On a 5.1-mile round, see Sentinel Dome's breathtaking views of Yosemite Valley and Taft Point's vertiginous views of El Capitan and Yosemite Falls.
The 3.2-mile Champlain Mountain Precipice Trail offers Atlantic views of Acadia's shoreline grandeur. Cadillac Summit Road charges $35/car.
A 1.6-mile climb to a historic fire lookout offers stunning views of Crater Lake and Wizard Island. Summer and early fall are best; $30 per vehicle, check Rim Drive conditions.
A 12-mile roundtrip hike to Plateau Point overlooks the Grand Canyon, Colorado River, and inner gorge. Summer heat is reduced by starting early; spring and fall are best; $35 per vehicle.
Hike 3.6 miles across the Great Smoky Mountains to Andrews Bald for above-treeline Fontana Lake and southern mountain views.
Hiking 2.5 km to High Dune offers views of North America's highest dunes and Sangre de Cristo Mountains. Parking near tourist center, $25 vehicle entrance, best in spring or fall.
A 0.5-mile loop through Mesa Arch before dawn shows Canyonlands' natural beauty and famous sandstone features. Mesa Arch Trailhead at Island in the Sky.
A 12-mile one-way trip via cliffs, meadows, and Grinnell Glacier offers unique Glacier landscapes. Best in late summer and early fall; $35 per vehicle, start at Logan Pass, shuttle back.
The 8.5-mile roundtrip hike to Sky Pond in Rocky Mountain National Park offers alpine lake views amidst granite cirque settings. Year-round access; June and July for wildflowers.