Top 10 Hiking Trails Worldwide

As spring comes into full bloom, it’s that time of year again, where our legs are craving exploration and discovery. Whether it’s climbing up to mountain peaks, rolling through the jungle or just a stroll along the Lake District—here are some of our favourite hikes in the world:

Don’t forget to pack your boots!

1. Torres Del Paine - Patagonia, Chile

Known for its soaring mountains, luminous blue icebergs, unforgettable glaciers, volcanic peaks and golden grasslands home to diverse fauna, hiking in the Torres del Paine National Park is one of the absolute highlights of a visit to Patagonia. There are two hikes you can do on this expedition—the W trek or the big O circuit.

The most popular and iconic trek in Torres del Paine is the W trek. It is great for less experienced hikers whilst still offering plenty of opportunities to take in all the highlights of the park. Starting from east to west, the route runs up three valleys, creating the W shape that gives it its name. In each one of these valleys lies one of the most exemplary sites in the park; the Ascensio Valley, offering you the best views of the mile high granite towers; the French Valley situated in the heart of the W, dominated by hanging glaciers that crack and crumble ahead of you, and the Grey Valley—the amphitheatre of glaciers and icebergs, dominated by views of the glacially-fed lake, Lago Grey.

For the more experienced hikers, walking the big O circuit is the most extreme trek in the Torres del Paine National Park. Taking at least six to eight days to complete, this 74-mile trek is definitely worth a try! It is typically walked anti-clockwise, so you can take in all the awe-inspiring views of the glaciers and the Southern Ice Fields (a huge mass of ice crossing the third largest water reserve on the planet), as well as discover more of the hidden gems of the park. There are free campsites to stay at throughout both treks, yet there are also some hotels for those who prefer a more comfortable stay. Nothing beats waking up to the sheer beauty of the park from the campsite, enchanting enough to win over those more passionate indoor sleepers. Depending on what weather you wish to hike in, the best time to go is between November and February (their summertime), however that is at peak season, thus, expect some larger crowds. Or, if you prefer the winter trails, visit between May and August where most of the crowds begin to thin out. Whichever time of year you decide to check this off your bucket list, make sure you pack accordingly!

2. Inca Trail to Machu Picchu - Peru

If discovering the Lost City of the Incas in Peru, otherwise known as Machu Picchu, isn’t on your bucket list, it definitely should be now!

Picture magnificent mountain passes, ancient ruins sat above the clouds, exotic vegetation and extraordinary ecological variety. In the heart of Peru, the famous Inca Trail is considered the mother of all South American treks, giving you the chance to follow in the footsteps of the tremendous lost civilisation of the Peruvian Incas. Hike through the cobbled passes of the ancient 3000-year-old Incan Empire capital of Cusco, climb up the daunting 4215-metre steps to the top of Dead Woman’s Pass, discover the ruins of Ollantaytambo village located in the Sacred Valley and trek up to the Sun Gate (Inti Punku) for the magnificent views of Machu Picchu.

The Inca Trail is a 26-mile-long trek, extending over four days and is perfect for those with multi-day trekking experience. Even though the paths are generally good, carefully consider the huge amount of steps you will need to tackle throughout before starting on your journey.

When booking this unmissable trek, you have to find a guided tour that suits you best. Each provide food, accommodation and an unforgettable experience. Due to the popularity of this trail, only 500 permits are issued per day, so remember to pick up your permit before you go to avoid disappointment!

3. Mount Rinjani - Lombok, Indonesia

Located on Lombok Island lies the active volcano of Mount Rinjani, the second highest volcano in Indonesia at 3,726 meters tall. Situated within the Gunung Rinjani National Park, luscious forests with scattered waterfalls and stunning scenery surround Rinjani. Within the mountain also lies the new volcano Mount Baru, surrounded by an enchanting crescent-shaped lake called Segara Anak, known as a spiritual place where many Balinese locals come each year to perform ceremonies.

Three major earthquakes hit Lombok last August 2018, and due to this, most of the hiking trail suffered damage and had to close temporarily due to the dangerous conditions. However, the trail has now reopened through the village of Aik Berik and the Senaru Crater Rim route will be reopened this year.

The Mount Rinjani trail covers three days and two nights; you can pitch your tent in the campsite near the crater rim or right beside the lake. Climbing up Mount Rinjani is notoriously known as very challenging, although once you reach the top, the breathtaking views are worth the trek! The best time to visit this enchanting volcanic mountain is between April and October, where the weather is much better but the crowds are bigger—the hiking trails are closed between January to March due to the monsoon season.

Pack those hiking boots, pick the perfect tour guide for you and book your trip to this magical place in Lombok.

4. Grand Canyon - Arizona, USA

Take an in-depth look at one of Earth’s greatest features, the Grand Canyon. Situated in Arizona’s National Park, this magnificent place is made up of layered bands of red rocks filled with over millions of years of geological history, with the famous Colorado River flowing through it.

There are many hiking trails in the Grand Canyon but the greatest yet hardest one to conquer is the Rim-to-Rim (R2R) hike. This takes approximately five to seven days to complete and is definitely no stroll in the park. Recommended for more experienced climbers, this 44-mile round-trip is a very demanding hike which requires a lot of strength; regardless of your age this is definitely worthwhile, just make sure you’ve carried out sufficient training beforehand and are fully prepared and equipped for what’s to come.

There is no better way to experience one of the greatest wonders in the world than by hiking the entirety of it. Make sure you wake up nice and early so you can catch the unmissable picturesque sunrise views from the top of the cliffs. Imagine yourself at the top of the Grand Canyon, absorbing mesmerising views of the park, getting up close and personal with this panoramic masterpiece. An experience that will leave you feeling rewarded and of course, exhausted!

The best time to go is between March to May and September to November, where the weather is perfect for hiking. Go and book your trip to one of the Earth’s seven wonders, watch the red-like embers glow off the cliffs at sunrise or sunset and most importantly, make sure you are prepared for the challenge!

Located in one of the USA’s most beautiful parks, the views are absolutely mesmerising—just make sure you’re prepared for the challenge.

5. Mont Blanc - Switzerland, Italy & France

Spread over the junctions of France, Italy and Switzerland, Mont Blanc is the third most-visited natural site in the world. Giving you the chance to trek through three countries—through mountain passes, alpine meadows and glacial valleys, it is the highest mountain in Western Europe, rising at approximately 4800 metres above sea level.

Mont Blanc has attracted many mountaineers and hikers for centuries now, rewarding all who scale her with captivating views, great ecosystems and microclimates. Although your goal would be to reach the top, don’t be surprised if you find yourself lingering along the way due to the jaw-dropping surroundings. The Tour du Mont Blanc is 175km-long with an ascent of 10,000m and is about a ten-day hike; this isn’t an easy one...

There are various different routes you can take to climb up this magnificent mountain. The ascendance difficulty varies across the different routes, although, the most popular and most manageable one is the Gouter Route via the Dome du Gouter. Starting with a cable car up 1800 metres from Chamonix and then the old tramway to 2372 metres, your hike up then begins! The best time of year to go is between July and September, when the weather and safety conditions are fairly stable.

Walk through the pine-scented woodland, breathe in that fresh alpine air, take in the enchanting views of the Aravis mountain range surrounding you and the Chamonix Valley below, and feel at one with nature at the top of Mont Blanc.

6. Angels Landing - Zion National Park, Utah

Drawing in adventure-seekers from around the globe, Utah’s Angels Landing is one of the world's most renowned but dangerous short hikes ever documented. From chain-assisted rock scrambling treks to vertigo-inducing heights, there is no other way than taking in the dramatic views surrounding you whilst hanging onto the chain bolted into the edge of the cliff. Previously known as the Temple of Aeolus, this tall sandstone formation is nearly 1500-feet-high and isn’t one for those wary of heights!

This exhilarating hike is a 9km trek, taking around 4 - 6 hours to complete a round-trip. It is the most popular hike in the Zion National Park and definitely gives the most stunning views for miles.

Trail through bending green riverbeds, orange canyons and rapid switchbacks, then climb up to the overhanging rock above the iconic Zion Canyon. Although this is quite a strenuous walk, the 360-degree views of some of the country’s most colourful landscapes is more rewarding in itself. Take the risk and start packing your bags for this incredible adventure. Angel’s Landing is definitely one to tick off your bucket list!

7. The Dolomites - Italian Alps, South Tyrol

From alpine lakes, wild meadows, soaring mountain peaks to celestial landscapes, the Dolomite Mountains are none-other than a breathtaking experience. With over 3000 different trails available around these mountains, there are infinite options for all you outdoor enthusiasts. From short calming strolls to multi-day challenging hikes, the Dolomites is a suitable place for all.

With so many options to choose from in this dream destination for mountain lovers, here are some popular hiking trails to name a few: Selva to Rifugio Puez (Puez-Odle Altopiano hike) is known as the ultimate one-day hiking experience and most diverse in the Dolomites. It is an approximately nine to ten hour walk if you complete the whole trail, which isn’t for everyone, but even if you make it half the way up you can still indulge in the jaw-dropping views surrounding you. The Lago Di Braies trail is an easy circular hike and by far the most beautiful lake in Europe. With around a 2-hour hike there, Braies is a very popular tourist destination, so try and get there early! The Tre Cime Di Lavaredo (Three Peaks) trail is one of the best-known mountain groups in the Italian Alps. Famous for the three gigantic rocky prominences rising up from the Dolomites, this hiking loop is relatively easy—only six miles long and mostly a flat trail.

The best time to go hiking in the enchanting Dolomites is during the summer months—where clear blue skies, bright green landscapes and mountain peaks surround you, and also when the wildflowers are in full bloom. However, if you wish to miss the crowds, visiting near Autumn can be a better and quieter option—just look out for the weather!

8. Mount Triglav - Slovenia

The most cherished mountain in Slovenia, Mount Triglav is Slovenia’s highest peak, at 2864 metres above sea level. Situated wonderfully in the heart of the Julian Alps in the Triglav National Park, and visited by thousands of hikers and mountaineers every year, this hike is definitely one you need to check off your list! Triglav (meaning three-headed) is considered a national symbol, appearing on the country’s flag and coat of arms.

Climbing this rocky mountain usually takes about two days with six to eight hours hiking per day, and is both very technical and physically challenging. There are a variety of different routes you can take to get to the top of Triglav, some easier than others; hiking up from the Pokljuka Plateau, climbing the Čez Prag route on the Triglav North Face (an almost vertical climb up), climbing the Bamberg’s route (the toughest and most wildest route to the top of Triglav), hiking from the Krma Valley (the longest but easiest route for those with lesser experience), and many more. Depending on which route you decide to take, make sure you are fully prepared with all the necessary equipment needed for the various difficulties.

Throughout your hike, the accommodation available is in the Kredarica mountain huts where beds, electricity, heating, food and other necessities will be provided.

The best time to climb Triglav is in the summer, between July and October, where you’ll get to experience some of the best sunrises from the Julian Alps. Take in panoramic views from the top of the rocky summit and breathe in that fresh alpine air!

9. Ben Nevis - Highlands, Scotland

The magnificent Ben Nevis is the highest mountain in Britain.

The commonly taken trail up to the top is known as the ‘Tourist Track’ or ‘Tourist Route’. This hike takes half a day to a full day and stands at 1,345 metres above sea level. Avoid climbing this mountain between November - May, or during any bad or cold weather. Even at the height of summer, there is a high chance you will still come across some snow near the top of the mountain and the clouds and drizzle that frequently roll in can cause the temperature to plunge even further. This famous mountain should not be attempted without good planning and preparation as conditions can change dramatically and quickly.

While it is definitely possible for an amateur to reach the summit, the main thing to keep in mind is that Ben Nevis is not to be underestimated. It is a difficult and potentially dangerous climb and takes an average of 4 hours to climb with a further 2-3 hours to climb back down. However, as long as you are properly prepared and understand the risks involved, there is no reason why you shouldn’t be able to make the climb and have a great time doing so!

Many people climb Ben Nevis for the amazing views it offers, of the nearby towns, valleys and lochs. While the view from the top is nearly always hidden in clouds, the views from your journey up will astound you and give you many opportunities to take stunning photos as you take a break from walking. Climbing Ben Nevis will be an experience that you will never be able to forget.

10. Helvellyn - Keswick, Lake District

Situated in the famously enchanting Lake District, the second highest mountain in the district is the magnificent Helvellyn. Sat 950 metres above sea level, this is definitely one of the best hiking trails in the area. Helvellyn is made up of two halves; whilst the west of the mountain consists of mainly steep grassy slopes, the east side’s glacially polished scenery is what makes it that bit more special. There are a couple of routes you can take to get to the top, but, with sharp ridges separating deep coves, the most popular trail is the walk via the Striding Edge, and by far the most exciting!

This is a half day hike, but definitely one of the most exhilarating. The narrow ridge at the top is known for being very scary and quite difficult; whether you are a frequent mountaineer or just a casual hiker, make sure you prepare before the trip and take the right equipment with you.

Absorb the incredible surroundings of soft woodland, foaming streams, waterfalls and sheep-studded fields that grace the area.