The 50 Best Hikes in the World

Fitz Roy Trek

Himalayan treks. Rocky Mountain trails. Countryside rambles. This mammoth list of the 50 best hikes in the world has something for everyone.


Choosing the world’s best hikes was a real challenge. It would be impossible for any one person to complete every trail there is in order to select the best, so I’ve collated hikes that stand out in terms of popularity, acclaim and natural beauty.

This list features classic Himalayan greats such as Everest Base Camp and the Annapurna Circuit; revered European treks such as the Tour de Mont Blanc and the Haute Route; US National Park favourites such as Half Dome and The Enchantments, and so much more.

In no particular order, here are 50 of the best hikes in the world.

Annapurna Circuit Trek

Location: Nepal | Distance: 108 miles (205 km) | Time: 17 days

Revered as one of Nepal’s classic treks, the Annapurna Circuit traverses the awe-inspiring Annapurna mountain range over the course of about 17 days. Beginning in the lush green villages of the Himalayan foothills, the route continues via dramatic gorges, Buddhist temples, the famous Thorong La Pass and, of course, all the major mountains of the Annapurna Massif.

Annapurna Circuit
Annapurna Circuit | Anad Chinurkar, Getty Images

Trolltunga Hike

Location: Norway | Distance: 17 miles (28 km) | Time: 1 day

The impressive rock formation of Trolltunga (Troll’s Tongue) might just be one of the most iconic images of Norway’s fjord lands. The hike to reach it is a demanding all-day round trip via muddy hills, rocky slopes and along cliff edges, but you are rewarded with sensational views across the surrounding mountains and of Ringedalsvatnet Lake below.

Trolltunga Hike Norway
Trolltunga | Kamchatka

Tiger Leaping Gorge Trail

Location: China | Distance: 16 miles (26 km) | Time: 1 day

The Tiger Leaping Gorge is one of the deepest and most impressive gorges in the world — there are 3900 metres between the rushing Jinsha River and the snowcapped mountains above. The creatively named Tiger Leaping Gorge Trail is one of the most revered hikes in Southwest China, taking hikers through the heart of the gorge, passing traditional villages and terraced rice fields on its way.

Tiger Leaping Gorge
Tiger Leaping Gorge | aphotostory, Getty Images

Arctic Circle Trail

Location: Greenland | Distance: 99 miles (160 km) | Time: 9 – 11 days

This remote trail takes hikers on a journey through the wilderness of the Arctic. Beginning in the small village of Kangerlussuaq, the Arctic Circle Trail encompasses some of Greenland’s most expansive landscapes. A real highlight is crossing the Arctic Circle itself, where hikers can feel the tundra in its purest form. The trail also offers the chance to see the Northern lights, and the midnight sun in the summer. Look out for musk oxen, Arctic hares, and reindeer.

Arctic Circle Trail
The Arctic Circle Trail | Paul_Christener, Getty Images

Cinque Terre Hike

Location: Italy | Distance: Depends on route | Time: 1 day

The Cinque Terre is made up of five pastel-coloured fishing villages perched over the sea on the Italian Riviera. The hiking trails here are often regarded as some of the most beautiful in Italy, as they take you on scenic strolls along the coastline and between the pretty villages. There are 48 hiking trails on the Cinque Terre coastline, but the Sentiero Azzurro, or “Blue Trail” is the most famous, as it spans the length of all five villages.

Cinque Terre, Italy
Cinque Terre | Agrati Barasia, Getty Images

Milford Track

Location: New Zealand | Distance: 33 miles (53 km) | Time: 5 days

Easily taking its place as one of the best hikes in the world, the 53-kilometre Milford Track begins at the head of Lake Te Anau, before making its way via valleys carved by glaciers, through temperate rainforests and past cascading waterfalls. This hike really shows off the best of Fiordland, one of New Zealand’s most legendary National Parks.

Milford Track
Milford Track | anothersteph, Getty Images

Torres del Paine W Trek

Location: Patagonia, Chile | Distance: 37 miles (60 km) | Time: 5 – 6 days

The W Trek is one of the most famous hikes in Patagonia, taking you to three highlights of the Torres del Paine National Park: Valle Francés, Base of the Towers and Glacier Grey. It runs up three valleys, creating the W shape that gives it its name, illustrating snowy peaks, glaciers and sky-blue lakes on its way.

Torres Del Paine W Trek - one of the best hikes in the world
Torres del Pain W Trek| Scott Biales, Getty Images

Bay of Fires

Location: Tasmania, Australia | Distance: 31 miles (50 km) | Time: 4 – 5 days

Named after the orange-hued lichen that covers the boulders along the shoreline, the dramatic Bay of Fires stretches for about 50 kilometres along the Tasmanian coastline. It’s a unique sight to behold, which is why the Bay of Fires hike has easily made itself onto this list.

Bay of Fires, Tasmania
Bay of Fires | tobiasjo, Getty Images

Fitz Roy Trek

Location: Patagonia, Argentina | Distance: 36 miles (58 km) | Time: 4 – 7 days

The beautiful Fitz Roy trek showcases quintessential Patagonian scenery, including jagged peaks, icy glaciers and electric-blue lakes. As the name would suggest, you’ll also get very close to Mount Fitz Roy on your hike — a mighty mountain which is extremely technically difficult to climb and only recommended for the advanced.

Fitz Roy Trek
Fitz Roy Trek | Sean Shapiro, Getty Images

West Coast Trail

Location: British Columbia, Canada | Distance: 47 miles (75 km) | Time: 5 – 7 days

Canada’s West Coast Trail winds its way through some of the most rugged and beautiful wilderness on the west coast of Vancouver Island. The trail is known for its challenging terrain, remote location, and the breathtaking scenery that surrounds it: rocky beaches, dense rainforests and the famous Juan de Fuca Falls.

West Coast Trail Canada
West Coast Trail | philsajosen, Getty Images

Yosemite Grand Traverse

Location: California, USA | Distance: 60 miles (96 km) | Time: 6 – 7 days

The Yosemite Grand Traverse takes you deep into one of the most beautiful national parks in the United States. The trail winds its way through a diverse landscape of towering granite cliffs, cascading waterfalls, and lush meadows, offering an ever-changing panorama of natural beauty. You’ll pass some of Yosemite’s most iconic landmarks, such as Half Dome and El Capitan, and will also have the opportunity to spot black bears, deer and marmots.

Yosemite Grand Traverse
Yosemite Grand Traverse | Kamchatka

Tour du Mont Blanc

Location: France, Italy and Switzerland | Distance: 110 miles (170 km) | Time: 8 – 12 days

Perhaps the most iconic hike in the Alps, the Tour du Mont Blanc encircles the mighty Mont Blanc massif, passing through France, Switzerland and Italy on its way. This is a challenging hike, requiring good levels of fitness and experience with multi-day trekking, but the rewards are worth it. Expect to encounter alpine meadows, glaciers, and charming mountain villages.

Tour du Mont Blanc
Tour du Mont Blanc | SanderStock, Getty Images

Kilimanjaro Trek

Location: Tanzania | Distance: Depends on the route | Time: 5 – 9 days

Mount Kilimanjaro: the highest mountain in Africa, and the highest free-standing mountain in the world. There are several routes to its summit but the most popular options are the Marangu, Machame, and Lemosho routes. As you climb, you’ll pass through vast grasslands and giant cacti fields, before reaching the snowy top. Expect sweeping views of the African savannah and across Kenya and Tanzania.

Kilimanjaro Trek
Kilimanjaro | kavram, Getty Images

Tongariro Alpine Crossing

Location: New Zealand | Distance: 12 miles (19 km) | Time: 1 day

The Tongariro Alpine Crossing is considered one of the best day hikes in the world, probably due to the incredible diversity of scenery encountered. The trail takes hikers through the Mangatepopo Valley, showcasing views of three volcanoes: Mount Tongariro, Mount Ngauruhoe and Mount Ruapehu. Hikers will also pass by hot springs, fumaroles, and the Emerald Lakes, which are three crater lakes of different colours, formed by volcanic activity.

Tongariro Alpine Crossing
Tongariro Alpine Crossing | Will Flower, Getty Images

Everest Base Camp Trek

Location: Nepal | Distance: 80 miles (130 km) | Time: 12 – 14 days

The Everest Base Camp Trek is one of the most famous hikes in the world and sits firmly on the top of many bucket lists. Some might argue that overtourism has ruined the trek, but this doesn’t take away from the fact that you’ll reach the base camp of the world’s highest mountain. Expect a challenging 2-week walk, but with epic views and a strong sense of accomplishment to compensate.

Everest Base Camp Trek
Everest Base Camp | arsgera

Appalachian Trail

Location: USA | Distance: 2,200 miles (3,500 km) | Time: 5 – 7 months

The Appalachian Trail is a legendary long-distance hike that extends approximately 2,200 miles through the eastern United States, stretching from Springer Mountain in Georgia to Mount Katahdin in Maine. Passing through a whopping 14 states on its way, it truly is an incredible journey. To complete the trail in one hit is a huge accomplishment and one that many long-distance thru-hikers aspire to obtain.

Appalachian Trail
Appalachian Trail | WendyOlsenPhotography, Getty Images

The Narrows

Location: Utah, USA | Distance: 16 miles (26 km) | Time: 1 – 2 days

The Narrows is a popular hike in Zion National Park, known for its beautiful and — unsurprisingly — narrow canyons. This hike is unique in that you must walk upstream via the Virgin River. This involves walking, wading and sometimes swimming through the river as it winds its way through the canyon walls.

The Narrows, Utah
The Narrows | Joecho-16, Getty Images

Trek to Petra

Location: Jordan | Distance: 47 miles (76 km) | Time: 5 – 6 days

Enjoy the best of what Jordan has to offer on a 5-day trek along the Jordan Trail. You’ll cross the desert and pass through the narrow canyons that guard the approach to Petra, before arriving at the ancient city itself. It’s not hard to see why Petra is one of the 7 Wonders of the World — half-hidden within the sandstone mountains of southern Jordan, the 2000-year-old city makes for a magnificent finale to a hike.

Petra Trek
Petra | Adriano Ongaro, Getty Images

Inca Trail

Location: Peru | Distance: 26 miles (43 km) | Time: 4 – 5 days

The Inca Trail to Machu Picchu might just be the most iconic hike in South America. The four-day trek passes through an interesting mix of the region’s ruins, mountains and cloud forests, before arriving at the magnificent Machu Picchu itself. Once you catch your first glimpse of the ancient citadel, you’ll know it was all worthwhile.

Inca Trail
The Inca Trail | LoggerWiggler, Pixabay

Pacific Crest Trail

Location: USA and Canada | Distance: 2,650 miles (4,264 km) | Time: 4 – 6 months

The Pacific Crest Trail, fondly referred to as the PCT, is one of the most challenging and iconic long-distance hikes in the world. It runs for about 2,650 miles through the western United States, from the border with Mexico to the border with Canada. On its way, it passes through the deserts of Southern California and the Sierra Nevada Mountains, as well as some of the west’s best National Parks such as Yosemite, Crater Lake, Mount Rainier and North Cascades.

Pacific Crest Trail
Pacific Crest Trail | eppicphotography, Getty Images

Grand Canyon Rim-to-Rim

Location: Arizona, USA | Distance: 24 miles (38 km) | Time: 2 – 3 days

Hiking the Grand Canyon rim-to-rim is a bucket list adventure for many. Over the course of nearly 24 miles, hikers descend below the level of the rim, cross the mighty Colorado River, and climb back up the other side. It’s challenging, it’s exhilarating, and it is truly an unforgettable experience.

Grand Canyon Rim To Rim
Grand Canyon Rim-to-Rim | Straystone, Getty Images

Chilkoot Trail

Location: Canada and Alaska | Distance: 33 miles (53 km) | Time: 3 – 5 days

The Chilkoot Trail is a 33-mile-long hiking trail that runs from Dyea, Alaska to Bennett, British Columbia, Canada. It’s steep and strenuous, passing through landscapes such as coastal rainforests, glaciers and alpine tundra. Hikers will also encounter the “Golden Stairs”, a steep 1,000-foot climb regarded as the most challenging part of the trail. Interestingly, the trail was used during the Klondike Gold Rush in the late 1800s.

Chilkoot Trail
Chilkoot Trail | imagexphoto, Getty Images

Dolomites Alta Via 1

Location: Italy | Distance: 75 miles (120 km) | Time: 8 – 10 days

The Alta Via 1 is one of Italy’s most famous hiking trails. It runs through the stunning Dolomites mountain range, passing through beautiful and dramatic landscapes, including the Lago di Braies, the famous Tre Cime di Lavaredo, and scenic mountain villages such as Cortina d’Ampezzo. The trail is well-marked and maintained, and hikers will have access to mountain huts and shelters along the way.

Dolomites Alta Via 1
Dolomites Alta Via 1 | Radu79, Getty Images

Picos De Europa Traverse

Location: Spain| Distance: 60 miles (96 km) | Time: 6 – 8 days

The Picos de Europa Traverse is a long-distance trek that runs through the mountain range of the same name, located in the northern part of Spain. It’s one of the most challenging treks in the Spanish mountains and passes through some truly beautiful and dramatic landscapes. The trail is well-marked and maintained, and hikers will have access to mountain huts and shelters along the way.

Picos de Europa
Picos de Europa | luisrsphoto, Getty Images

Overland Track

Location: Tasmania, Australia | Distance: 40 miles (65 km) | Time: 6 days

The Overland Track is a long-distance bushwalking trail that will take you from Cradle Mountain to Lake St Clair through Tasmania’s wilderness. It’s one of the most popular and challenging hikes in Tasmania, offering stunning views of alpine plateaus, craggy peaks and open moorland.

Overland Track, Tasmania
Overland Track | S0L0, Getty Images

Quilotoa Loop

Location: Ecuador | Distance: 25 miles (40 km) | Time: 3 days

The Quilotoa Loop is one of the most popular hiking trails in Ecuador. The loop starts and ends in the small town of Zumbahua, and passes through several villages, including Chugchilán, Isinlivi, and Sigchos. The trail takes hikers through high-altitude Andean grasslands, subtropical forests, and rugged mountains. The real highlight, though, is the Quilotoa volcano — a massive crater lake that offers striking views.

Quilotoa Loop, Ecuador
Quilotoa Loop | PatricioHidalgoP, Getty Images

Kalalau Trail

Location: Hawaii, USA | Distance: 11 miles (18 km) | Time: 1 day

Firmly taking its place as one of the most beautiful day hikes in Hawaii, the Kalalau Trail snakes along the gorgeous Nā Pali Coast, a rugged and remote area known for its steep cliffs, lush valleys, and cascading waterfalls. Keep your eyes peeled for monk seals, humpback whales and tropical birds on your way. You’ll also pass several beaches while on the trail, so make sure to pack a swimsuit!

Kalalau Trail, Hawaii
Kalalau Trail | Sven Bannuscher, Getty Images

Santa Cruz Trek

Location: Peru | Distance: 31 miles (50 km) | Time: 4 days

The Santa Cruz trek is a beautiful route in the Cordillera Blanca mountain range in Peru, illustrating spectacular views of snow-capped peaks, glaciers, and alpine lakes. The highest point of the trek is the Punta Union Pass at 4,750 m — it’s recommended to hire a local guide, as they’ll be familiar with the route and can help with acclimatization to the altitude. The trek passes through small Andean villages, offering a glimpse into the local culture and way of life.

Santa Cruz Trek
Santa Cruz Trek | Ludmila Růžičková, Getty Images

GR20

Location: Corsica, France | Distance: 112 miles (180 km) | Time: 15 days

The GR20 is a hiking trail that runs through the island of Corsica, France. It’s considered one of the most difficult long-distance trails in Europe, with steep and rugged terrain, rocky paths, and steep ascents and descents. GR20 starts in the north of the island in Calenzana and ends in the south in Conca. As well as alpine meadows, rocky peaks, and dense forests, the trail also offers epic views of the Mediterranean Sea and the island’s rugged coastline.

GR20
GR20 | salajean, Getty Images

Routeburn Track

Location: New Zealand | Distance: 20 miles (32 km) | Time: 3 days

The Routeburn Track is located on New Zealand’s South Island within the Te Wahipounamu World Heritage Area and the Milford Sound-Fiordland National Park. The trail starts in Mt Aspiring National Park and ends in Fiordland National Park, passing through the Routeburn Valley and over the Harris Saddle. Expect to see alpine meadows, beech forests, and glistening lakes, as well as a variety of native birdlife such as Kea parrots and crested penguins.

Routeburn Track
Routeburn Track

The Haute Route

Location: France and Switzerland | Distance: 125 miles (200 km) | Time: 12 – 15 days

The Haute Route, also known as the “High Route,” runs from Chamonix in France to Zermatt in Switzerland. It’s one of the most famous and challenging treks in the Alps, with steep, rugged terrain and rocky paths. It offers an unparalleled alpine experience, with breathtaking views of snow-capped peaks, glaciers, and high meadows, as well as of some of the Alps’ highest and most iconic peaks, including Mont Blanc, Matterhorn, and the Grand Combin.

Haute Route
Haute Route | Bartek Naprawa, Getty Images

Kungsleden (The King’s Trail)

Location: Sweden | Distance: 270 miles (440 km) | Time: 20 – 30 days

Kungsleden, also known as the “King’s Trail,” is easily the most famous trek in Sweden. The trail starts in Abisko in the north, and ends in Hemavan in the south, passing through the Vindelfjällen Nature Reserve and the Stora Sjöfallet National Park. Along the way, hikers will have the opportunity to spot wildlife such as reindeer, elk, and birds of prey. It’s a must-do for keen hikers wanting to explore the vast wilderness of Swedish Lapland.

Kungsleden, Sweden
Kungsleden | Cavan Images, Getty Images

Laugavegurinn

Location: Iceland | Distance: 34 miles (55 km) | Time: 2 – 4 days

Laugavegurinn takes hikers through some of Iceland’s most stunning landscapes. The trail starts in the Landmannalaugar area, which is known for its colourful rhyolite mountains and hot springs. As the trail continues, the landscape illustrates black sands, glaciers, and volcanic deserts, before finishing in the wild Thórsmörk valley. Keep your eyes peeled for Arctic foxes, reindeer and other wild animals along the way.

Laugavegurinn, Iceland
Laugavegurinn | LICreate, Getty Images

West Highland Way

Location: Scotland | Distance: 96 miles (154 km) | Time: 7 – 8 days

The beautiful West Highland Way meanders from Milngavie, just north of Glasgow, to Fort William in the Scottish Highlands. The trail passes through some of Scotland’s most dramatic and picturesque landscapes, including Loch Lomond, Trossachs National Park, Rannoch Moor, and Glencoe. Overall, the West Highland Way is a challenging but rewarding hike that enables walkers to experience some of Scotland’s best natural highlights.

West Highland Way
West Highland Way | Abi28l, Getty Images

North Drakensberg Traverse

Location: South Africa | Distance: 40 miles (65 km) | Time: 4 – 6 days

Hikers on the North Drakensberg Traverse will be treated to some of the most beautiful and varied landscapes in South Africa. The trail illustrates the rugged Drakensberg mountains, including its rolling hills, verdant valleys, and high peaks. One of the hike’s highlights is the Tugela Gorge, which is one of the deepest gorges in the world. The view from the top offers an amazing panorama of the Drakensberg, the Tugela River, and the Royal Natal National Park.

North Drakensberg Traverse
North Drakensberg Traverse | nicosmit, Canva

Camino de Santiago

Location: France, Spain and Portugal | Distance: 500 miles (780 km) | Time: 30 – 35 days

The Camino de Santiago is a pilgrimage route that leads to the Cathedral of Santiago de Compostela in Galicia, northwest Spain. There are a few variations of the route, but the most popular is the Camino Francés which starts in Saint-Jean-Pied-de-Port in France. The Camino is physically and mentally demanding, but also incredibly rewarding. There’s a real sense of community on this trail, as you’ll meet and be inspired by people from all over the world.

Camino de Santiago
Camino de Santiago | poliki, Getty Images

La Ciudad Perdida (The Lost City Trek)

Location: Colombia | Distance: 46 miles (75 km) | Time: 4 – 5 days

The Lost City Trek, also known as the “Ciudad Perdida Trek”, is a multi-day hike in Colombia’s Sierra Nevada mountains. The trek takes hikers through dense jungle, over steep mountain passes, and past indigenous communities to the ancient ruins of the “Lost City”, a pre-Columbian archaeological site. The trek is fairly challenging, but the rewards are worth the effort, as the Lost City offers an incredible insight into the region’s ancient indigenous culture.

La Ciudad Perdida
La Ciudad Perdida | traffic_analyzer, Getty Images

Hadrian’s Wall Path

Location: England | Distance: 84 miles (135 km) | Time: 6 – 7 days

Hadrian’s Wall Path is an 84-mile hiking trail that follows the ruins of the ancient Hadrian’s Wall. The trail provides a unique insight into the Roman Empire’s legacy in Britain, as it passes through numerous Roman forts, settlements and landmarks, along with charming villages and countryside. The trail takes about a week to complete, however, it can be broken down into small sections for those who prefer shorter walks.

Hadrians Wall Path
Hadrian’s Wall Path | William Nilly, Photo Images

The Otter Trail

Location: South Africa | Distance: 26 miles (44 km) | Time: 5 days

The Otter Trail on South Africa’s Eastern Cape runs along the rugged coastline of the Tsitsikamma National Park. The trail illustrates lush indigenous forests, secluded beaches and crystal-clear rivers on its way, as well as wildlife such as the Cape clawless otter — the namesake of the trail — and dolphins, whales and seals. The trail is limited to 12 hikers per day to protect the environment, so it’s necessary to book well in advance.

The Otter Trail
The Otter Trail | Richard Mourant, Getty Images

Mount Toubkal

Location: Morocco | Distance: Depends on route | Time: 2 – 5 days

At 4,167 metres, Mount Toubkal is the highest peak in North Africa. There are a few hiking routes to its summit but the most popular begins in the small mountain village of Imlil and follows a trail through Berber villages and terraced rice fields up to the rocky top. Trekking Mount Toubkal is a fantastic way to experience the beauty and culture of rural Morocco.

Mount Toubkal
Mount Toubkal | soren-asher, Getty Images

Ala Kul Trek

Location: Kyrgyzstan | Distance: 34 miles (55 km) | Time: 3 – 4 days

The milky-blue Ala Kul is one of the most beautiful lakes in Kyrgyzstan, if not the most beautiful. It sits at 3560m high, so can only be reached by trekking up into the mountains, where you’ll find it nestled amongst the snowy peaks of the Terskey Alatau range. The Ala Kul trek is a challenging yet thrilling hike, taking you through some of the most beautiful coniferous forests, rolling grasslands and alpine peaks of the Karakol Valley.

Ala Kul Trek

Snowman Trek

Location: Bhutan | Distance: 217 miles (350 km) | Time: 3 – 4 weeks

The Snowman Trek in Bhutan is considered one of the most challenging and remote treks in the world. It takes trekkers through real rugged terrain: over high mountain passes, and through dense alpine forests. The trek is named for the ‘snowman’ peaks that it passes, which are some of the highest and most difficult-to-reach peaks in the Bhutan Himalayas. The Snowman Trek is ideal for experienced hikers keen to experience Bhutan’s beautiful wilderness and culture.

Snowman Trek, Bhutan
Snowman Trek | Necip Yanmaz, Getty Images

Angels Landing

Location: Utah, USA | Distance: 5 miles (9 km) | Time: Half a day

Angels Landing in Zion National Park is a strenuous hike that takes you to the top of a narrow ridge, from where you’ll witness breathtaking views of the surrounding canyon. The last half-mile of the hike involves a steep climb using chains and ledges, making it a challenging yet rewarding experience. The panoramic views at the top of Angels Landing are truly spectacular — it’s no wonder that this is considered one of the most beautiful hikes in the United States.

Angels Landing, Utah
Angels Landing | Julien NICOLAS, Getty Images

The Enchantments

Location: Washington, USA | Distance: 19 miles (31 km) | Time: 1 day

Located in the Cascade Range of Washington state, the Enchantments is a beautiful alpine area known for its stunning granite peaks, sparkling lakes and wildflower meadows. Unsurprisingly, the Enchantments is popular among hikers looking to enjoy Washington’s wilderness. A great day hike here is to follow the trail around Enchantment Lakes, a chain of crystal-clear lakes surrounded by towering peaks.

The Enchantments. Washington
The Enchantments | Francois Aspesberro, Getty Images

It’s not hard to see where this hike gets its name — it really is enchanting.

Half Dome

Location: California, USA | Distance: 14 miles (22.5 km) | Time: 1 day

The Half Dome hike in Yosemite National Park is a challenging 14-mile round-trip that takes hikers to the summit of the iconic Half Dome rock formation. The last 400 feet of the hike involve climbing steep granite steps using metal cables for assistance. The hike offers spectacular views of the park and requires a permit to complete. It is considered one of the most strenuous day hikes in the park and should only be attempted by experienced hikers in good physical condition.

Half Dome Hike
Half Dome | MariuszBlach, Getty Images

Lac Blanc

Location: France | Distance: 7 miles (11 km) | Time: 1 day

The picturesque Lac Blanc (White Lake) offers exceptional views over the Mont Blanc Massif and the Aiguilles Rouges. Lac Blanc sits at 2352 metres above sea level, but this height barely compares to the surrounding summits and puts the mountain range’s magnitude into perspective. It’s no surprise that a hike to Lac Blanc is a must-do in the region.

Lac Blanc Hike

Helvellyn via Striding Edge

Location: England | Distance: 7 miles (11 km) | Time: 1 day

Helvellyn and Striding Edge need little introduction as they are perhaps the best-known duo in England’s Lake District. At 950m tall, Helvellyn is the third highest peak in England, and as you would expect from such height, the view from the top is spectacular. While Helvellyn alone is a superb mountain, the epic approach along Striding Edge makes it one of the best hikes in not just the Lake District, but the whole world.

Helvellyn

Simien Mountains

Location: Ethiopia | Distance: Depends on route | Time: Depends on route

Ethiopia’s Simien Mountains are excellent for hiking. The range is rugged and vast, home to many endangered species such as the Ethiopian wolf and the gelada monkey. The mountains are home to a variety of trails that range in difficulty, from relatively easy day hikes to challenging multi-day treks. Some of the most popular hikes include the trek to Ras Dashen, the highest peak in Ethiopia at 4,620m, and the trek to the scenic Sankaber camp, which offers gorgeous valley views.

Simien Mountains
Simien Mountains | BremecR, Getty Images

Salkantay Trek

Location: Peru | Distance: 46 miles (74 km) | Time: 4 – 5 days

Just like the Inca Trail, the Salkantay Trek culminates at the ancient Incan ruins of Machu Picchu. However, the Salkantay Trek is not as well-known as the Inca Trail, and so offers a less-crowded alternative. It’s a fantastic way to experience the culture and natural beauty of the Andes region; expect snow-capped mountains and rugged terrain, plus plenty of llamas and vicuñas.

Salkantay Trek
Salkantay Trek | Ninninn, Getty Images

Mount Kinabalu

Location: Malaysian Borneo | Distance: 11 miles (18 km)| Time: 2 days

Mount Kinabalu is the highest mountain in Malaysia and Borneo at 4,095 metres (13,435 feet). It’s no surprise, then, that many keen trekkers aspire to reach the summit while travelling in Malaysian Borneo. The hike typically takes two days, with climbers staying overnight at a mountain hut before making the final ascent to the summit. The trail is known for its stunning and varied landscapes, which include lush rainforests, rocky terrains, and alpine meadows.

Mount Kinabalu
Mount Kinabalu | Weera Sunpaarsa, Getty Images

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15 Comments

  1. Awesome post and I didn’t know I needed this post!!! I do these Garmin challenges and a lot of these hikes are the challenges – thanks for bringing it to life for me!

  2. I have done a whopping 2 of these hikes. My husband and I love to hike and hope to branch out to more international hikes in the future.

  3. Hiking is hands down my favorite activity (traveling is second). Thanks for this awesome resource!!

  4. Wow! These are all stunning! I’ve only done the Kalalau Trail, and it was absolutely amazing! Now I have a lot more to look forward to 🙂

  5. Incredible collection. I can’t wait to share this with my hubs…who actually is currently on the West Coast Trail as I write this! We hike a lot and have done several here…but even though we are getting older there are many more we hope to do. Thanks for the inspiration!

    1. Hi Laureen, that’s great that you’ve managed to do many of these already! I hope your husband is enjoying the West Coast Trail and that you’ve got many upcoming adventures planned 😊

  6. What a great list of all the amazing hikes to see this world’s beauty 😍. Thanks! Many are now on the list ❤️

  7. I wish you’d included the Roof of Japan Trek from Tateyama to Kamikochi. In my opinion it is one of the best treks in the world. I’ve done it a couple of times. This Mountain route, along with the full Annapurna Circuit, will live with me always.

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