10 Hikes From Around The World To Add To Your Bucket List
Hiking is more than just great exercise, it’s a great way to explore new places, go on an adventure, and connect with nature. The world is filled with breathtaking trails, each offering something a little bit different and exciting. Whether you’ve been dreaming of your next big outdoor adventure, or are just looking for some training motivation, check out these hikes from around the world that have been inspiring hikers for generations. They offer unique challenges, amazing views, and unforgettable experiences that any hiker can work towards with a bit of training. So, lace up your hiking boots and let's explore some of the most incredible hiking trails you can find.
The Inca Trail, Peru
Kicking off our list, the Inca Trail is a famous hike leading to Machu Picchu, one of the most iconic and recognizable places in the world. This trek takes you through a number of different types of terrain, including lush rainforests, high-altitude mountain paths, and ancient Inca ruins. While the final destination is spectacular, this hike is also about getting to experience the history and culture of the ancient Inca civilization along the way. While you’ll need to do some training and get your stamina up, the view you get of Machu Picchu at sunrise is worth every step.
W Route, Torres del Paine Circuit, Chile
Located in the heart of Patagonia, the Torres del Paine Circuit is a challenging multi-day hike that will reward you with some of the most awe-inspiring views in the world. The hike takes you through all the different Patagonian landscapes, letting you see glaciers, turquoise lakes, and jagged mountain peaks. With wildlife like guanacos and Andean condors, this trail offers both physical challenges to train towards and incredible beauty that makes it all worth it. It's a remote, wild experience that should be on every nature-loving hiker’s bucket list.
The Haute Route, France and Switzerland (Chamonix to Zermatt)
For those looking to test their skills on a longer and more technical trail, the Haute Route from Chamonix to Zermatt is one of the best in Europe. Spanning across two countries, it comes with challenging ascents and descents, snow-covered peaks, and stunning views of glaciers. The route connects some of the most beautiful mountains in the Alps, finishing off with views of the majestic Matterhorn in the distance. Maybe save this one for when you have a bit of experience under your belt, as you need to be ready for the physical and mental challenges that you’ll encounter as you cross this historic and scenic alpine path.
The Kalalau Trail, Hawaii, USA
The Kalalau Trail in Hawaii is not for the faint-hearted, but it is a journey that‘s well worth the work. This 11-mile trail along the Napali Coast on the island of Kauai is considered by many to be one of the most beautiful hikes in the world. You’ll pass through lush jungles, shimmy across narrow ridges, and walk along isolated beaches, with the Pacific Ocean as your backdrop. This trail is difficult, but it’s made worthwhile by the stunning landscapes you’ll get to see and the sense of adventure that comes with hiking through such a remote area.
The Everest Base Camp Trek, Nepal
The Everest Base Camp Trek is one of the most iconic hikes in the world. It’s a challenging multi-day trek that takes you through the heart of the Himalayas to the base of the world’s highest peak, Mount Everest. Along the way, you’ll pass through Sherpa villages, monasteries, and ancient Buddhist stupas. The trek itself will test your endurance, but many have also said it’s a spiritual journey, giving you awe-inspiring views of Everest and its surrounding peaks that you’ll never see otherwise.
The Laugavegur Trail, Iceland
The Laugavegur Trail in Iceland is a popular hike that perfectly showcases the country’s mind-blowing geography. The 34-mile trail takes you across volcanic deserts, geothermal hot springs, colorful rhyolite mountains, and black sand deserts. The dramatic changes in terrain make this one of the most interesting hikes on earth. Along the way, you'll experience some of Iceland’s most unique natural landmarks, from steaming hot springs to glaciers and waterfalls. Stunning!
The West Coast Trail, Canada
The West Coast Trail, located on Vancouver Island in British Columbia, is one of Canada’s most famous and challenging hikes. Stretching for 47 miles along the Pacific coastline, this trail will have you hiking over a number of terrains, including lush forests, sandy beaches, and challenging rocky sections. Hikers will get to see tidal pools, massive cliffs, and plenty of wildlife, such as sea otters, bald eagles, and black bears. Before taking on this trail you need to do some careful planning due to the challenging terrain and unpredictable weather. However, many say the breathtaking views of the ocean and the sense of quiet solitude make it a trek worthy of any hiker’s bucket list.
The Arctic Circle Trail, Greenland
The Arctic Circle Trail in Greenland offers a unique and remote hiking experience that takes you through some of the most stunning and untouched places on Earth. A longer hike, stretching for about 100 miles, The Arctic Circle Trail connects the towns of Kangerlussuaq and Sisimiut, following the Arctic Circle.
Hikers are treated to views of vast tundra, pristine lakes, and towering mountains, and can sometimes spot arctic wildlife like musk oxen and reindeer. The trail is best hiked during the summer months when the weather is milder, but even then, hikers need to be prepared for unstable conditions and the isolation of the Arctic wilderness. The peace and untouched beauty of the region make this a once-in-a-lifetime adventure for those looking to get lost in a truly remote hiking experience.
The 88 Temple Hike, Japan
The 88 Temple Hike, or Shikoku Pilgrimage, is a spiritual journey that spans 750 miles around the island of Shikoku in Japan. This historic trail links 88 Buddhist temples, each important in the life of the respected Buddhist monk Kukai. The pilgrimage can be done in smaller parts, but for many, the entire route offers a different kind of challenge that combines physical endurance with time for spiritual reflection.
Along the way, hikers will pass through rural villages, dense forests, and coastal landscapes, and get to experience traditional Japanese culture and hospitality. Many hikers dress as pilgrims and wear white robes and hats, embracing the ritual parts of the journey. It’s not just about the physical challenge of the hike; it’s about the peace and personal growth that comes with each step. This hike is as much an emotional and spiritual journey as it is a physical one, making it a deeply meaningful experience to add to any bucket list.
The Zion Narrows, Utah, USA
For an entirely different hiking experience, the Zion Narrows in Utah is a must-see. This hike takes you through the Virgin River, which winds its way through a slot canyon, surrounded by towering cliffs. The trail itself will have you wading and sometimes swimming through the river, which makes for an exciting and unique adventure. The narrow canyon walls will make anyone feel awe, with sunlight streaming through in dramatic shafts like a cathedral. This hike is perfect for those who want a true wilderness experience, just make sure you are very well prepared ahead of time for the challenge.
Your Dream Hike Is Out There!
These hikes are just some of the many trails around the world that are waiting to be explored. They will challenge both your physical and mental limits, all while rewarding you with breathtaking views and unforgettable experiences. Whether you’re a seasoned hiker or just starting to discover the joys of the outdoors, these hikes will offer you an opportunity to connect with nature in a way that few others can. Add them to your hiking bucket list and get inspired to start training for your next adventure today!