Masterpiece Trails

WHAT COULD BE SIMPLER than a path through the woods? Deer forge them without thinking, and manmade trails often are hardly more sophisticated. But among the many paths we follow are a few works of art: improbable routes that ease the way through arduous terrain; trails built to last for decades instead of degrading into rock-studded, ankle-twisting chutes; trails that not only lead to spectacular sights but also evoke delight and admiration.

Making The Grade
Edmands Tour, Presidential Range, White Mountains, New Hampshire

Switchbacks to Heaven
Angels Landing, Zion National Park, Utah

Sky Walk
Kendall Katwalk, Pacific Crest Trail, Washington

Back from the Burn
Mt. Islip Loop, Angeles National Forest, California

Vertical Limits
The Krogerata, Uncompahgre National Forest, Colorado

Bike to Hike
Boone Fork Trail, Blue Ridge Parkway, North Carolina

Step by Step
Lake Oesa-Opabin Lake Loop, Yoho National Park, British Columbia

CCC Showcase
High Peaks–Balconies Caves Loop, Pinnacles National Park, California

Kings of Rock
Appalachian Trail, Bear Mountain State Park, New York

Boardwalk Empire
Plover River Segment, Ice Age Trail, Wisconsin