40 Best Hikes in the World

Are you seeking a new adventure? Few things are more exhilarating than reaching the summit of a towering mountain or completing a challenging hike through breathtaking scenery. For the adventurous traveler, there is no shortage of fantastic hiking trails to explore all around the world.

Hiking is a great way to explore new places and a fantastic workout that can leave you feeling refreshed and invigorated. Not only will hiking give you an adrenaline rush like no other activity can, but it’s also a great way to see new places and meet interesting people.

From the peaks of the Alps to the canyons of the American Southwest, these are the most spectacular hiking spots that you absolutely must visit. If you’re looking for an epic hiking experience, we have a list of the 40 best hiking trails in the world.

Located in the most beautiful places in the world, they offer something special and unique for hikers of all experience levels. From glaciers to rainforests and mountain tops to the Grand Canyon National Park, these trails will provide you with an unforgettable experience.

Remember: Hiking should always be done in groups, so plan a trip with at least three to four people or families. Mountains are one of the most beautiful things offered by nature and are majestic to look out for.

Pack your bags and boots and prepare for the woods because here are some of the world’s most breathtaking hiking spots that you must visit.

Most Breathtaking Hiking Trails In The World

1. Inca Trail – Peru

Located in Peru, this is one of the most popular hiking trails in South America. The distance of this trail is just 26 miles (43  km) long. The trail takes you through some of Peru’s most stunning scenery, including the jungle, mountains, and ancient ruins of the Inca civilization. The trail’s final destination has been declared as one of the seven modern wonders in the world, Machu Picchu, known as the ‘lost city’ of Inca.

The Inca trail takes the average hiker 4 days to complete. The best time to hike the Inca Trail is from April to October. The weather is usually dry this time of year, making for more pleasant hiking conditions.

However, be aware that the trail can be crowded during peak season. If you’re looking to avoid the crowds, try visiting during the shoulder season (April-May or September-October). You won’t want to miss out on this beautiful place to visit.

The Inca Trail is one of the most popular hiking trails in South America, and it’s easy to see why. The trail can sometimes be challenging, but it’s relatively easy for the average hiker.

Most people choose to hike the Inca Trail with a guide, and plenty of tour companies offer guided tours. The trail is open year-round, but the best time to hike is from April to October when the weather is dry and sunny.

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2. Appalachian Trail – United States

The Appalachian Trail is located in the United States and spans from Georgia to Maine. It is a pretty long trek at 2,190 miles. However, the Appalachian Trail is a spectacular hike covering 14 states, including 8 different national forests and 6 national parks.

Appalachian Trail is a multi-day hiking trail that takes around 5-6 months to finish. People on this trail generally enjoy hiking in the daylight and returning to their respective destinations at night. Please note that this hike is more suitable for experienced hikers.

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3. Kilimanjaro – Tanzania

Mount Kilimanjaro is the highest mountain in Africa and the tallest single free-standing mountain above sea level in the world. The mountain is breathtaking to watch due to its beautiful snowcap.

It is located in the Kilimanjaro National Park of Tanzania. It is around 19,300 feet high. You’ll need to mentally and physically prepare to explore this mountain.

4. Kungsleden (King’s Trail) – Sweden

Kungsleden is situated in Sweden and covers around 270 miles (440 km). It takes approximately 10-12 days to cover the distance. It is also called the ‘King Trail’ due to its spectacular mountain view and remote but easy accessibility.

The mountain stations offer you a great range of accommodations and eating facilities. The trail is best visited during June and July. So, if you want to experience the unique Arctic landscape, Kungsleden is the place to visit.

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5. Cinque Terre National Park – Italy

This famous national park is located in northern Italy, and the Ligurian Coast here gives you the best view of the rocky coastline. The Cinque Terre is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the world’s most magnificent hikes. There are two fantastic hiking trails: the ‘High Path,’ which is around 22 miles, and the ‘Blue Path,’ which covers around 7.5 miles.

The best time to go hiking here is between March and October. If you get tired, you can easily catch a train at any trail station to reach your destination. Though many towns of Blue Path were destroyed by floods several years ago, the trial is still fully functional.

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6. Petra Hiking Trail – Jordan

Petra is situated in Jordan and covers around 8 miles. It generally takes about 3 to 4 hours to cover the trail distance, including some stoppage time at the various landmarks and sites along the way. It is one of the best hiking trails in the Middle East and is full of rocky terrains and ridges. During your hiking session, don’t forget to visit and explore the famous temples and tombs. The best time to visit here is between October to April.

7. Fitz Roy Trail – Argentina

The Fitz Roy trek is a 15-mile-long hike trail located in Patagonia, Argentina. It takes around 3-4 days to cover the trail. Here you can explore the beautiful Los Glaciares National Park, where you will see views of forests, waterfalls, glaciers, and the famous Fitz Roy Massif. The best time to visit this place is in February and March.

8. Fiordland National Park – New Zealand

The Fiordland National Park has diversified options for hiking. It is located on the South Island of New Zealand. The Milford Track (33.2 miles) is one of the most popular hiking trails. Though both tracks are impressive, Milford can be more crowded than the other most popular hiking route, the Routeburn Track.

Milford Track is one of the most beautiful places in the world not just for hiking. It’s hard to believe the landscape is real. The long hike will hardly seem 33 miles as you gawk at the incredible mountain scenery throughout the entire journey.

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9. Scottish National Trail – United Kingdom

The Scottish National Trail is a long-distance journey through Scottish terrain in the United Kingdom. The route covers a distance of around 528 miles (864  km) and is comprised of several established trails covering scenic and historic locations.

The Scottish National Trail route covers the length of Scotland from Kirk Yetholm to Cape Wrath. The routes are broken into sections averaging around 20 km.

The Scottish National Trail is open to walkers of all abilities and is suitable for those who want to walk on varied and enjoyable terrain. The routes are marked with waymarkers, and all routes are signposted with a route number.

10. Sierra High Route – United States

The Sierra High Route, or SHR, is one of the most famous and challenging hikes in the world. The trail covers almost 195 miles and takes 15-17 days to complete. During this time, you will hike through two national parks and two wildlife areas, passing through a number of beautiful landscapes, including Yosemite Valley, Death Valley, and Lake Tahoe.

The Sierra High Route is one of the most popular hikes in the USA, but it’s also one of the most challenging. It’s not for the faint-hearted: you should be in good physical shape. You won’t want to miss out on this one as it offers some of the most beautiful landscapes in the country.

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11. Laugavegur – Iceland

Though the name is quite complex to pronounce, this fantastic hiking trail gives you beautiful views of volcanic landscapes, rocks, and the high peak mountains. It is a multi-day hike in Iceland and covers 35 miles, which hikers are generally able to complete in 2-4 days. Months between June and September are the best to visit.

The Laugavegur Trail in Iceland begins from Reykjavik to the Thórsmörk Nature Reserve. The trail is of moderate difficulty and is known to be some of the most scenic in the country. You’ll have the chance to walk through colorful mountain landscapes, black lava fields, and gorgeous hot springs.  The trail is very well maintained and is suitable for those with an average level of fitness.

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12. The Long Range Traverse –  Canada

This trekking path is located in Canada at the Gros Morne National Park. Nature’s beauty here is at its best with the tundra vegetation and beautiful running water of the lakes and the wildlife. It is about 22 miles long and can be covered in under a day. Visit this hiking trail from July to September for the best experience.

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13. Tour Du Mont Blanc – Europe

The Tour du Mont Blanc is an iconic hiking trail that winds its way around the Mont Blanc mountain range in France, Italy, and Switzerland. At over 100 miles long, it’s no easy feat to complete, but the stunning scenery makes it well worth the effort.

The trail passes through glaciers, alpine meadows, and picturesque villages, offering hikers incredible views of some of Europe’s most beautiful scenery. It is a relatively long trail of 150 miles to be covered in around 10 days or so.

The best time to visit the Tour du Mont Blanc depends on your personal preferences. If you’re looking for the most pleasant weather, June through September is the best time to go. However, if you’re looking for fewer crowds, April or October may be better for you. Just be aware that the trail may be covered in snow at higher elevations during these months.

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14. Rwenzori Mountains of the Moon – Uganda

As the name suggests, this mountain range is the highest in Africa, with a height of over 15,000 feet. Located in the Ruwenzori Range, Uganda, the trek is 150 miles long and takes 13 days to finish. You may find a large population of elephants over here and massive glaciers.

15. Kalalau Trail – Hawaii

Kalalau trail is situated in Kauai, Hawaii, in the United States, covering 11 miles. This hiking trail is quite steep and so can be challenging in the typically hot weather. However, there is a beautiful jungle with impressive waterfalls and a view to behold. The best time to visit is from May to September.

If you’re planning on hiking the Kalalau Trail, be sure to get a permit in advance. Only 60 permits are issued per day, and they often sell out weeks in advance, especially during the peak summer months.

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16. The Great Wall of China – China

One of the seven wonders of the world and among the most popular tourist attractions is the Great Wall of China. It is also one of the most breathtaking hiking trails in the world. The wall stretches for over 13,000 miles, making it the longest man-made structure. Of course, you won’t be able to hike the entire thing in one go, but there are plenty of sections that you can explore.

The best time to hike the Great Wall of China depends on which section you want to visit. The weather is generally best from April to October, but some sections of the wall can be closed due to heavy snowfall during the winter months.

17. North Drakensberg Traverse – South Africa

The North Drakensberg Traverse is a 65 km hike through some of the most stunning scenery in South Africa. The trail takes you through mountains, forests, and grasslands, and there are plenty of opportunities to spot wildlife along the way. This strenuous hike in South Africa’s Drakensberg mountain range is not for the faint of heart. The entire walk takes between 5 and 6 days to complete.

This hike is best attempted during the summer months, from December to February. However, be aware that this is also the busiest time of year, so you may want to start your hike early in the morning to avoid the crowds.

18. Santa Cruz Trek – Peru

The North Drakensberg Traverse is a 65 km hike through some of the most stunning scenery in South Africa. The trail takes you through mountains, forests, and grasslands, and there are plenty of opportunities to spot wildlife along the way. This strenuous hike in South Africa’s Drakensberg mountain range is not for the faint of heart. The entire walk takes between 5 and 6 days to complete.

This hike is best attempted during the summer months, from December to February. However, be aware that this is also the busiest time of year, so you may want to start your hike early in the morning to avoid the crowds.

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19. Routeburn Track – New Zealand

The Routeburn Track is one of New Zealand’s most popular hiking trails, and it’s easy to see why. This 31 km trail takes you through some of the most stunning scenery in the country, including alpine forests, rivers, and waterfalls. The track can be done in as little as 2 days, but most hikers take 3 or 4 days to complete the trek.

The best time to hike the Routeburn Track is from November to April when the weather is warm and dry. However, be aware that this is also the busiest time of year, so you may want to start your hike early in the morning to avoid the crowds.

20. Great Ocean Walk – Australia

The Great Ocean Walk is one of Australia’s most popular hiking trails. This 110 km trail takes you along the stunning coastline of Victoria, from Apollo Bay to the Twelve Apostles. The trail can be completed in as little as 5 days, but most hikers take 7 or 8 days to complete the trek.

21. Tongariro Alpine Crossing – New Zealand

This popular one-day hike in New Zealand’s Tongariro National Park is considered one of the best day hikes in the world. The trail takes hikers through a volcanic landscape of steaming craters, alpine lakes, and lush forests. The views from the summit of Mt. Ngauruhoe are simply breathtaking.

The Tongariro Alpine Crossing can be done year-round, but the best time to go is during the summer months, from November to March. Be aware that the trail can be crowded during this time, so starting your hike early in the morning is important.

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22. West Coastal Trail – Canada

The West Coast Trail (former Dominion lifesaving trail)is among the best hikes in the world. This challenging hike takes hikers through the lush rainforests of Vancouver Island in Canada. The trail is notoriously tricky, with steep climbs, muddy conditions, and many obstacles to overcome. But the rewards are more than worth it, as the trail passes through some of the most spectacular scenery in Canada.

It is a multi-day hike -that takes anywhere from 4 to 7 days to complete. The best time to hike the West Coast Trail is during the summer months, from July to September. Keep in mind that this is also the busiest time of year, so you’ll need to book your hike well in advance.

23. The Tasmanian Overland Track – Australia

This popular 6-day hike in Tasmania takes hikers through some of the most stunning scenery in Australia. The trail passes through rainforests, alpine meadows, and along the coastline, with plenty of opportunities to spot wildlife along the way.

The best time to hike the Tasmanian Overland Track is during the summer months, from December to February. However, be aware that this is also the busiest time of year, so you may want to start your hike early in the morning to avoid the crowds.

24. Southwest Coast Path – England

The South West Coast Path is one of the longest and among the best and most beautiful places in the world. This 630-mile trail takes hikers along the stunning coastline of England, from Somerset to Devon.

The trail can be completed in as little as 30 days, but most hikers take 7 or 8 weeks to complete the trek. The best time to hike the South West Coast Path is during the summer months – from June to September.

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25. Wadi Rum – Jordan

If you are a traveler looking for an otherworldly hiking experience, Wadi Rum in Jordan is a must-visit destination. This stunning desert landscape is home to towering sandstone mountains, canyons, and vast stretches of empty sand.

The best way to explore the area is on foot, and there are plenty of trails to choose from, depending on your fitness level and desired level of difficulty.

No matter what time of year you visit, be sure to pack plenty of water and sunscreen. Temperatures in Wadi Rum can reach over 100 degrees Fahrenheit during the summer months, so it’s important to stay hydrated and protected from the sun.

26. Queen Charlotte Track

The Queen Charlotte track is located at the north end of the South Island of New Zealand, with beautiful hills and water running between them. It is 45 miles long hiking trek, and the best thing is that you can visit the trail any time of the year.

The Queen Charlotte Track is a popular trail in the Fiordland region of New Zealand. The track is surrounded by stunning scenery and offers a number of walks, from short, gentle strolls to long, grueling treks.

The track begins in the town of Queenstown and follows the Queen Charlotte River down the Southern Alps to Lake Te Anau. It is part of the South Island’s famous Milford Track, and the Queen Charlotte Track is the longest in the country.

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27. Bay of Fires – Tasmania

This hiking trail is located in Tasmania, Australia. This trek will let you explore the bluewater beaches of the area covered with white sand. This trek is not self-guided, so you have to take a guide. It covers a distance of 38 miles. The Bay of Fires is a natural wonder with pristine beaches and stunning mountains. It’s an easy day hike from Ngorongoro Crater and is a popular spot for nature lovers.

The Bay of Fires extends from Binalong Bay to Eddystone Point and is known for its abundance of wildlife.

28. Tonquin Valley – Canada

The Tonquin Valley is situated in Alberta, Canada. It is one of the most gorgeous hikes in the world. It offers an amazing view of snow-capped mountains, meadows, rivers, lakes, and dense forests. The trek can be completed within 3-5 days. The best time to visit this place is from July to September, but you can also visit here in winter if you are fond of snow. The view of the valley is quite a scenery.

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29. Yosemite Grand Traverse – United States

Situated in Yosemite National Park in California, United States, this hiking trail has multiple starting points. Among the route options are John Muir Trail and Cathedral Range. If you start your journey from John Muir Trail, it will lead you to the summit of Mount Whitney, which is the tallest mountain in the contiguous United States.

The length of this hike is about 50 miles and takes around 6-7 days to complete. However, the Cathedral Range is a fun day hike you can try too. You will get to explore beautiful waterfalls, meadows, and granite basins.

30. Chilkoot Trail

The best time to visit the Chilkoot Trail is between June to October. This is one of the best trails in Alaska and Yukon Territory, the United States, and Canada. It was a gold mine which is now converted into a trek for the hikers.

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31. The Torres del Paine “W” Circuit – Chile

The trek route takes you to the Torres del Paine National Park, located in Patagonia, Chile, covering 50 miles. The place’s highlights are the volcanic peaks, glaciers, and beautiful lakes. Every hiker follows the “W” circuit because it can be easily covered.

The Torres del Paine’s most famous sight is the Los Glaciares National Park. This is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is considered the southernmost national park in the world. The park is home to a large number of species of wildlife and is well known for its abundant wildlife, including the puma, guanaco, deer, rhea, and flamingo.

The park is also home to the Paine Grande (the “W”), the highest peak in the park. Many tourists visit the park for its wildlife and beauty, but there are also a number of other attractions. These include the Torres del Paine Museum, the Torres del Paine National Park, the Los Glaciares National Park, and the Mar y Valle Glacier (a popular destination for skiers).

The park is home to a number of restaurants and hotels. The park is also the base for many adventure activities, including trekking, mountain biking, climbing, and mountaineering.

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32. Pacific Crest Trail – United States

During the trek, you get to explore the Mojave Desert. The mountains here also cover a height of around 13,000 feet. Hikers can start the Pacific Crest Trail at any time of year, but the best time to hike is during the summer months when the weather is most favorable. It can take up to six months to complete the entire trail, so plan accordingly.

33. Grand Canyon Hike – United States

Grand Canyon offers many trails and is situated in Arizona, United States. Here you will get to explore a fascinating creation of the Earth. The view here is jaw-dropping and one you will also remember.

If you want to hike to the bottom of the Grand Canyon, the Bright Angel Trail is the best option. This trail descends almost 5,000 feet over 7.8 miles, making it one of the park’s steepest and most strenuous hikes. Bright Angel Trail also has an optional side trip to the top of the North Rim, an additional 30-minute round trip.

The Grand Canyon rim-to-rim trek can be done in one day or over multiple days, depending on your fitness level. There are many different hiking routes in Grand Canyon National Park, so there is something for everyone to appreciate.

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34. Snowman Trek – Bhutan

Snowman trek is located in Bhutan, more than 200 miles long. It is one of the most challenging treks in the world due to the changing weather conditions of the Himalayan Range. However, it is considered one of the best long-distance hikes. The mountain peaks are very high, between 16,000 -18,000 feet.

The trek takes anywhere from 18 to 24 days to complete, and you’ll need to be in good physical shape even to attempt it. The air is relatively thin, making it difficult for some hikers to adjust.

But the stunning scenery and incredible views of the Himalayas make the Snowman Trek more than worth the effort. If you’re up for the challenge, this is one of the most breathtaking hikes in the world that you must visit. Take a guided tour with you if you go on a hiking trek here; otherwise, you will get lost.

35. Everest Base Camp Trek

Situated in Nepal on the famous Mount Everest, this trek is 80 miles long. The best thing about this trek is seeing the highest peak in the world. It is worth a visit from March to November.

On this trek, you will be taken on an adventure into the Himalayan highlands and the famous Everest region. Starting from Lukla, you will fly to Lukla and then continue on to Nepal’s most popular and highest trekking destination and the gateway to the Everest region.

You will start trekking through the Khumbu Valley, which has the world’s highest mountain, Mount Everest. The trek to Everest Base Camp will take you over the highest pass in the world, the Khumbu Icefall, and through the most famous glacier in the world, the Khumbu Glacier. You will walk alongside the Sagarmatha National Park, which is home to the highest peak in the world, Mount Everest.

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36. The Narrows – United States

The Narrows trail is located in Zion National Park in the United States, surrounded by the beautiful Virgin River, covering just 8 miles. It is home to some of the most dramatic scenery in the American Southwest.

The Narrows is a particularly popular hike, which takes travelers through a slot canyon with towering walls on either side. This is among the single-day hikes that can be done out and back or one-way, depending on your preference.

The best time to hike the Narrows depends on the water level. Most of the hiking takes place in the river area only, and in some areas, you need to swim. The canyon is also prone to flash flooding, so it’s essential to check the forecast. 

If the water level is too high, it’s not safe to hike. The best time to hike is usually during the summer months when the water level is lowest. However, be aware that temperatures can reach over 100 degrees Fahrenheit during this time of year.

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37. Pays Dogon – Mali

The Pays Dogon is located in Africa and is one of Africa’s most beautiful trails. As one of the best hikes in the world, this place is visited by a lot of hikers every year. The trek may take up to 10 days to complete covering the marvelous landscapes, ancient cliffs, and the Dogon Villages. It will be a fantastic experience for sure.

38. GR20 Trail  – Corsica

The GR20 is an ancient hiking trail situated in Corsica. The rugged trail is 112 miles long, covering mountains, ice, rivers, forests, and wildlife. You can reach the destination by local ferries.

The GR20 Trail in Corsica is one of Europe’s most stunning and challenging hikes. Spanning 180  km from Calenzana in the north to Conca in the south, the trail takes hikers through some of the most beautiful scenery in the Mediterranean. You’ll pass by snow-capped mountains, deep gorges, and pristine lakes along the way.

You’ll also experience Corsica’s unique culture as you pass through villages and ancient ruins. The trail has earned its reputation as one of the toughest long-distance trails in the world, and it can take up to 7 days to complete. But for those willing to take on the challenge, the GR20 Trail rewards with breathtaking views and an unforgettable adventure.

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39. The Indian Himalayas Trail – India

Situated in Himachal Pradesh, India, the Indian Himalayan trail is adventurous. The route travels from Spiti to Ladakh, covered in almost 10 days. Mostly, the trail starts from Manali, the second highest, because it is easily accessible for hikers.

40. Baltoro Glacier and K2 – Pakistan

K2 is the world’s second-highest mountain, situated in Pakistan. You can hike along these icy mountains and endure a totally different trekking experience. It takes around 20 days to cover the trail trespassing Paiju, Great Trango Tower, and K2. 

Conclusion

So, these are the fantastic hiking spots that will make your trip a memorable one. You can explore these most beautiful places in the world with your family and friends. Make some amazing memories! 

Just make sure to carry all the necessary things with you before starting the trek. These trails will challenge you and make you more enthusiastic as a hiker. Start planning your next hike and explore these trails for an extraordinary experience!

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