Nestled amidst the rolling hills, pristine lakes, and verdant forests of the Midwest lies a treasure trove of long-distance hiking trails waiting to be explored. From the rugged beauty of the Superior Hiking Trail to the tranquil allure of the Ozark Highlands Trail, these trails offer a captivating blend of natural wonders and challenging terrain. Whether you’re a seasoned hiker or an aspiring adventurer, embark on one of these epic journeys and immerse yourself in the captivating embrace of the Midwest wilderness..
### 1. Superior Hiking Trail, Minnesota (310 miles).
Stretching along the rugged North Shore of Lake Superior, the Superior Hiking Trail is a renowned backpacking paradise. Traverse towering cliffs, lush forests, and cascading waterfalls as you follow the trail’s winding path through Minnesota’s pristine wilderness..
### 2. Ozark Highlands Trail, Arkansas (218 miles).
Embark on a journey through the heart of the Ozark Mountains on the Ozark Highlands Trail. Navigate a landscape of towering bluffs, sparkling rivers, and ancient forests, encountering diverse flora and fauna along the way..
### 3. North Country Trail, North Dakota to New York (4,600+ miles).
Spanning seven states, the North Country Trail is the longest continuous hiking trail in the United States. Journey through a kaleidoscope of ecosystems, from the rolling hills of North Dakota to the majestic mountains of New York..
### 4. Ice Age Trail, Wisconsin (1,200+ miles).
Trace the path of the last great glaciers through Wisconsin on the Ice Age Trail. Explore diverse terrain ranging from towering bluffs to serene prairies, uncovering the geological wonders of a bygone era..
### 5. Pinhoti Trail, Alabama and Georgia (335 miles).
Immerse yourself in the verdant embrace of the Appalachian Mountains on the Pinhoti Trail. Traverse lush forests, cross sparkling streams, and ascend to breathtaking overlooks, reveling in the beauty of the Southern wilderness..
### 6. Keweenaw Trail, Michigan (37 miles).
Traverse the rugged and remote Keweenaw Peninsula on the Keweenaw Trail. Discover hidden waterfalls, navigate ancient lava flows, and marvel at the pristine shores of Lake Superior..
### 7. Shawnee Trail, Illinois (160 miles).
Journey through the rolling hills and dense forests of Southern Illinois on the Shawnee Trail. Encounter towering rock formations, traverse sparkling streams, and explore the region’s rich cultural history..
### 8. Voyageurs Hiking Trail, Minnesota (50 miles).
Embark on a secluded adventure in the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness on the Voyageurs Hiking Trail. Paddle across pristine lakes, portage over rugged terrain, and immerse yourself in the untouched beauty of Minnesota’s northern wilderness..
### 9. Buffalo River Trail, Arkansas (125 miles).
Follow the meandering Buffalo River through the Ozark Mountains on the Buffalo River Trail. Navigate towering bluffs, navigate crystal-clear streams, and immerse yourself in the pristine wilderness of Northern Arkansas..
### 10. River to River Trail, Illinois (150 miles).
Connect the Mississippi and Ohio Rivers on the River to River Trail. Traverse diverse ecosystems, ranging from rolling farmlands to lush forests, discovering the natural and cultural heritage of Southern Illinois..
As you embark on these epic journeys, prepare for challenges and embrace the rewards. Pack essential gear, plan your resupply points, and immerse yourself in the breathtaking beauty of the Midwest wilderness. These long-distance hiking trails offer an unforgettable experience, forging memories that will last a lifetime. Lace up your boots, embark on an adventure, and discover the enchanting allure of the Midwest’s long-distance hiking trails..
