5 Stunning Multi-Day Hiking Escapes in the U.S.—No Tent Needed

Are you eager to enjoy the great outdoors, trek through miles of scenic trails, and explore remote wilderness, but prefer not to cook over a campfire or sleep on the ground? You’re in luck! These five hiking experiences across the United States let you immerse yourself in nature while retreating to comfort and style each evening. This ensures you’re well-rested and ready for more adventure on the following days.

Minam River Lodge, Wallowa Mountains

Nestled in the Eagle Cap Wilderness of Wallowa-Whitman National Forest in Eastern Oregon, the Wallowa Mountains are a favored destination for backpackers in the Pacific Northwest. For those who wish to experience the wild without the burden of heavy gear, Minam Lodge provides breathtaking views and serene solitude.

Accessible only by foot (an eight-and-a-half-mile hike on Horse Ranch Trail from Moss Springs Trailhead), horseback, or chartered flight, the lodge features accommodations like private cabins and lodge rooms, along with wood-fired hot tubs to relax your weary feet. A minimum stay of three nights allows ample time to discover the extensive wilderness trails surrounding the lodge, including the picturesque Backbone Ridge Trail and North Minam Meadows.

Lodges Along the Appalachian Trail, Shenandoah National Park

For a lavish experience on the iconic Appalachian Trail, visit Shenandoah National Park in Virginia for a two- or three-night self-guided adventure along this picturesque segment of the 2,190-mile trail. You’ll journey from Lewis Mountain Cabins to Big Meadows Lodge and then to Skyland, all managed by Delaware North Parks and Resorts, the park’s authorized concessionaire.

Each day, you’ll hike between seven and nine miles through vibrant deciduous forests and over gentle green hills, moving from one lodging to the next. Big Meadows and Skyland provide hikers with packed lunches and trail keepsakes if you reserve a hiking package in advance online or by calling the reservation office. (Individual bookings are also available, but lunch won’t be included.) The reservations team will also provide details for shuttle services to return you to your vehicle at the end of your one-way trek.

Valley of the Moon, Sonoma Valley

This experience is less of a linear hike and more of a self-guided exploration through state and local parks. The Sonoma Valley Hikers Trek, provided by California's Wine Country Trekking, combines extensive hikes in scenic spots like Kenwood and Glen Ellen, wine tastings with vineyard views, and meals at local restaurants. Plus, breakfast, wine samples, and luggage transfers are all included.

Over the course of five days and four nights, you'll hike for three days (the first and last days are for arrival and relaxation) covering about eight to nine miles each day through mountains, past lakes, and across orchards. Enjoy picnic lunches, sample wines from local vineyards, and unwind at upscale inns along the route. Depending on the day, you may be shuttled to and from trailheads for more challenging hikes, or you might walk to each destination. Either way, you’ll have earned your refreshments by the end of each day.

Phantom Ranch, Grand Canyon National Park

For an unforgettable hiking adventure, gear up and trek down to the Grand Canyon’s floor in Arizona for a stay by the Colorado River at Phantom Ranch. While these stone cabins are more rustic than opulent, they provide essential comforts, including bedding, a private bathroom, towels, as well as heating and air-conditioning. There’s also a central shower facility, and the Phantom Ranch Canteen serves breakfast and dinner (be sure to order packed lunches for your hikes).

With good physical fitness, you can hike down either Bright Angel or North Kaibab Trail in a single day and return the next (though staying a few nights is recommended). The views from the canyon floor, featuring lush riparian zones along the creeks and river, coupled with towering red cliffs, are arguably more breathtaking than those from the rim. Reservations are typically available only through a lottery, which must be entered months in advance. Prefer a guided experience? Wildland Trekking offers an all-inclusive two- or three-day hike and stay at Phantom Ranch.

Ozark Highlands Trail, White Rock Mountain and Lake Fort Smith State Park

Situated in Northwest Arkansas, the 270-mile Ozark Highlands Trail offers a wealth of hiking adventures that traverse state parks and the Ozark National Forest. While the entire trail can be tackled as a thru-hike over several weeks, visitors can also choose to explore specific sections to enjoy the numerous waterfalls, rivers, and wooded paths.

Reserve a private cabin at Lake Fort Smith State Park (managed by the park), which marks the trail’s starting point in Northwest Arkansas. From there, you can hike 17 miles before reaching a private cabin at White Rock Mountain Lodge and Cabins, managed by White Rock Recreation Management. Both locations come with fully equipped kitchens and private bathrooms, but remember to bring your own linens for your stay at White Rock Mountain. (Note: You’ll need to organize your own transport back to the starting trailhead.)