Appalachian Trail, USA

Length: Approximately 2,200 miles (3,540 km)

Location: Eastern United States, stretching from Georgia to Maine

Highlights: This iconic trail offers stunning views of the Appalachian Mountains, diverse ecosystems, and rich wildlife. Hikers can experience everything from dense forests to alpine meadows and picturesque waterfalls.

Pacific Crest Trail, USA

Length: Approximately 2,650 miles (4,265 km)

Location: West Coast of the United States, from Mexico to Canada

Highlights: The Pacific Crest Trail showcases the beauty of the Sierra Nevada and Cascade mountain ranges. Hikers will encounter diverse landscapes, including deserts, forests, and volcanic peaks, as well as breathtaking vistas.

  Inca Trail, Peru

Length: Approximately 26 miles (42 km)

Location: Peru, leading to Machu Picchu

Highlights: This famous trek combines stunning Andean scenery with ancient Incan ruins. Hikers can explore lush cloud forests, steep mountain passes, and breathtaking views of Machu Picchu, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Torres del Paine Circuit, Chile

Length: Approximately 70 miles (112 km)

Location: Torres del Paine National Park, Patagonia, Chile

Highlights: Known for its dramatic landscapes, the Torres del Paine Circuit features turquoise lakes, towering granite peaks, and vast glaciers. Wildlife enthusiasts may spot guanacos, foxes, and a variety of bird species along the way.

The Dolomites, Italy

Length: Varies (multiple trails available)

Location: Northern Italy

Highlights: The Dolomites offer a network of stunning hiking trails with breathtaking views of jagged peaks and lush valleys. The Alta Via 1 and 2 are popular long-distance trails that showcase the region’s unique geological formations and alpine flora.

John Muir Trail, USA

Length: Approximately 211 miles (340 km)

Location: California, USA, through the Sierra Nevada mountains

Highlights: This picturesque trail traverses stunning mountain scenery, including Yosemite, Kings Canyon, and Sequoia National Parks. Hikers will enjoy alpine lakes, granite cliffs, and vibrant wildflower meadows.

Cinque Terre, Italy

Length: Approximately 7.5 miles (12 km)

Location: Liguria, Italy

Highlights: The Cinque Terre Trail connects five charming coastal villages along the Italian Riviera. Hikers will enjoy stunning ocean views, terraced vineyards, and picturesque towns, making it a perfect blend of nature and culture.

  Laugavegur Trail, Iceland

Length: Approximately 34 miles (55 km)

Location: Iceland, from Landmannalaugar to Thórsmörk

Highlights: This unique trail takes hikers through geothermal landscapes, colorful rhyolite mountains, and volcanic terrain. The Laugavegur Trail offers a truly otherworldly experience, with hot springs and stunning vistas at every turn.

Aoraki / Mount Cook National Park, New Zealand

Length: Varies (multiple trails available)

Location: South Island, New Zealand

Highlights: This national park features some of New Zealand’s most spectacular scenery, including the towering Aoraki / Mount Cook. Hikers can explore a range of trails, from short walks to multi-day treks, with views of glaciers, alpine lakes, and diverse wildlife.

Great Wall of China, China

Length: Varies (multiple sections available)

Location: Northern China

Highlights: Hiking along the Great Wall offers a unique blend of history and stunning landscapes. Various sections, such as Jiankou and Jinshanling, provide breathtaking views and a chance to explore the architectural marvel in a natural setting.