Regardless of whether you're a passionate hiker who's conquered some of the most demanding nature paths on the planet or a beginner just looking for a scenic place to stretch your legs, these trails are all but guaranteed to leave you feeling satisfied in the end.

The Harding Icefield Trail within Alaska's Kenai Fjords National Park spans more than eight miles roundtrip and will put your stamina to the test as hikers gain 1,000 feet of elevation with every mile. The trail will take you the better part of a day to complete. However, the scenic views of the expansive icefield will make it all worthwhile.

Most visitors to Acadia National Park on Maine's Mount Desert Island opt to drive to the top of Cadillac Mountain. Nonetheless, the Cadillac South Ridge Trail offers a much more satisfying experience as hikers will spend hours working their way through lush forest and other vegetation to spot ponds, pink granite and wildlife en route to the summit.

Mist Trail is Yosemite National Park's signature trail as it boasts a slew of unbeatable views, most notably those of Vernal and Nevada Falls. If you're worried about battling crowds, take the longer journey to the top of Nevada Fall. You'll have to cover more ground but the result will be more rewarding.

The South Kaibab Trail inside Arizona's Grand Canyon National Park will put your body to the test but the gorgeous views will be worth it. Little shade and a lack of water along the trail mean that hikers will want to pace themselves and plan ahead.

Olympic National Park's Hoh River Trail is at its best in the summer months from late June through September. The 17-plus-mile trail features some of the more unique stretches of rainforest on the planet and offers tremendous views of Mount Olympus and Blue Glacier.

Boasting four different access points, the Templeton Trail inside Arizona's Coconino National Forest stretches over three miles and features eye-popping views of Cathedral Rock, one of Sedona's most famous landmarks. Open year-round, this trail is busiest during the summer.

Although experienced hikers will coast along South Lake Tahoe's Rubicon Trail, the easy trek is about as scenic as hikes come. The elevation doesn't change all that much but the landscape is certainly stunning, especially in the middle part of the year.

The strenuous Cascade Canyon Trail in Wyoming's Grand Teton National Park offers panoramic views of Jenny Lake, the second-largest lake in the Grand Tetons at nearly 1,200 acres. Hikers should also be on the lookout for Hidden Falls, the popular Inspiration Point and plenty of wildlife.

Glacier National Park's Highline Trail is immensely popular as there is no shortage of memorable views. The famous ledge along the Garden Wall is sure to get your adrenaline pumping. If heights aren't your thing, just grab onto the hand cable and push forward as there's lots more to see, including Haystack Pass and Swiftcurrent Mountain.

The 2.2-mile Upper Hawksbill Trail in Shenandoah National Park in Virginia is the easiest path to the Hawksbill summit, which is the highest point in the park. From the stone observation deck at the top, hikers will find views of the Shenandoah Valley, Old Rag Mountain and Betty's Rock.

Travelers exploring the Great Smoky Mountains by way of the Rocky Top/Thunderhead Mountain Trail will gain an average of 527 feet in elevation per mile as they work their way up to the summit. Panoramic views await at Spence Field and further along. Highlights include Fontana Lake and Clingmans Dome, among other landmarks.

Billy Goat Trail comprises three different sections spanning eight miles. All three parts boast excellent views of the Potomac River, rock formations and woods. Section C is ideal for a relaxing hike while Sections A and B are more likely to appeal to seasoned hikers in search of a challenge.

The Kalalau Trail in Kauai's Ha'ena State Park dates back more than a century and crosses as many as five valleys over the course of 11 miles. Unless you're content to hike only the first two miles, you'll need to acquire a permit and bring camping gear to venture past Hanakapi'ai valley. A good bit of experience is also recommended.

The Navajo Loop and Queen's Garden Trail is undoubtedly the top trail in Utah's Bryce Canyon National Park as it provides hikers with the best views of the park's iconic hoodoos. Hikers will cover nearly three miles and gain almost 600 feet in elevation in the process.

Zion National Park's Angels Landing Trail is five miles of fun but things really get interesting during the last half-mile when hikers will traverse a narrow sandstone ridge with drop-offs on each side. Those who are brave enough to continue on when conditions warrant will be rewarded with otherworldly views of southwestern Utah.