Preface

As an outdoor enthusiast born after 1995, I've explored various U.S. national parks over the years, gaining countless memorable experiences. Every time I recall these hiking journeys, a warm feeling wells up inside. Whether camping under the starlit sky at the Grand Canyon or feeling the mist from Yosemite's waterfalls, these moments made me feel closer to nature than ever before.

Selected National Parks

America's national parks are truly a hiker's paradise! The natural environment here remains pristine, with every landscape leaving visitors in awe.

The Grand Canyon is definitely one of the most impressive places I've visited. I remember my first time standing at the canyon's edge - it felt like standing at the edge of Earth's wound, facing an endless abyss with distant reddish-brown cliffs gleaming in the sunlight. The Colorado River flows quietly at the bottom like a blue ribbon. The Bright Angel Trail, about 15 kilometers long, is my top recommendation. This trail features incredibly diverse terrain, extending from the canyon rim to the riverside, showcasing rock layers from various geological periods.

Once, I set out at 4 AM just to watch the sunrise. When the first rays of sunlight hit the canyon, it seemed to awaken, with the rock walls gradually changing from dark red to bright orange-red. At that moment, all fatigue vanished. However, this trail is physically demanding, especially the ascending section on the return trip. I recommend bringing hiking poles and plenty of water and energy supplies. I've seen many people give up halfway due to insufficient preparation.

Yosemite's Mist Trail offers a completely different experience. The trail's main feature is its close encounter with Yosemite Falls. During my first time on this trail, even my rain jacket got soaked. The waterfall's volume was so massive that its mist enveloped the entire path, creating a fairyland-like atmosphere. The stone steps were slippery, but this added to the excitement.

On this trail, I met many interesting people. There was a couple from Beijing - the woman wore beautiful outdoor gear while hiking and filming a vlog. They said the scenery reminded them of Zhangjiajie, though each had its unique characteristics. Indeed, Yosemite's granite cliffs and waterfalls create a unique visual effect. Especially in the evening, when the sunset turns Half Dome golden and creates rainbows in the waterfall mist, it's surreally beautiful.

Long-Distance Hiking Challenges

Speaking of long-distance hiking, the Appalachian Trail is legendary in the hiking world. This approximately 3,500-kilometer trail isn't something just anyone can easily tackle. I completed a section of it last spring, and that experience completely changed my understanding of hiking.

Before departing, I sought advice from an experienced hiker who had completed the entire AT. He said, "The AT isn't just a trail; it's a spiritual journey." I didn't fully understand this until I experienced it myself.

Every day on the AT is different. In the morning, dense fog surrounds your tent, with the oak forest filled with the fresh scent of soil and plants. Bird songs serve as the perfect alarm clock, naturally waking you up. After packing up gear and shouldering your backpack, a new adventure begins. You often meet hikers from around the world, encouraging each other and sharing trail conditions and resupply advice.

The most memorable encounter was with a retired teacher in the Virginia section. He had been on the trail for two months, sporting a full beard, but his eyes were especially bright. During dinner together, he shared many life insights: "On this trail, everyone is searching for something, but what they find often surprises them. Some come seeking adventure but find inner peace; others come escaping reality but discover the courage to face life."

Nights on the AT are also particularly beautiful. Far from city light pollution, the night sky is incredibly stunning. I often lay in my sleeping bag, watching stars through the tent's mesh top, listening to insects and wind, feeling completely at one with nature.

Western Highlights

Rocky Mountain National Park's Emerald Lake Trail is definitely one of my favorite routes. This trail is like an open picture book, with each section bringing new surprises. Coniferous forests, alpine meadows, and glacial lakes - the scenery changes rapidly. I love starting early in the morning when the light is particularly soft and the air especially fresh.

Last fall's snow came unexpectedly. I was taking photos when snowflakes suddenly started falling. White snow landing on dark green pine trees, distant peaks gradually donning white veils - the whole scene was poetic. That day I met a group of photography enthusiasts, all excitedly setting up their tripods to capture these beautiful moments.

Sedona's Devil's Bridge gave me a completely different feeling. This naturally formed sandstone arch is truly nature's masterpiece. I specifically chose to arrive at sunset, watching the setting sun turn the red sandstone golden - the whole scene was so breathtaking it left me speechless. However, this trail is really popular now, so I recommend going early to avoid crowds. Once I set out before sunrise and met several photographers with the same idea; we waited for sunrise together and exchanged photography tips.

Eastern Hidden Gems

While Eastern hiking trails might not be as majestic as Western ones, they excel in subtle and varied scenery. The White Mountains' autumn colors are a visual feast, with layers of red leaves dressing the mountains in colorful attire. I make a special trip every fall because each visit reveals new beauty.

Once in the White Mountains, I encountered a light rain. What initially seemed disappointing turned magical when post-rain sunlight broke through the clouds, making autumn leaves shimmer golden - a beauty beyond words. Later, I met a group of photographers at the summit shelter, and we waited for sunset together, sharing photography techniques. That sense of connection with fellow enthusiasts was particularly heartwarming.

Bear Mountain, though not tall, has become a regular destination for me due to its distinct seasons. In spring, hillsides are covered with wildflowers in pink, white, and yellow, like a flower carpet. Summer brings lush greenery, making forest path walks especially refreshing. Fall needs no explanation with its spectacular colors. Winter transforms the mountain into a silver-white wonderland after snowfall.

A photographer I met on Bear Mountain said it well: "Eastern mountains may not be tall, but they have different faces each season." He also shared some lesser-known viewpoints, like an easily overlooked side trail leading to a meadow with excellent views, which became delightful discoveries in my later hikes.

Closing Thoughts

These years of hiking have taught me that hiking is more than just exercise. It's a life attitude that teaches us to slow down and appreciate life's beauty. Through hiking, I've met many like-minded friends and heard many interesting stories, all becoming precious memories in my life.

After each hike, I spend time organizing photos and journals, recording the scenery and feelings along the way. These records are not only carriers of beautiful memories but also motivation to continue exploring.

I look forward to meeting you on some trail and sharing the joy of hiking. Next time, I'll introduce detailed hiking gear selection to help everyone prepare adequately before setting out. After all, a perfect hike relies on suitable equipment support. Let's look forward to our next hiking adventure together!