The best hikes in the world offers breathtaking scenery and awe-inspiring views that every passionate hiker dreams of. The treacherous mountains and steep rocks provide an unparalleled rush of adrenaline, as you venture into the wilderness with just a bag of essentials.
Therefore, through comprehensive research, we’ve gathered some of the most enthralling and exhilarating best hiking trails globally. Each trail, while varying in difficulty, guarantees an unforgettable experience filled with spectacular views and picturesque landscapes. Here is our list of the top 12.
Best Hikes in the World
The Narrows, USA
Image Credit: Utah
The Narrows in Zion National Park is the perfect place to start your trekking adventure, mostly because of the fact that it is not daunting for beginners. If you want, you can complete the whole hike within a day. The Narrows consists of a 16 miles journey through the steep canyons as they zigzag through the Virgin River. Although, if you feel like soaking in the breath taking beauty of the scenic stretch, you can stay overnight at one of the 12 camping sites located throughout the park.
GR 20, France
Image Credit: Popsugar
This challenging yet immensely diverse trek through Corsica in Mediterranean Sea has everything that nature has to offer. More suitable for the experienced hikers, this 104 mile stretch includes deep forests, icy rivers, shaky bridges, glacial lakes, snow capped mountains and peat bogs. As you can imagine, the long journey lasts about 15 days and really tests your fitness and patience. The GR20 connects Calenzana in Balagne with Conco, situated to the north of Porto Vecchio.
Inca Trail, Peru
Image Credit: Perutreks
The 20 mile (33km) long trail is one of the most renowned destination for hikers from around the world. This journey will take you through the ancient city of Machu Picchu which the Incans built in the 15th century. Situated on the Andes mountains, this city is known for its dry stone walls and sophisticated architecture. As you traverse through the treacherous paths, you are treated with jaw dropping views of snowy peaks and verdant mountain valleys. Bookings have to be made compulsorily in advance so that you can be in contact with your tour guide as soon as you reach Peru. Understandably, this is considered the most famous hiking trail in South America.
Mont Blanc, France, Italy and Switzerland
Image Credit: Gap Adventures
Here’s an unforgettable hike stretching 104 miles (170kms) and taking you through three European countries. Lots of civilization in between the trail ensures that you don’t have to carry a tent or worry about food as you complete this arduous journey. The hike takes you through the Alps, spread in France, Italy and Switzerland. Expect to see scenic views comprising of snow capped mountains, glacial lakes and green meadows.
Everest Base Camp, Nepal
Image Credit: The Planet D
The Himalayas known for the highest mountain peak in the world, Mount Everest has plenty to offer to enthusiastic hikers. You can start with the trek to Everest Base Camp which itself is at a height of 5545 meters. The route consists of scenic valleys, windswept plains and stunning snowy mountains.
Fjords, Norway
Image Credit: Visit Norway
This is probably the most breath taking view that a hiker can dream of at the end of a hike. The Preikestolen cliff is one of the most picturesque places that can be usually seen on screen savers on desktop. This hike is usually part of every serious hiker’s bucket list.
Fiordland, New Zealand
Image Credit: doc.govt.nz
This region in the south west corner of South Island in New Zealand is known as the shooting location for the famous Lord of The Rings Trilogy. The hike across this region is filled with gorgeous ravines, waterfalls and beautiful rivers dissecting the mountains.
Overland Track, Australia
Image Credit: Australia
Located in the state of Tasmania, the Overland Track is one of the most famous hiking trips to take in Australia. It is 50 miles (80kms) long and usually travelled in about 6 days. You’ll find crystal clear lakes, moorlands, and deep forests on this trail which also offers summits such as Mount Ossa, which is the highest peak in Tasmania at 5305 ft (1617m).
Torres Del Paine, Chile
Image Credit: Douglas Scortegagna
Torres Del Paine is a 83 km long hike usually covered in 10 days at a leisurely place. This trail offers visual incentives that are unparalleled when compared to anywhere in the world. The native South American guanacos’ can be seen grazing in their natural surroundings. Additionally, you will see ethereal lakes, serene glaciers and long stretches of plains. This hike is also highly sought after by experienced hikers.
Pays Dogon, Mali
Image Credit: Marco Bellucci
This is our pick from the beautiful continent of Africa. Also known as the land of Dogon people, this trek includes Dogon villages which form the main attraction of this journey. You can witness the archaic traditions of Dogon people such as ancient dance forms and architecture.
Baltoro Glacier and K2, Pakistan
Image Credit: Stefanos Nikologianis
K2 is the second highest mountain peak in the world and the more experienced hikers can definitely trek along this dizzying mountain trail. This journey usually takes about 15 days to finish. The hikers should start their journey in the city of Islamabad, from where they can drive or fly to Skardu and then take a jeep to Askolie, which is the last village on the way after which the trek finally begins.
El Caminito del Rey, El Chorro, Spain
Image Credit: Spain Holidays
Perhaps the most scary and dangerous treks out there. This one is recommended for professionals. The hiking trail is attached to the edge of steep rocks at high altitudes. El Caminito is definitely not for the faint hearted. These best hikes in the world promise its own unique blend of challenge and beauty, catering to both the thrill-seeker and the nature lover. Our curated selection of these trails ensures that no matter the choice, hikers are guaranteed breathtaking views and unforgettable adventures.
