How Many Hiking Trails Are in the US?

Hiking is a popular outdoor activity enjoyed by people of all ages and abilities. With more than 200,000 miles of trails in the United States, hikers have plenty of options for exploring the great outdoors.

From short day hikes to long-distance backcountry routes, there are trails to suit every hiker’s preferences.

In the U.S., federal lands such as national parks, forests, and monuments provide some of the best hiking opportunities. The National Park Service (NPS) alone manages more than 84 million acres and 11,000+ miles of trails throughout the country.

Popular NPS trails include the Appalachian Trail (2,200+ miles), Pacific Crest Trail (2,650+ miles), and Continental Divide Trail (3,100+ miles).

In addition to federal lands, state parks are another great place to go hiking. Each state has its own system of state parks and trails that offer a variety of terrain for hikers to explore. Many states also have additional trails maintained by local governments or private organizations such as the Rails-to-Trails Conservancy which converts abandoned railway lines into multi-use pathways.

Of course, not all hiking in the U. takes place on official trails. Many people enjoy exploring off-trail areas such as deserts or mountain ranges away from established paths and routes. While this type of exploration can be rewarding, it comes with certain risks that should be taken into consideration before heading out.

Conclusion:

With over 200,000 miles of trails in the United States there is no shortage of options for hikers to explore. From NPS managed national park trails to local government maintained paths and off-trail areas; there’s something for everyone no matter their skill level or experience.

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Chris Powell