The Best U.S. States for Hiking, Based on Trails, Climate, and Safety

Hiking has become one of the most popular ways Americans connect with the outdoors and the interest is only growing. In 2022, 59.6 million people in the United States went hiking, according to the Outdoor Industry Association. 

What do you think, which U.S. state is the best for hiking? Stick around and let’s see if you’re correct!

Our recent state-by-state analysis looked at three categories: trail networks, weather conditions, and safety, to determine the best places in the country for this ever-growing pastime. The results surprised us as less obvious contenders muscled their way into the top ranks, proving that great hiking isn’t confined to the American West. 

Let’s have a look.

Key Findings

• California leads the pack: Scoring #1 overall, California earned top marks for trail access. Despite a relatively low safety ranking, The Golden State has a great weather score and more hiking trails and state parks than any other state.
• Western dominance, with exceptions: Six of the top 10 hiking states are in the West, but two Eastern states (Florida and Maine) secured spots thanks to their mild climates and strong safety scores.
• Sunshine matters: Arizona landed at #2 overall, with the nation-best weather score. It has over 300 sunny days per year, offering near year-round hiking opportunities.
• Safety isn’t everything: The single safest state, New Hampshire, ranked only 11th overall, suggesting that limited trails or poor weather can hold a state back. Meanwhile, Washington climbed to #4 despite one of the rainiest climates (weather rank 44/50), thanks to an exceptional trail system.
• Island paradise in the top 10: Hawaii’s (#6) combination of year-round tropical weather and a high safety score helped it join the usual mainland contenders.

Top 10 States for Hiking

#1 - California 

The Golden State earns its crown as a hiker’s paradise with an unparalleled variety of landscapes and the most extensive trail network in the country. California offers over 13,000 documented hiking trails and 280 state park units, plus 9 national parks. Classic treks in Yosemite and Sequoia National Parks are just the beginning of what’s on offer. While California’s trail and weather scores were sky-high, its safety rank was among the bottom five (45th out of 50) on the list, so hikers should plan carefully and be aware of risks. Despite that, California’s wide array of outdoor opportunities and generally mild climate make it the nation’s top destination for hikers.

#2 - Arizona

Arizona is a sun-kissed haven for hikers that soared in our rankings on the strength of its climate. With more than 300 days of sunshine a year in many areas, Arizona earned the best weather score of any state. More clear skies mean more opportunities to explore gems like the Grand Canyon, Sedona’s red rock trails, the saguaro-studded paths around Phoenix and Tucson, or any of the 3,000 hiking trails and three major national parks that call Arizona their home. The combination of minimal precipitation, lovely scenery, middle-of-the-pack safety ranking and a robust trail network makes Arizona a strong #2.

#3 - Utah

Utah packs a punch with photogenic landscapes and a well-balanced ranking across all metrics. This state is home to the famed “Mighty Five” (Zion, Bryce Canyon, Arches, Canyonlands, and Capitol Reef) which all contribute to Utah’s 2,700+ miles of hiking trails, drawing hikers from around the nation and the globe. Thanks to a predominantly dry climate, many Utah trails are accessible in all seasons. Utah also performed solidly on safety. High trail quality (Utah’s trail system earned a top-5 rank) combined with its red-rock vistas and reliable weather secured this state a well-deserved spot in the top three.

#4 - Washington

Washington might be famous for its rain, but a little drizzle can’t dampen one of America’s best hiking states. Ranking #2 nationwide for trails, it maintains 140 state parks and portions of three national parks, and has roughly 4,400 hiking routes, including legendary long-distance trails like the Pacific Crest Trail.  Its weather score came in near the bottom (44th) thanks to frequent rain, especially in the west. In fact, the Olympic Peninsula alone can see up to 140 inches annually! But it’s those rains that nourish what makes Washington’s landscapes spectacular. Safety scores are about average, so normal precautions apply.

#5 - Colorado

Rocky Mountain. Mesa Verde. Colorado’s alpine paradise ranks number five, with nearly 5,000 established hiking trails and four national parks. The state’s altitude brings sudden shifts in weather, but it still managed a very good score (ranked 9th) thanks to abundant sunshine and low humidity at altitude. Safety is Colorado’s weak spot (44th), possibly reflecting risks like altitude sickness, sudden storms, or rescue incidents in its rugged backcountry. Still, with proper preparation, hikers can explore some of the most iconic landscapes in America, and see firsthand why Colorado remains a benchmark for outdoor adventure.

#6 - Hawaii

Hawaii is an outlier in more ways than one. The Aloha State scored very well in both safety (ranked 4th) and weather (8th), giving hikers peace of mind and pleasant conditions virtually year-round. For such a small state, Hawaii maintains 50 state parks across five islands, encompassing 30,000 acres of protected land. Trails wind through a range of ecosystems, and while its total trail mileage is lower than mainland giants, its scenery is so distinctive and accessible that it ranks among the nation’s top 10 for trails. Hikers should be mindful of tropical downpours and steep volcanic terrain, but overall Hawaii’s well-kept parks and welcoming outdoor culture make it one of the safest and most rewarding places to hike

#7 - Wyoming

Wyoming earns its spot with untamed wilderness and strong scores across the board. This sparsely populated state is home to Yellowstone and Grand Teton National Parks, which together offer hundreds of miles of hiking trails amid geothermal wonders. In fact, Yellowstone alone contains over 1,100 miles of trails. Wyoming also enjoys excellent hiking weather (weather rank 4th), with generally low humidity and plenty of clear, cool days in the mountain summers. Its safety score was strong (ranked 8th), likely helped by low crime rates in rural areas and an experienced outdoor community. While Wyoming’s trail count ranks 13th, what it lacks in sheer volume it more than makes up for in quality

#8 - Oregon

Oregon’s trail system is among the nation’s best (trails rank 6th), featuring routes like the Timberline Trail around Mount Hood and sections of the Pacific Crest Trail. The state surprisingly has one of the highest number of state parks (255) spread from coastal headlands to high desert badlands. This translates to thousands of miles of trails, all within a state you can cross in a day’s drive. Oregon’s weakness in our scoring was weather (ranked 36th), a result of its persistent rainfall west of the Cascades. Hikers can expect wet winters and frequent drizzle in places like the Columbia River Gorge, but also drier, sunnier conditions in eastern Oregon’s mountains and prairies. Still, the mild overall climate and grand scenery make Oregon a year-round hiking destination, just don’t forget your rain jacket. Safety metrics are about average, so standard outdoor precautions apply.

#9 - Florida

Florida’s inclusion in this list might raise eyebrows, but the Sunshine State earns its due by offering a year-round hiking season and an extensive network of parks and trails. Yes, Florida lacks mountains (its highest point is only 345 feet above sea level), but it makes up for it with diversity of ecosystems. The state scored in the top ten for both safety and trails, reflecting its well-kept park system and generally good trail infrastructure. In fact, Florida has 175 state parks and trails covering nearly 800,000 acres. It’s also home to the Florida National Scenic Trail, stretching roughly 1,300 miles from the Panhandle down to the Big Cypress Swamp. Florida’s weather rank (12th) is relatively high thanks to mild winters and warm temperatures, though hikers do need to plan around the hot, humid summers and occasional tropical storms.

#10 - Maine

Rounding out the top ten is Maine, a state that distinguished itself with an exceptional safety score (ranked 2nd nationally). Baxter State Park alone contains over 200 miles of hiking trails within its 209,000 acres of wilderness, and Katahdin’s summit marks the northern end of the 2,190-mile Appalachian Trail. Maine’s trail rank (19th) was solid but not elite, likely because outside of a few key areas, its trail density is lower than some western states. The state’s weather ranks 15th as its winters are long and harsh, but summers and early fall are idyllic for hiking.

Notable Insights from the Data

The data analysis revealed several interesting outliers beyond the top-ten list. Here's what we found interesting:

• New Hampshire, for example, emerged as the single safest state in the nation for outdoor enthusiasts, yet it just missed the top 10 (coming in 11th overall) due to a middling trails score and relatively harsh winters. This shows that even an excellent safety environment can be outweighed by limited trail access or weather challenges. 
• On the flip side, Washington demonstrated how a state can overcome a weak point. Despite its famously wet climate, Washington’s superb trail system propelled it to a #4 ranking overall. 
• Regional patterns were also evident. Western states dominated the top tier, claiming six of the ten slots, which isn’t surprising given the vast public lands and epic landscapes out West. 
• However, the presence of Florida and Maine in our top 10 highlights that strong state park networks, good safety, and decent weather can make any region climb the ladder.
• Lastly, Hawaii stands out as a unique case, showcasing how quality and experience can sometimes outmatch the sheer mileage of trails.

Feel free to look at the data table below and share what you find interesting!

State	Trails rank	Weather rank	Safety rank	Final rank
California	1	6	45	1
Arizona	3	1	31	2
Utah	5	7	13	3
Washington	2	44	29	4
Colorado	4	9	44	5
Hawaii	7	8	4	6
Wyoming	13	4	8	7
Oregon	6	36	27	8
Florida	9	12	9	9
Maine	19	15	2	10
New Hampshire	17	22	1	11
New Jersey	11	31	10	12
Virginia	16	18	15	13
Massachusetts	18	25	25	14
New Mexico	21	2	48	15
Connecticut	20	43	5	16
New York	8	46	34	17
North Carolina	14	30	32	18
Pennsylvania	12	50	17	19
Minnesota	27	20	18	20
Idaho	31	13	14	21
Nevada	32	3	37	22
Alaska	10	33	48	23
Maryland	25	17	39	24
West Virginia	29	21	16	25
Texas	23	28	36	26
Montana	26	16	40	27
Georgia	24	40	24	28
Vermont	34	29	11	29
Tennessee	15	38	48	30
Wisconsin	30	37	22	31
Michigan	22	47	41	32
Nebraska	46	5	6	33
South Dakota	39	11	28	34
Ohio	28	49	21	35
Kentucky	36	32	12	36
Missouri	33	35	42	37
Iowa	41	26	20	38
Rhode Island	45	23	7	39
Illinois	35	48	22	40
North Dakota	47	10	19	41
South Carolina	37	27	43	42
Delaware	44	14	33	43
Indiana	40	39	26	44
Oklahoma	43	24	37	45
Alabama	42	45	30	46
Arkansas	38	34	47	47
Mississippi	49	41	3	48
Kansas	48	19	35	49
Louisiana	50	42	46	50

Hiking the Best States: Gear and Clothing Tips

To get the most out of hiking in these top-rated states, it’s good practice to pack and dress for varied environments. Here are some tips from seasoned outdoor experts:

Desert Trails (Arizona, Utah, Southern California)

In arid desert conditions, sun protection and hydration are paramount. Wear lightweight, breathable clothes with long sleeves or UPF-rated fabrics to guard against intense sun. A wide-brimmed hat and high-SPF sunscreen are musts, and sunglasses will help with the glare. Carry extra water beyond what you think you need, as dry heat can cause dehydration quickly. Also consider light-colored clothing to stay cool, and ventilated hiking boots to prevent sweaty feet on those hot desert trails.

Mountain Climate (Colorado, Wyoming, High Sierra in CA, and Maine’s highlands)

Mountain weather can change in a heartbeat, so layering is the name of the game. Start with moisture-wicking base layers, add insulating mid-layers (like fleece or a light puffy jacket), and always pack a waterproof/windproof shell. Even in summer, higher elevations and northern woods can get chilly or wet without warning. If you’re tackling Colorado’s 14ers or Maine’s Katahdin, be prepared with a warm hat and gloves in your pack since hypothermia can be a risk even in mild seasons. And don’t forget sturdy, broken-in boots with good ankle support, as mountain trails often involve uneven, rocky terrain.

Tropical Heat & Humidity (Hawaii, Florida)

Warm and humid environments require light and quick-drying clothing, so make sure your pack shirts and pants made from breathable, moisture-wicking materials to prevent chafing. Sudden downpours are common in these states, so a packable rain jacket or poncho will serve you well (look for one that’s still lightweight so you don’t overheat). Footwear with good traction is important as trails can be slippery and muddy. Lastly, biting insects love these climates, so wear insect repellent and consider long sleeves or even bug-net clothing in particularly buggy areas, especially at dawn or dusk.

Wet Weather Gear (Washington, Oregon)

To thrive on rain-kissed trails, invest in quality waterproof gear. A reliable rain jacket (with a hood) and waterproof hiking boots are essential for the Pacific Northwest, where you might encounter rain, mist, and muddy paths even in summer. Opt for quick-drying synthetic or wool socks and avoid cotton, which can cause blisters when wet. Dressing in layers helps here too – aerobic hikes can warm you up, but once you stop, damp cool air will chill you fast if you’re not prepared. Gaiters can be useful to keep mud and water out of your boots on sloppy trails. And if the forecast looks especially wet, packing a dry bag for your electronics and a change of clothes in the car can make the post-hike experience much more comfortable.

Conclusion

There’s no single recipe for a great hiking destination, and each of these top-ranked states confirm that. What they have in common is a commitment to preserving natural beauty and making it accessible through extensive trail systems and parks. The data shows that across America, world-class hikes are abundant. So, consider this analysis as an invitation to experience the best hiking trails these states have to offer. 

Written by Ivan Slovic.
Research done by Nemanja Marinkov.
Featured image by Roy Zeigerman.

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Methodology

To determine the best states for hiking, we built a composite index using three categories: Trails and Outdoor Access (50%), Weather and Climate (25%), and Crime and Safety (25%).

Trails and Outdoor Access measured both quality and availability. Indicators included the number of long-distance trails, the average score of each state’s top 20 trails, and the share of land designated as protected parkland.

Weather and Climate evaluated hiking conditions using a mix of environmental and meteorological data: air quality, number of clear days per year, average annual sunlight, rainfall, temperature, and the frequency of weather- or climate-related disaster declarations.

Crime and Safety relied on reported crime rates per 100,000 residents to account for overall safety in outdoor areas.

Each indicator was normalized to a 0–100 scale, then averaged within its category. Category scores were weighted (50% for trails, 25% for weather, 25% for safety) and summed to produce the final state rankings.

We used the following sources:

• Destination Hikers - for trail lengths.
• World Population Review - for air quality ranks.
• Current Results - for weather data, more specifically, number of clear days.
• FBI Crime Data Explorer - for crime rates.
• National Centers for Environmental Information - for weather and climate disasters, annual average rain, and average temperatures.
• Environmental Public Health Tracking - for annual average sunlight (in kJ/m2)