10 Best Hiking Trails in the World: A Comprehensive Guide

1. Inca Trail, Peru

The Inca Trail to Machu Picchu is one of the most famous hiking routes globally. Spanning 26 miles, the trail winds through lush cloud forests, ancient Inca ruins, and stunning mountain scenery.

• Difficulty: Moderate to challenging
• Best Time to Visit: May to September (dry season)
• Practical Advice: Permits are required and limited, so book early. Acclimatization to altitude is crucial for success on this trail.

2. Tour du Mont Blanc, France/Italy/Switzerland

Spanning three countries, the Tour du Mont Blanc offers 105 miles of breathtaking alpine scenery. This circuit takes you around Western Europe's highest peak, Mont Blanc, through meadows, glaciers, and charming villages.

• Difficulty: Moderate to strenuous
• Best Time to Visit: June to September
• Practical Advice: Plan for at least 10 days to complete the full circuit. Stay in mountain huts or campsites along the route for an authentic alpine experience.

3. Appalachian Trail, USA

Stretching over 2,180 miles across the eastern United States, the Appalachian Trail offers diverse landscapes, from woodlands and rivers to rolling mountains. While most hikers tackle sections of the trail, the entire journey is a multi-month expedition.

• Difficulty: Varies by section (easy to strenuous)
• Best Time to Visit: March to October
• Practical Advice: Be prepared for varying weather and terrain. Many hikers opt for the popular sections like the Great Smoky Mountains or Shenandoah National Park.

4. W Trek, Torres del Paine, Chile

The W Trek in Torres del Paine National Park is famous for its granite spires, blue glaciers, and stunning Patagonian wilderness. The 50-mile trek forms a W-shape on the map, hence its name.

• Difficulty: Moderate
• Best Time to Visit: November to March (Patagonian summer)
• Practical Advice: Prepare for unpredictable weather with strong winds and rain. Book campsites or refugios early, as the trail is popular with trekkers.

5. Milford Track, New Zealand

Dubbed the “Finest Walk in the World,” New Zealand’s Milford Track covers 33 miles of Fiordland National Park’s lush rainforests, towering waterfalls, and pristine lakes.

• Difficulty: Moderate
• Best Time to Visit: October to April (Great Walks season)
• Practical Advice: Only 90 hikers are allowed to start the trail each day, so booking in advance is essential. Prepare for wet weather as Fiordland is one of the rainiest places on Earth.

6. Everest Base Camp Trek, Nepal

For those seeking to explore the Himalayas, the Everest Base Camp Trek is an iconic route. This 80-mile round-trip hike provides stunning views of the world’s highest peaks, including Mount Everest.

• Difficulty: Challenging (due to altitude)
• Best Time to Visit: March to May, September to November
• Practical Advice: Proper acclimatization is essential to avoid altitude sickness. Hiring a guide or joining a trekking group is recommended for safety and navigation.

7. The Haute Route, France/Switzerland

This high-altitude trek between Chamonix in France and Zermatt in Switzerland covers 112 miles of Alpine wilderness. The Haute Route offers jaw-dropping views of glaciers, towering peaks, and alpine meadows.

• Difficulty: Strenuous
• Best Time to Visit: July to September
• Practical Advice: The route is for experienced hikers with a solid fitness level. Use mountain huts along the way to break up the strenuous days of hiking.

8. Laugavegur Trail, Iceland

Iceland’s Laugavegur Trail covers 34 miles of the country’s unique volcanic landscapes, geothermal hot springs, and colorful rhyolite mountains.

• Difficulty: Moderate
• Best Time to Visit: June to September
• Practical Advice: Bring sturdy hiking boots, as the trail can be wet and slippery. Consider adding the Fimmvörðuháls extension for an extra adventure.

9. The Narrows, Zion National Park, USA

The Narrows is a unique hike through the Virgin River in Utah’s Zion National Park. The 16-mile journey through towering sandstone walls is a refreshing escape into nature.

• Difficulty: Moderate
• Best Time to Visit: Summer to early fall (to avoid high water levels)
• Practical Advice: Waterproof gear is essential as you'll be wading through water. Check weather conditions beforehand to avoid flash floods.

10. Cinque Terre, Italy

This trail connects the five picturesque villages of Italy’s Cinque Terre along the Ligurian coast. The 7.5-mile trek offers breathtaking views of the Mediterranean and colorful terraced hills.

• Difficulty: Easy to moderate
• Best Time to Visit: March to October
• Practical Advice: The trail can get crowded, especially in the summer. Start early to enjoy the hike before the midday rush.

Final Thoughts

Whether you’re a seasoned trekker or a beginner, these trails offer something for everyone. From the majestic heights of the Himalayas to the coastal charm of Cinque Terre, each trail offers a unique experience. Choosing the right time and preparing adequately will make your hike more enjoyable and safer.

These world-renowned hiking trails provide an opportunity to connect with nature, push personal limits, and explore the beauty of our planet in its rawest form.