Amazing Hikes in Eastern North America

 January 15, 2024

While Western North America often steals the spotlight with its iconic landscapes, Eastern North America is also home to some spectacular hikes. These hikes offer diverse terrains, rich history, and breathtaking views. From the rugged cliffs of the Atlantic coast to the serene beauty of the Appalachian Mountains, let's explore some of the best hikes in Eastern North America.

Great Smoky Mountains National Park—Alum Cave Trail to Mount LeConte: Straddling the border between Tennessee and North Carolina, Great Smoky Mountains National Park is a haven for hikers, with its lush forests and diverse wildlife. The Alum Cave Trail to Mount LeConte stands out as a must-try. This 11-mile (17.7-kilometer) round trip is challenging, but it rewards hikers with stunning panoramic views. The trail takes you alongside cliffs and past the Alum Cave Bluffs, offering a varied and exhilarating hiking experience.

Acadia National Park—The Precipice Trail: Acadia National Park in Maine is known for its rugged coastal beauty. The Precipice Trail is one of the park's most thrilling hikes, known for its steep ascent and iron rung ladders. It's not for the faint of heart, but those who take on the challenge are rewarded with stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean and the surrounding islands. This 2.5-mile (4-kilometer) round trip is an adrenaline-pumping adventure.

Baxter State Park—Mount Katahdin: As the highest mountain in Maine, Mount Katahdin in Baxter State Park offers various trails for hikers of different skill levels. The Hunt Trail, a segment of the Appalachian Trail, is a popular route for summiting this iconic peak. This challenging 10.4-mile (16.7-kilometer) round trip takes you through diverse terrain, culminating in stunning views from the top of Katahdin—a truly rewarding experience.

Shenandoah National Park—Old Rag Mountain Loop: Shenandoah National Park in Virginia is a haven for hikers, and the Old Rag Mountain Loop hike is one of its crowning jewels. This challenging 9.3-mile (15-kilometer) loop trail is renowned for its breathtaking vistas and unique rock scrambles. As you ascend to the summit, you'll be rewarded with panoramic views of the park’s rolling hills and verdant valleys. The trail can be demanding, with several steep and rocky sections, but the stunning scenery at the top is well worth the effort.

Gros Morne National Park—Gros Morne Mountain Trail: This trail at Gros Morne National Park in Newfoundland is a must-do for serious hikers. This challenging 10.5-mile (17-kilometer) loop is one of the park's most iconic hikes, leading adventurers to the top of the second-highest peak in Newfoundland. The trail is demanding, with steep climbs and rocky terrain, but the effort pays off with spectacular views of the Long Range Mountains and the surrounding fjords. This trail offers hikers a unique opportunity to witness the striking geological features that earned the park its UNESCO World Heritage status, making it a memorable experience for any hiking enthusiast.

Bay of Fundy—Hopewell Rocks Trail: The Hopewell Rocks, located in Hopewell Rocks Provincial Park at the Bay of Fundy, New Brunswick, offer a unique hiking experience on the ocean floor. The main trail at Hopewell Rocks allows visitors to explore the famous flowerpot rock formations, sculpted by the highest tides in the world. This easy 1.5-mile (2.4-kilometer) trail provides an opportunity to walk on the seabed at low tide, witnessing the dramatic effect of the tides. The area is a marvel of nature and offers an unforgettable coastal hiking experience during low tide when the full majesty of the rock formations is revealed.

Saguenay Fjord National Park—Giant's Viewpoint via the River Path: For those visiting Saguenay Fjord National Park in Quebec, the hike to Giant's Viewpoint via the River Path is a journey through serene beauty leading to a breathtaking vista. This moderately challenging trail, at an approximately 6-mile (9.7-kilometer) round trip, weaves along the majestic Saguenay River before ascending to the Giant's Viewpoint. The viewpoint offers a stunning panoramic view of the fjord's towering cliffs and the expansive, tranquil waters below. This trail not only captivates with its natural beauty but also provides a peaceful hiking experience, making it a must-visit for nature lovers and photographers alike.

Forillon National Park—Summit of Mont Saint-Alban: This hike in Forillon National Park is an exhilarating experience that rewards hikers with some of the most spectacular views in Quebec. This moderate-to-challenging trail, at a round trip of about 5 miles (8 kilometers), offers a 360-degree panorama of the Gulf of St. Lawrence, the cliffs, and the surrounding landscapes. Along the way, hikers traverse through diverse ecosystems, from dense forests to rugged coastlines. The crowning feature is the observation tower at the summit, which provides a unique vantage point to appreciate the natural splendor of Forillon National Park.

Killarney Provincial Park—The Crack: For those seeking a challenging yet rewarding hike, the Crack in Killarney Provincial Park, Ontario, is a must-try. This 4.7-mile (7.6-kilometer) trail is famous for its rugged terrain and the “crack”—a massive crevice formed by splitting rocks. This trail leads to one of the most spectacular views of the Killarney and O.S.A. lakes amidst the quartzite peaks of the La Cloche Mountains. The hike is mostly intermediate in difficulty but involves an intense bit of scrambling at the end. The breathtaking views make the strenuous conclusion of the hike worth every step.

Staying Safe with Overwatch x Rescue

While these hikes offer incredible experiences, it’s important to remember that hiking, especially in unfamiliar or challenging terrain, can pose risks. That’s where Overwatch x Rescue steps in. Overwatch x Rescue is an emergency SOS subscription service geared toward helping outdoor adventurers in tough situations. Their emergency response services provide an extra layer of safety for hikers venturing into these beautiful but unpredictable environments. Whether it’s a medical emergency, getting lost, or unexpected adverse conditions, Overwatch x Rescue's 24/7 support ensures that emergency assistance is available, no matter where your hike takes you. With Overwatch x Rescue, you can explore these amazing trails with peace of mind, knowing that you have a reliable safety net.