The United States boasts an incredible diversity of national forests, each offering unique landscapes, wildlife, and outdoor adventures. From the misty fjords of Alaska to the fiery fall foliage of Vermont, these protected lands provide endless opportunities for hiking, camping, fishing, and simply reconnecting with nature. Below, we dive deep into the top 10 national forests in the U.S., highlighting what makes each one special and the must-see spots within them.
1. Tongass National Forest, Alaska
Why Visit?
As the largest national forest in the U.S. (spanning 16.7 million acres), the Tongass is a land of glaciers, fjords, and temperate rainforests. It’s a haven for wildlife, including brown bears, bald eagles, and humpback whales.
Must-See Attractions:
- Mendenhall Glacier – A stunning, accessible glacier near Juneau with ice caves and waterfalls.
- Misty Fjords National Monument – Towering cliffs, cascading waterfalls, and serene waterways best explored by boat or seaplane.
- Anan Wildlife Observatory – One of the best places in Alaska to see black and brown bears feasting on salmon.
Best Activities:
- Kayaking among icebergs in Tracy Arm Fjord.
- Fishing for wild salmon and halibut.
- Hiking the West Glacier Trail for panoramic glacier views.
2. White Mountain National Forest, New Hampshire & Maine
Why Visit?
Famous for its fall foliage, rugged peaks, and the Appalachian Trail, this forest is a hiker’s paradise.
Must-See Attractions:
- Mount Washington – The Northeast’s highest peak, known for extreme weather and the historic Cog Railway.
- Franconia Ridge Loop – A breathtaking alpine hike with 360-degree views.
- Kancamagus Highway – A scenic drive through golden forests in autumn.
Best Activities:
- Backpacking the Presidential Range.
- Skiing at Wildcat Mountain in winter.
- Swimming in Sabbaday Falls’ crystal-clear pools.
3. Pisgah National Forest, North Carolina
Why Visit?
This forest is a waterfall wonderland, with lush greenery, granite cliffs, and the highest peak east of the Mississippi.
Must-See Attractions:
- Looking Glass Falls – A stunning 60-foot roadside waterfall.
- Linville Gorge – The “Grand Canyon of the East” with dramatic cliffs and rugged trails.
- Mount Mitchell (6,684 ft) – The tallest mountain in the eastern U.S., with sweeping views.
Best Activities:
- Rock climbing at Looking Glass Rock.
- Tubing down the Davidson River.
- Camping in Black Balsam Knob’s high-elevation meadows.
4. Bridger-Teton National Forest, Wyoming
Why Visit?
Adjacent to Grand Teton and Yellowstone, this forest offers pristine wilderness, alpine lakes, and abundant wildlife.
Must-See Attractions:
- Teton Wilderness – A vast, roadless area with grizzlies, wolves, and elk.
- Green River Lakes – Turquoise waters with the Squaretop Mountain backdrop.
- Gros Ventre Slide – A massive landslide area with a fascinating geological history.
Best Activities:
- Fly-fishing in the Snake River.
- Horseback riding through Antelope Flats.
- Backcountry camping in the Wind River Range.
5. Gifford Pinchot National Forest, Washington
Why Visit?
Home to Mount St. Helens, this forest blends volcanic landscapes, old-growth forests, and waterfalls.
Must-See Attractions:
- Ape Cave – A lava tube you can explore with a headlamp.
- Goat Rocks Wilderness – Often called the “Alps of Washington.”
- Silver Falls – A hidden gem along the Lewis River.
Best Activities:
- Hiking the Loowit Trail around Mount St. Helens.
- Soaking in Yakima Hot Springs.
- Wildflower viewing at Indian Heaven Wilderness.
6. Chattahoochee-Oconee National Forest, Georgia
Why Visit?
A mix of rolling hills, waterfalls, and the southern Appalachians, perfect for a quick escape from Atlanta.
Must-See Attractions:
- Brasstown Bald – Georgia’s highest point with panoramic views.
- Raven Cliff Falls – A dramatic waterfall through a towering cliff.
- Blood Mountain – A challenging but rewarding hike on the Appalachian Trail.
Best Activities:
- Whitewater rafting on the Chattooga River.
- Camping under the stars at Lake Winfield Scott.
- Hunting for morels in spring.
7. Sierra National Forest, California
Why Visit?
A gateway to the High Sierra, featuring giant sequoias, alpine lakes, and granite peaks.
Must-See Attractions:
- Ansel Adams Wilderness – Iconic jagged peaks and crystal-clear lakes.
- Mammoth Lakes – A year-round adventure hub.
- Nelder Grove – A quiet alternative to Sequoia National Park.
Best Activities:
- Backpacking the John Muir Trail.
- Fishing at Edison Lake.
- Snowmobiling in Huntington Lake during winter.
8. Coconino National Forest, Arizona
Why Visit?
From red rock canyons to alpine forests, this is one of the most diverse landscapes in the Southwest.
Must-See Attractions:
- Oak Creek Canyon – A stunning drive rivaling the Grand Canyon.
- Humphreys Peak (12,633 ft) – Arizona’s highest point.
- West Fork Trail – A lush, creek-side hike near Sedona.
Best Activities:
- Stargazing at Meteor Crater.
- Mountain biking in Schultz Creek Trail System.
- Swimming in Fossil Creek’s turquoise waters.
9. Olympic National Forest, Washington
Why Visit?
Adjacent to Olympic National Park, this forest has rainforests, rugged coasts, and glacier-capped peaks.
Must-See Attractions:
- Hoh Rainforest – A moss-drenched, fairy-tale woodland.
- Quinault Valley – Home to towering Douglas firs.
- Mount Ellinor – A steep but rewarding summit with mountain goat sightings.
Best Activities:
- Surfing at La Push Beach.
- Foraging for wild mushrooms.
- Kayaking on Lake Crescent.
10. Green Mountain National Forest, Vermont
Why Visit?
A quintessential New England escape, with rolling green peaks, covered bridges, and fiery autumn colors.
Must-See Attractions:
- Long Trail – The oldest long-distance hiking trail in the U.S.
- Texas Falls – A picturesque waterfall with a historic stone bridge.
- Stratton Mountain – A great summit with 360-degree views.
Best Activities:
- Leaf-peeping along Route 100 in fall.
- Cross-country skiing in Rikert Nordic Center.
- Camping near Grout Pond.
Other beautiful forests
Other beautiful forests…
11. San Juan National Forest, Colorado
Why Visit?
A mountain lover’s dream, with the San Juan Mountains, alpine lakes, and historic mining towns.
Must-See: Ice Lakes Basin, Chimney Rock, Million Dollar Highway
Best Activities: Hiking, mountain biking, skiing at Purgatory Resort
12. Dixie National Forest, Utah
Why Visit?
Stunning red rock meets alpine forests, near Bryce Canyon and Zion.
Must-See: Red Canyon, Powell Point, Navajo Lake
Best Activities: ATV trails, scenic drives, fishing
13. Superior National Forest, Minnesota
Why Visit?
The Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness—a paddler’s paradise.
Must-See: Eagle Mountain (MN’s highest point), Sawbill Lake
Best Activities: Canoeing, moose spotting, winter dog sledding
14. Daniel Boone National Forest, Kentucky
Why Visit?
Dramatic cliffs, arches, and waterfalls in the Appalachian foothills.
Must-See: Red River Gorge, Natural Bridge, Cumberland Falls
Best Activities: Rock climbing, cave exploring, moonbow viewing
15. Inyo National Forest, California
Why Visit?
Home to Mount Whitney (highest peak in the Lower 48) and Ancient Bristlecone Pines.
Must-See: Alabama Hills, Mono Lake, Bristlecone Pine Forest
Best Activities: High-altitude hiking, stargazing, hot springs soaking
