With isolated alpine lakes, stunning views of snowy summits and over 300 glaciers, North Cascades National Park is an extraordinary and remote piece of the Pacific Northwest’s wilderness.

Tucked away in the Park's southeast corner, the 17-mile Stiletto Peak trail strings together a set of footpaths from the well-groomed Pacific Crest Trail to a definitively more rugged piece of a former section of the iconic long trail. While not for the faint of heart and for well-conditioned hikers only, this epic dayhike comes with eye-widening, jaw-dropping views and a demanding, but rewarding adventure in a beautiful backcountry setting.

Experience the epic wonders of our nation’s first national park, where visitors find everything from towering waterfalls and bubbling mud pots to meadows of brightly colored wildflowers and antlered elk roaming open fields.

For skilled hikers only, the 21.1 mile Sky Rim "lollipop" is a strenuous day hike
that leaves no rest for the weary— in fact, it’s most ideal for those that want a demanding physical challenge in a beautiful setting. On the trail, hikers can expect to see picturesque mountain vistas, sharply angled ridgelines and the majestic backdrop of the Absaroka Range and its highest point, Mount Cowen which stands at 11,205 feet.

Renowned for its stunning Appalachian beauty, diversity of plant and animal life and remnants of Southern Appalachian mountain culture, the Great Smoky Mountains is America’s most visited national park. And that comes as no surprise, since the Smokies have over 800 miles of maintained trails— from short leg-stretchers to strenuous treks—all set in a location that’s a sanctuary for nature lovers.

For scenic views, scramble up the 6,593-foot Mount Le Conte—the third highest peak in the park. While there are several routes up to the summit, try tackling the Alum Cave Bluff Trail—one of the more popular routes up Le Conte. With elevation gains of approximately 2,500 feet from beginning to end, it’s certainly difficult, but there are several landmarks and points of interests along the way, making it possible to turn a summit attempt into something simpler without sacrificing a thing.

With incredible beauty and immense diversity in flora and fauna, Acadia National Park has drawn millions of visitors to its rugged coasts and unique North Atlantic landscapes. From hiking Acadia’s granite peaks to biking historic carriage roads, recreation opportunities abound in this first National Park east of the Mississippi.

To take in craggy seaside views, tackle the 4.4 mile Cadillac Mountain loop to the 1,532-foot summit of Cadillac Mountain—the highest point on the Atlantic coast. You’ll find breathtaking panoramic views of Bar Harbor and postcard-worthy scenes of the ocean, including views of the Porcupine Islands.

Sequoia and Kings Canyon lay side by side in the southern Sierra Nevadas, providing its visitors with access to everything from rugged foothills and soaring mountain tops to deep canyons and vast caverns, not to mention giant sequoias that imbue a sense of peace, awe and perspective.

Step into this wilderness wonderland for a semi-tough 4.9-mile hike where you’ll find yourself in constant company of high mountain lakes and even higher rock monoliths. Despite the difficult terrain and elevation gain of approximately 3,000 feet to reach Crystal Lake (its elevation is at 10,000 feet), you’ll be rewarded with panoramic views of the southern part of the Mineral King Valley, including White Chief Peak and Farewell Gap.

Merrell Col Mid Waterproof $145
This lightweight construction, leather backpacker supports every step of your extended treks with TrailBound™ Technology – enhanced impact absorption via an energy-absorbing suspension system for fatigue-fighting comfort. Naturally waterproof leather and hefty 5mm lugs weather the conditions.

Merrell Marielle $149
Complete elemental protection merges with unique asymmetrical styling to set you apart from your average adventurer in our Merrell Opti-Shell™ Marielle. This waterproof breathable shell made with a subtle kaleidoscope jacquard fabric, incorporates a quilted tricot backing for perfect warmth and comfort when you’re out in the cold.

Merrell Drago $159
For protection and performance during rigorous climbs and descents, the Drago is our go-to technical, waterproof, breathable shell. Beefy fabric comes together via fully sealed seams to keep pummeling snow and rain out and move body-chilling moisture away from your skin.