1

Chain Lakes Loop Trailhead

Image: Pavł Polø

If you’re looking for stunning views and vibrant fall colors, Chain Lakes is the place to go. Located in Washington’s Mount Baker National Forest, this 6.5-mile trail takes about 4 to 5 hours to complete.

The Chain Lakes Loop is one of the most scenic hikes in the country, offering a glimpse of Northern Washington’s breathtaking landscapes . A paradise for outdoor explorers and landscape photographers, it features turquoise glacial lakes, rugged mountain chains, alpine meadows, snow-capped volcanic peaks, and towering conifers—it truly has it all!

2

Tom Dick and Harry Mountain

Image: Aleksey Kuprikov

Mirror Lake, located in Oregon’s Mount Hood National Forest, is a scenic trail popular for picnicking and swimming. But for even better views, hike another mile—you’ll be rewarded with the breathtaking sights of Mount Hood, a stunning perspective of the lake below, Mount Jefferson to the south, and, on a clear day, even Mount Rainier .

Tom Dick and Harry Mountain features three distinct peaks, which inspired its name—referencing the old phrase "any Tom, Dick, or Harry," used to describe three generic people. This 7.8-mile trail takes about 4 to 5 hours to complete.

3

Miners Ridge and James Irvine Trail Loop

Image: wallace Henry

This 13-mile trail in Prairie Creek Redwoods State Park, California, is long but has relatively little elevation gain. Though it takes 6 to 9 hours to complete, the breathtaking views are totally worth it.

The Miners Ridge and James Irvine Trail Loop is one of the best places to experience the majesty of the redwoods . Staring up at these massive, ancient old-growth trees is truly awe-inspiring. But while the trees are the main attraction, they’re not the only highlight. This loop also takes you across a scenic stretch of beach—offering the perfect opportunity to cool off in the ocean midway through your hike.

4

Clouds Rest From Tenaya Lake

Image: Jess Polley

When people think of Yosemite, Half Dome usually steals the spotlight. But what if we told you there’s a less crowded hike with unique landscapes and unforgettable views?

At nearly 13 miles, the Clouds Rest Trail from Tenaya Lake is a challenging yet rewarding day hike. The trail itself is beautiful, featuring rolling terrain with several ups and downs. Reaching the summit of Clouds Rest will reward you with breathtaking 360-degree views of the national park . From the top, you can spot Tenaya Lake, the Cathedral Spires, Mount Dana, and, of course, Half Dome.

5

Angels Landing

Image: Carl Nenzen Loven

Contemplating the world from atop a jaw-dropping mountain view is a humbling experience everyone should go through at least once. At Angels Landing in Zion National Park, Utah, that sense of majesty is within reach.

Though stunning, this 4.8-mile hike is not to be taken lightly. It has some dangerous cliffs that make it a bit challenging. If you have vertigo, perhaps this trail is not for you. However, if you are in good shape and have an adventurous soul, the stunning scenery at the summit is something not to be missed.

6

Alkali Flat Trail

Image: PublicDomainPictures

For a truly unique experience, travel to White Sands National Monument in New Mexico. The breathtaking blue skies and otherworldly white dunes of the Alkali Flat Trail will transport you to a desert worthy of the best adventure films.

On regular terrain, this 5-mile hike would be considered easy. However, the desert environment and lack of shade make it far more demanding than you might expect. To stay safe, avoid hiking in the summer and be mindful of the heat.

7

Mount Bierstadt

Image: caleb weiner

Did you know Colorado is home to more than 50 fourteeners? Mountains above 14,000 feet in height are the ultimate challenge for any self-respecting hiker. Mount Bierstadt, one of the more accessible 14ers, offers a rewarding climb just a short drive from Denver.

This 7.4-mile trail provides stunning views of Mount Evans, Torreys Peak, and Grays Peak. However, no mountain should be tackled without proper preparation and planning. That said, summiting Bierstadt is an excellent test of your abilities—especially if you're gearing up for a more challenging climb.

8

Cascade Canyon Trail

Image: ELTON MENEFEE

The Cascade Canyon Trail in Grand Teton National Park, Wyoming, is a must-explore for any hiker. Just a mile from Jenny Lake, the trail features two stunning landmarks: Hidden Falls and Inspiration Point.

Many visitors turn back at this point, missing out on eight more miles of breathtaking canyon scenery. If you're up for a longer trek, continue onward to experience the true grandeur of the Tetons up close. Along the way, keep an eye out for wildlife—you might even spot moose or bears!

9

Grinnell Glacier Trail

Image: Mick Kirchman

Glacier National Park is one of the most breathtaking places in America. With its turquoise lakes and jagged, arrowhead-like peaks , it stands apart from any other park in the U.S. Among its many trails, the Grinnell Glacier hike is one of the most popular in the Montana park.

This 10.5-mile trek offers stunning views, with the massive Mount Gould dominating the horizon. A word of advice: add this hike to your bucket list ASAP. Grinnell Glacier is rapidly shrinking and may disappear within the next few decades.

10

Ricketts Glen Falls Loop

Image: Venti Views

Hiking isn’t just about summiting mountains—waterfalls can offer spectacular views too! This 6.8-mile loop in Pennsylvania features more than 20 waterfalls, making it one of the best waterfall hikes in the eastern United States . While some trails lead to taller, more dramatic falls, few offer the sheer number and variety found here.

Each waterfall is unique and beautiful in its own way, ranging from 15 to 50 feet in height, with the tallest reaching nearly 100 feet. But that’s not all—along this trail, you’ll also encounter fascinating rock formations and ancient old-growth forests.

11

Giant Mountain

Image: Ty Finck

Although New England peaks are only a third the height of the Rockies, East Coast hikes can be even more challenging due to their rugged trails, steep descents, and tricky terrain. Tackling Giant Mountain in the Adirondack High Peaks Wilderness is no small feat.

This New York trail takes 4 to 6 hours to complete, but the effort is well worth it. You’ll be rewarded with breathtaking views and a picturesque forest , making it a must-visit for those confident in their ability to take on a strenuous climb.

12

Precipice Trail

Image: Raphael Assouline

With its rocky cliffs and oceanside forests , Maine’s Acadia National Park offers a hiking experience unlike any other in the eastern United States. While all of its rugged peaks provide stunning views, no trail in Acadia is as memorable—or as challenging—as the Precipice Trail.

Despite the trail’s short length (just 2.6 miles), this is a challenging hike not recommended if you have a fear of heights. Once you reach the summit of Champlain Mountain, after nearly a thousand feet of climbing, you will be rewarded with sprawling views looking out over the park, Frenchman Bay, and the Mount Desert Narrows stretching out to the Atlantic.

1

Punxsutawney Phil

Image: Steve Wrzeszczynski

Every February 2nd, the eyes of the nation turn to a small town in western Pennsylvania. That’s where Punxsutawney Phil, a weather-predicting groundhog , is roused from his burrow on Gobbler’s Knob to look for his shadow.

According to tradition, if he sees it, we get six more weeks of winter; if not, spring is just around the corner. The quirky ritual began in 1887 and has since grown into a full-blown celebration.

2

Balto

Image: Meg von Haartman

In the winter of 1925, a deadly diphtheria outbreak threatened the remote town of Nome, Alaska. It was the sturdy Siberian Husky Balto who helped deliver the lifesaving antitoxin across snow and blizzard conditions to Nome.

Although dozens of dogs and mushers contributed to what became known as the Great Race of Mercy , Balto was hailed as a national hero. He even received his own statue in New York’s Central Park just a year later—a monument that still stands today, inscribed with the words: "Endurance, Fidelity, Intelligence."

3

Seaman (a.k.a. "Scannon")

Image: The New York Public Library

In 1803, explorer Meriwether Lewis purchased a Newfoundland dog for $20 and named him Seaman. The dog became a four-legged member of the famed Lewis and Clark Expedition .

He accompanied the Corps of Discovery as they crossed the North American continent, helping with hunting, standing guard, and even surviving a wound from a beaver attack.

The funny bit is that for a long time it was believed that William Clark’s journals referred to the dog as "Scannon," but it might have been a dizzy transcription of his handwriting.

4

Smoky the War Dog

Image: Simona Jašauskytė

Found in a foxhole in New Guinea during World War II, Smoky was a Yorkshire Terrier weighing just four pounds—but her size turned out to be her superpower .

She was trained by her rescuer, Corporal William Wynne, and famously ran communication wires through a narrow pipe beneath an airstrip in Luzon, Philippines.

After the war, Smoky became one of the first recorded therapy dogs, visiting wounded soldiers and performing tricks to lift their spirits. Today, she is honored with memorials in both the U.S. and Australia.

5

Sergeant Reckless

Image: Irina Nakonechnaya

During the Korean War, a small Mongolian mare purchased by U.S. Marines for $250 and nicknamed Reckless made multiple trips through enemy fire to deliver ammunition and evacuate wounded soldiers, sometimes entirely on her own.

For her bravery, she was promoted to Staff Sergeant , awarded two Purple Hearts, and allowed to eat scrambled eggs, Coca-Cola, and beer with the troops. Today, statues in Virginia and California honor her legacy.

6

Cher Ami

Image: William Chen

In the chaos of World War I, a pigeon named Cher Ami saved nearly 200 men from the "Lost Battalion" by flying a crucial message across enemy lines —despite being shot, blinded in one eye, and wounded in her leg during the flight.

Her message arrived, artillery fire was redirected, and the soldiers were rescued. For her bravery, Cher Ami was awarded the French Croix de Guerre and was later taxidermied after her death. You can still visit her at the Smithsonian National Museum of American History.

7

Old Bob

Image: Philippe Oursel

Abraham Lincoln’s beloved driving horse , Old Bob, was a familiar sight in Springfield, Illinois, often seen trotting through town pulling the future president’s buggy.

But his most memorable appearance came in 1865, when he walked riderless and draped in a mourning blanket during Lincoln’s funeral procession. The image of the grieving horse moved the nation and was widely reproduced in illustrations and prints.

8

Pauline Wayne

Image: Susan van Bragt

Pauline Wayne, a Holstein cow, was the last cow to reside at the White House. Gifted to President William Howard Taft by a Wisconsin senator, Pauline grazed on the White House lawn and provided fresh milk for the First Family.

She even survived a brief brush with danger when she was mistakenly sent to a slaughterhouse during a train trip—but was rescued just in time.

9

Macaroni

Image: Sergej Karpow

When Lyndon B. Johnson gifted a pony to young Caroline Kennedy in the early 1960s, he probably didn’t expect Macaroni to become a national sensation—but that’s exactly what happened.

The little white Shetland pony often grazed on the White House lawn, delighting photographers and stealing the spotlight during Camelot-era press coverage. Macaroni received fan mail, appeared in Life magazine, and even inspired a song by folk legend Pete Seeger.

10

Old Abe

Image: Arnaud Padallé

Old Abe was a bald eagle who became the mascot of the 8th Wisconsin Volunteer Infantry Regiment during the Civil War. Perched on a shield-topped staff, he accompanied troops into battle, reportedly screaming whenever gunfire broke out.

He survived multiple campaigns and quickly gained legendary status, later appearing on military insignia and even on U.S. war bond posters in both World Wars.

11

Fala

Image: D_Theodora

Franklin D. Roosevelt’s Scottish Terrier, Fala, traveled with him on countless trips, had a press secretary, and even appeared in cartoons and newsreels.

One of the most famous White House pets in history , Fala was awarded a unique honor: he is the only presidential pet with a statue near his owner’s memorial in Washington, D.C.

12

Checkers

Image: SlimMars 13

In 1952, then–vice presidential candidate Richard Nixon gave a nationally broadcast speech defending himself against accusations of financial impropriety. His emotional turning point was declaring that he would keep one gift no matter what: a black-and-white cocker spaniel named Checkers, beloved by his daughters.

Some believe the heartfelt mention of the pet was inspired by the earlier success of Fala. The speech struck such a chord that it is still known today as "the Checkers speech."

1

Harrisburg

Image: Judith Chambers

With a long and rich history, Harrisburg may not be the largest or most famous city in its state, but it holds the title of the capital city. Situated along the Susquehanna River, it serves as the heart of a state that played a critical role in shaping the nation. Known as "The Keystone State," this region was central to the Revolutionary War and the signing of the Declaration of Independence.

2

Springfield

Image: Andrew Adams

In Springfield, you'll find landmarks like the Lincoln Home National Historic Site and the Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum. Why? Well, because Uncle Abe lived in this city for nearly 20 years before becoming the 16th US president.

Beyond Lincoln, Springfield is also known for its signature dish: the horseshoe sandwich ! Have you tried it? We bet you already know which state Springfield represents as its capital!

3

Jefferson City

Image: Ann Schreck

Jefferson City—named after Thomas Jefferson —is the capital of the " Show-Me State ," renowned for the breathtaking Ozarks.

Jefferson City was specifically established to serve as the state capital. With a population of under 45,000, it is the 16th most populous city in the state! Can you guess which state it belongs to?

4

Frankfort

Image: Alek Olson

One of the smallest capitals in the United States by population, Frankfort is the capital of a state located in the Southeastern US, bordered by seven states, including Tennessee and West Virginia. Famous for its fried chicken and bourbon , it is known as the "Bluegrass State." What's your guess?

5

Carson City

Image: Roland Schumann

Located near Lake Tahoe, Carson City is the capital of the "Silver State," known for its mining history, desert landscapes, and unparalleled shrimp cocktail.

It is recognized as the driest state in the country, home to landmarks like the Hoover Dam and the mysterious Area 51 . Have you ever visited?

6

Tallahassee

Image: Damon On Road

If we say: Everglades, Walt Disney World, and Kennedy Space Center, which state comes to mind? Famous for its orange production, its iconic Key lime pie, and delicious Cuban sandwiches, this state’s capital is Tallahassee, a lovely city in the northern part of the state. Do you know which state we’re talking about?

7

Harrisburg: Pennsylvania

Image: Andre Frueh

You were right! Located in the center of the state, Harrisburg has been the capital of Pennsylvania since 1812 . Before Harrisburg, Philadelphia (1682–1799) and Lancaster (1799–1812) served as the capitals of Pennsylvania.

8

Springfield: Illinois

Image: Tucker Good

If you guessed "Illinois," you were right! Springfield has been the capital of the Prairie State since 1839 . As mentioned, the city's history is closely tied to Abraham Lincoln's legacy, which is why you'll find landmarks like the Lincoln Tomb at Oak Ridge Cemetery. Additionally, it was in this city that Lincoln delivered his famous "House Divided" speech !

9

Jefferson City: Missouri

Image: Rythik

Its proximity to the Missouri River was instrumental in choosing Jefferson City as the capital city of the state of Missouri in 1821. Here, you can find the imposing Missouri State Capitol building, completed in 1917!

Bonus fun fact: Before it was named Jefferson City—in honor of our nation’s 3rd president—local authorities considered calling it "Missouriopolis." Can you imagine?

10

Frankfort: Kentucky

Image: Josh Collesano

Frankfort became the capital of Kentucky in 1792, shortly after the state entered the Union. Located in the Bluegrass region of the state, the city is crossed by the Kentucky River, which gives it a unique charm. Frankfort is also home to the iconic Buffalo Trace Distillery —one of the oldest bourbon distilleries in the country—and the historic Kentucky Vietnam Veterans Memorial .

11

Carson City: Nevada

Image: Parth Thakker

Since 1864 , when Nevada became a state, Carson City has served as its lovely capital. But do you know why it's called "Carson City"? The capital of Nevada was named in honor of Christopher "Kit" Carson , a famous frontiersman and explorer of the area.

If you want to learn more about the history of Nevada and its capital, you can visit the Nevada State Museum , also located in Carson City!

12

Tallahassee: Florida

Image: Kevin Dunlap

With an estimated population of about 200,000, Tallahassee has been the capital of sunny Florida since 1824 . Considered a " college town " because of its large population of college students, Tallahassee is home to Florida State University, Florida A&M University, and Tallahassee Community College!