Hiking: Best hikes in Appalachia

The United States is known for the rugged and wild wilderness of the west, and the glory of The Appalachian Mountains, spanning from southern Quebec to northern Alabama, is sometimes overlooked. But they offer some of the best hiking trails in the United States. With a wide range of terrain, scenic views, and a variety of difficulty levels, the Appalachian region is a hiker's paradise. Whether you're a seasoned hiker or a first-time trailblazer, there is something for everyone to enjoy. Here are some of the best hikes in the Appalachians:

• The Appalachian Trail: This iconic trail, stretching more than 2,000 miles from Maine to Georgia, offers some of the most diverse and beautiful hiking in the eastern United States. The trail passes through 14 states and offers hikers the chance to experience everything from dense forests to open meadows, from rugged peaks to quiet streams. Some of the most popular sections of the trail include the 100-Mile Wilderness in Maine, the Roan Highlands in Tennessee, and the rugged summit of Mount Katahdin in Maine.

• The Great Smoky Mountains National Park: Straddling the border of North Carolina and Tennessee, the Great Smoky Mountains National Park is home to some of the most spectacular hiking in the region. The park offers over 800 miles of hiking trails, with a wide range of difficulty levels and spectacular scenery. Some of the most popular trails in the park include the Alum Cave Trail to Mount LeConte, the Rainbow Falls Trail, and the Ramsey Cascades Trail.

• The Black Mountains in North Carolina: The Black Mountains, located in the western part of North Carolina, are known for their rugged beauty and diverse hiking trails. The highest peak in the eastern United States, Mount Mitchell, is located here, and offers hikers a challenging and rewarding summit hike. The park also offers more moderate hikes like the Deep Gap Trail and the Mount Mitchell Trail.

• The White Mountains in New Hampshire: The White Mountains in New Hampshire offer some of the most challenging hiking in the northeastern United States, with a number of peaks over 4,000 feet. The most famous hike in the region is the Presidential Traverse, which passes over the summits of eight peaks in the Presidential Range, including Mount Washington, the highest peak in the northeastern United States. Other popular hikes in the area include the Lonesome Lake Trail, and the Liberty Spring Trail.

• The Nantahala National Forest in North Carolina: The Nantahala National Forest is located in the western part of North Carolina and offers a wide range of hiking trails for all skill levels. The forest is home to several waterfalls, including the popular Whitewater Falls, and offers a number of scenic vistas. One of the most popular hikes in the forest is the Hike to the Top of Standing Indian Mountain.

• The George Washington National Forest in Virginia: Located in western Virginia, the George Washington National Forest offers a wide variety of hiking trails, with something for everyone. The forest is home to several notable peaks, including the highest peak in the state, Mount Rogers, and the popular hike to the summit of Dragon's Tooth.

When planning a hike in the Appalachians, it's important to be prepared for a variety of weather conditions and to check the trail conditions before you