Are you tired of the same old boring routines? City life can be exhausting, and you may find yourself craving an adventure that’ll help you step away from the daily grind. It’s time to step outdoors and experience nature. And what better way to do it than to go on some of the best hiking trails? Imagine tiptoeing through rainforests, discovering hidden waterfalls cascading down moss-covered rocks, and listening to the soothing symphony of wild birds. It’s like experiencing nature’s own concert, and you’ve got the best viewing seat!
We’ve compiled an exhaustive list of the best hiking spots for you. Whether you are a courageous trekker seeking your next adventure or a beginner looking to explore your first hike, we’ve got you covered. Our list of the 57 best hiking trails covers everything from steep slopes that’ll test your stamina to easy hikes through nature that are suitable for beginners. These scenic hiking trails will take you through majestic mountains and blooming valleys. You’ll be camping under the stars and catching your own trout for dinner. And let’s not forget the wildlife encounters, because who doesn’t love a surprise guest appearance from Mother Nature’s finest? Keep your eyes peeled for curious deer, mischievous squirrels, and perhaps even a majestic eagle soaring above, giving you major #lifegoals.
Our collection of the best hiking spots includes a trail through Machu Picchu, an urban hike in Hong Kong, a trek to Mount Kilimanjaro, and many more! These are some of the most popular hiking trails that deserve a place on your bucket list. The outdoor escapade may leave you with sweat and blisters, but it will give you plenty of amazing memories to cherish for a lifetime! So get ready to lace up your boots, slap on a hat, and embark on a breathtaking journey through nature’s most jaw-dropping masterpieces. The best hiking trails await!
#1 Queen Charlotte Track, New Zealand — 45 Miles
The Queen Charlotte Track in New Zealand is one of the best hiking spots in the world because of its stunning scenery. The trail is built along carefully positioned viewpoints to ensure that you can fully appreciate the breathtaking scenery. On your hike, you’ll be able to see the coast and its crystal-clear waters, rugged cliffs, and lush flora. This 45-mile (70 km) trek can be covered over a long weekend of 3 to 5 days. The best time to visit is between September and May.
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#2 Appalachian Trail, U.S. — 2,200 Miles
The Appalachian Trail will take you through 14 states in the U.S. The massive trail is 2,200 miles (3,500 km) long and covers two national parks and eight national forests. The Appalachian Mountains have a stunning landscape of dense forests and rugged ranges that challenge you at every step. The formidable journey will take you 5 to 7 months to complete. Start your adventure in May, when the weather is most favorable.
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#3 Dolomites, Italy
This is among the most popular hiking trails preferred by beginners. The Dolomites mountain range is nestled in the heart of Italy and has countless trails that range from easy to very difficult. You can choose a route according to your skill level. The trek to alpine meadows covered in wildflowers can be completed in a single day. Or you could take a longer trek to the evergreen woods. The best time to explore the Dolomites is between June and September.
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#4 Scottish National Trail, Scotland — 537 Miles
As the name suggests, the Scottish National Trail stretches the length of Scotland and goes through the beautiful countryside. It’s perfect for beginners. You can hike or walk through small villages and historic landmarks. The trek becomes difficult as you climb higher into the rugged mountains. You’ll need 1 to 2 months to complete this journey. Go between June and September for the best weather.
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14points
#5 Bay Of Fires, Australia — 16 Miles
The Bay of Fires has glistening white sands and crystal-clear waters that provide a spectacular contrast against the vibrant orange hues of the lichen-covered granite rocks. This coastal paradise is located in Tasmania, Australia, and the hike stretches over 16 miles (25 km). Give yourself 4 days to take in the diverse ecology. The months between October and May have the perfect weather for hiking.
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#6 Otter Trail, South Africa — 26 Miles
The Otter Trail runs along the South African coastline and is named after its shy residents, the clawless otters. Over this 26-mile (44 km) journey, you’ll be swimming in rivers, walking through a coastal forest, and watching dolphins jump in the waves. This is one of the most scenic hiking trails, perfect for beginners.
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#7 Pacific Crest Trail, Mexico-U.S.-Canada — 2,650 Miles
This ultimate long-distance trail stretches from Mexico to Canada, traversing the beautiful landscapes of Washington, Oregon, and California in the United States. It’s a whopping 2,650 miles (4,264 km) long and will test your endurance and determination, taking you through desert landscapes and towering mountain ranges. You’ll need 4 to 6 months to cover it all. The best time to start your adventure here is between April and September.
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#8 Laugavegurinn, Iceland — 34 Miles
Another one of our top hiking trails recommendations is Laugavegurinn in Iceland. It spans 34 miles (55 km) and will give you a view of every landscape imaginable: ice caves, vibrant hills, black volcanic deserts, mesmerizing river crossings, cascading waterfalls, and more. This trail can be covered in 2–4 days, and the best time to embark on this adventure is from June to September.
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#9 Northern Drakensberg Traverse, South Africa — 62 Miles
The Northern Drakensberg Traverse in South Africa is very popular among hikers and can get very crowded. The reason? Its fantastic scenery. There’s a high chance you’ll spot wildlife on this 62-mile (100 km) trail as you traverse through mountains, grasslands, and a forest and pass rivers and waterfalls. You’ll need five to ten days to finish the hike. The best time to travel is from December to February.
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#10 Inca Trail, Peru — 26 Miles
Head to Peru for this extraordinary hiking adventure that promises gravity-defying descents! This is one of the most popular hiking trails because of its ancient ruins and majestic mountain paths. The highlight of this 26-mile (43 km) trail is the iconic Machu Picchu. You’ll need 4 to 5 days to soak in the breathtaking landscapes. The best time to hike here is from May to September, when the weather gods smile upon you with clear skies and pleasant temperatures.
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#11 Everest Base Camp Trek, Nepal — 80 Miles
Everest Base Camp, located in Kathmandu, Nepal, is one of the most famous hiking trails in the entire world. The majestic Everest is a pinnacle of human triumph, and it’s guaranteed to be a life-changing expedition for you. You’ll need a minimum of 12 days to climb 80 miles (130 km). Along the way, you’ll have the opportunity to immerse yourself in the rich Sherpa culture and pay a visit to the ancient Tengboche and Thami monasteries. The weather is favorable from March to May and September to December.
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#12 West Coast Trail, Canada — 47 Miles
This trail, located in British Columbia, Canada, stretches across a distance of 47 miles (75 km). It is considered a rite of passage for adventure seekers. You’ll need 5 to 7 days to traverse through dense forests, bogs, cascading waterfalls, and even moss-covered ladders. The trail supports eco-friendly tourism initiatives, making this journey even more fulfilling. Visit between May and September.
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#13 Tour Du Mont Blanc, France-Italy-Switzerland — 110 Miles
The renowned Tour du Mont Blanc is one of the best scenic hiking trails in the world. The trail stretches over 110 miles (170 km) and will take you through the stunning landscapes of France, Italy, and Switzerland. The trail offers a feast for the senses — the towering peaks of Mont Blanc, the tranquil woodlands and meadows, and the majestic glaciers that glisten in the sunlight. Along the way, you’ll also come across marmots and alpine goats. The trail is more accessible between July and September.
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#14 Tasmanian Overland Track, Australia — 40 Miles
The Tasmanian Overland Track in Australia stretches over 40 miles (65 km). This iconic landscape covers glacial lakes, waterfalls, alpine meadows, and rugged mountains. You’ll need 5–6 days for this trail to explore the untouched beauty of Tasmania’s wilderness. Plan your journey between October and May to maximize your experience.
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#15 Tonquin Valley, Canada — 27 Miles
The Tonquin Valley is an alpine region in Canada and has breathtaking scenery that includes glaciers, lakes, and towering peaks. Look out for grizzlies and caribou on your hike! This backcountry trail spans 27 miles (43 km) and can be completed in 3–5 days. The July–September season is the best time to enjoy this hike.
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#16 Dragon’s Back, Hong Kong — 5 Miles
Dragon’s Back is one of the best hikes in an urban city and can be completed in just four hours. This hiking trail in Hong Kong begins on a shaded walking path and leads to Shek O Peak, where you can view the Hong Kong shoreline. The 5-mile (8.5 km) hike ends at a beach, a perfect place to relax and enjoy the sunset.
10points
#17 The Narrows, U.S. — 16 Miles
The Narrows is a gorge in Zion Canyon, Utah, U.S., and is surrounded by a wall of tall mountains. This 16-mile (26 km) hike is suitable for beginners too — you can choose to walk upstream for a few hours or cover the entire canyon in one day. At each turn, you’ll notice light filtering through the narrow walls, creating a mesmerizing play of shadows and reflections. Be prepared to get wet, as you’ll have to wade through ankle-deep waters of the Virgin River. The best time to go hiking is between June and October when the river levels are lower and the risk of flash floods is minimal.
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#18 Routeburn Track, New Zealand — 20 Miles
The Routeburn Track in New Zealand is a true testament to the country’s reputation as a hiker’s paradise. It stretches over 20 miles (32 km) and takes you through beautiful meadows, rivers, and alpine trails. You’ll need three days to complete this hike. The best time to go is between October and April.
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#19 Sierra High Route, U.S. — 195 Miles
The Sierra High Route in California, U.S., spans 195 miles (314 km) across the Sierra Nevada mountains. In this 3-to-5-week expedition, you’ll be traversing through a high-altitude region and will come across granite rocks and meadowlands. The best time to visit is between June and September.
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#20 Hadrian’s Wall Path, England — 84 Miles
The 84-mile-long (135 km) Hadrian’s Wall Path will give you a peek into the rich history of England. It is sprinkled with historic sites such as forts and settlements of the ancient Roman Empire. The one-week hike will also take you through the charming countryside, market towns, and quaint farms. Plan your visit between May and October.
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