Nature is a great way to escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. From spectacular mountain peaks to lush forests, hiking is a great way to explore the outdoors and discover the beauty of the world around us. Whether you’re an experienced hiker or a beginner looking to get started, here are some of the best hiking trails around the world.
Pacific Crest Trail, USA
Spanning over 2,650 miles from Mexico to Canada, the Pacific Crest Trail (PCT) is one of the most iconic and challenging thru-hikes in the world. The trail passes through some of the most stunning mountain, desert, and forest landscapes in the United States, including the Sierra Nevada, Cascade Range, and Columbia Plateau. The trail takes most hikers around 5 months to complete, and requires thorough preparation and planning.
Routeburn Track, New Zealand
The Routeburn Track is a 32-mile trail that starts in Glenorchy and ends in Te Anau. It passes through parts of both the Fiordland and Mt Aspiring National Parks, and offers incredible views of alpine lakes, lush forests, and snow-capped mountains. It typically takes 3 days to complete the track, and there are several huts and campsites along the way for hikers to rest.
Kungsleden, Sweden
Kungsleden, also known as the King’s Trail, is a 270-mile trail that stretches across the northern part of Sweden. The trail passes through the vast and untouched wilderness of the Scandinavian country, including the Lappland and Abisko National Parks. Along the way, hikers can expect to see spectacular views of glaciers, rivers, and mountains. The trail typically takes around 3 weeks to complete.
Milford Track, New Zealand
The Milford Track is one of the most popular hiking trails in New Zealand, and for good reason. The 33-mile trail starts at the head of Lake Te Anau and finishes at Milford Sound. Along the way, hikers will pass through breathtaking mountain and forest landscapes, including the Sutherland Falls and the Arthur Valley. The trail takes 4 days to complete, and can be done in either direction.
Whether you’re a seasoned hiker or just getting started, there are plenty of trails around the world to explore. From challenging thru-hikes to multi-day trips, these are some of the best hiking trails around the world.