Appalachian Trail, Eastern U.S.

Stretching over 2,190 miles from Georgia to Maine, the Appalachian Trail is one of the most famous long-distance hikes in the world. It passes through 14 states, offering hikers stunning mountain views, dense forests, and diverse wildlife. While completing the entire trail can take months, many hikers opt for shorter sections, such as the Great Smoky Mountains in Tennessee or the Shenandoah National Park in Virginia.

Grand Canyon National Park, Arizona

Hiking in the Grand Canyon is a truly unique experience. The most popular trail, Bright Angel Trail, descends from the South Rim into the canyon, offering breathtaking views along the way. For those looking for a more challenging adventure, the Rim-to-Rim hike is a bucket-list experience that takes hikers from one side of the canyon to the other. Due to extreme heat in summer, the best time to hike in the Grand Canyon is during spring or fall.

Yosemite National Park, California

Yosemite is known for its dramatic granite cliffs, waterfalls, and lush valleys. One of the most famous hikes is the Half Dome Trail, which includes a steep ascent and the use of cables to reach the summit. Another great option is the Mist Trail, leading to the stunning Vernal and Nevada Falls. Yosemite offers trails for all levels, making it a favorite destination for both beginners and experienced hikers.

Glacier National Park, Montana

Nicknamed the “Crown of the Continent,” Glacier National Park boasts over 700 miles of hiking trails through alpine meadows, rugged peaks, and glacial lakes. The Highline Trail is one of the most scenic, offering incredible views of the park’s mountains and valleys. Grinnell Glacier Trail is another popular choice, leading hikers to a stunning glacial lake surrounded by towering peaks. Wildlife sightings, including bears and mountain goats, are common in the park.

Zion National Park, Utah

Zion is home to some of the most iconic hikes in the U.S. The Narrows is a unique trail where hikers wade through the Virgin River, surrounded by towering canyon walls. Angel’s Landing is another must-do hike, famous for its breathtaking views and thrilling ridgeline path. Zion’s red rock landscapes and deep canyons make it one of the most picturesque hiking destinations in the country.

Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Tennessee and North Carolina

The Great Smoky Mountains offer a mix of lush forests, scenic ridges, and cascading waterfalls. The Alum Cave Trail to Mount LeConte is a popular hike, providing stunning views and unique rock formations. Another favorite is Clingmans Dome, the highest point in the park, accessible via a short but steep hike. With over 800 miles of trails, the Smokies are perfect for both casual hikers and avid adventurers.

Rocky Mountain National Park, Colorado

Rocky Mountain National Park is a paradise for hikers with its high-altitude trails and stunning alpine scenery. The Emerald Lake Trail is a great moderate hike that passes several beautiful mountain lakes. For those seeking a challenge, the Longs Peak Trail offers a strenuous climb to one of Colorado’s most famous 14,000-foot peaks. The park’s diverse landscapes, from wildflower meadows to rocky summits, make it a top hiking destination.

Mount Rainier National Park, Washington

Mount Rainier’s trails offer some of the most stunning views in the Pacific Northwest. The Skyline Trail, which starts at Paradise, provides panoramic views of the mountain, glaciers, and wildflower meadows. Another great option is the Wonderland Trail, a 93-mile loop that encircles Mount Rainier, offering a true backcountry experience. The park’s dramatic landscapes and changing weather conditions make it a thrilling destination for hikers.

Acadia National Park, Maine

Located along the rugged coast of Maine, Acadia National Park features unique trails with stunning ocean views. The Precipice Trail is one of the most thrilling, featuring iron rungs and ladders that lead to the summit of Champlain Mountain. Jordan Pond Path is a more leisurely hike that offers beautiful reflections of the surrounding mountains in the water. Acadia’s mix of rocky cliffs, forests, and coastal scenery makes it a must-visit hiking destination.

The Pacific Crest Trail, Western U.S.

The Pacific Crest Trail is a legendary long-distance hike that stretches over 2,650 miles from Mexico to Canada, passing through California, Oregon, and Washington. While only a few hikers complete the entire trail, many enjoy shorter sections, such as the John Muir Trail in California or the Cascade Mountains in Washington. The PCT offers diverse landscapes, from desert terrain to alpine forests, making it one of the most epic hiking adventures in the U.S.

Hiking in the United States offers endless opportunities to explore diverse landscapes and experience the beauty of nature. Whether you prefer coastal trails, mountain summits, or deep canyons, there is a perfect hiking destination for everyone. Always be prepared with proper gear, check weather conditions, and follow park regulations to ensure a safe and enjoyable hiking experience.

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1. Conquer the Trails

The renowned Slick Rock bike trail has beckoned mountain bikers for generations, offering an exhilarating ride amidst breathtaking scenery. “It’s like navigating a colossal skate park,” remarks Aaron Lindberg of Poison Spider Bicycles. Spanning 10 miles, the trail presents a plethora of thrilling features. Challenge your endurance on Cogs to Spare before indulging in the sheer joy of traversing the terrain. Nestled in the Sand Flats Recreation Area, with its picturesque camping sites and scenic vistas, it serves as an ideal hub for various outdoor pursuits.

2. Ride into the Sunset

For a scenic horseback adventure, venture with John Hauer from his ranch along the Colorado River. Since 1989, Hauer has guided riders through landscapes immortalized in major motion pictures, including classics starring John Wayne. Pass by remnants of film sets, like the prop wagon from “City Slickers 2,” and marvel at the iconic Fisher Towers and Castle Valley silhouetted against the sky.

3. Scale New Heights

With countless climbing routes, Moab offers boundless opportunities for climbers of all levels. Whether scaling the cliffs of Wall Street or tackling remote desert towers, the options are endless. For a thrilling ascent, tackle Ancient Art in the Fisher Towers, conquering the Stolen Chimney route. Alternatively, enlist the expertise of Moab Cliffs and Canyons Guide Service for a guided climb. Brace yourself for an unforgettable experience as you navigate “the sidewalk.”

4. Indulge in Local Flavors

Milt’s Stop and Eat is a beloved Moab institution, drawing crowds with its nostalgic charm and delectable fare. Step into a bygone era as you savor classic diner dishes amidst 1950s memorabilia. Sink your teeth into the Peggy-O-Ranch Burger and treat yourself to a malt made with homemade ice cream. Whether seated indoors or outdoors on the patio, Milt’s promises a culinary journey back in time.

5. Gear Up for Adventure

Since 1991, Poison Spider Bicycles has been a cornerstone of Moab’s cycling scene, offering a comprehensive range of services and equipment for outdoor enthusiasts. Explore their vast rental fleet, tailored for the rugged terrain of Moab. Join Porcupine Shuttles for convenient transportation to various trailheads, with the promise of a refreshing shower upon your return. With everything you need for an epic adventure, Poison Spider Bicycles is your gateway to exploring Moab’s breathtaking landscapes.

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Antin’s love for the outdoors was cultivated early in his life and further solidified as he delved into the myriad adventures it offers. Not only does he continually push the limits of his own physical and mental capabilities, but he also revels in the vibrant outdoor community of Colorado.

Having been a collegiate football player, Antin is no stranger to dedicating extensive hours to training, performing, and fostering camaraderie within a closely-knit team. He now finds that same sense of camaraderie among his Search and Rescue colleagues, fellow mountain guides, and adventure companions.

Reflecting on his guiding career, Antin recalls a particularly memorable experience guiding a diverse group to the base camp of Mount Everest. Beyond the challenge of the journey itself, he found fulfillment in forging connections among individuals from various backgrounds, fostering enduring bonds rooted in shared experiences.

For Antin, community isn’t merely an added bonus; it’s a driving force behind his endeavors. As a guide, rescue team member, athlete, coach, and creator of inspirational adventure content like Beat Monday, he’s on a mission to equip people with both the skills and the enthusiasm to thrive in the outdoors.

Antin emphasizes that his guiding philosophy revolves around empowering guests to leave with newfound knowledge and a sense of accomplishment. Operating with Colorado Mountain School and Skyward Mountaineering, as well as through his own venture, Alpenglow Mountain Guides, Antin is committed to providing safe and enriching outdoor experiences, even amidst the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic.

Indeed, guiding has evolved in the wake of the pandemic. Travel to distant locales has been curtailed, prompting Antin and his team to adapt to new safety protocols and procedures. Despite the logistical hurdles, Antin emphasizes the importance of maintaining the personal connection and effective communication that are integral to guiding, even while masked and physically distanced.

Navigating these challenges, from implementing safety measures to adjusting teaching styles, Antin remains steadfast in his commitment to facilitating meaningful outdoor experiences, embodying the resilience and adaptability inherent to the mountain guiding profession.

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WETSUIT

Given that Colorado rivers are fed by high-altitude snowmelt, wearing a wetsuit is essential for comfort and safety. A 5.5mm/4mm wetsuit is commonly recommended, providing adequate insulation for cold water temperatures. Additionally, opting for a suit with a hood can offer extra warmth and protection.

One highly recommended option is the Patagonia Women’s R4 Yulex Front-Zip Hooded Full Suit ($549), known for its durability, comfort, and tailored fit. Alternatively, for milder conditions, the Patagonia Women’s R2 Yulex Front-Zip Full Suit ($229) with a thinner thickness rating can suffice.

NEOPRENE GLOVES

In colder waters, neoprene gloves are essential to keep your hands warm and protected. The Patagonia R4 Yulex Three Finger Mitts ($79) offer excellent insulation with a 5mm thickness rating and a microgasket to prevent water entry. For warmer conditions, thinner five-finger gloves can be suitable.

BOOTIES

Protecting your feet is crucial, especially when navigating rocky riverbeds. The Patagonia R4 Yulex Round Toe Booties ($89) with a 5mm thickness provide superior insulation and traction. Alternatively, the NRS Women’s Paddle Wetshoe ($60) offers comfort and protection with a 3mm upper and sole, ideal for warmer weather.

These gear essentials ensure that you stay warm, comfortable, and safe while enjoying the exhilarating experience of river surfing in Colorado’s pristine waters. Remember to choose gear appropriate for the prevailing conditions and your individual preferences.

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