These mountain ranges in the United States offer a variety of activities, including hiking, watersports, scenic drives, and many other outdoor activities.
It’s a peaceful experience to go out into the wilderness and explore the mountain ranges of the United States. We have compiled 13 stunning U.S. mountain ranges with great views and great hiking for your next outdoor adventure. Grab your hiking boots, and a water bottle, and get ready for some of the most beautiful places in America.
1. Rocky Mountains
From British Columbia to New Mexico, the Rocky Mountains stretch over 3,000 miles in North America. Rocky Mountain National Park covers 415 miles of breathtaking natural beauty and 300 miles of hiking trails. Spring and summer are the best seasons to visit because of the vibrant wildflower blooms. The equally beautiful Grand Teton National Park, which is also part of the larger Rocky Mountains, protects the Teton Range.
The rocky mountain bike is a mountain bike made for climbing.
The ride: The greatest strength of the rocky mountain bicycle is its ability to climb. This bike is as comfortable as a hardtail when climbing. You can sit or stand without difficulty. One can accelerate while climbing at a constant speed. On climbs that are steeper than others, the front forks lockout and the pro pedal are very useful. When the front is locked and the pro pedal at maximum, the rocky mountain bikes will become very stiff. This bike is perfect for climbing when the front fork, rear shocks, and pro pedal are combined.
2. Alaska Range
Although it is more remote than some other mountain ranges, the Alaska Range contains some of the most spectacular peaks in the country. National parks that protect these mountains are some of the most beautiful in the country. Wrangell-St. Wrangell-St. This mountain range also contains Denali, North America’s highest mountain peak at 20,310 feet.
3. Cascade Range
The Cascade Mountains can be found in western North America. They cross parts of Washington, Oregon, and California. Beautiful snow-capped mountains and volcanoes make up this range, including Mount Rainier (the highest point at 14,411 feet) and Mount Saint Helens (the active stratovolcano which last erupted back in 2008).
4. Sierra Nevada
The Sierra Nevada mountain range extends from California’s Central Valley to the Great Basin. Many mountains are located in the Golden State. Three national parks are located in the Sierra Nevada range: Yosemite National Park and Sequoia National Park. Each offers unique experiences, wildlife sightings, and hiking opportunities, as well as stunning views.
5. Great Smoky Mountains
The Great Smoky Mountains is a subrange of the Appalachian Mountains. It is known for its fog, which hovers around the tops and creates the “smoky effect”. These mountains are located mainly in North Carolina and Tennessee. They are protected by The Great Smoky Mountains
Although there are no trails for mountain biking in the Smokies area, bicycles are permitted in certain areas. These trails are specifically designed for cyclists. These areas are designed for cyclists. You’ll be in great shape.
Gatlinburg Trail
The GATLINBURG TRAIL runs just under 2 miles from the Sugarlands Visitor Center. The trail runs through Gatlinburg and is relatively flat considering the elevation. The trail winds through the forest near the Little Pigeon River. The views are breathtaking from both the forest and river. Be aware that there are often many people on the trail, either running, walking, or walking their dogs.
Cades Cove Loop
The most popular route to ride in the Smoky Mountains is the CADES COVE LOOP. Best mountain bikes and road bikes are both welcome. Mountain bikers have many options on the 11-mile loop.
- Parsons Branch Road/ Forge Creek Rd. This gravel road leads to the Gregory Bald Trail, which is located just past the Cades Cove Visitor Center. This ride is quite difficult, especially the last 5 and a quarter miles, which runs along Hannah Mountain’s crest.
- Sparks Ln./ Hyatt Ln. – These roads can be considered a “bypass”, or a part of the loop. These roads can be used to make the trip either shorter or longer. The scenery is stunning, no matter what you do!
- Rich Mountain Rd. – This gravel road runs 7 miles along Rich Mountain Gap’s park boundary. It is located just past Hyatt Ln. This route will see traffic so be careful!
Greenbrier
Greenbrier can be found approximately 6 miles east of Gatlinburg. The route is quite unique in that the first mile of the trek is paved, while the rest is on gravel. At the fork, you have the option to head up either the Ramsey Trailhead or the Porters Creek Trailhead…or both. Three options at the fork? Always have both.
National Park is the most visited national park in the United States. Millions of people visit this park each year to hike, camp, or simply enjoy the breathtaking mountain views.
6. Uinta Mountains
The Uinta Mountains are located in northeastern Utah and offer many outdoor activities such as rafting, fishing or boating. Dinosaur National Museum is located in this range. Here guests can view dinosaur fossils as well as historic petroglyphs.
7. California Coast Ranges
This mountain range, named after its location on the Californian Coast, covers some of the most beautiful parts of California. It includes the stunning Big Sur region. You can enjoy the Pacific Coast Highway, as well as the many opportunities to hike.
8. Blue Ridge Mountains
The Blue Ridge Mountains stretch across most of the eastern United States. They run from Pennsylvania to Georgia. This means that there are many places to explore this stunning range. Many destinations can be found within a short distance of East Coast cities. The Blue Ridge Parkway provides a scenic drive through the mountains. Shenandoah National Park offers hiking and other outdoor activities in Virginia’s Blue Ridge.
