4 Epic Hiking Destinations to Add to Your U.S. Dream List


If you love hardcore hikes, you probably already have a bucket list of places you want to go. Chances are, you’ll want to explore every place you read about, but let’s say you want to narrow it down to just a few top hiking destinations in the western half of the U.S. The options are endless and wildly inspiring. The following epic hikes deliver just a taste of the vast scenery you can experience.

Three hikers descend a rugged alpine trail beside a mountain lake, wearing Topo Athletic shoes built for adventure.

  1. GTNP: Explore the Tetons

The jaw-dropping views of the Tetons from the west side of the range in Wyoming are unforgettable. One of the most iconic backcountry hikes in Grand Teton National Park is the Teton Crest Trail, which you can access in a few different ways, including by taking a tram from Teton Village to the top of the mountain. This is a hard hike covering about 40 miles and roughly 9,000 feet of elevation gain, so plan it as a backpacking trip.

Shoe choice: Lightweight and sturdy wide toe hiking boots or trail runners with durable tread will serve you well.

Hiker ties Topo Athletic Trailventure WP boots on rocky terrain, showcasing comfort, grip, and waterproof protection.

  1.  The Narrows in Zion National Park

Vastly different but equally beautiful is the unique landscape of Zion Canyon in Utah’s Zion National Park. If you love the thrill of slot canyons, The Narrows is a roughly 16-mile thru hike that will have you wading through the Virgin River and over slippery, uneven rocks and terrain.

Shoe choice: Closed-toe shoes with breathable, quick-draining materials are a must-have. Lightweight trail runners, such as shoes with wide toe box for running, allow the toes to splay for more natural movement.

  1. Alice-Toxaway Loop in Idaho’s Sawtooth Mountains

If you’re up for more jagged peaks, slabs of granite, and alpine lakes, the Sawtooth Mountains are a backpacker's dream. The Alice-Toxaway Loop can be done in 1 challenging day or 3 relaxed days, over 21 miles. If you’re in Idaho, this is a must-do hike.

Shoe choice: Breathable trail runners or hiking boots with deep lugs on Vibram® outsoles are an excellent choice. You also want a roomy toe box and a secure midfoot and heel for maximum comfort and performance.

Runner rests on a boulder overlooking an alpine lake, wearing Topo Athletic trail shoes for all-day comfort.

  1. Glacier National Park: Grinnell Glacier 

For more stunning views and abundant wildlife, including grizzlies, it’s hard to beat Montana’s crowned jewel: Glacier National Park. The out-and-back Grinnell Glacier is about 11 miles, and you get to experience majestic beauty around every corner.

Shoe choice:Waterproof hiking boots or comfortable trail runners with grippy outsoles will make a difference as the miles add up.

About Topo Athletic

Ready to lace up a pair of low or zero drop wide toe running shoes from Topo Athletic? Whether you’re hitting the trails or gliding through city streets, Topo Athletic has a high-performance shoe for your daily needs. With a roomy toe box, a secure midfoot and heel, and a low heel to toe drop, you can stride for more. Topo Athletic encourages runners of all experience levels to embrace the journey and enjoy more natural movement. Discover the perfect balance of modern comfort and innovative technology in every pair.

Read about every style of shoe Topo Athletic offers at https://www.topoathletic.com/

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