Exploring the best Hiking Trails Destinations outdoors offers an unparalleled connection to nature, fresh air, and stunning landscapes. Whether you’re a seasoned trekker or just getting started, these hiking destinations across the globe provide awe-inspiring views, unique ecosystems, and unforgettable adventures.
Greatest Hiking Trails In The World:
Here’s our list of the 40 best Hiking Trails Destinations in the world, organized by continent.
North America
1. Grand Canyon, Arizona, USA
The Grand Canyon’s Bright Angel Trail offers a challenging descent into the canyon, with views that change as you journey downwards. The South Kaibab Trail is also a must for adventurers seeking incredible vistas.
2. Yosemite National Park, California, USA
Yosemite boasts numerous hikes, including the Half Dome, a demanding 16-mile trek with a famous cable ascent. The Mist Trail is another iconic path, leading hikers past the thunderous Vernal and Nevada Falls.
3. Appalachian Trail, Eastern USA
Enjoy partial hike 2,200 miles of the Appalachian trail . Spanning over 2,190 miles from Georgia to Maine, the Appalachian Trail is one of the most famous long-distance hikes. It can take months to complete, but sections like the Smoky Mountains are perfect for shorter hikes.
4. Banff National Park, Alberta, Canada
With over 994 miles of trails, hikers will see valleys, mountains and lakes as they explore Alberta National Park. Home to dramatic mountains and turquoise lakes, Banff offers unforgettable hikes like the Plain of Six Glaciers and the Larch Valley Trail, where you’ll be immersed in the beauty of the Canadian Rockies.
Also Read : Top 9 Best Places To Visit In September You Must Be Visit
5. Zion National Park, Utah, USA
Best Hiking Trails Destinations the Narrows hike along the Virgin River and the Angels Landing trail provide heart-pounding ascents with rewarding panoramas in one of the USA’s most picturesque national parks.
6. Jasper National Park, Alberta, Canada
Jasper offers more remote and wild landscapes than Banff, with hikes like the Skyline Trail, a 27-mile route through alpine meadows and rugged mountain ridges.
7. Pacific Crest Trail, USA
The Pacific Crest Trail stretches about 2,650 miles and winds to California and Washington before ending in Columbia, Canada. It is one of the longest scenic trails in North America.
South America
8. Torres del Paine, Chile
In the heart of Patagonia, this iconic destination is famous for the W Trek, which takes hikers through windswept valleys, glaciers, and the towering spires of the Torres del Paine.
9. Machu Picchu, Peru
The Machu Picchu is one of the world’s most famous hikes. This 4-day trek passes ancient ruins, cloud forests, and breathtaking mountain scenery, ending at the legendary Incan city.
10. Fitz Roy Range, Argentina
Hikers in Argentina’s Patagonia region flock to Mount Fitz Roy. The Laguna de los Tres trek is a favorite, offering close-up views of the sharp, granite peaks.
11. Cocora Valley, Colombia
Known for its towering wax palms, Cocora Valley provides a surreal hiking experience in Colombia’s Andean region. The Los Nevados trek, leading into the cloud forest, is a standout.
12. Huayhuash Circuit, Peru
For the experienced hiker, the Huayhuash Circuit offers a challenging trek through some of Peru’s most stunning high-altitude terrain, featuring crystal-clear lakes and jagged peaks.
Europe
13. Tour du Mont Blanc, France/Italy/Switzerland
This multi-day trek around Mont Blanc, the highest peak in Western Europe, passes through the stunning scenery of the Alps. It’s one of Europe’s most famous long-distance hikes.
14. West Highland Way, Scotland
Best Hiking Trails Destinations this classic Scottish trail spans 96 miles from Milngavie to Fort William, winding through lochs, moors, and the dramatic mountains of the Highlands.
15. Dolomites, Italy
The Dolomites offer spectacular hiking in Italy’s northern region. The Tre Cime di Lavaredo circuit is a relatively easy trail with unbeatable views of the limestone peaks.
16. Cinque Terre, Italy
The coastal path connecting the five colorful villages of Cinque Terre is an excellent day hike, offering magnificent views of the Mediterranean Sea and charming Italian architecture.
17. Laugavegur Trail, Iceland
This trail, traversing 34 miles through Iceland’s rugged and diverse landscape, offers a mix of geothermal valleys, volcanic deserts, and vibrant green moss-covered mountains.
18. Kungsleden, Sweden
Known as the “King’s Trail,” this 270-mile route in northern Sweden crosses untouched wilderness, with highlights like the Kebnekaise, Sweden’s highest peak.
19. Rondane National Park, Norway
Norway’s oldest national park offers hikes through stark, rocky terrain, home to reindeer and ancient mountain ranges. The hike to Rondslottet, the park’s highest peak, is a favorite.
20. Pyrenees, Spain/France
Best Hiking Trails Destinations through the Pyrenees offers diverse trails along the Spain-France border, including the Cirque de Gavarnie, a UNESCO World Heritage site with dramatic rock walls and waterfalls.
Asia
21. Mount Everest Base Camp, Nepal
One of the most famous trekking routes in the world, the Everest Base Camp trek takes you through Sherpa villages and rugged mountain terrain, offering unforgettable views of the world’s highest peak.
22. Annapurna Circuit, Nepal
Another classic Himalayan trek, the Annapurna Circuit offers diverse scenery, from lush subtropical forests to high-altitude deserts, with panoramic views of the Annapurna range.
23. Tiger’s Nest, Bhutan
The hike to the Tiger’s Nest Monastery in Bhutan is a steep climb that rewards hikers with a view of this sacred site perched on the edge of a cliff.
24. Mount Fuji, Japan
Climbing Mount Fuji is a rite of passage. The Yoshida Trail is the most popular route, offering incredible sunrise views from the summit.
25. Mount Rinjani, Indonesia
This active volcano on the island of Lombok offers a challenging hike, with the reward of stunning crater lake views and a hot spring.
26. Drakensberg Mountains, South Africa/Lesotho
The best Hiking Trails Destinations Drakensberg region offers a variety of hikes, including the dramatic Amphitheatre Hike, which takes you along sheer cliffs and offers stunning views over the plains of South Africa.
Australia and New Zealand
27. Milford Track, New Zealand
The Milford Track is New Zealand’s most famous hike, winding through lush rainforests, alpine passes, and pristine lakes, with the stunning Milford Sound waiting at the end.
28. Tongariro Alpine Crossing, New Zealand
This one-day hike through an active volcanic region features vivid emerald lakes, steaming vents, and stark volcanic landscapes.
29. Overland Track, Tasmania, Australia
Tasmania’s Overland Track is a 40-mile hike through the island’s wild and rugged interior, passing through glacial lakes and rainforest-clad valleys.
30. Larapinta Trail, Northern Territory, Australia
This long-distance trail stretches across the ancient landscapes of the West MacDonnell Ranges, offering stunning views of desert mountains, waterholes, and Aboriginal sacred sites.
Africa
31. Mount Kilimanjaro, Tanzania
The highest peak in Africa, Mount Kilimanjaro offers a challenging but non-technical ascent, rewarding climbers with views of the savanna stretching out beneath the snow-capped summit.
32. Simien Mountains, Ethiopia
The Simien Mountains offer some of the best hiking in Africa, with rugged peaks, deep valleys, and the chance to see wildlife like the endangered Gelada baboons.
33. Atlas Mountains, Morocco
The Atlas Mountains offer a range of treks, with the ascent of Mount Toubkal being the most popular. This high-altitude trek takes you through Berber villages and offers stunning views of the surrounding peaks.
Oceania
34. Cape to Cape Track, Australia
This 84-mile trail along Australia’s southwest coast offers spectacular views of the Indian Ocean, towering sea cliffs, and ancient forests.
35. Kepler Track, New Zealand
The Kepler Track is a multi-day hike that takes you through Fiordland National Park’s diverse terrain, from dense forests to alpine ridges.
36. Hadrian’s Wall Path, UK
Walk along the remains of the Hadrian’s Wall, built by the Romans in Northern England. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is a relatively easy and scenic trail that offers a glimpse into the past while traversing beautiful countryside.
37 . Snowman Trek, Bhutan
Known as one of the hardest treks in the world, the Snowman Trek takes hikers through the remote mountains of Bhutan, crossing high-altitude passes and secluded villages. It’s a journey through one of the most unspoiled regions on Earth.
38 . Haute Route, France/Switzerland
The best Hiking Trails Destinations Haute Route connects the famous mountaineering towns of Chamonix in France and Zermatt in Switzerland. This high-altitude trek crosses glaciers and passes, offering awe-inspiring views of some of the Alps’ tallest peaks.
39 . Camino de Santiago, Spain
The Camino de Santiago, or the Way of Saint James, is a historic pilgrimage route that leads to the cathedral of Santiago de Compostela in Spain. There are several different paths, the most popular being the Camino Francés, which offers a mix of natural beauty and cultural heritage.
40 . West Coast Trail, Canada
Located on Vancouver Island, the West Coast Trail is a rugged and remote coastal hike that takes trekkers along the Pacific Ocean. The trail is known for its challenging terrain, wildlife sightings, and historical shipwrecks.
FAQ: Highest Hike in the World
1. What is the highest hike in the world? The highest hike in the world is the trek to Everest Base Camp (EBC) in Nepal. It reaches an elevation of approximately 5,364 meters (17,598 feet) above sea level.
2. How long does it take to complete the Everest Base Camp trek? The trek typically takes 12-16 days, depending on acclimatization, fitness level, and route. This includes time for both ascent and descent.
3. Is it difficult to hike to Everest Base Camp? Yes, it’s considered a challenging hike due to the high altitude, steep terrain, and cold weather conditions. However, it is not a technical climb and can be done by individuals with good fitness levels.
