According to the National Park Service, there are more than 200,000 miles of hiking trails in the U.S. at our disposal. With a little effort, and probably a little driving, you can leave the sidewalks and carpool lanes behind and experience some of the country’s natural beauty. Depending on your skill level, chances are there are trails near you that are either recreational or challenging. Each of the following trails was named a “National Recreation Trail” by the Department of the Interior, designating them as among America’s best.

King Range National Conservation Area
Bureau of Land Management Arcata Field Office
1695 Heindon Road
Arcata, Calif., 95521
707-825-2300

This area, in Mendicino County in northern California, is known as the “Lost Coast” because the land was too rugged for roads or highways. The beach is only accessible by trails, which run throughout the area and are only for serious hikers. The Lost Coast Trail can take three days to complete and includes walks along the beach and the surrounding wilderness. A number of additional trails run through the area, and conditions and degree of difficulty vary. Check with the Bureau of Land Management Field Office for trail conditions and maps. Self-service permits are required and can be picked up at the Arcata Field Office.

Lee Metcalf National Wildlife Refuge Trail
4567 Wildfowl Lane
Stevensville, Mont., 59870
406-777-5552

Located in western Montana, the Lee Metcalf National Wildlife Refuge sits on the Bitterroot River and features a beautiful mountainous backdrop. Two and a half miles of trails lead out from the visitor’s center, which are fairly easy to navigate. A part of the trail is even wheelchair accessible. Fishing on the river is also available.

Palm Canyon Trail
Kofa National Wildlife Refuge
356 W. First St.
Yuma, Ariz., 85364
928-783-7861

Believe it or not, there is an Arizona canyon that is home to a number of California palm trees. The unique combination of shade and water in the canyon allows the palms to grow, making for an unusual but scenic view that has fascinated visitors for decades. The trail to the canyon is short and easy to walk, but a more rugged trail into the valley follows.

Little Cherry Pond National Recreation Trail
Silvio O. Conte National Fish and Wildlife Refuge
103 East Plum Tree Road
Sunderland, Mass., 01375
413-548-8002

The Little Cherry Pond Trail (which winds through the Conte Refuge) offers views of assorted wildlife and the spectacular White Mountains. Only a mile long, it isn’t too physically taxing, but the location makes it well worth it. At the end of the trail, hikers will find a viewing platform on Little Cherry Pond that is great for viewing and photographing moose, beaver, otter and osprey.

Whether you are looking for a day hike or a multiple-day excursion, a call ahead to the local authorities, park ranger or visitor center is recommended. Conditions and requirements in the parks are always subject to change, especially with recent wildfires in California and the Southwest.

Submitted By: Victor Medina