If you’re a lover of the outdoors, you’re probably constantly looking for new hiking trails to experience. There are so many incredible places around the United States to take a hike, and the east coast is home to some of the best, even if they may be often overlooked. From New York all the way down to Georgia and Tennesee, here are some of the best hikes to take on the east coast of the United States.
Jacks River Trail – Georgia
If you’ve never heard of the Cohutta Wilderness in Georgia, then you’re in good company. This region, which is located in the northern part of the state, is known for its beautiful scenery and diverse wildlife. One of the best ways to experience this area is by taking the Jacks River Trail, which follows the river through a beautiful valley. If you’re planning on hiking this trail for a longer time, you can take the 9.3 miles hike to Jacks River Falls.
Mt. Colden Via Avalanche Pass Trail – New York
The Adirondacks features some of the most incredible hiking trails not only on the east coast but in the country overall. One of these is the Mt. Colden, which takes you through the Avalanche Pass. This is a beautiful hike that features some more difficult sections, such as the infamous “Misery Mile,” but those difficult sections are arguably some of the most scenic, passing through Avalanche Pass before climbing Mt. Colden via Colden Lake. Staircases are included during the steeper sections of the hike, so be prepared for a climb.
Rocky Top Trail – Tennessee
If you’re a fan of collegiate folklore, then the Rocky Top Trail is the trail for you. This is a beautiful, long-distance hike that features a stunning backdrop and a 360-degree view of the summit. Although this trail can be very crowded, it’s worth it for the views, as it offers a great elevation gain.
The Presidential Traverse – New Hampshire
An extremely intense hike in New Hampshire, the Presidential Traverse is not for the faint of heart. If you’re looking to complete the whole trail in a single day, you’ll want to be sure that your physical ability is up to snuff, as this trail is considered essential for many hardcore hikers on the east coast. The trail is 23 miles long with a whopping 9,000 feet of elevation gain and is typically begun at Mt. Madison and concluded with Mt. Jackson. You’ll want to be prepared for anything on this hike, as weather can be extremely detrimental to your progress. It can also be a good idea to be aware of where the various bailout points of the Traverse are, incase an accident occurs or you decide you can’t keep going.