Hiking offers a chance to escape into nature and explore some of the most breathtaking landscapes the world has to offer. From towering mountain peaks to lush forests and serene coastlines, these trails wind through pristine environments, each offering its own unique beauty and challenge. Whether you’re seeking a peaceful walk or a challenging adventure, these hiking paths showcase the stunning variety of nature. Each trail invites you to connect with the wilderness and experience unforgettable views along the way. Here are 19 trails that promise to leave you in awe of the natural world.
Tongariro Alpine Crossing, New Zealand
Known as one of the world’s finest day hikes, the Tongariro Alpine Crossing offers a diverse landscape of volcanic peaks, emerald lakes, and thermal steam vents. This trail stretches 12 miles and takes you through dramatic terrain with views of active volcanoes. Along the way, hikers experience breathtaking views of Mount Ngauruhoe, also known as Mount Doom from the Lord of the Rings. The route passes vividly colored lakes formed by ancient lava flows. With well-marked paths, it’s accessible to many, though the changing weather requires careful preparation. A trek through this unique wilderness feels like stepping into another world.
Kalalau Trail, Hawaii, USA
The Kalalau Trail on Kauai’s Nā Pali Coast presents a stunning 11-mile hike through lush valleys, towering sea cliffs, and remote beaches. Though it starts gently, the path quickly becomes rugged, challenging hikers with narrow passes and sharp drops. Along the trail, you’ll encounter waterfalls cascading into verdant valleys and panoramic ocean views. Kalalau Beach at the end of the hike rewards you with a pristine, secluded stretch of sand. Wildlife, including tropical birds and monk seals, often make appearances. The remote beauty of this trail is worth the effort it demands.
Cinque Terre Trails, Italy
Winding through five colorful fishing villages perched on cliffs above the Mediterranean, the Cinque Terre Trails offer some of the most picturesque coastal views in Europe. The trails connect Monterosso, Vernazza, Corniglia, Manarola, and Riomaggiore, each offering its own charm. Olive groves and vineyards line the paths, with terraced hills creating an iconic backdrop. The azure waters below and pastel-colored buildings make the hike feel like a journey through a postcard. With varying difficulty levels, from gentle strolls to more challenging climbs, there’s something for everyone. As you walk, you’ll experience the authentic beauty of Italian coastal life.
Torres del Paine Circuit, Chile
In the heart of Patagonia, the Torres del Paine Circuit offers a 50-mile loop through one of the most spectacular wildernesses in the world. Snow-capped mountains, glaciers, and turquoise lakes dominate the landscape, creating awe-inspiring views at every turn. The trail weaves through valleys filled with vibrant wildflowers and past massive granite towers, which the park is named after. Wildlife sightings are common, including guanacos and Andean condors soaring overhead. For experienced hikers, the circuit offers a deep immersion into untamed nature. Weather in this region is unpredictable, making the journey all the more exhilarating.
Laugavegur Trail, Iceland
Iceland’s Laugavegur Trail is a 34-mile route through a landscape that feels almost otherworldly. Passing through volcanic deserts, glaciers, and steaming hot springs, this trail showcases the best of Iceland’s raw beauty. One moment you’re trekking across black volcanic plains, the next, you’re surrounded by emerald green valleys and bubbling geysers. The route offers stunning views of colorful rhyolite mountains and peaceful glacial rivers. Weather conditions can change rapidly, so proper gear is essential. This trail is a photographer’s dream, with its constantly shifting, dramatic scenery.
Zion Narrows, Utah, USA
The Zion Narrows hike in Utah takes you deep into a canyon carved by the Virgin River over millions of years. As you walk through the narrow passage, towering sandstone walls rise up to 1,000 feet above you. The unique aspect of this hike is that much of it involves wading or swimming through the river itself. The cool water contrasts beautifully with the warm hues of the canyon walls. Along the way, you’ll encounter waterfalls, hanging gardens, and serene pools. This trail is a unique adventure, providing an intimate connection with nature.
Inca Trail, Peru
Following the footsteps of ancient civilizations, the Inca Trail is a 26-mile journey that culminates at the mystical ruins of Machu Picchu. The trail winds through the Andes, passing through lush cloud forests and ancient archaeological sites along the way. Stone-paved paths, staircases, and tunnels carved by the Incas add a sense of history to the experience. At the Sun Gate, the first view of Machu Picchu at sunrise is unforgettable. This hike is both a cultural and physical journey, offering breathtaking views of mountains and valleys. Completing it is a bucket-list achievement for many adventurers.
West Coast Trail, British Columbia, Canada
The West Coast Trail on Vancouver Island stretches 47 miles along the rugged coastline of Pacific Rim National Park. Originally created as a lifesaving route for shipwreck survivors, the trail is now a haven for adventurous hikers. Towering forests, waterfalls, and cliffs plunge into the ocean, creating a dramatic landscape. The route includes challenging ladders, cable cars, and river crossings, making it an exciting trek for seasoned hikers. Wildlife sightings are common, from sea lions to bald eagles. With its pristine wilderness and rich history, this trail offers a truly immersive experience in nature.
Tour du Mont Blanc, France, Italy, and Switzerland
Circling the highest peak in Western Europe, the Tour du Mont Blanc is a 105-mile trail through three countries: France, Italy, and Switzerland. Along the way, hikers are treated to stunning alpine views, including glaciers, wildflower meadows, and charming mountain villages. The trail can be broken into segments for varying skill levels, with plenty of rest stops in cozy refuges. Crossing borders on foot adds to the trail’s appeal, offering cultural experiences alongside natural beauty. This hike is known for its panoramic views of Mont Blanc and the surrounding peaks. It’s a true alpine adventure.
Everest Base Camp Trek, Nepal
For those seeking a challenge, the trek to Everest Base Camp is a bucket-list adventure that offers more than just a view of the world’s tallest mountain. Starting from Lukla, the trail winds through picturesque Sherpa villages, rhododendron forests, and across high suspension bridges. As you climb higher, the air gets thinner, but the views become more breathtaking, with the Himalayas towering all around you. The trail culminates at the base of Mount Everest, where climbers prepare for their ascent. Even for those not attempting the summit, the trek offers an unforgettable experience. Altitude and endurance are key factors on this demanding trail.
Appalachian Trail, USA
Spanning over 2,180 miles from Georgia to Maine, the Appalachian Trail is a legendary long-distance hike through the eastern United States. While few tackle the entire trail, its various sections offer equally rewarding experiences. From lush forests to open mountain ridges, the scenery changes dramatically along the way. The trail passes through 14 states, allowing hikers to explore diverse ecosystems and communities. Wildlife is abundant, with black bears, white-tailed deer, and a variety of bird species often spotted. For many, hiking the Appalachian Trail is a life-changing journey, rich with both natural beauty and personal challenge.
Milford Track, New Zealand
Often referred to as the “finest walk in the world,” the Milford Track leads hikers through some of New Zealand’s most spectacular landscapes. This 33-mile trail meanders through lush rainforests, past cascading waterfalls, and over mountain passes. With Fiordland National Park’s misty peaks and serene valleys as a backdrop, every step feels like a scene from a fantasy. The highlight of the trail is undoubtedly the breathtaking views over Milford Sound. Only a limited number of hikers are allowed on the track at a time, ensuring that the natural beauty remains untouched. The Milford Track offers solitude and a deep connection with nature.
Alta Via 1, Italy
The Alta Via 1 is a classic hiking route through the Dolomites, known for its jagged peaks, rolling meadows, and charming alpine huts. This 75-mile trail takes you through limestone cliffs and verdant valleys, offering dramatic views at every turn. As you hike, you’ll pass remnants of World War I, adding a historical layer to the journey. The route is well-marked and dotted with refuges where you can stop for a warm meal and a night’s rest. The Dolomites’ unique beauty, with its pale mountains and striking landscapes, makes this hike unforgettable. It’s a challenging yet rewarding experience for any nature lover.
Mount Kilimanjaro, Tanzania
Climbing to the top of Africa’s tallest peak, Mount Kilimanjaro, is a once-in-a-lifetime adventure. The trek takes you through five distinct climate zones, from tropical rainforest at the base to arctic conditions at the summit. As you ascend, you’ll pass giant lobelias, alpine meadows, and glaciers, each zone offering its own unique beauty. The final push to the summit is physically demanding, but the sunrise view from Uhuru Peak is beyond spectacular. With no technical climbing involved, this hike is accessible to many, but it requires good fitness and determination. Kilimanjaro’s diverse landscapes make this trek an unforgettable journey.
Jotunheimen National Park, Norway
Norway’s Jotunheimen National Park is home to the country’s highest peaks and most rugged landscapes. The Besseggen Ridge hike is one of the park’s highlights, offering stunning views of deep blue lakes and towering mountains. The trail itself is challenging, with steep ascents and narrow ridges that require careful footing. However, the panoramic views of glacial valleys and sparkling fjords make the effort worthwhile. Along the way, you’ll pass through lush alpine meadows dotted with wildflowers. This hike provides an immersive experience in Norway’s untamed wilderness, perfect for those seeking adventure.
John Muir Trail, California, USA
The John Muir Trail is a 211-mile route through California’s Sierra Nevada, offering some of the most breathtaking mountain scenery in the United States. Named after the famous naturalist, the trail passes through Yosemite, Kings Canyon, and Sequoia National Parks. Along the way, hikers experience towering granite cliffs, alpine lakes, and ancient forests. The trail also passes through some of the highest terrain in the continental U.S., including the summit of Mount Whitney. Wildlife such as deer, marmots, and eagles can be seen along the route. With its serene landscapes, the John Muir Trail is a pilgrimage for nature lovers.
Annapurna Circuit, Nepal
The Annapurna Circuit is one of Nepal’s most popular long-distance treks, circling the mighty Annapurna Massif. The trail covers about 130 miles and takes you through diverse landscapes, from subtropical forests to high-altitude desert plains. The highlight of the trek is crossing the Thorong La Pass, one of the highest trekking passes in the world. Along the way, you’ll encounter charming villages, Buddhist monasteries, and views of towering Himalayan peaks. The cultural diversity of the region, combined with its natural beauty, makes this hike an unforgettable experience. Every step of the journey offers something new to discover.
Haute Route, France and Switzerland
The Haute Route is a high-level trek from Chamonix in France to Zermatt in Switzerland, offering spectacular views of the Alps. The trail winds through glaciers, alpine meadows, and high mountain passes, with the iconic Matterhorn as a constant backdrop. Along the way, you’ll pass through traditional Swiss villages and stay in mountain huts, where you can enjoy hearty meals and breathtaking scenery. The route is physically demanding but rewards hikers with panoramic views of snow-capped peaks and deep valleys. Whether covered in snow or blooming with wildflowers, the Haute Route is a must for any hiking enthusiast.
Salkantay Trek, Peru
An alternative to the Inca Trail, the Salkantay Trek offers a less crowded but equally breathtaking route to Machu Picchu. This 46-mile trek takes you past snow-capped peaks, cloud forests, and small Andean villages. The highlight is the view of the majestic Salkantay Mountain, one of the highest in Peru. The trail eventually descends into the lush jungle, where orchids and exotic birds add splashes of color. The final stretch takes you to the ancient ruins of Machu Picchu, where the sense of history is palpable. This trail is both a physical and spiritual journey through the heart of the Andes.
This article originally appeared on Rarest.org.
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