Are you looking to expand the list of hiking trails you have conquered successfully? If so, then we have prepared some of the most breathtaking and best hiking trails around the world. Of course, do not forget that some of these are only recommended to experienced hikers since they may end up exposing you to harsh environmental conditions that can only be tackled with experience, endurance, and dedication. From the freezing cold Everest Base Camp in Nepal, through the breathtaking Peruvian Inca Trail, to the scorching Desert Trek to Petra in Jordan – our list contains great suggestions for hikes all around the world, so keep on reading to learn about the hiking destinations we recommend.
Overland Track, Australia
Found on the island of Tasmania, the Overland Track is one of Australia’s most attractive hiking trails. It spreads over 80 kilometers, and hikers will get to see and experience breathtaking forests, waterfalls, mountains, wildlife, and lakes. The Overland Track is situated between the Lake St Clair and the Cradle Mountain – the easiest way to get to the start of the hiking trip is through transport provided by the Cradle Mountain Visitor Centre. The 80km hike takes approximately six days but, of course, experienced hikers might be able to overcome the challenging track in a shorter time.
Routeburn Track, New Zealand
If Australia’s 80 kilometer-long hike sounds too challenging for you, then you may like this option found in nearby New Zealand. The Routeburn Track is a lot shorter with its length of 32 kilometers but, due to the rougher terrain at times, it might take three days to complete. Depending on the season, you may need to consider booking one of the limited spots in the huts and campsites alongside the track. It is recommended to look at the accommodation offered earlier since the hike is very popular, and it might be difficult to find a free spot. Explore the best hiking activities here.
The King’s Trail, Sweden
The King’s trail, also known as Kungsleden among the locals, is one of the longest trails on this list, and it is certainly suitable for the more experienced travelers. The entire trip can be up to 434 kilometers long, and if you visit during the winter, you might notice that some parts of it are turned into a ski trail. The starting point of the King’s Trail is considered to be Abisko, a small village that is about 13 hours away from the capital city of Stockholm. Travelers who wish to explore Kungsleden will pass through majestic peaks, small mountain villages, forests, and harsh alpine terrain. There are also a couple of streams alongside the hike, but they are easily passable through the secure bridges built over them.
Muliwai Trail, Hawaii
Hawaii is always praised for the amazing beaches and resorts, but it can also be a great place to visit for your next hiking vacation. It is home to the Muliwai Trail, an exhausting 28km-long hiking trail that spans over the Waipi’o and Waimanu Valleys. Travelers who wish to explore the Muliwai Trail will have to endure a trip that will take them 370m above sea level, before taking them down to the Waipio Valley.
Grindelwald, Switzerland
Grindelwald is one of Switzerland’s most popular tourist destinations, and it annually attracts thousands of visitors from all over the world. What many travelers may not know is that it is also home to some of the most breathtaking hiking trails – in total, Grindelwald has to offer about 290km of hiking trails, but you do not need to tackle the whole thing at once. There are plenty of shorter and less exhausting options that are a great option for inexperienced hikers and travelers. See how to ensure safe travel amid covid-19.
An interesting historical fact about Grindelwald is that it is considered to be the location that inspired J.R.R. Tolkien for many of the landscapes described in the legendary Lord of the Rings books. The renowned author was just 19-years old when he explored Grindelwald’s Lauterbrunnen Valley in 1911.
Appalachian Trail, USA
The Appalachian Trail is the United States’ most popular hiking trail, and it is certainly the most challenging and exhausting one. Spanning over 3,540 kilometers, the Appalachian hike is a true test for the strength, endurance, and spirit of every hiker. This is not recommended for inexperienced hikers not just because of the length but because of the harsh weather and conditions that the Appalachian Trail is known for.
Pays Dogon, Mali
If your next travel plans include Africa, then you might want to consider including Mali in your trip – it is home to the Pays Dogon, a beautiful region that offers amazing hiking options. Keep in mind that the temperatures there are very extreme, and you need to be well-prepared to face the scorching weather conditions. It is recommended to plan your trip around the winter months since the temperatures are more bearable then – the summer months usually involve weather above 40 degrees Celsius.
Everest Base Camp, Nepal
Needless to say, climbing to the top of Mount Everest is one of the most extreme and dangerous trips you can undertake. However, you can still explore the beauties of Mount Everest without going to the very top – a hike to the Everest Base Camp is a great way to get a taste of the weather and conditions that the world’s highest peak has in store for brave travelers. Even though the Everest Base Camp is just 5,545 meters above sea level, the trip to it may still take up to three weeks to complete.
Inca Trail, Peru
The Inca Trail is one of the less challenging trails on the list, but it certainly offers some of the most breathtaking views and experiences. It is important to mention that access to the Inca Trail is strictly controlled, and you will need to book a tour guide in advance. Due to the high interest in this specific location, it might be difficult to find a tour guide in the last moment, so it is recommended to make the necessary preparations months in advance.
The Inca Trail is just a little more than 30 kilometers, and it is a perfect place to explore for inexperienced trekkers.
Cape Wrath Trail, Scotland
European hikers have lots of travel options when it comes to the United Kingdom. If you find yourself in the region and you are prepared for some hiking experiences, then make sure to explore the Cape Wrath Trail in Scotland. Despite not being very long, just a bit over 300 kilometers, it features very challenging terrain – even experienced trekkers may take more than 20 days to complete the trip.
Desert Trek to Petra, Jordan
The Kingdom of Petra is one of the most desired tourist destinations, and many people hope to get at least one chance to visit in their lifetime. Of course, it is up to you to determine, which route you will take – the comfortable and air-conditioned bus, or the exhausting 80km hike that you will take you through the desert’s harsh weather conditions? If you are all about adventure, then the Desert Trek to Petra in Jordan is certainly an opportunity to look into it.
Indian Himalayas, India
If you are looking for a Mountain Trip, then you do not necessarily need to go for the most popular destinations like Everest or the Alps. The Indian Himalayas offer a breathtaking, 24-day long adventure that will take hikers through harsh terrain, challenging climbs, and dangerous cliffs.