Five Epic Day Hikes in North America

 September 14, 2023

With its vast and varied landscapes, North America offers countless opportunities for adventurers to explore its splendors. For hiking enthusiasts, the continent provides some of the most picturesque trails in the world. In this article, we’ll delve into five epic day hikes that promise to take you through a wide variety of breathtaking terrains and ecosystems. Please note that these are all intense and lengthy hikes, which are meant for experienced hikers who are well aware of their limitations and capabilities. Not everyone will be able to do these hikes in a single day. Check the local weather and trail conditions before venturing out.

1. Grand Canyon (Bright Angel and South Kaibab trails)

Location: Arizona, USA

Grand Canyon National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage site and an iconic symbol of the American Southwest. The Bright Angel and South Kaibab trails offer hikers an intimate experience with the canyon's majestic depths and panoramic views of its layered red rock formations. While the Bright Angel Trail offers a longer and more gradual descent, the South Kaibab Trail, although steeper, affords hikers sweeping vistas unparalleled by any other route. One way in which many hikers experience both trails is by going down the South Kaibab and then back up on the Bright Angel in a “U” shape, connecting the two trails by walking alongside the Colorado River at the bottom of the canyon. Remember, what goes down must come up—the ascent can be challenging, so start early and stay hydrated! Make sure to take account of the various bathrooms and water filling stations along the route, as well as knowing the dates when the drinking water is turned off for the season. Additionally, take account of the changing temperatures at the top and bottom of the canyon, as it can vary wildly between the comparatively cooler top and warmer bottom at any time of the year.

2. Berg Lake Trail

Location: British Columbia, Canada

Nestled in Mount Robson Provincial Park in the Canadian Rockies, the Berg Lake Trail is a masterpiece of nature. This 26-mile round trip offers views of cascading waterfalls, glacial valleys, and the towering Mount Robson. Kinney Lake also provides a gorgeous stop partway through the trail and can be a less demanding destination for those who are not able to make the entire trek. The real showstopper, however, is Berg Lake itself, at the very end of the trail, with its turquoise waters set against a backdrop of massive glaciers and snowy peaks. The trail is very long for a day hike and can be quite demanding, so ensure you’re well-prepared for its challenges. Additionally, due to flooding that occurred during a 2021 heatwave, large sections of the trail have been closed for rebuilding, and the trail is not projected to fully reopen until 2025. Please be sure to consult Mount Robson Provincial Park’s official website for the latest updates.

3. Garibaldi Lake Trail

Location: British Columbia, Canada

Another gem from British Columbia, the Garibaldi Lake Trail, located in Garibaldi Provincial Park, promises a serene alpine experience. This 11-mile round trip hike takes adventurers through lush forests, meadows bursting with wildflowers, and ultimately, to the mesmerizing Garibaldi Lake. Surrounded by glaciers and mountains, the lake’s crystalline blue waters provide a tranquil setting for a well-earned rest before heading back.

4. Highline Trail

Location: Montana, USA

The Highline Trail, located in Glacier National Park, is a feast for the senses. This 15-mile route traverses along the Continental Divide and offers hikers stunning views of glacial valleys, verdant meadows, and rugged mountain terrains. With opportunities to spot diverse wildlife, from mountain goats to grizzly bears, this trail is both a nature lover's dream and a thrilling adventure. If you want an extra challenge, you can take a detour near the end of the trail onto the short but steep path toward the Grinnell Glacier Overlook, where you will be met with stunning views of Grinnell Glacier and the numerous lakes of the Many Glacier Valley.

5. Four Mile Trail

Location: California, USA

Yosemite National Park’s Four Mile Trail, although misnamed (it’s 4.8 miles each way), is nothing short of spectacular. Starting from the valley floor and winding its way up to Glacier Point, hikers are treated to ever-evolving views of the iconic Yosemite Falls, El Capitan, and the vast Yosemite Valley. The ascent is steep, but the panoramic views from Glacier Point make every step worth it.

Breathtaking Beauty Meets Adventure

North America’s trails offer a unique blend of beauty, challenge, and exploration. As you lace up your hiking boots and set out on these epic journeys, remember to respect nature, be prepared, and let every step be a memory in the making.

While each of these hikes promises an unforgettable experience, adventurers must remember that while nature is beautiful, it can also be unpredictable. Factors like wildfires, weather changes, wildlife encounters, or personal injuries can turn a day of adventure into a life-or-death situation.

Overwatch x Rescue Offerings

Emergency response and assistance are where FocusPoint International’s Overwatch x Rescue plan can be of utmost value. While it is not an insurance plan, Overwatch x Rescue offers immediate emergency response and support during unexpected situations, ensuring that adventurers can call upon a professional network of assistance if the need arises. This includes 24/7 SOS alert monitoring by the Crisis Response Center, access to on-demand emergency assistance, and numerous medical and security benefits. So, whether you’re gazing at the vast landscape of the Grand Canyon or reveling in the turquoise serenity of Berg Lake, it is comforting to know that a safety net exists, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in the beauty around you.