27 Must-Do Hikes Across The Globe That Will Change Your Life
There’s something magical about putting one foot in front of the other, miles from the noise of everyday life. Hiking has a way of grounding you while simultaneously lifting your spirit.
On my own journeys, I’ve discovered trails that whisper ancient stories, showcase jaw-dropping views, and push your limits in the most rewarding ways. So if your heart’s been craving nature’s embrace, this list is your sign to hit the trail.
From high-altitude adventures to serene forest paths, here are 27 hikes that truly belong on your bucket list. Ready to chase horizons?
1. Inca Trail, Peru
If ancient civilizations fascinate you, the Inca Trail is your passport to the past. This iconic trek meanders through cloud forests, alpine tundra, and Incan ruins.
It’s a journey steeped in history and mystery. At every turn, the echoes of the past whisper stories of the mighty Inca Empire. The trail culminates at Machu Picchu, one of the New Seven Wonders of the World, offering views that are nothing short of spectacular.
It’s not just a hike; it’s a pilgrimage through history.
2. Everest Base Camp, Nepal
When adventure calls, nothing compares to the allure of the Everest Base Camp trek. It’s a challenging yet rewarding journey through the heart of the Himalayas.
The trail takes you through Sherpa villages, dense forests, and across glacier-fed rivers. Each step brings you closer to the foot of the world’s highest peak, Mount Everest. At the base camp, the sheer magnitude of the mountain is humbling.
This trek is more than just an adventure; it’s a testament to human spirit and determination.
3. Appalachian Trail, USA
How does a 2,200-mile journey across 14 states sound? The Appalachian Trail offers a diverse landscape ranging from picturesque mountains to serene woodlands.
Each segment of the trail tells its own story, weaving together a tapestry of North America’s natural beauty. It’s a long and winding path that challenges the body and nurtures the soul.
Hiking the trail is a rite of passage for many, offering solitude and a profound connection with nature. It’s a journey that changes you.
4. Milford Track, New Zealand
Did you know that the Milford Track is often considered the ‘finest walk in the world’? It’s true. This 33-mile trail leads you through New Zealand’s pristine Fiordland National Park.
The landscape is a breathtaking mix of rainforests, glacial valleys, and towering peaks. With every step, you’ll be enveloped by nature’s grandeur.
The track culminates at the majestic Milford Sound, where cliffs rise dramatically from the sea. It’s a hike that promises awe and inspiration.
5. Torres del Paine, Chile
Are you ready for an adventure in Patagonia? The Torres del Paine Circuit is a trek that takes you through one of the most stunning landscapes on Earth. From azure lakes to glacial ice fields, the park is a visual feast.
The granite towers that give the park its name loom majestically over the terrain. This trek is a journey through Patagonia’s wild heart, offering unparalleled beauty and serenity.
It’s a place where nature’s raw power is on full display.
6. Mount Kilimanjaro, Tanzania
If reaching the roof of Africa is on your bucket list, Mount Kilimanjaro beckons with open arms. This dormant volcano is the continent’s tallest peak and offers a climb that is both challenging and rewarding.
The ascent takes you through diverse ecosystems, from lush rainforests to alpine deserts. At the summit, Uhuru Peak, you’ll experience a sunrise that words can’t capture.
Climbing Kilimanjaro is not just about reaching the top; it’s a journey of self-discovery and triumph.
7. Trekking to the Lost City, Colombia
When the urge for exploration hits, the Lost City trek offers a journey back in time. Hidden in the Sierra Nevada mountains, this ancient city predates Machu Picchu.
The trek takes you through dense jungle, crossed by rivers and waterfalls. As you ascend the stepped terraces, the air is thick with history and mystery. The ruins of Teyuna reveal a civilization lost to time.
It’s more than just a hike; it’s an archaeological adventure that stirs the soul.
8. Angels Landing, Zion National Park, USA
Though not for the faint-hearted, Angels Landing offers a thrill like no other. Located in Zion National Park, this hike is known for its steep, narrow path with sheer drops on either side.
The trail ascends through a series of switchbacks before reaching the spine-chilling ridge. At the summit, you’re rewarded with panoramic views of Zion Canyon that are simply breathtaking.
It’s a hike that tests your courage and rewards your bravery with unparalleled beauty.
9. Laugavegur Trail, Iceland
This trail transports you to another world. The Laugavegur Trail in Iceland is a kaleidoscope of volcanic landscapes, hot springs, and glacial rivers.
As you trek, the vibrant hues of rhyolite mountains create a surreal backdrop. Each step brings a new vista, with steam rising from geothermal vents and vast ice fields on the horizon.
It’s a mesmerizing journey that captures the untamed beauty of Iceland. This is a hike where every moment is a discovery.
10. Grand Canyon Rim-to-Rim, USA
This is not just a hike; it’s an odyssey through one of the world’s natural wonders. The Grand Canyon Rim-to-Rim trek offers a unique perspective on this iconic landscape.
As you descend from the North Rim, the canyon reveals its layers of history carved by the Colorado River. Crossing the canyon is a test of endurance and a celebration of nature’s grandeur.
It’s a journey that leaves you in awe of the Earth’s raw beauty and power.
11. Mount Fuji, Japan
How about climbing an icon? Mount Fuji is Japan’s highest peak and a symbol of natural beauty. The ascent is a pilgrimage for many, offering a unique blend of physical challenge and spiritual journey.
As you climb, the landscape transitions from lush forest to barren volcanic rock. Reaching the summit at sunrise is a magical experience, with views that stretch across the horizon.
It’s more than just a climb; it’s a cultural and spiritual odyssey.
12. Sentiero Azzurro, Cinque Terre, Italy
Where vibrant villages meet the azure sea, the Sentiero Azzurro offers a hike like no other. This trail connects the enchanting villages of Cinque Terre, each with its own charm and character.
As you walk, you’re treated to sweeping views of the Mediterranean coastline. The trail meanders through olive groves and vineyards, offering a taste of Italy’s coastal beauty.
It’s a hike that blends stunning scenery with cultural richness.
13. Mount Roraima, Venezuela
This is a hike into the unknown. Mount Roraima, with its flat-topped summit, rises like a fortress from the surrounding jungle.
As you ascend, the landscape shifts from dense rainforest to otherworldly rock formations. Each step brings new wonders, from crystal-clear pools to unique plant species found nowhere else on Earth.
Standing atop the summit feels like being on another planet. It’s a trek that blurs the line between reality and fantasy.
14. The Narrows, Zion National Park, USA
If walking through water sounds appealing, the Narrows in Zion National Park offers a unique adventure. This hike takes you into a slot canyon, where the Virgin River is your path.
As you wade through the water, the canyon walls rise dramatically on either side. The play of light and shadow creates an ever-changing landscape.
It’s a hike that immerses you in nature’s artistry and offers a refreshing escape from the ordinary.
15. Mount Cook, New Zealand
With a landscape as dramatic as its weather, Mount Cook beckons adventurers with its soaring peaks and glaciers. Known as Aoraki in Maori, it’s New Zealand’s highest peak.
The climb is a test of skill and endurance, offering a challenging yet rewarding experience. As you ascend, the views of the Southern Alps are breathtaking.
It’s a journey into the heart of New Zealand’s alpine wilderness, where nature’s majesty reigns supreme.
16. Picos de Europa, Spain
This is a hike through Spain’s hidden gem. The Picos de Europa offer a landscape of rugged beauty, where jagged peaks and lush valleys create a dramatic backdrop.
Each trail reveals a new facet of this mountainous region, from limestone cliffs to emerald-green meadows. It’s a place where nature’s contrasts are on full display.
Hiking here feels like stepping back in time, offering a glimpse of Spain’s untamed wilderness.
17. Aoraki / Mount Cook National Park, New Zealand
If you’re drawn to landscapes of sheer beauty, Aoraki / Mount Cook National Park is a dream come true.
The park is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, offering trails that meander through alpine meadows and past glacial lakes. As you walk, the grandeur of Mount Cook dominates the skyline.
The diverse flora and fauna add to the park’s allure. It’s a place where every step reveals nature’s artistry, making it a paradise for hikers.
18. Drakensberg Mountains, South Africa
When adventure calls, the Drakensberg Mountains offer an experience like no other. Known as the ‘Dragon Mountains,’ this range is a UNESCO World Heritage site.
The landscape is a tapestry of rolling hills, jagged peaks, and dramatic escarpments. Each trail offers its own unique challenge, from tranquil walks to demanding ascents.
It’s a place where nature’s grandeur is ever-present, and the sense of adventure is palpable.
19. Tupungato, Argentina
Where the Andes reach for the sky, Tupungato stands as a beacon for mountaineers. This stratovolcano is one of Argentina’s highest peaks, offering a climb that is both challenging and exhilarating.
The ascent takes you through a landscape of snow-capped peaks and rugged terrain. At the summit, the views stretch across the Andes, offering a perspective that few experiences can match.
It’s a climb that tests your limits and rewards your spirit.
20. The Overland Track, Australia
For those who seek diversity in their adventures, the Overland Track promises a journey through varied landscapes.
This iconic Australian hike takes you through alpine meadows, ancient rainforests, and past pristine lakes. Each step reveals the unique beauty of Tasmania’s wilderness.
The track culminates at Cradle Mountain, offering views that are simply breathtaking. It’s a hike that captures the essence of Australia’s natural beauty.
21. Doi Inthanon, Thailand
It’s often called the ‘Roof of Thailand,’ and for good reason. Doi Inthanon is the country’s highest peak, offering a hike that is as rewarding as it is beautiful.
The trail takes you through a landscape of lush forests, cascading waterfalls, and colorful flora. At the summit, you’ll find sweeping views of the surrounding countryside.
It’s a hike that offers a glimpse into Thailand’s natural splendor and cultural richness.
22. John Muir Trail, USA
This is a hike that celebrates the spirit of exploration. The John Muir Trail takes you through California’s Sierra Nevada, offering some of the most scenic vistas in the United States.
As you walk, the landscape reveals a tapestry of granite peaks, alpine lakes, and verdant meadows. It’s a journey that challenges the body and inspires the soul.
Named after the famed naturalist, this trail is a testament to the beauty of the wild.
23. Tongariro Alpine Crossing, New Zealand
When it comes to dramatic landscapes, the Tongariro Alpine Crossing is unmatched. This trek takes you through a volcanic wonderland, where steaming vents and emerald lakes create a surreal environment.
As you walk, the rugged beauty of the landscape unfolds, offering views that captivate the imagination.
It’s a hike that showcases the raw power of nature, making it one of New Zealand’s most iconic treks.
24. Bungle Bungles, Australia
This is a hike into a landscape like no other. The Bungle Bungles in Western Australia are renowned for their striking beehive-shaped formations.
The trek takes you through a maze of canyons and gorges, where each turn reveals new wonders. The play of light and shadow on the rock formations creates an ever-changing spectacle.
It’s a journey that immerses you in the unique beauty of the Australian Outback.
25. Mount Taranaki, New Zealand
Known for its near-perfect cone shape, Mount Taranaki is a symbol of natural beauty. The climb offers a challenging yet rewarding experience, taking you through lush forests and alpine meadows.
At the summit, the views stretch across the North Island, offering a perspective that is both breathtaking and humbling.
It’s a hike that captures the essence of New Zealand’s rugged beauty.
26. Banff National Park, Canada
When it comes to breathtaking beauty, Banff National Park is hard to beat. This Canadian gem offers a network of trails that take you through some of the most stunning landscapes in North America.
From turquoise lakes to towering peaks, each trail offers its own unique allure.
It’s a place where nature’s majesty is on full display, making it a paradise for hikers and nature lovers alike.
27. Poon Hill, Nepal
Where the Annapurna Range meets the sky, Poon Hill offers a hike that is both accessible and awe-inspiring.
The trek takes you through lush forests and charming villages, culminating at a viewpoint that offers panoramic views of the Himalayas. At sunrise, the peaks are bathed in a golden glow, creating a scene that is nothing short of magical.
It’s a hike that offers a glimpse into Nepal’s natural beauty and cultural richness.