Hiking is one of the most rewarding ways to experience the beauty of nature. The feeling of stepping out into fresh air, the sound of birds chirping and rustling leaves, and the joy of reaching a stunning peak or serene lake make hiking an experience that connects you to the earth like no other activity. For me, 2025 was an exciting year of hiking, full of unforgettable adventures. From quiet mountain trails to rugged coastal cliffs, here are my ten favorite hikes of the year, each offering a unique challenge and a chance to experience nature at its best.
One of the highlights of my hiking journey this year was the Half Dome hike in Yosemite National Park. This trail is known for its stunning views and challenging climb, but it also offers a real sense of accomplishment. The trail to the summit is a strenuous 16-mile hike that involves gaining over 4,800 feet in elevation. The final section of the hike, where you climb up the iconic cables to reach the summit, is exhilarating. The panoramic views from the summit of Half Dome, stretching out over Yosemite Valley, are simply spectacular. It’s a hike that requires physical strength and mental endurance, but the reward at the end is worth every step.
Another incredible hike that stood out in 2025 was the Mount Rainier Skyline Trail in Washington State. The hike offers stunning views of Mount Rainier itself, as well as wildflower meadows, cascading waterfalls, and alpine lakes. The trail is challenging, yet accessible, with a mix of elevation gain and flat sections that allow for frequent breaks to enjoy the scenery. One of the most memorable moments of this hike was reaching the summit and being enveloped by an alpine glacier, surrounded by the snow-capped peaks of the Cascades. This trail is perfect for those who want to experience the beauty of a high-altitude hike with an ever-changing landscape.
For a quieter and more contemplative hike, I headed to Banff National Park in Canada, specifically the Lake Louise to Plain of Six Glaciers trail. This relatively moderate 8.6-mile hike takes you through dense forests and past stunning glacial lakes, eventually reaching a high alpine meadow where you can see six glaciers up close. The beauty of this hike lies in its variety—from the crystal-clear waters of Lake Louise to the snow-capped peaks looming in the distance, every turn offers something new. It’s a hike that offers both a physical challenge and ample opportunity for quiet reflection in one of North America’s most pristine landscapes.
Another favorite of mine this year was the Angel’s Landing Trail in Zion National Park in Utah. This iconic hike is famous for its steep, exposed sections and dramatic views. The trail climbs nearly 1,500 feet in just 2.5 miles, making it a challenging but rewarding climb. The final section, where hikers cling to chains and navigate narrow ridges, provides a thrilling sense of adventure. The panoramic views of Zion Canyon from the summit are breathtaking, with red rock cliffs and winding rivers stretching far below. While this hike is not for the faint of heart, it provides an unparalleled sense of accomplishment and offers some of the best views in the American Southwest.
In stark contrast to Zion’s desert landscapes is the Appalachian Trail, which I’ve hiked in sections throughout the year. This legendary trail stretches 2,190 miles from Georgia to Maine, passing through lush forests, tranquil streams, and rugged mountain terrain. While I didn’t tackle the entire trail in 2025, the sections I did hike, particularly the Smoky Mountains and Shenandoah National Park, were incredibly fulfilling. With its rolling hills, diverse wildlife, and peaceful solitude, the Appalachian Trail offers a deep connection to nature. Whether you’re an experienced hiker or a beginner, the Appalachian Trail has something for everyone with varying levels of difficulty and landscapes to explore.
One hike that surprised me was the Pacific Crest Trail in California, particularly the section that goes through the Sierra Nevada. This part of the trail is a high-altitude hike that offers views of pristine alpine lakes, rugged ridges, and dense forests. Hiking through this area made me realize the majesty of the Sierra Nevada and the unique ecosystem that thrives there. The trails are challenging, especially when navigating rocky terrain and steep slopes, but the opportunity to be surrounded by towering trees and stunning scenery made it one of the most memorable hikes of the year.
For those looking for a short but unforgettable adventure, the Torres del Paine Circuit in Patagonia, Chile is a must-do. The rugged landscape of Torres del Paine National Park, with its jagged granite peaks and turquoise lakes, is simply extraordinary. The entire loop trail is 52 miles long, but shorter hikes within the park also offer stunning views. One of the highlights of this hike is reaching the base of the Torres del Paine, three massive granite towers that rise dramatically against the backdrop of a glacial lake. Wind and weather in Patagonia can be unpredictable, but the experience of hiking through such rugged beauty is truly something special.
For a more tropical experience, I ventured to Haleakalā National Park in Hawaii to tackle the Sliding Sands Trail. This unique trail takes you through a volcanic landscape where you can see the remains of Haleakalā’s massive caldera. The barren, otherworldly landscape is unlike anything I’ve ever experienced, with lava rock fields, colorful cinder cones, and panoramic views of the island’s lush coastline. Although the hike is strenuous due to the elevation gain and sun exposure, I will never forget the experience of hiking on a dormant volcano.
The hike through the Glen Etive Valley in Scotland also made it onto my 2025 favorites list. This relatively short hike, just under 5 miles, takes you through one of the most scenic valleys in the Scottish Highlands. Surrounded by towering peaks and gentle streams, this hike offers a perfect balance of solitude and beauty. It’s a peaceful stroll through a landscape that seems almost frozen in time with misty mountains and wild terrain. The tranquility of the valley made this hike an unforgettable experience.
Finally, one of my favorite hikes of the year was the Grand Canyon Rim-to-Rim hike in Arizona. This 24+ mile hike descends into the canyon and back up the opposite side, providing a completely different perspective on the iconic landscape. Hiking the Grand Canyon requires careful planning due to the extreme heat and elevation changes, but the sense of awe you feel as you descend into the canyon is unlike anything else. The stunning rock formations, the Colorado River winding through the bottom, and the ever-changing light throughout the day made this a truly unforgettable trip.
Conclusion
2025 was an incredible year of hiking, full of challenges, adventures, and awe-inspiring moments. From the towering granite peaks of Yosemite and Torres del Paine to the volcanic landscapes of Haleakalā and the serene beauty of the Appalachian Trail, these hikes not only pushed my physical limits, but also deepened my connection to nature. Each trail offered its own unique beauty and experience, reminding me of the importance of preserving these wild places for future generations. As I reflect on these hikes, I am reminded that the joy of hiking lies not only in the destination, but in the journey itself—the feeling of immersing yourself in the natural wonders of the world, breathing in fresh air, and finding peace in the quiet moments along the way. These ten hikes of 2025 will stay with me for many years to come and I look forward to the adventures that lie ahead.
