Louisiana's highest point offers great hiking trails that are a favorite among history-buffs looking for ruins and old foundations. Paths follow a straightforward line and it's very hard to get lost, even with the few signs marking the way.
Minnesota: Pow Wow Trail
A solitary hike in moose country, most of the area is a wild camper's paradise. Beaver dams make some crossings a little bit of a challenge, and some sections become slippery after heavy rains. The 29-mile loop is a trip back in time reaching secluded lakes and cascading brooks.
Mississippi: Black Creek Valley
A nice, easy hike following pine-covered paths and gentle creeks. For an added challenge, venture into the forest and across the river. There's a short uphill section before you end up deep into the Black Creek wilderness. Great hike if you're looking for silence and isolation.
Missouri: Babler State Park
Best known for its ancient forest, the park offers four short trails and great opportunities to encounter wild turkey and plenty of raccoons. The trails get muddy after heavy rains, so go well prepared. Some of the trails are interconnected and allow for a longer walk if so desired.
Nevada: Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area
Leave Las Vegas behind and experience the true heart of Nevada by hiking through the 65-million year old Keystone Thrust Fault. Red sandstones rock formations line up on the sides of the fault, and offer a look into what was once a heavily-exploited quarry. Small canyons and grey limestone formations are easily accessible from Sandstone Quarry, and homestead ruins are the worthy reward for hiking Pine Creek Canyon, a two-mile loop abundant in giant pine trees. Indian artifacts and wild burros are a frequent sight. Both are protected and cannot be disturbed.
New Mexico: Sierra Blanca
The summit of Sierra Blanca falls on the Mescalero Indian Reservation, which means that, technically, you need a permit to climb all the way to the top. Whether you're only hiking part of the way or are willing to risk it to the top without a permit (most people do), get an early start. The stunning view of snow-covered peaks merits the long, demanding hike up. Hiking and climbing are possible in winter, but you should be experienced in dealing with deep snow and slippery ice passages.