up when Half Dome was number one because that was the first video I saw and commented on. The video launched my Love for the NP system and Quest to see them all (We are currently 24/63). Little did I know then that it (that video) would launch such an amazing adventure and a friendship with you (as one can in youtube comments lol) that I hold dear. Thank you for this video, Randy

[@AmericasParks]

You've been "with us" from the start, sharing your special love and encouragement. Appreciate you and your family!

[@jymnmeier3527]

@@AmericasParks Thanks Brother

[@mikekuhl2658]

Great video! I have done every hike on your list except the Precipice. Utah made a good showing with over half of the hikes. Half Dome used to be my favorite day hike until I did the High Divide Trail in Olympic National Park. That is now my #1 day hike in the U.S.

[@AmericasParks]

Thanks much! Made a note (with a star) regarding the High Divide Trail!

[@frankhuynh3256]

Hey Randy! Great video and list of favorites! I've enjoyed your body of work from day 1 and you never disappoint. I'm nowhere near accomplishing even half of these hikes but I'll be sure to add them on my to do. Hope you and the family are well. Hopefully I'll have an opportunity to run into you one of these days again. Until then keep putting out amazing content. -Frank

[@AmericasParks]

Hey Frank, have really appreciated your friendship, photography, encouragement and common love for creation since the day we met on the top of Angels Landing! Great to her from you and all the best with your upcoming trips!

[@cmc5394oparva]

I took my ten-year-old daughter on a camping trip last month to Natural Bridges National Monument after seeing it in one of your videos. We did all three bridge hikes over two days, threaded the needle on each, had a rattlesnake visit us in our campsite, and had a blast. The trails that get all the crowds are obviously popular for a reason, but it's amazing what you have a chance to see when you start getting out and visiting all these places.

[@AmericasParks]

Loved the comment! Blessed to know my channel inspired you to created those lifetime memories with your daughter!

[@maribelc1793]

What an incredible list, Pastor Randy! I am privileged to say I have done most of the hikes on your list. I have yet to visit Grand Canyon & Washington. Going to Acadia in a few weeks. 🤗

[@AmericasParks]

Enjoyed the comment! You've lived a good life! Have a blast at Acadia... so much cool stuff in that area!

[@TravelSmallLiveBig]

Angels Landing literally gives me a panic attack / meltdown. But I also don't know if I can deal with the canyon hikes - eek. And the one in Acadia. Yikes Randy. These are all amazing, but now we need a "geezer version" LOL!

[@AmericasParks]

Haha.. loved the comment, Heather! :)

[@waldo9254]

First off you should have 600k subs with the quality work you put in. Secondly, my fav part of this video was 5:18 you stating "we really had a blast" as your trying to endure the force from a waterfall with a facial expression that says, you can torture me all you want, I'll never talk. :)

[@AmericasParks]

What a wonderful comment! Appreciate the humorous words and solid encouragement!

[@robertheed4040]

Really awesome list and cool insight from someone who has done so many trails in so many parks. Of the ones I've been to on your list, I thoroughly agree with all of them. My other favorites that weren't mentioned would be Grinnell Glacier trail - Glacier, Mckittrick Canyon - Guadalupe Mt, South Rim + Emory Peak - Big Bend, and Yosemite Falls - Yosemite

[@AmericasParks]

Quality alternative selections!!! Just got back from the Grinnell Glacier hike - would crack my top 10 now!

[@user-zw8jd1jt3p]

Nothing mentioned from Glacier? Love the list. Excited to try these hikes when we get there. Caprock Coulee and Notches will be the first two for us as we are heading there in late March. Thanks as always for sharing.

[@AmericasParks]

Thanks so much and enjoy your trip! Yeah, had two "bad" experiences at Glacier due to the weather and wildfires. Thankfully. all that changed recently on my third trip (after I made this video). Plan to begin those uploads next.

[@JM-oc3vu]

Thanks for posting your top 10. Acadia & Grand Canyon (S.Rim) ✅ The Mighty 5, Yosemite, Yellowstone/Grand Tetons remain on my list to visit. Love this amazing country. We are wildly blessed by God to have these.

[@AmericasParks]

Right on! God's creation is a masterpiece, so evident in the USA!

[@chris_1825]

Great video! I hope to hit all of these some day!

[@AmericasParks]

Happy to hear about the goals you are setting! So worthy of your time and money!

[@RobertLWard]

Great Top 10 list ! Heading to Utah ( work) again and hoping to squeeze in a few areas to shoot some video. As always, loving your stuff! We are beginning to research an area for family trip next year..... maybe the black hills ( my top wish). Hope all is well!

[@AmericasParks]

Sweet! Maybe another attempt at the cave up north. Black Hills are among the best!

[@rickramsey4134]

My own top 10 NP hikes: 1) Paintbrush Divide, Grand Tetons 2) Narrows, Zion 3) Painted Dunes, Lassen Volcanic 4) Queen's Garden/Navajo loop, Bryce Canyon 5) Sentinel Dome, Yosemite 6) Mosaic Canyon, Death Valley 7) Sol Duc Falls, Olympic 8) Notch Trail, Badlands 9) Delicate Arch, Arches 10) Porter's Creek, Great Smoky Mountains

[@AmericasParks]

Great list - you're blessed to have visited so many amazing places! Really enjoy how everyone's rankings have a uniqueness based on individual preferences!

[@markcorbe5103]

Awesome video. Half Dome! Completed it last August, heading back again in October! Curious, what is your next favorite hike at Yosemite?

[@AmericasParks]

Made it to Half Dome... way to go!! As far as Yosemite goes - possibly the top of Yosemite Falls.

[@jerrymestas1231]

Love the list👍🏼👍🏼👍🏼👍🏼

[@AmericasParks]

Appreciate that, Jerry!

[@stevenlewis1595]

I absolutely love your videos!!! Thank you for sharing your adventurist spirit. My wife and I have been to many of these National Parks.....True Treasures of this Great Nation. Attempting a R2R2R hike in two months to knock off all three of your trail recommendations in the Grand Canyon. If you are ever back in the Tucson area....please look us up and we would love to host you. Steve and Cheryl Lewis

[@AmericasParks]

There are very few places as special as the GC! It will be an amazing adventure and significant accomplishment! God bless!

[@drone_boss]

6 done and plenty more to go! Thanks!

[@AmericasParks]

Congratulations and keep pressing on!

[@birdman5223]

Nice journey down memory lane☺️👍

[@AmericasParks]

Happy to hear that! Glad you have good memories of these special places!

[@sluggotinfantryman]

Baden Powell. Loved it. Barronette may be my favorite day of all. Dana in snow. The day matters. SNOW CANYON SP. Angels is epic.

[@davepage2466]

I knew, Pastor MacMuscles; that it was going to be either Grand Canyon or Yosemite at #1. Can't go wrong either way for sure! I was fortunate when I was younger to hike to Phantom Ranch and also to Havasupai, as well as Half Dome. Trips of a lifetime. But what about Yellowstone?!

[@AmericasParks]

Comment makes me want to hit the gym! You've been on some epic trips! I've only done the short stuff in Yellowstone. Would love to get back and away from the popular tourist attractions.

[@davepage2466]

Yes, those trips stick in my mind's eye, some 30 years later as some of the most amazing things I ever experienced. I've only been to Yellowstone once-but boy do I want to go back in the off season! I agree-away from the tourist spots and see some amazing things! I better start working out for that!@@AmericasParks

[@georgeball1147]

Hey Randy, love the top ten list, i've done 6 of them. The other 4 are on my bucket list. Not sure if you've done Sky Pond at RMNP but its on my top 10. Half Dome is the one im really looking forward to. Thanks for sharing all the videos!

[@AmericasParks]

Great to hear, George! You done some incredible hikes... hope Half Dome comes together for you. Thanks for the suggestion. Made a note!

[@donniereiter3646]

Cool video bro I have only heard of couple of the National Parks that you listed in the video.

[@AmericasParks]

Appreciate the kind words! Yeah, special places... the USA has designated 63 of them in the 50 states.

[@rudyfrombelgium4352]

Amazing hikes 🤩🤩🤩 I'm obsessed by Angels Landing, I hope doing it on the next years 🙏 It will be my big challenge to myself 💪 God bless 🇺🇸🇺🇸🙌

[@AmericasParks]

Thanks, Rudy! Hope your hiking aspirations come true! God bless you as well!

[@rudyfrombelgium4352]

@@AmericasParks Thanks, Randy! You are humble and kind 🙏

[@markb9347]

Thanks for the tips!

[@AmericasParks]

Glad you enjoyed the video!

[@chrisignacio1791]

Happy Trails Randy & Friends 🌄🏞️

[@AmericasParks]

Really appreciate that... same to you!

[@starshocker]

Recently played a boardgame about national parks and it made me want to see all of them haha.

[@AmericasParks]

Hey, whatever it takes. lol! Such special places!

[@jeremyzitzow4417]

A great list. I have visited almost all the NPs in the Lower 48 as well, and have done a number of these (including your honorable mentions). However, I personally think Glacier NP is really the best park for hiking. If you ever get the chance, do the Dawson-Pitamakan Loop down in the Two Medicine area. Simply unbelievable and my all-time favorite hike, though the 18.8 mi. RT distance; 3500+ ft. elev. gain isn't for everyone.

[@AmericasParks]

Thanks much and congrats on your accomplishment! For a few reasons, I have really "struck out" on my two trips to Glacier. Considering another attempt with the park early this fall.

[@overwatchxrescue]

Great video! Some others that are definitely highlights would be the Highline Trail and the Grinnell Glacier Trail at Glacier National Park, as well as the Four Mile Trail and the Upper Yosemite Falls Trail at Yosemite National Park.

[@AmericasParks]

Excellent additions! Have the two Glacier trails on the itinerary for an upcoming trip. Many others agree and have made the same comment about the omission of any Glacier representation. Thanks for the comment!

[@overwatchxrescue]

@@AmericasParks No prob! Hope you enjoy your trip to Glacier when you make your way out there.

[@davidpiersall1727]

Well done Randy.

[@AmericasParks]

Thank you very much, my friend!

[@festorfamine]

Sunrise on Mt. Whitney is the most magical hike I've done in my life. Best part is, it's not crowded and the hike up to its base is just as memorable and beautiful.

[@AmericasParks]

Really would like to experience that one! Thanks for the motivation!

[@sluggotinfantryman]

At Rocky I lived in Wild Basin. Going up the backside of Meeker from Sand Beach Lake Trail 👣 is sweet. Sunny day hike. The peak is across from Longs. Most go up the front. It is a long hike.

[@MichaelYoungblood1]

Great list! You have been to so many amazing places and have had so many incredible experiences and adventures. It’s been a joy to watch your videos through these last couple years. I was pretty close on my guesses as to what made the list. I had an inkling it would pretty Utah-centric. Can’t go wrong with Utah, it’s an amazing state. I am at 36 parks and this would be my list. Like you, based on my personal experience. 10. Stanford House to Brandywine Falls - Cuyahoga Valley (This was our first hike as a family and kicked started our travels as a unit.) 9. Abrams Falls - Great Smoky Mountains (This park holds a very special place in my heart. It was my mother’s favorite park and we went here many times in my childhood. Also went with my wife a few times when we were dating and newly married.) 8. Guadalupe Peak 7. Inner canyon trails at Bryce Canyon 6. Old Rag - Shenandoah 5. Ruby Beach - Olympic (Love the rugged Pacific coastline and loved tidepooling with the family.) 4. Hiking to see active lava flows at the end of Chain of Craters road in Hawaii Volcanoes 3. Santa Elena Canyon - Big Bend (Cheating a bit on this one since we canoed instead of hiking the trail.) 2. Skyline Loop - Mt. Rainer (Just stunning.) 1. Half Dome (Not my #1 overall but for National Parks it certainly is) Honorable mentions to Jordan Pond in Acadia, Cowles Bog in Indiana Dunes, and Alkali Flats in White Sands. I am sure the hikes in Zion would supplant some of these but I haven’t been to Zion in 25 years. Can’t wait to get back.

[@AmericasParks]

Always appreciate your support and personal love for the Parks. Fantastic list... made a note of the ones I've yet to see (and there is quite a few)! Have a blessed week!

[@MagellanandGreyhound]

To have hiked these, what a full life. You also love Utah. 😃 I'm sure I have a top ten too, but the overall amount of hikes I'd choose from is far less than yours!

[@AmericasParks]

That was well-said, my friend! Life is valuable and short - like you guys, so thankful to have made these special memories!

[@TheSpirobulldog]

I have done all 10 hikes. The Grand Canyon nor Capitol Reef would be in my Top 10. I would for sure include Highline/ Swift Current Trail at Glacier in my Top 10. I love the hike to Lone Star Geyser in Yellowstone. I like Delicate Arch better than The Devil's Garden Trail in Arches. I do have a picture in front of Wall Arch just a couple of months before it collapsed.

[@AmericasParks]

What significant accomplishments! Appreciate your love for creation and support for the channel!

[@DailyWordofTruth]

We would love to visit Zion eventually. It looks like you enjoyed these trips

[@AmericasParks]

Some of my best life memories... especially the trips with my family!

[@charlessapp1835]

My brother sister & I just spent 2 days at Teddy Roosevelt NP and we hiked Caprock Coulee trail and we loved it. Teddy is such a great NP. My brother just didn't like seeing a couple of rattlesnakes. The first one gave him a rattle and a start. (About a 2 ft. jump to be exact). Providentially, the Lord protected us. My sister loved seeing all the wild horses in the South unit. The number one trail I want to do someday is the Mickelson Trail in the Black Hills of South Dakota. It was a rail line that was abandoned in the 1980's and then was made into a rails-to-trails by Governor Mickelson. It was named after him after he was killed in a plane crash.

[@AmericasParks]

Wow, what a story with the rattlesnake! Thanks for the SD suggestion... made a note!

[@don9739]

Delta Lake Hike in Grand Teton is next level

[@usernamehere6980]

I live in the great state of Utah and I still haven't even began to explore southern Utah and its beauty. I live in cache valley near the Great logan canyon where I have all of this beautiful wilderness so close by and it's just so cool to see how diverse the landscape here is anytime I do end up just driving through southern Utah, or eastern Utah. Have you been into logan canyon at all in the cache national forest? It's really a beautiful place with so much to see. I would highly recommend it, it's not near as crowded as some of these big national parks but it's just gorgeous. Come see tony grove and hike Naomi peak or white pine from there, it's beautiful!

[@jeremyhelquist]

I grew up in cache valley too and feel that northern Utah gets overshadowed by the mighty 5. It also stunningly beautiful.

[@AmericasParks]

I absolutely love Utah! I was feeling guilty as I thought the state was beginning to dominate the top 10 list! :) Thanks for the logan canyon suggestion. Made a nite!

[@kenrstark]

My wife is from Cache Valley and we have had great adventures through Logan Canyon and the surrounding areas (just drove through the Canyon to Bear Lake last week!). With both of us being born in Utah and living between there and Idaho throughout our lives we had never made it to the mighty 5 until finally the last 18 months and have now made it to all! The diversity between northern and southern Utah is amazing! Thanks for the great videos and tips Randy! This Fall I hope to take advantage of some of the Utah hikes you have posted recently!

[@gagebulette7783]

I’ve done 6 of these hikes! Definitely a solid ranking. The only hike I think would soar to your top 3 would be Grinnell glacier in Glacier National Park! Would love to see your opinion on that hike. The top down version of subway is also way better than bottom up so I highly recommend that. Bottom up you only see about 5% of the canyon

[@AmericasParks]

Really appreciate the feedback! Kind of "struck-out" on my 2 trips to Glacier due to the weather. Looking at another attempt in the near future!

[@coastskyadventures2752]

Many hikes you do are either permit or I need to hit the gym to do them. I am working on the gym part on leg day. Can't wait to do many of these hikes in the future.

[@AmericasParks]

Appreciate hearing about the goals you are setting! Use these hikes as motivation to train. All the best, my friend!

[@samanthab5006]

I would love a top 10 for people like me who are clumsy and get anxiety in exposed areas. The delicate arch hike is the most well known hike I've done that pushed me close to my limits. I lived in Salt Lake City for a little over two years and did local hikes there that were a bit more exposed than delicate arch but my favorite hikes often achieved elevation gain without exposed switchbacks (Lake Blanche being a favorite, living room trail too much towards the end)

[@AmericasParks]

That's a nice suggestion. Will make a note of it. And Delicate Arch is a fantastic hike!

[@sluggotinfantryman]

Week in the AZ strip. Grand Wash. Pakoon. Black Rock. Mount Trumbull. Toroweap. Kelly Point GCNP. House Rock Valley Stateline. Via Jacob Lake. Take 5 days or more in any of these areas.

[@kaylaburns1012]

have you been to the maroon bells in the White River National Forest? Buckskin pass is crazy nice

[@AmericasParks]

No not yet, but have heard great things! Such a beautiful area!

[@leslieochoa88]

Surprised that Glacier NP is not on the list. There is some incredible hikes here like the high line trail, Siyeh pass, Grinnell Glacier. And the weather has been amazing here lately highly recommend making another trip.

[@AmericasParks]

Very fair point! Had two less than favorable trips there due to the weather. Looking to give it another shot in the near future. Thanks for the "nudge." :)

[@robertross2596]

Although I have been in all of your top 10 parks but not all of the individual hikes; I totally agree with so many of the great hikes being in Utah or Arizona. One hike outside of the southwest that is close to being my favorite is the Medicine Lake area of Glacier. I loved my 2 hikes on opposite sides of the lake. It really is difficult, however, to pick my favorite! How about your top 10 campsite! I have some favorites in this category as well.

[@AmericasParks]

For a few reasons, I have really "struck out" on my two trips to Glacier. Considering another attempt with the park early this fall. Appreciate the video suggestion too!

[@alieshasalisbury1453]

I 100% agree that Rainier is the best national park! I grew up 1 hour from Rainier and have been there hundreds of times yet Rainier still takes my breath away every single time, it’s stunning! Sometimes The Mountain doesn’t come out for months at a time, I feel bad for people who come from so far away and don’t get to see it.

[@AmericasParks]

Well said! Rainier is absolutely spectacular and you were indeed blessed to live so close!

[@PM-tc6sl]

Any plans to visit Alaska, Randy?? Please don't stop making your videos.

[@AmericasParks]

Hopefully in the near future! Thanks very much for the encouraging comment!

[@stanislavmareev505]

Awesome video,thank you 👍👏

[@AmericasParks]

Glad to know you enjoyed the video!

[@jimgreen5788]

Randy, thanks for sharing your memories with us on what was, as you stated, a very difficult list to compile. May I add that, if you have the time, not only stopping at Phantom Ranch for a lemonade, but spending the night there, is a really unique experience? I've stayed there 2 of my 3 trips to the bottom, #3 being in my tent.

[@AmericasParks]

That must have been a wonderful experience to spend a night at the bottom and feel unrushed to enjoy what the canyon has to offer!

[@jimgreen5788]

@@AmericasParks , it was. But, as the park rangers always highly recommend, if you go to the bottom, don't come up the same day. That way, it'll be as fun as the down trip, rather than a death march. I'd recommend another I've also done--Havasu Canyon--home of the people of the blue green water. That place is idyllic! But you need reservations, most often months in advance.

[@garybraden7865]

Do you have any video of you crossing or fording that tiny pond/mud hole on the primitive trail in the Fin Canyon area at Arches? It's passed the almost vertical butt slide area. Would love to see your technique for that.

[@AmericasParks]

Sorry, not aware of any water/mud crossing in that area.

[@joelechner466]

Cool... I've been fortunate to do most of those (and some of your honorable mentions)! Just curious if you've ever done: The Highline Trail in Glacier or Sky Pond in Rocky Mountain NP....When you did Cascade Canyon in the Tetons did you take it all the way to Lake Solitude? I think those three would definitely be in my personal top 10, but loved all the trails on your list that I've also done.

[@AmericasParks]

Thanks for the kind words and suggestions! Looking to hit Highline in the near future. Made a note regarding Sky Pond and have never gone too far on on the Teton hike. You've definitely hit some gems!

[@nataliesmith240]

Half dome really is the best hike!!

[@AmericasParks]

Right on, Natalie! Will always cherish that day as one of the best in my life!

[@JaxBespoked]

Different rankings, but I've done all 10 of your choices. Now I just have to try some NP hikes in Alaska.

[@AmericasParks]

Congratulations on your accomplishment! Yeah, really need to hit Alaska and Hawaii!

[@Funtimeshappy099]

Utah is great. Will you do a top 10 NHP / NHS list?

[@AmericasParks]

That's a great suggestion! As my traveling is becoming more limited, this would be a good way to use all my footage! It does seem like others enjoy these videos.

[@sluggotinfantryman]

#1 panoramic trail Yosemite in June. If you can start from Valley go up 4 mile come out Nevada. #2 Teton go in Cascades canyon go out Death Canyon. #3 Indian Paeks CO #3 Toroweap # 4 Shepherd Pass Tyndall #4 Barronette Peak from ice box canyon #4 Electric Peak #5 Angel's and observation point. Zion #1 Half Dome #1 Clouds Rest #1 North Dome #1 All off Tuolumne Meadows. Yeah Yosemite Yellowstone yep every pullout. Zion go to second tunnel stand on top of it. OBSERVATION POINT. #3 Yellowstone lower falls to upper falls trail

[@charlessapp1835]

The only time there is an excuse to go off of the trail is like what happened to us Friday when we hiked Caprock Coulee Trail. There was a buffalo on the trail! So we had to go around him to give him plenty of space.

[@AmericasParks]

Wow, exact same thing happened to us on that trail.

[@bethpeck8918]

I've done 4 of your 10, but I've visited all of the parks on your top 10 hikes. I have no desire to slog through water, which eliminates Zion's Narrows and Subway (but I've hiked other non-watery trails in the park) and the Sulphur Creek hike (did other Capitol Reef trails instead). I have a fear of heights, which eliminates the Precipice (although my husband took me on an easier Acadia "iron rung" trail), Angel's Landing, and Half Dome (again, I've hiked plenty of other Yosemite trails). Perhaps you have a list of great hikes for the non-waterlogged, non-daredevil folks like me?

[@AmericasParks]

haha... loved the comment. Great suggestion, made a note! And I agree, it's often more about seeing the beauty of the park, even if some of these wild trails are never experienced. :)

[@vs123]

It's a very beautiful parks

[@AmericasParks]

Right on, my friend!

[@NickandRachel]

Well the only one we've done on your list is the Hall of Mosses trail. Guess we got some work to do!

[@AmericasParks]

You guys are definitely on the right track to see many of these!

[@caseyparked]

Great list, but I'm surprised you didn't include anything from Glacier. It's the best park for hiking in my opinion.

[@AmericasParks]

That's a fair comment regarding Glacier! I've been there twice and for a variety of reasons, really "struck-out" on both occasions. Looking at a possible third attempt this fall.

[@caseyparked]

@@AmericasParks fair enough. Late fall can be really nice there if the going to the sun road is still open because of cooler temps and no wildfire smoke

[@jordancook1668]

Is that your shot at 2:39? I live near Rainier and have seen many lenticular clouds over her, but nothing like this. Amazing.

[@AmericasParks]

Yeah, caught the picture from the campsite the night before we visited the park. Thought it was unique, appreciate the affirmation from local! :)

[@west.coast.hiking]

I've done a few of those. Utah is amazing ! How about you tour all of Canada's national parks. 😊

[@AmericasParks]

Would really enjoy getting up to Canada. Have seen even pictures that are absolutely amazing!

[@brandonalcorn9898]

Would love to see your favorite hike every park!

[@AmericasParks]

That is a fantastic idea! Just made a note of your suggestion!

[@judethepro]

If you’re ever in Washington state again, please do three fingers hike. Let me know because I would join you and guide you!

[@AmericasParks]

Appreciate the suggestion and made a note!

[@dmerth]

I'd say that is a good order. #1 had to be Half Dome.

[@AmericasParks]

Appreciate the affirmation! Yeah, not too many "Arguing" with HD at #1.

[@darrentaie925]

Surprised you didn’t include at least of the many fantastic hikes in Glacier NP.

[@AmericasParks]

Yeah, that's a fair point! Been to Glacier twice and kind of "struck-out" for a variety of reasons. Hope to give it a third attempt!

[@normiewoo787]

I expected many of these, but some were surprises. I'm surprised you left Glacier off the list, but I'm glad to see Capitol Reef on there. Also, 3 Dune Challenge is okay, but have you ever done Cowles Bog Trail at Indiana Dunes National Park? The view in autumn is amazing. Thanks for doing what you do, sir. Have a blessed day!

[@AmericasParks]

Hear you with the Glacier comment! For a few reasons, I have really "struck out" on my two trips to Glacier. Considering another attempt with the park early this fall. Thanks... made a note to check out the Cowles Bog Trail!

[@hiitsme6639]

Try the other way for Subway! It is SO much better! It does require rapelling gear, but is so much more amazing

[@AmericasParks]

Appreciate the suggestion! Would really like to o that hike!