There are plenty of opportunities for hikes from an hour or so to several days. Popular areas include the Laurel Highlands in Pennsylvania, home to high peaks and deep river gorges; the Chesapeake & Ohio Canal in DC and Maryland; and the Mount Vernon Trail in Virginia, with boardwalks spanning verdant wetlands.

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Now read on to see how we have ranked America's most beautiful national forests...

America's 11 national trails offering unforgettable views, epic hikes