Discover theTop 5 Hiking Holidays Destinations in the U.S.

Looking to lace up your boots and head out on an unforgettable adventure? Hiking holidays in the United States offer an unmatched range of landscapes, from alpine peaks and desert canyons to lush forests and volcanic terrain. Whether you're new to trekking or already a seasoned hiker, the U.S. has a trail that will take your breath away—both figuratively and literally. You can explore all the parks and trail maps via the U.S. National Park Service.

If you're dreaming of a tailor-made hiking escape, this guide walks you through five of the best hiking destinations across America. And remember, booking with Jamie Wake Travel means you get more than just a holiday—you get peace of mind.

Yosemite National Park, California

Yosemite is often the first destination that springs to mind when you think of hiking holidays in the U.S. It’s known for dramatic granite cliffs, waterfalls, and towering sequoias. The park offers trails for every level, from gentle valley walks to strenuous climbs.

Top Trails

• Mist Trail: Follow the spray of Vernal and Nevada Falls.
• Half Dome: A challenging ascent with cables for the final stretch.
• Glacier Point: Offers panoramic views with a moderate climb.

Each trail provides a different angle on the park's stunning beauty. There's a rhythm to the walks here—moments of calm broken by sheer awe.

Where to Stay

Tenaya Lodge at Yosemite is a luxury resort nestled in the Sierra National Forest. Rooms are elegant and spacious, and the spa is ideal after a long day on your feet.

Looking for offers to Yosemite? We have a wide range of holiday options and accommodations to match your hiking plans.

Protections When You Book With Jamie Wake Travel

When you book your hiking holiday with Jamie Wake Travel, you're protected every step of the way. We're members of Protected Trust Services and hold an ATOL licence, which means your money is financially secure. Every tailor-made package includes Supplier Failure Insurance and Scheduled Airline Failure Insurance. You also benefit from our personal travel service—because travel planning should be as relaxing as the trip itself.

Zion National Park, Utah

Zion delivers striking contrasts: crimson cliffs, narrow slot canyons, and riverside paths. This is one of America’s most photographed parks, and it lives up to the hype.

Top Trails

• Angels Landing: A dramatic ridge hike with chains to assist.
• The Narrows: Wading through a river with high canyon walls.
• Emerald Pools Trail: Easier routes with waterfalls and greenery.

Zion trails test your body and reward your soul. Even a short walk here makes you feel part of something larger.

Where to Stay

Cliffrose Lodge offers resort-style rooms near the park entrance, with views of the Virgin River and red cliffs. Guests love the heated pool and fresh, modern design.

Ask us about our latest offers to Zion National Park. We can help you build an unforgettable adventure.

Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Tennessee/North Carolina

If you're after misty mornings, lush trails, and wildlife sightings, this Appalachian treasure is for you. The Great Smoky Mountains are ideal for gentle strolls and long-haul hikes.

Top Trails

• Clingmans Dome: An easy climb to the park’s highest point.
• Alum Cave Trail: Forests, rock formations, and views.
• Charlies Bunion: A challenging hike with panoramic rewards.

This park is as much about the peace as the peaks. The biodiversity here makes every trail a lesson in natural wonder.

Where to Stay

Dancing Bear Lodge in Townsend blends luxury with rustic charm. Think wood-burning fireplaces, gourmet breakfasts, and easy trail access.

We offer tailor-made trips to the Smokies. Reach out to hear about accommodation choices and walking holiday options.

Glacier National Park, Montana

Known as the "Crown of the Continent," Glacier offers alpine lakes, towering mountains, and a sense of true wilderness. Hiking holidays here often include grizzly sightings and serene lakeside picnics.

Top Trails

• Highline Trail: Follows the Garden Wall with unforgettable views.
• Grinnell Glacier: A dramatic climb to an active glacier.
• Hidden Lake Overlook: A short hike with a big payoff.

Every trail in Glacier is a front-row seat to raw, rugged nature.

Where to Stay

Many Glacier Hotel is a historic property on Swiftcurrent Lake. Rooms have a classic alpine charm, and boat rentals add extra adventure to your stay.

Let us help you find a Glacier National Park holiday that matches your hiking dreams. We have packages and itineraries suited for both beginners and expert trekkers.

Acadia National Park, Maine

Acadia offers a unique mix of forest trails, rocky coastline, and mountain ridges. It’s perfect for those who want sea views with their hikes.

Top Trails

• Precipice Trail: A challenging climb with iron rungs.
• Jordan Pond Path: Flat, scenic, and perfect for beginners.
• Cadillac Mountain South Ridge: Offers sunrise views over the Atlantic.

The rhythm of waves crashing against cliffs makes hiking in Acadia feel meditative.

Where to Stay

Bar Harbor Inn is right on the waterfront and offers cosy rooms, spa services, and fresh seafood dining. It’s a wonderful base for exploring the park.

Ask us about our Acadia holiday packages. Whether you want a relaxed getaway or a hiking-intensive break, we can craft something perfect.

How Hiking Holidays Support Wellbeing

One of the most overlooked benefits of hiking holidays is how deeply they support your physical and mental wellbeing. Getting outdoors, moving at your own pace, and breathing in clean mountain or coastal air all combine to give your body and mind a break from the everyday.

Walking on natural trails improves cardiovascular health, strengthens muscles, and can help reduce stress hormones. But it's not just about exercise. It’s the views, the sense of progress, and the stillness of nature that really change how you feel.

Many of our clients tell us they return from hiking trips feeling refreshed in a way no beach holiday ever delivered. There's a mindfulness that happens on the trail. With no phone signal and no distractions, you find space to reconnect with yourself—or with the people you're travelling with.

Whether you’re hiking with a partner, friends, or solo, it offers moments that feel truly earned. And for families, it’s a brilliant way to bond over shared experiences and step away from screens.

At Jamie Wake Travel, we understand that a holiday isn’t just time away—it’s time that should add something to your life. That’s why our hiking holidays are tailor-made to support not just your travel goals but your overall wellbeing.

Jamie Says:

“There’s something grounding about hiking. It strips away the noise and gives you space to breathe. At Jamie Wake Travel, we help turn that simple joy into a personalised journey you’ll never forget.”

Tips for a Successful Hiking Holiday

A little preparation goes a long way on the trail. Whether you're heading into the forest for a gentle day walk or tackling a ridge route, these simple tips can help you make the most of it.

1. Know Your Route
Research the trail before you go. Check distance, elevation gain, estimated time, and whether it’s a loop or out-and-back.

2. Layer Up
Weather changes quickly in the mountains. A good rule? Base layer, insulating layer, and waterproof layer.

3. Stay Hydrated
Bring more water than you think you’ll need. Add electrolytes if you’re doing long climbs or hiking in heat.

4. Carry Snacks
Energy bars, dried fruit, and nuts are easy to carry and give a great boost mid-hike.

5. Wear the Right Footwear
Break in your boots before your trip. Blisters on holiday? No thank you.

6. Respect Wildlife and Leave No Trace
Stick to paths, pack out rubbish, and never feed the animals.

7. Check Park Conditions
Before you leave for the day, look online or speak with park rangers. Some trails may close due to weather or maintenance.

8. Use Walking Poles if Needed
They help with balance and take pressure off your knees on descents.

We can provide personalised kit checklists depending on where you're going. If you're unsure, just ask us.

Why Book Your Hiking Holiday with Jamie Wake Travel?

We know hiking holidays are about more than just trails. They’re about finding freedom, peace, and maybe even a new perspective. That’s why we go further to make sure your travel experience is smooth, secure, and suited to you.

Here’s what you get when booking with us:

• Financial protection through PTS membership and ATOL coverage
• Supplier Failure Insurance and Scheduled Airline Failure Insurance on all tailor-made trips
• Access to over 200 trusted suppliers and tour operators
• Personalised advice from people who understand adventure

You can count on us for practical planning, competitive prices, and destination insight that only comes from experience.

What to Expect on a U.S. Hiking Holiday

Every hiking holiday in the U.S. is a chance to experience something new—whether it’s waking up to birdsong in a mountain lodge or standing on a summit with no one else in sight. While each destination is different, there are a few common things you can expect across the board.

• Diverse Trails: U.S. national parks offer options for every ability, from family-friendly loops to full-day treks.
• Clear Signage: Most trails are well-marked, making self-guided hiking accessible and safe.
• Visitor Facilities: Expect ranger stations, maps, toilets, and often shuttle services in popular parks.
• Wildlife Encounters: You might see deer, elk, eagles—or even bears—so carry snacks, not fear.
• Natural Wonders: Think waterfalls, wildflowers, epic views, and sky-splitting sunsets.

You don’t need to be a mountaineer to enjoy hiking holidays. It’s more about connection than competition.

How to Choose the Right Hiking Destination

It can be tricky choosing where to go, especially with so many bucket-list trails to choose from. That’s where Jamie Wake Travel comes in. We take your interests, experience level, and time of year into account when building your itinerary.

Ask yourself:

• Do I prefer mountains, coastlines, forests, or deserts?
• Am I looking for solitude or something more social?
• Do I want guided hikes or to go it alone?
• Am I hoping to stay active every day or mix in some downtime?

For example, Yosemite suits scenic photo-lovers and serious hikers alike. Zion is perfect for those craving something adventurous and dramatic. Acadia, on the other hand, blends hiking with the charm of a coastal town.

We listen first—then help you choose.

The Best Time for Hiking Holidays in the U.S.

Timing matters. Some trails are seasonal, and weather conditions vary widely across the country.

• Spring (March–May): Great for lower-elevation parks like Zion or the Smokies, with wildflowers in bloom and cooler temps.
• Summer (June–August): Ideal for Glacier and Yosemite, though some areas can be crowded or hot.
• Autumn (September–November): Arguably the best time for hiking holidays overall. Fewer crowds, colourful foliage, and mild weather.
• Winter (December–February): Some parks close higher trails due to snow, but lower-altitude trails and desert parks like Zion remain open.

We’ll always help you time it right so your trip is safe, enjoyable, and full of beautiful moments.

Extend Your Hiking Holiday

Why not extend your hiking adventure with a city stop or a coastal retreat? We can help you add a few nights in San Francisco after Yosemite, or a stay on the coast of Maine after Acadia. These extras turn a great trip into a complete experience.

Some customers even add wellness escapes, hot springs visits, or wine tastings after their trek. Just let us know what you love, and we’ll suggest additions to round out your journey.

Start Planning Your Adventure

America’s trails are waiting. Whether you want alpine climbs, riverside rambles or coastal walks, Jamie Wake Travel is ready to help you create the perfect itinerary.

You can now use our website to create and book your own bespoke hiking holiday that’s as unique as you are. The search function is available on every page. But if you'd rather let us do the legwork, we're only a phone call or message away.

Speak to our team today by calling 01495 400005 or using the holiday enquiry form on our website.

Let your next adventure begin with us.

Frequently Asked Questions