I’ve done my fair share of hiking—from short nature trails to exhausting all-day climbs—and if there’s one thing I’ve learned, it’s this: there’s no such thing as a bad hike, just different kinds of awesome.
Whether you’re chasing views, waterfalls, wildlife, or just the calming sound of crunching gravel beneath your boots, hiking is one of the best ways to connect with nature—and yourself. So if your soul is craving a good outdoor reset, here are 7 must-try hiking adventures that will leave you tired, inspired, and planning your next trek before you even get back to the car.
🏞 1. The Inca Trail – Peru
Why it’s a must:
Because walking into Machu Picchu at sunrise after days of climbing ancient stone paths is a feeling that’s hard to beat. It’s a mix of history, mystery, and jaw-dropping mountain views.
Trail facts:
-
Distance: ~26 miles (4 days)
-
Elevation: Up to 13,800 ft
-
Best time to go: May to September
Tip: Acclimate to the altitude before starting. The air gets thin up there.
🌲 2. The Kalalau Trail – Hawaii (Kauai)
Why it’s a must:
It’s like hiking through a postcard. You’ll trek along dramatic sea cliffs, hidden waterfalls, and tropical valleys on the Nā Pali Coast.
Trail facts:
-
Distance: 11 miles one way
-
Difficulty: Challenging (especially when wet)
-
Permits required for overnight trips
Tip: Watch your step. The views are beautiful but the drops are serious.
🏔 3. The Tour du Mont Blanc – France, Italy & Switzerland
Why it’s a must:
This is Europe’s classic long-distance hike, circling the Mont Blanc massif. You’ll pass through three countries, see glacial valleys, alpine villages, and fields full of wildflowers.
Trail facts:
-
Distance: ~105 miles
-
Duration: 10–12 days
-
Difficulty: Moderate to challenging
Tip: You can stay in mountain refuges along the way (and eat amazing food). No tent needed.
🌲 4. The Appalachian Trail – USA (Section Hike)
Why it’s a must:
You don’t have to do all 2,190+ miles. Pick a section—like the Smoky Mountains or Shenandoah—and you’ll get a taste of the rugged eastern U.S. wilderness and community of long-distance hikers.
Trail facts:
-
Choose your own distance
-
Best time: Spring through early fall
-
Well-marked and accessible
Tip: Trail towns are full of charm (and hot food). Don’t skip them.
🏜 5. The W Trek – Patagonia (Chile)
Why it’s a must:
It’s remote, dramatic, and pure wilderness. You’ll hike past glaciers, turquoise lakes, and jagged peaks in Torres del Paine National Park.
Trail facts:
-
Distance: ~50 miles (4–5 days)
-
Best time: November to March
-
Difficulty: Moderate
Tip: Be ready for amazing weather swings—sun, wind, and rain can all happen in one day.
🌄 6. The Laugavegur Trail – Iceland
Why it’s a must:
Iceland’s landscape looks like another planet. You’ll pass volcanic deserts, geothermal hot springs, black sand plains, and green valleys—all in one hike.
Trail facts:
-
Distance: ~34 miles
-
Duration: 3–4 days
-
Best time: Mid-June to mid-September
Tip: Stay in mountain huts or bring camping gear. And don’t forget waterproof boots!
🏖 7. Tongariro Alpine Crossing – New Zealand
Why it’s a must:
One word: Mordor. If you’re a Lord of the Rings fan (or just love epic volcanic scenery), this one-day trek across lava fields and craters is unforgettable.
Trail facts:
-
Distance: ~12 miles (day hike)
-
Difficulty: Moderate with steep climbs
-
Best time: November to April
Tip: Bring layers—it can be hot and freezing in the same hour.
🧭 Final Thoughts: Choose Your Own Hiking Adventure
Here’s the best part about hiking—you don’t have to travel the world to find something beautiful. Even a local trail through a forest or along a river can be a mini escape from the noise of daily life.
But if you’re ready to step it up and make hiking part of your travel goals, these seven adventures are absolutely worth putting on your bucket list.
Wherever your boots take you, just remember:
-
Start early
-
Pack smart
-
Leave no trace
-
Take it all in
Because the trail doesn’t just lead to new places—it often leads back to yourself.
