These Are the 27 of the World’s Most Beautiful Hiking Trips
Some trails don’t just lead to a destination—they take you somewhere unforgettable.
Towering peaks, untouched forests, and landscapes so breathtaking they don’t seem real. These hikes aren’t just walks in the park; they’re journeys into the extraordinary.
Some will challenge you, others will leave you speechless, and a few might just change the way you see the world.
From rugged cliffs plunging into the sea to winding paths through ancient valleys, each of these trails has something special—something worth lacing up your boots for.
Ready to see nature at its most stunning? These are 27 of the world’s most beautiful hiking trips, and trust us—you’ll want to add them all to your bucket list.
Torres del Paine Circuit, Chile
Nestled in the heart of Patagonia, the Torres del Paine Circuit offers a dramatic display of nature’s finest. Amidst towering granite peaks, hikers traverse through lush valleys, glacial rivers, and sprawling grasslands.
Each twist and turn unveils a new scene, from the turquoise waters of Lake Pehoé to the striking silhouette of the Cuernos del Paine. Wildlife enthusiasts may spot guanacos grazing or Andean condors soaring overhead.
This trek is as much about the journey as it is about the destination, with each step offering a deeper connection to the untouched wilderness of Chile.
Milford Track, New Zealand
Often dubbed the ‘finest walk in the world,’ New Zealand’s Milford Track is a mesmerizing journey through Fiordland National Park. The trail winds through lush rainforests, past cascading waterfalls, and over mountain passes offering views that seem to defy reality.
Hikers are treated to the sight of the majestic Sutherland Falls, one of the world’s tallest. The ever-changing weather adds a mystical touch, as mist and sunlight dance across the landscape.
Each day on the trail brings new wonders, making it a must-experience for those seeking nature’s raw beauty.
Inca Trail, Peru
A journey steeped in history and culture, the Inca Trail in Peru guides adventurers along ancient paths once traversed by the Incas. Winding through dense cloud forests and alpine tundra, the trail culminates at the awe-inspiring ruins of Machu Picchu.
Each step is a testament to the ingenuity of the Inca Empire, with stone pathways and archaeological sites peppered along the route. As dawn breaks, the Sun Gate offers a breathtaking first glimpse of the ancient city, a reward that leaves hikers in awe of both the past and the present.
Tour du Mont Blanc, France/Italy/Switzerland
Circling the Mont Blanc massif, this iconic trek offers panoramic views of Europe’s highest peaks. Traversing through alpine meadows and glacial valleys, hikers experience the vibrant tapestry of wildflowers, sparkling streams, and snow-dusted mountains.
The trail weaves through charming villages and pastures, showcasing the rich cultural heritage of the region. Each day’s hike presents a new landscape, from the rugged rock faces to gentle rolling hills.
This journey is a celebration of nature’s grandeur and a testament to the enduring allure of the Alps.
Everest Base Camp Trek, Nepal
An adventure of epic proportions, the Everest Base Camp Trek takes hikers through the heart of the Himalayas. The trail winds through rugged terrain, past Sherpa villages adorned with colorful prayer flags, and along glacial rivers.
Majestic snow-capped peaks tower on all sides, including the formidable Mount Everest itself. Along the way, trekkers experience the warm hospitality of local communities and the spiritual serenity of Buddhist monasteries.
Reaching base camp is a momentous achievement, a testament to endurance and a deep appreciation for the world’s highest mountains.
Haute Route, France/Switzerland
Linking the iconic peaks of Mont Blanc and the Matterhorn, the Haute Route is a classic trek that promises adventure and awe. Traversing high mountain passes and pristine glaciers, hikers encounter landscapes that are both challenging and breathtaking.
The route offers views of jagged peaks and tranquil alpine lakes, evoking a sense of wonder and exploration. Each segment of the trail tells a story of nature’s grandeur, inviting adventurers to immerse themselves in the raw beauty of the Alps.
It’s a journey that captures the imagination and inspires the soul.
John Muir Trail, USA
Named after the renowned naturalist, the John Muir Trail is a tribute to the Sierra Nevada’s unparalleled beauty. Spanning over 200 miles, the trail meanders through granite cliffs, alpine meadows, and crystalline lakes.
Hikers follow in the footsteps of John Muir, experiencing the awe that inspired his passion for preservation. Each segment offers a new challenge and a new view, from Yosemite’s stunning vistas to the remote tranquility of Kings Canyon.
This trail is a journey through some of America’s most pristine wilderness, a trek that leaves a lasting impression.
Annapurna Circuit, Nepal
Offering a diverse tapestry of landscapes, the Annapurna Circuit in Nepal is a journey through contrasts. From subtropical forests to high-altitude deserts, each stage reveals a new facet of the region’s natural beauty.
The trail winds past terraced fields, through traditional villages, and alongside the towering peaks of the Annapurna massif. Hikers experience a rich cultural immersion, meeting locals and sharing in the warmth of Nepali hospitality.
The circuit’s highest point, Thorong La Pass, offers panoramic views that reward the challenge of the ascent. It’s a trek that celebrates diversity in both nature and culture.
Laugavegur Trail, Iceland
Iceland’s Laugavegur Trail is a feast for the senses, with its kaleidoscope of colors and diverse landscapes. Hikers traverse through vibrant rhyolite mountains, vast volcanic deserts, and past steaming hot springs.
Each day brings a new contrast, from green valleys to stark black sands. Geothermal steam rises from the earth, adding an otherworldly touch to the journey.
The trail is a haven for those seeking solitude and a unique connection with nature. It’s an exploration of Iceland’s raw, untouched beauty, where every step uncovers a new story written in the land.
Toubkal Circuit, Morocco
A trek through Morocco’s Atlas Mountains offers an expedition through tradition and rugged beauty. The Toubkal Circuit takes hikers through remote Berber villages, where ancient customs and hospitality endure.
The path leads through rocky landscapes and lush valleys, offering views of North Africa’s highest peak, Mount Toubkal. Each village visited tells a story of resilience and community, offering a glimpse into the heart of Moroccan culture.
This journey is a harmonious blend of mountain adventure and cultural discovery, a trek where nature and heritage walk hand in hand.
Mount Kilimanjaro, Tanzania
The ascent of Mount Kilimanjaro is a journey through diverse ecosystems, each offering its own unique beauty. From the lush rainforests that cloak the lower slopes to the arid landscapes of the alpine desert, every step presents a new environment.
The final push to the summit reveals a breathtaking panorama of the African plains, a reward for the endurance of the climb. Along the way, hikers encounter rare wildlife and the ever-present spirit of adventure.
It’s a trek that challenges the body and uplifts the spirit, culminating in the triumph of reaching Africa’s highest peak.
Kalalau Trail, USA
Hawaii’s Kalalau Trail is a coastal adventure that takes hikers along Kauai’s rugged Napali Coast. The path winds through verdant valleys and along towering sea cliffs, offering sweeping vistas of the azure Pacific Ocean.
Each twist reveals hidden waterfalls and secluded beaches, inviting exploration and wonder. The trail is a journey through the island’s rich biodiversity, with native flora and fauna adding to the enchantment.
It’s a trek that celebrates the dramatic beauty of Hawaii’s natural landscape, a path where land meets sea in spectacular fashion.
Snowman Trek, Bhutan
Considered one of the most challenging treks in the world, Bhutan’s Snowman Trek is a journey through remote Himalayan landscapes. The path traverses high mountain passes, serene valleys, and past ancient monasteries.
Each day presents a new challenge, with weather conditions adding to the adventure. Hikers experience the untouched beauty of Bhutan, a country where tradition and nature coexist in harmony.
The trek is a pilgrimage of sorts, offering a deep connection with the land and a profound sense of peace. It’s an exploration of the Himalayas’ hidden treasures, a journey that tests endurance and rewards the soul.
Overland Track, Australia
Tasmania’s Overland Track is a celebration of wilderness, offering a trek through the island’s most stunning landscapes. The path meanders through ancient rainforests, over alpine plateaus, and past the iconic peak of Cradle Mountain.
Each section of the track presents a new environment, from dense forests to open moorlands, showcasing Tasmania’s diverse ecology. The journey is a haven for wildlife enthusiasts, with opportunities to spot unique fauna such as wombats and echidnas.
It’s a trek that invites hikers to immerse themselves in nature’s untouched beauty, a path where every step reveals a new wonder.
Drakensberg Traverse, South Africa/Lesotho
The Drakensberg Traverse is a trek through some of Africa’s most dramatic landscapes, offering an adventure through towering basalt cliffs and lush grasslands. The path winds through the uKhahlamba-Drakensberg Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, revealing sweeping vistas of the South African and Lesotho landscapes.
Each segment of the trail offers a new perspective, from high ridges to deep valleys. Hikers encounter unique flora and fauna, adding to the allure of the journey.
It’s a trek that celebrates the grandeur of the Drakensberg Mountains, a path where nature and adventure intersect in breathtaking fashion.
Fimmvörðuháls Trail, Iceland
Iceland’s Fimmvörðuháls Trail is an otherworldly adventure through volcanic landscapes and cascading waterfalls. The path leads hikers across rocky terrain, past active volcanoes and steaming geothermal vents.
Each step offers a new view, from distant glaciers to the vibrant hues of volcanic rock. The trail is a journey through Iceland’s raw beauty, where nature’s power and tranquility coexist.
It’s a trek that invites exploration and discovery, a path where every moment offers a new perspective on the land’s rugged charm.
Camino de Santiago, Spain
A pilgrimage steeped in history, the Camino de Santiago is a journey through Spain’s scenic countryside and historic villages. Each step along the path tells a story, from ancient churches to bustling plazas.
The trail culminates at the iconic Santiago de Compostela Cathedral, a moment of reflection and achievement. Hikers experience the warmth of Spanish hospitality and the camaraderie of fellow pilgrims, creating a sense of community and shared purpose.
It’s a trek that transcends the physical journey, offering a spiritual exploration of self and tradition.
Kungsleden, Sweden
Sweden’s Kungsleden, or “King’s Trail,” is a trek through the heart of the Swedish Arctic. The path winds through vast tundras, birch forests, and alongside glacial rivers.
Each stretch offers a new view, from the snow-capped peaks of the Scandinavian Mountains to the vibrant colors of the Northern Lights. The trail is a journey through Sweden’s natural beauty, offering solitude and serenity to those who venture its length.
It’s a trek that showcases the wild and untouched landscapes of the Arctic, a path where nature reigns supreme.
Cinque Terre Trail, Italy
Italy’s Cinque Terre Trail is a picturesque journey through five charming coastal villages, each with its own unique character. The path winds through terraced vineyards and olive groves, offering sweeping views of the Ligurian Sea.
Each section of the trail presents a new perspective, from the vibrant facades of Riomaggiore to the tranquil beauty of Vernazza’s harbor. Hikers experience the rich cultural heritage of the region, with local cuisine and traditions adding to the allure.
It’s a trek that celebrates the harmony of nature and culture, where every step is a feast for the senses.
West Highland Way, Scotland
Scotland’s West Highland Way offers a trek through some of the country’s most iconic landscapes. The path meanders through rugged terrain, past serene lochs, and alongside the towering presence of Ben Nevis.
Each day’s hike presents a new challenge and a new view, from the open moors to the dense woodlands. Hikers experience the raw beauty of the Scottish Highlands, with its ever-changing weather adding to the adventure.
It’s a journey that immerses adventurers in the spirit of Scotland, a path where nature’s wild beauty is ever-present.
Pacific Crest Trail, USA
Spanning over 2,600 miles, the Pacific Crest Trail offers a journey through the diverse landscapes of the United States’ western coast. The path traverses desert expanses, lush forests, and snow-covered mountain passes, each section offering its own unique beauty.
Hikers experience the vastness of the American wilderness, with the opportunity to encounter diverse flora and fauna along the way. It’s a trek of endurance and exploration, a path where the journey is as rewarding as the destination.
Each step is a testament to the grandeur of nature and the spirit of adventure.
Salkantay Trek, Peru
The Salkantay Trek offers an alternative route to Machu Picchu, winding through some of Peru’s most stunning landscapes. The path leads hikers past emerald-green lakes and through the shadow of the towering Salkantay Mountain.
Each step offers a new view, from the lush cloud forests to the rugged Andean terrain. The trek is a journey through Peru’s natural beauty, offering solitude and serenity to those who venture its length.
It’s an exploration of the Andes’ hidden treasures, where every moment offers a new perspective on nature’s magnificence.
Santa Cruz Trek, Peru
Nestled in the heart of the Peruvian Andes, the Santa Cruz Trek offers a journey through dramatic landscapes and vibrant ecosystems. The path meanders through verdant valleys and past turquoise glacial lakes, each view more breathtaking than the last.
Hikers experience the majesty of the Andean peaks, with towering mountains forming a stunning backdrop to the trek. The trail is a celebration of nature’s grandeur, offering a deep connection with the land and a sense of adventure.
It’s a trek that leaves a lasting impression, a journey through some of Peru’s most beautiful wilderness.
Long Range Traverse, Canada
Canada’s Long Range Traverse is a trek through the rugged beauty of Newfoundland’s remote landscapes. The path winds through fjords, across barren plateaus, and along coastal cliffs, each stretch offering its own unique charm.
Hikers experience the solitude and serenity of the Canadian wilderness, with occasional encounters with moose or caribou. The trail is a journey through some of the country’s most untouched terrain, offering a deep connection with nature and a sense of exploration.
It’s a trek that celebrates the wild beauty of Newfoundland, a path where adventure awaits at every turn.
Great Ocean Walk, Australia
Australia’s Great Ocean Walk offers a coastal adventure through some of the country’s most iconic landscapes. The path leads hikers along dramatic cliffs, through eucalyptus forests, and past the famous Twelve Apostles.
Each section of the trail offers a new perspective, from the rugged coastline to the tranquil beauty of the ocean. Hikers experience the unique flora and fauna of the region, with opportunities to spot koalas and kangaroos along the way.
It’s a trek that celebrates Australia’s diverse ecosystems, a journey where land and sea meet in breathtaking harmony.
GR20, Corsica
Considered one of Europe’s toughest long-distance trails, the GR20 in Corsica offers a journey through rugged mountain landscapes. The path winds through dense pine forests, past rocky peaks, and alongside sparkling streams.
Each day presents a new challenge, with steep ascents and descents testing hikers’ endurance. The trail is a celebration of Corsica’s natural beauty, offering views of the Mediterranean Sea and the island’s diverse ecosystems.
It’s a trek that demands both strength and spirit, a path where every step reveals a new facet of the island’s charm.
Stairway to the Sky, Zhangjiajie, China
Zhangjiajie’s Stairway to the Sky offers an ethereal hiking experience unlike any other. Marvel at towering sandstone pillars that inspired the floating Hallelujah Mountains of Pandora.
As you ascend the trails, the landscape transforms, with mist swirling around you, revealing vistas that feel out of this world.
The hike is both challenging and rewarding, with stairs carved intricately into the mountainside. Each step brings you closer to breathtaking panoramic views.
Take your time to savor the serenity and snap photos of this UNESCO World Heritage Site. Remember to pack light and wear sturdy footwear for the steep climbs.