Hiking is one of the most popular outdoor activities across the globe. It is a great way to exercise, enjoy nature, and immerse oneself in scenic surroundings.
For those who love hiking, the world is full of beautiful trails waiting to be explored. From towering cliffs to pristine lakes, the world’s hiking trails offer a wide range of diversity and challenge. In this post, we’ll explore the top 10 hiking trails in the world.
1. Inca Trail, Peru
The Inca Trail is a 26-mile trail that leads to Machu Picchu, one of the most famous archeological sites in the world. The trail is steep and challenging, winding through mountain passes and dense forests. The trail is open year-round, but the best time to hike it is from May to September, when the weather is dry and mild.
2. Torres del Paine, Chile
Torres del Paine National Park in Chile is a hiker’s paradise. The park offers a variety of trails, from easy walks to more challenging hikes. The most popular trek is the W Circuit, a four or five-day hike that takes hikers through spectacular valleys, over glaciers, and around crystalline lakes. The park is located in Patagonia and is known for its dramatic landscapes and stunning views.
3. Milford Track, New Zealand
The Milford Track is one of New Zealand’s most famous hiking trails. The 33-mile trail runs through the Fiordland National Park and takes hikers through towering mountains, lush rainforests, and cascading waterfalls. The trail is open from late October to late April and requires advanced booking to manage the number of hikers on the trail.
4. Mount Kilimanjaro, Tanzania
Mount Kilimanjaro is the highest peak in Africa and one of the seven summits of the world. The trail to the peak is arguably the most famous hike in all of Africa, with breathtaking views as hikers ascend towards the summit. The trek to the top can take between six to nine days, depending on the route taken.
5. The Haute Route, France and Switzerland
The Haute Route is a classic hike in the Alps, running from Chamonix to Zermatt. The trail is 120 miles long and takes hikers through some of the most spectacular mountain scenery in Europe. The trek takes between 10 and 14 days to complete, with hikers staying in mountain huts and lodges along the way.
6. The Kalalau Trail, Hawaii
The Kalalau Trail is an 11-mile trail that hugs the rugged Na Pali Coast on the island of Kauai. The trail offers stunning views of the Pacific Ocean, towering cliffs, and lush forests. Hikers can also explore secluded beaches and hidden waterfalls along the way. The trail is challenging and should only be attempted by experienced hikers.
7. The Tour du Mont Blanc, Switzerland, France, and Italy
The Tour du Mont Blanc is a classic hike that circumnavigates the Mont Blanc massif. The trail is 110 miles long and takes hikers through stunning alpine scenery, crossing three countries along the way. The trek takes between 10 and 14 days and is considered one of the most challenging hikes in Europe.
8. The Grand Canyon, Arizona, USA
The Grand Canyon is a natural wonder of the world, with its vast chasm and colorful cliffs. The hike to the bottom is challenging, but the views from the riverbed make it worth the effort. The trail is almost 18 miles long and takes hikers to the Colorado River and Phantom Ranch.
9. The Overland Track, Tasmania, Australia
The Overland Track is a 40-mile hike that crosses the Tasmanian wilderness. The trail runs through stunning landscapes, including mountain valleys, ancient rainforests, and glacial lakes. The trail is open from November to April and requires a permit to hike.
10. The West Coast Trail, British Columbia, Canada
The West Coast Trail is a 47-mile trail that runs along the rugged coast of Vancouver Island. The trail takes hikers through lush rainforests, along pristine beaches, and over rocky cliff faces. The trail is considered one of the most challenging hikes in North America and requires advanced planning and preparation.
Conclusion
Whether you’re a seasoned hiker or just starting out, the world offers a variety of trails to suit all levels of experience. These top 10 hiking trails offer some of the most breathtaking views and challenging hikes on the planet. So, get your hiking boots on and start exploring!
