Everything You Need to Know About My Favorite Scenic Trails in America's National Parks (Part II)

Everything You Need to Know About My Favorite Scenic Trails in America's National Parks (Part II)

Are you ready for an adventure? Lace up your hiking boots and get ready to explore some of the most beautiful and iconic landscapes in America's National Parks! The national parks are home to some of the most scenic and unforgettable trails in the world. Whether you're a seasoned hiker or just looking for a leisurely stroll, there's a trail for everyone to enjoy. And what better way to commemorate your adventures than with a national park poster from your favorite park? Hang it on your wall and let it transport you back to the sights, sounds, and memories of your time in the great outdoors. So join us on a journey through some of the most stunning trails in America's National Parks, and start planning your next adventure today!

I've broken this post into two parts, because there are so many great hikes. So be sure to click the link at the end to read Part I if you haven't already.

My Favorite Scenic Trails in America’s National Parks

Cub Lake Trail, Rocky Mountain National Park, Colorado

The Cub Lake Trail takes hikers on a scenic journey through Rocky Mountain National Park's diverse ecosystems, from lush meadows to serene aspen groves. The trail culminates at the picturesque Cub Lake, offering a peaceful spot to rest and admire the surrounding beauty. Relive the magic of your Rocky Mountain adventure with a National Park Poster, showcasing the park's majestic mountains and crystal-clear lakes.

  • Distance: 4.6 miles round trip
  • Elevation Gain: 540 feet
  • Difficulty: Moderate
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    Rim Trail, Bryce Canyon National Park, Utah

    The Rim Trail offers visitors a chance to admire the otherworldly beauty of Bryce Canyon's famous hoodoos and unique rock formations. This mostly level path can be as short or as long as desired, with several overlooks providing panoramic views of the park's striking landscape. Commemorate your journey through this extraordinary terrain with a Bryce Canyon National Park Poster, capturing the park's vivid colors and distinctive geological features.

  • Distance: Up to 11 miles one-way
  • Elevation Gain: Minimal
  • Difficulty: Easy to Moderate
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    Mesa Arch Trail, Canyonlands National Park, Utah

    The Mesa Arch Trail leads hikers to one of Canyonlands National Park's most iconic landmarks, the Mesa Arch. This short, easy trail offers impressive views of the surrounding canyon landscape framed perfectly by the natural sandstone arch. Celebrate your visit to this remarkable destination with a Canyonlands National Park Poster, highlighting the park's dramatic canyons and unique rock formations.

  • Distance: 0.5 miles round trip
  • Elevation Gain: 50 feet
  • Difficulty: Easy
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    Lower Falls Trail, Yellowstone National Park, Wyoming

    The Lower Falls Trail takes visitors to an up-close view of the park's most powerful waterfall. This moderately steep trail offers a unique perspective of the falls as they thunder into the Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone. After experiencing the park's awe-inspiring beauty, commemorate your adventure with a Yellowstone National Park Poster, capturing the park's stunning waterfalls and diverse landscapes.

  • Distance: 1.2 miles round trip
  • Elevation Gain: 200 feet
  • Difficulty: Easy to Moderate
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    Brandywine Falls Trail, Cuyahoga Valley National Park, Ohio

    The Brandywine Falls Trail leads visitors to a beautiful 65-foot waterfall, one of the highlights of Cuyahoga Valley National Park. This family-friendly trail showcases the park's lush forest and impressive geological features. Celebrate your journey to this charming waterfall with a Cuyahoga Valley National Park Poster, highlighting the park's scenic beauty and cascading waters.

  • Distance: 1.5 miles round trip
  • Elevation Gain: 120 feet
  • Difficulty: Easy
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    Badwater Basin Salt Flats Trail, Death Valley National Park, California

    The Badwater Basin Salt Flats Trail takes visitors to the lowest point in North America, a surreal landscape of vast salt flats. This easy trail showcases the stark beauty of Death Valley's unique desert environment. Commemorate your visit to this extraordinary landscape with a Death Valley National Park Poster, capturing the park's dramatic contrasts and stark beauty.

  • Distance: 1.5 miles round trip
  • Elevation Gain: Minimal
  • Difficulty: Easy
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    Clingmans Dome Trail, Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Tennessee

    The Clingmans Dome Trail leads hikers to the highest point in Great Smoky Mountains National Park, offering panoramic views of the surrounding mountains. This short, steep trail culminates at an observation tower, providing a breathtaking vantage point to admire the park's famous rolling hills and lush forests. After marveling at the views from Clingmans Dome, celebrate your adventure with a Great Smoky Mountains National Park Poster, showcasing the park's misty peaks and vibrant foliage.

  • Distance: 1 mile round trip
  • Elevation Gain: 332 feet
  • Difficulty: Moderate
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    Dark Hollow Falls Trail, Shenandoah National Park, Virginia

    The Dark Hollow Falls Trail takes hikers through lush forests and alongside a cascading stream to the picturesque Dark Hollow Falls. This moderately steep trail offers visitors an opportunity to admire the park's natural beauty and serene waterfalls. Commemorate your journey to this captivating destination with a Shenandoah National Park Poster, highlighting the park's cascading waterfalls and vibrant forests.

  • Distance: 1.4 miles round trip
  • Elevation Gain: 440 feet
  • Difficulty: Moderate
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    Santa Elena Canyon Trail, Big Bend National Park, Texas

    The Santa Elena Canyon Trail leads visitors to the impressive Santa Elena Canyon, where the Rio Grande River flows between towering limestone cliffs. This easy-to-moderate trail offers stunning views of the river and surrounding desert landscape. Celebrate your journey to this awe-inspiring location with a Big Bend National Park Poster, capturing the park's dramatic canyons and rugged desert beauty.

  • Distance: 1.7 miles round trip
  • Elevation Gain: 80 feet
  • Difficulty: Easy to Moderate
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    Sliding Sands Trail, Haleakalā National Park, Maui, Hawaii

    The Sliding Sands Trail takes hikers into the heart of Haleakalā's volcanic crater, showcasing the park's unique geological features and colorful landscape. This moderately strenuous trail offers visitors an unforgettable journey through a truly otherworldly environment. After exploring the park's extraordinary terrain, commemorate your adventure with a Haleakalā National Park Poster, capturing the park's vibrant volcanic landscape and breathtaking vistas.

  • Distance: Up to 11 miles round trip
  • Elevation Gain: 2,800 feet
  • Difficulty: Moderate to Strenuous
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    Bright Angel Trail, Grand Canyon National Park, Arizona

    The Bright Angel Trail is one of the most famous trails in Grand Canyon National Park, offering hikers an unforgettable journey into the heart of the canyon. This strenuous trail provides stunning views of the park's awe-inspiring landscape and challenges hikers with its steep switchbacks and elevation changes. After conquering this iconic trail, celebrate your achievement with a Grand Canyon National Park Poster, capturing the park's breathtaking vistas and immense scale.

  • Distance: Up to 12 miles round-trip
  • Elevation Gain: 4,380
  • Difficulty: Strenuous
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    Tips for Hiking Scenic Trails in National Parks

    Plan Ahead and Prepare

    • Research trail conditions, regulations, and permits
    • Choose a trail suitable for your fitness level and experience
    • Check the weather forecast before setting out

    Carry Essential Gear

    • Map, compass, and/or GPS device
    • Appropriate clothing and footwear
    • Food, water, and first aid supplies

    Practice Leave No Trace Principles

    • Stay on designated trails to minimize impact on the environment
    • Carry out all trash and waste
    • Respect wildlife and maintain a safe distance

    Commemorating Your Scenic Trail Adventures with National Park Posters

    After experiencing the breathtaking views and unforgettable moments on these scenic trails, consider adding a National Park Poster by Rob Decker to your collection. These posters capture the essence of America's most cherished landscapes, serving as a lasting reminder of your adventures.

    Displaying Your National Park Poster Collection

    • Arrange posters in a gallery wall to showcase multiple parks
    • Pair posters with complementary frames to match your home decor
    • Incorporate posters into a travel-themed room or space

    Sharing Your Love for National Parks with Others

    • Gift National Park Posters to fellow nature enthusiasts
    • Share your poster collection on social media to inspire others
    • Engage with online communities dedicated to National Park adventures

    Shenandoah National Park | Robert B. Decker

    Ready to bring the beauty of America's National Parks home with you? National Park Posters by Rob Decker are the perfect way to showcase your love for these natural treasures. Featuring stunning illustrations and designs inspired by the classic WPA posters of the 1930s, these posters capture the essence of America's most iconic landscapes. Each poster is a vibrant and eye-catching tribute to the unique beauty and diversity of our National Parks. And with a range of sizes and designs to choose from, you're sure to find the perfect poster to suit your style and your favorite park. So whether you're a seasoned park enthusiast or just looking for a way to bring a touch of the outdoors into your home, National Park Posters by Rob Decker are the perfect choice.

    If you didn't read the first part, click here to read Part I for more scenic hikes!

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