Table of Contents
(Yeah, I’m skipping the boring dots and numbers. You know where to look.)
Intro
Alright, pack your boots and a sense of adventure, because we’re about to dive into the best national forests for hiking in 2025. Forget about fighting the Instagram crowd at the big-name parks—these forests cover a jaw-dropping 193 million acres. We’re talking everything from granite peaks to silent desert canyons. If you’re itching for trails that aren’t swarming with people and want some real “wow” moments, this list is calling your name.
- White Mountain National Forest, NH
Let’s kick this off with New Hampshire’s White Mountains—an old-school favorite. Over 1,200 miles of trails, and trust me, the fall colors? Unreal. Mount Washington is a beast (6,288 feet of “why am I doing this?”), but the views are worth every step. Welch-Dickey Loop is another stunner, especially if you like your autumn leaves extra fiery. Pro tip: it gets popular, but still way less crowded than most national parks.
- Sierra National Forest, CA
Sick of Yosemite crowds but still want those California mountain vibes? Hit up Sierra National Forest. The John Muir Trail slices through here, and honestly, it’s like hiking in a screensaver. Shadow Lake? Chef’s kiss. Aim for summer unless you love snow camping. Oh, and the forest is massive—1.4 million acres—so, yeah, you’ll find your own slice of peace.
- Bridger-Teton National Forest, WY
Wyoming’s Bridger-Teton is for the hardcore (or anyone who likes to brag). The Wind River Range looks straight outta a fantasy novel. Yellowstone’s next door, but this place is wilder. Teton Crest Trail is a 40-mile epic—bring snacks and maybe a therapist if you’re doing the whole thing solo. Not for the faint of heart, but man, the solitude and stars? Next level.
- Pisgah National Forest, NC
Welcome to waterfall country. Pisgah’s got 500,000 acres of Southern charm, rhododendrons, and more trails than you’ll know what to do with. Graveyard Fields is a go-to for wildflowers and gushing falls. The Appalachian Trail slices through here, too, so you can pretend you’re a thru-hiker (just for a day, I won’t tell). Plus, Linville Falls is as family-friendly as it gets.
- Mt. Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest, WA
If you want glaciers and moody Pacific Northwest vibes, this is your spot. Mt. Baker-Snoqualmie is a playground for hikers, with 1,500 miles of trails weaving through mossy forests and up to icy peaks. Skyline Trail = epic glacier selfies. Twin Lakes is a solid day trip if you’re short on time (or patience).
- Tongass National Forest, AK
Biggest temperate rainforest in the world. Like, 17 million acres big. You want coastal hikes, bears, and the kind of trees that make you feel tiny? Welcome to Tongass. Fish Creek is a bear-watching hotspot, and if you time it for June or July, you’ll probably see more wildlife than people. Bring rain gear. Seriously.
- Coconino National Forest, AZ
Red rocks meet alpine tundra—it’s Arizona, but not as you know it. Humphrey’s Peak will kick your butt (it’s the state’s tallest), but the bragging rights are real. Kachina Trail is a local favorite if you want a bit less suffering but all the killer views. The scenery changes every mile, and the sunsets? Next level.
- Salmon-Challis National Forest, ID
Wanna disappear for a while? Salmon-Challis is 2.4 million acres of rugged, wild Idaho. Borah Peak is the state’s tallest mountain, and you’ll probably have more encounters with elk than other hikers. Frank Church–River of No Return Wilderness is as remote as it sounds, and Iron Lake is a hidden gem for those in the know.
- White River National Forest, CO
Colorado’s White River is basically “best-of” Rockies—mountain passes, wildflower meadows, and some truly wild backcountry if you want it. If you like your hikes with a side of après in Aspen or Vail, this is your forest. Maroon Bells is Insta-famous, but there’s plenty more if you want quieter trails.
- Angeles National Forest, CA
Think LA is just traffic and smog? Nah. Just north of the city, Angeles National Forest is a whole other world—pine forests, hidden waterfalls, and killer views over the city lights. Mount Baldy is the big one here, and on clear days, you can see forever. Great for a day hike when you need to escape the city’s madness.
Wrap-Up
There you have it. Ten forests, endless trails, and way fewer crowds than the National Park circus. Whether you want to chase autumn leaves, climb snowy peaks, or just wander under ancient trees, America’s national forests are waiting. Lace up, get outside, and make 2025 the year you finally get lost (in a good way).
