If you enjoy spending time outdoors and appreciate stunning views, hiking scenic trails can be a rewarding experience. Trails that involve a climb often lead to breathtaking vantage points, where the effort is matched by the beauty you’ll find at the top.

These trails offer some of the most memorable sights and moments that make the climb worth every step. Whether you’re a casual hiker or someone looking for a bit more challenge, exploring scenic routes can add a fresh dimension to your outdoor adventures.

Greer Island and Canyon Ridge Trail, Fort Worth

You’ll find Greer Island and Canyon Ridge Trail in the southeast corner of Fort Worth Nature Center. The hike covers about 6.1 miles with some steep climbs, so be ready for a good workout.

The trail features limestone and sandstone outcrops, narrow sections, and footbridges. Along the way, you’ll get nice views of Lake Worth that make the effort worth it.

Echo Canyon Trail, Texas Hill Country

You’ll find Echo Canyon Trail near Llano, Texas, offering a 3.1-mile loop that’s moderately challenging. The trail takes you through scenic Hill Country terrain, with wide, well-marked paths to keep you on track.

Along the way, you’ll enjoy natural rock formations and quiet spots perfect for a break. It’s a popular choice if you want a rewarding hike without too much difficulty.

Summit Trail, Texas Hill Country

If you enjoy a moderate challenge, the Summit Trail is a great choice. The trail leads you to the top of a large pink granite dome with beautiful views of the Texas Hill Country.

The hike is about 1.3 miles round trip, making it perfect for a day adventure. Along the way, you’ll find rocky terrain and scenic spots to take a break.

You’ll likely encounter other hikers, as it’s a popular trail. Take your time and enjoy the unique landscape and wide-open views.

Appalachian Trail, Eastern US

If you want a classic hiking experience, the Appalachian Trail offers over 2,200 miles through diverse landscapes. You can tackle everything from the peaceful Nantahala Mountains in North Carolina to the challenging climb up Mt. Katahdin in Maine.

Along the way, you’ll find scenic spots like McAfee Knob in Virginia and the Great Smoky Mountains. Whether you choose a day hike or a longer section, the trail’s beauty is worth the effort.

Pacific Crest Trail, West Coast

The Pacific Crest Trail (PCT) stretches along the West Coast, offering you a mix of mountains, forests, and desert landscapes.

As you hike, you’ll pass through iconic spots like Mt. Whitney and the Sierra Nevada, which many consider some of the trail’s best sections.

The views include everything from the Mojave Desert to the lush greenery in Washington. It’s a challenging trail, but the scenery rewards your effort along the way.

Grand Canyon South Rim Trail, Arizona

If you visit the Grand Canyon South Rim, you’ll find two main trails to explore: Bright Angel and South Kaibab. Both offer stunning views and a good physical challenge.

The South Kaibab Trail is steeper but rewards you with expansive canyon vistas along the way. Bright Angel Trail is longer and provides shade and water stops.

Choose a trail based on your fitness and what kind of views you want. Either way, the scenery is truly memorable.

Yosemite National Park Mist Trail, California

You’ll find the Mist Trail is one of Yosemite’s most popular hikes. It takes you past two beautiful waterfalls, Vernal Fall and Nevada Fall, with plenty of mist refreshing you on warmer days.

The trail is steep and can be challenging, but the views of Half Dome and the surrounding peaks make it worth the effort. If you want a moderate loop, you can combine it with the John Muir Trail for a bit of variation.

Big Bend National Park Trails, Texas

If you love scenic hikes, Big Bend offers trails with stunning views. You can explore the Lost Mine Trail for a moderate climb and great overlooks.

Santa Elena Canyon is perfect if you want to walk along the river with towering cliffs around you. The South Rim Loop is more challenging but rewards you with wide, panoramic desert views.

These trails let you experience Texas’s diverse landscapes up close. You’ll find quiet spots and dramatic scenery on every path.

Guadalupe Mountains National Park Trails, Texas

If you enjoy challenging hikes, Guadalupe Peak Trail is a must. It’s about 8 miles round-trip and climbs over 3,000 feet to the highest point in Texas.

You can also explore Devil’s Hall Trail, a 4-mile round-trip hike with striking canyon views. For a mix of scenery and difficulty, Notch Trail offers a rewarding experience with over 1,000 feet of elevation gain. These trails give you a real taste of West Texas wilderness.

Howe Sound Crest Trail, British Columbia

If you enjoy a challenge, the Howe Sound Crest Trail is for you. It stretches about 29 kilometers, running from Cypress Bowl to Porteau Cove.

You’ll hike over multiple summits, including iconic peaks like the Lions and Mt. Harvey. The trail offers great views of Howe Sound and surrounding mountains.

Plan for a full day if you want to do it in one go. Make sure you’re prepared for steep climbs and descents along the way.