There’s something magical about stepping into the wild—whether it’s a thrilling adventure, soaking in stunning landscapes, or simply enjoying the peace of nature. I’ve been lucky enough to hike both day trips and multi-day treks, here in Australia and abroad, each one leaving me with unforgettable memories. Join me as we explore some of the world’s most incredible trails. These hikes offer the chance to experience diverse terrains, connect with unique cultures, and create lasting memories. Ready to be inspired? Let’s dive into these amazing trails and add a few to your own bucket list
1. The Inca Trail – Peru

If you’ve ever dreamed of exploring a place where history and nature come together, the Inca Trail in Peru might just be your perfect adventure. This iconic route winds its way through the breathtaking Andes, offering a glimpse into the world of the ancient Incas while surrounding you with some of the most stunning landscapes on the planet.
What Makes the Inca Trail So Special?
There’s something truly magical about the mix of history, culture, and scenery you’ll encounter along the trail. Here are a few highlights:
- Fascinating Ancient Ruins: As you walk, you’ll come across ruins that were once vibrant centres of Inca life. Each site feels like stepping back in time, showcasing their impressive stonework and unique connection to the natural world.
- Enchanting Cloud Forests: The trail takes you through lush, misty forests alive with the sounds of birds and the colours of tropical plants. It’s like being in another world.
- Incredible Mountain Views: Think towering peaks, peaceful valleys, and landscapes that will make you stop and stare (often because you’ll want a breather, but mostly because it’s just that beautiful).
The Big Finale: Machu Picchu
After days of trekking, you’ll arrive at Machu Picchu, and let me tell you, it’s worth every step. This ancient Inca citadel, perched high in the mountains, feels like it’s straight out of a storybook. Walking through its terraces and temples, you can’t help but imagine what life was like here centuries ago.
The Inca Trail isn’t just a walk; it’s an experience that stays with you. Whether you’re in it for the history, the scenery, or the personal challenge, it’s a journey you won’t forget.
2. The Camino de Santiago – Spain

The Camino de Santiago, or the Way of St. James, is more than just a walk – it’s a deeply personal experience that blends history, culture, and spirituality. This iconic pilgrimage has been travelled by countless people over centuries, all making their way to the magnificent Santiago de Compostela Cathedral in Spain.
Why Walk the Camino de Santiago?
The Camino offers something unique for everyone, whether you’re seeking personal growth, cultural exploration, or simply a chance to step away from the everyday. Here’s what makes it special:
- Multiple Routes to Choose From: The Camino isn’t a single path but a network of routes across Europe, each leading to Santiago de Compostela. Popular options include the French Way (Camino Francés) and the Portuguese Way (Camino Portugués), but every route has its own unique charm.
- Charming Villages and Towns: Along the way, you’ll pass through picturesque villages and historic towns, each with its own story to tell. These stops are perfect for recharging and connecting with locals and fellow pilgrims.
- Inspiring Scenery: From rolling green hills and vineyards to rugged coastlines and peaceful forests, the landscapes you’ll walk through are both diverse and beautiful.
- A Deep Sense of Connection: Many walkers talk about the sense of community they feel on the Camino. Whether it’s through shared meals, friendly conversations, or simply recognising familiar faces along the trail, it’s an experience that brings people together.
The Destination: Santiago de Compostela Cathedral
The journey culminates at the Santiago de Compostela Cathedral, where tradition holds that the remains of St. James are buried. The awe-inspiring architecture and spiritual significance of the cathedral make reaching it a profoundly moving moment for many.
The Camino de Santiago is about much more than the destination. It’s an opportunity to slow down, reflect, and connect – with history, with others, and perhaps even with yourself.
3. The Appalachian Trail – United States

The Appalachian Trail (AT) is one of the most celebrated long-distance hiking trails in the world. Spanning over 2,100 miles (3,380 kilometres) across the eastern United States, it offers a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in nature and experience the diversity of the region’s landscapes.
What Makes the Appalachian Trail Special?
The AT is more than just a hike; it’s an exploration of varied ecosystems, local culture, and the beauty of the natural world. Here are some of its key features:
- A Path Through 14 States: Starting in Georgia and ending in Maine (or vice versa), the trail weaves through 14 states, each offering its own distinct scenery and challenges.
- Diverse Ecosystems: From dense forests and rolling hills to high mountain ridges and peaceful meadows, the trail showcases a stunning range of environments.
- Wildlife Encounters: Along the way, you might spot deer, black bears, birds, and other native species, adding to the sense of connection with nature.
Hike Your Way
The Appalachian Trail accommodates hikers of all kinds:
- Day Hikes and Short Sections: Perfect for those who want a taste of the trail without committing to the full distance. Popular sections include Shenandoah National Park in Virginia and the Great Smoky Mountains in North Carolina and Tennessee.
- Thru-Hiking: Completing the entire trail in one continuous journey is a challenge many aspire to. It’s an extraordinary physical and mental endeavour, typically taking five to seven months.
- Section Hiking: For those who prefer flexibility, the AT can be tackled in segments over multiple trips.
A Connection to Nature
Whether you’re walking for a day or trekking for months, the Appalachian Trail offers more than just scenic beauty. It’s a chance to slow down, disconnect from the fast pace of daily life, and form a deeper bond with the natural world.
No matter how you choose to experience it, the Appalachian Trail is a journey that leaves a lasting impression and a wealth of stories to share.
4. The Overland Track – Australia

The Overland Track is a chance to experience Tasmania’s natural beauty up close, taking you through some of the most remarkable landscapes in Australia. This 65-kilometre (40-mile) trek winds through ancient rainforests, along clear lakes, and over rugged mountains, offering an immersion in Tasmania’s pristine wilderness.
Highlights of the Overland Track
From unique wildlife to breathtaking landscapes, the Overland Track has something for every nature lover:
- Lush Rainforests and Alpine Plains: The track weaves through ancient forests and open alpine areas, showcasing the diversity of Tasmania’s ecosystems.
- Serene Lakes and Waterfalls: Along the way, you’ll pass glistening lakes and cascading waterfalls that add to the track’s serene atmosphere.
- Unique Australian Wildlife: The Overland Track is a haven for wildlife, with frequent sightings of wombats, wallabies, and various bird species native to Tasmania.
A Track for All Adventurers
Whether you’re an experienced hiker or looking to try a longer trail for the first time, the Overland Track offers options that make it accessible and memorable:
- Guided Hikes: For those new to multi-day hiking or looking for a little extra support, guided hikes provide local expertise, plus food and gear, to make the experience easier and enjoyable.
- Independent Trekking: Experienced hikers can take on the Overland Track at their own pace, camping in designated areas and enjoying the freedom to explore.
A Connection to Tasmania’s Untouched Beauty
The Overland Track is more than just a hike – it’s an opportunity to connect with the wild, untouched beauty of Australia. As you walk through these ancient landscapes, the track offers both a physical challenge and a chance to slow down and truly take in the surroundings.
For anyone seeking a memorable wilderness adventure, the Overland Track is a journey through some of Australia’s most iconic natural beauty.
5. The Annapurna Circuit – Nepal

The Annapurna Circuit in Nepal is a renowned trek that combines breathtaking scenery, high-altitude adventure, and cultural immersion. Set against the dramatic backdrop of the Himalayas, this challenging trail winds through lush valleys, traditional villages, and some of the world’s most iconic mountain passes.
Highlights of the Annapurna Circuit
The Annapurna Circuit offers a unique blend of natural beauty and cultural richness. Here’s what makes it a standout trek:
- Stunning Mountain Views: The trail provides awe-inspiring panoramas of the Annapurna range, with snow-capped peaks towering against the sky, making each step worth the effort.
- Lush Valleys and Diverse Landscapes: As you ascend, the landscape transforms from subtropical forests and terraced fields to alpine terrain, giving trekkers a real sense of the region’s ecological diversity.
- Traditional Villages: The circuit takes you through remote villages, where you’ll have the chance to experience Nepali culture firsthand, from local hospitality to ancient traditions.
Thorong La Pass – A High-Altitude Challenge
At 5,416 metres (17,769 feet), the Thorong La Pass is one of the highest points of the trek and a major highlight for many adventurers:
- Physical Challenge: The ascent is demanding but incredibly rewarding, offering a profound sense of accomplishment as you reach the top.
- Panoramic Views: The view from the pass is a stunning sight, with sweeping views of the Himalayas stretching into the distance.
Embracing Local Culture
One of the most enriching aspects of the Annapurna Circuit is the opportunity to immerse yourself in local life:
- Diverse Communities: Along the way, you’ll meet people from different ethnic groups, each with its own language, traditions, and customs.
- Cultural Experiences: From participating in traditional meals to witnessing religious rituals, the circuit offers many ways to connect with the heritage of Nepal.
Whether you’re drawn by the mountain landscapes, the cultural encounters, or the challenge of high-altitude trekking, the Annapurna Circuit is a journey that stays with you long after you’ve returned home. It’s an experience that combines the raw beauty of the Himalayas with the warmth and spirit of the local communities, making it one of the world’s most memorable treks.
6. The Milford Track – New Zealand

The Milford Track is one of New Zealand’s most celebrated hikes, often described as the “finest walk in the world.” Set in the heart of Fiordland National Park, this 53.5-kilometre (33.5-mile) trail offers an unforgettable journey through stunning landscapes, from cascading waterfalls to lush, ancient forests.
Highlights of the Milford Track
The trail’s beauty and diversity make it a must-do for nature lovers. Here’s what you can expect along the way:
- Breathtaking Waterfalls: The track passes several impressive waterfalls, including Sutherland Falls, one of the tallest waterfalls in New Zealand.
- Lush Rainforests: The ancient forests of Fiordland are rich in biodiversity, with moss-covered trees, ferns, and native birdlife creating a serene, green paradise.
- Majestic Fjords: Fiordland’s dramatic fjords provide a stunning contrast to the forests, with towering cliffs and deep blue waters, adding to the trail’s visual appeal.
Walking the Milford Track
The Milford Track is structured as a four-day, three-night hike and is accessible to most hikers with a reasonable fitness level.
- Day 1: Glade Wharf to Clinton Hut – The track begins with a scenic boat ride across Lake Te Anau, followed by a gentle 5-kilometre (3-mile) walk to Clinton Hut.
- Day 2: Clinton Hut to Mintaro Hut – On this day, the trail leads through lush beech forests, gradually ascending as you approach the mountains.
- Day 3: Mintaro Hut to Dumpling Hut – The most challenging section, as you cross the Mackinnon Pass, but the panoramic views make it well worth the effort.
- Day 4: Dumpling Hut to Sandfly Point – The final day offers a walk past spectacular waterfalls and a ferry ride across Milford Sound, ending the journey in breathtaking style.
A UNESCO World Heritage Site
Fiordland National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is recognised for its outstanding natural beauty. The Milford Track’s preservation within this protected area ensures that the landscapes remain pristine, allowing hikers to enjoy the unspoiled beauty that has inspired poets and adventurers for generations.
Whether you’re drawn by the waterfalls, the fjords, or the sense of tranquillity found within Fiordland’s forests, the Milford Track is a memorable way to experience New Zealand’s wilderness.
7. Walker’s Haute Route – France to Switzerland

The Walker’s Haute Route is a thrilling 212-kilometre (132-mile) journey that connects Chamonix in France to Zermatt in Switzerland. Known for its challenging terrain, this route is often considered more demanding than the Tour du Mont Blanc, though it provides an incredible range of experiences along the way. From high-altitude mountain passes to charming alpine villages, this trek offers a truly varied adventure through the heart of the Alps.
Route Highlights
As you make your way from Chamonix to Zermatt, the Walker’s Haute Route takes you through diverse landscapes, each with its own unique character:
- High Alpine Trails: Much of the trail follows rugged paths through the High Alps, providing a true mountain experience. Sections like the Pas de Chevres require extra caution, as they involve climbing fixed steel ladders.
- Mixed Terrain: The trail varies widely, including gravel paths, rocky sections, and even some stretches on asphalt roads, ensuring that each day offers something different.
- Dramatic Elevation Gain: With an overall climb of around 14,000 metres (46,000 feet), this trek demands stamina and strength, especially given the thinner air at high altitudes.
Accommodation Options Along the Route
The Haute Route provides a mix of accommodation styles, allowing you to tailor the experience to your preferences and energy levels:
- Mountain Huts: Stay in traditional alpine huts for an immersive mountain experience, where simple facilities and stunning views await.
- Hostels and Campsites: For a budget-friendly option, hostels and campsites are available along the way, providing convenient and communal stays.
- Hotel Options in Villages: Many trekkers enjoy the occasional night in a comfortable hotel in one of the mountain towns, which can provide a refreshing break from the more rustic accommodations.
Planning and Preparation
Due to the length and elevation gain, most people complete the Walker’s Haute Route in about two weeks. Here are some important considerations:
- Physical Preparedness: This trek is a serious commitment, with high-altitude sections that require physical preparation and acclimatisation.
- Packing Essentials: Be prepared for rapidly changing weather, and ensure you have suitable gear, including sturdy boots, layers, and equipment for basic alpine safety.
- Timing: Late June through September is typically the best time for this hike, offering the safest and most accessible conditions on the high-altitude paths.
The Walker’s Haute Route is both a challenging and deeply rewarding trek, ideal for those seeking an authentic alpine experience. This route combines the thrill of high mountain trails with the chance to experience Swiss and French culture, making it an unforgettable journey through the Alps.
8. The GR20 – Corsica

The GR20 trail stretches across Corsica, covering 180 kilometres (112 miles) along the island’s mountainous backbone. This long-distance trail, part of the Grande Randonnée network, is widely regarded as one of Europe’s toughest hikes. It’s not just the distance or the 12,000 metres (40,000 feet) of cumulative climbing—it’s the rugged, rocky terrain and high-altitude detours that make the GR20 truly demanding.
Why the GR20 is Unique
This trail is famous for its challenging features, which draw hikers looking for an adventurous experience:
- Rocky Terrain: The GR20’s steep, uneven paths and unrelenting rocky sections make it far from a typical walking trail.
- Alpine Variants: Certain sections offer higher, more difficult routes known as “Alpine variants,” marked with yellow paint. These routes require scrambling and may involve using fixed chains for safety, making the experience more akin to climbing.
Tips for a Safe and Enjoyable GR20 Trek
Completing the GR20 is a rewarding experience, but planning and preparation are essential. Here are some helpful tips:
- Pack Lightly: Given the steep ascents and rough terrain, a lightweight pack will make the trail much more manageable. Bring only the essentials, but be sure to include a climbing helmet if you plan to tackle the Alpine variants.
- Accommodation and Reservations: The GR20 is popular, with around 30,000 hikers attempting it each year. Even if you’re carrying your own tent, you’ll need to reserve a camping pitch in advance. For those preferring indoor stays, Corsica offers a variety of refuges (mountain huts) along the trail, but these also require advance bookings.
- Skill and Fitness Levels: This trail is best suited for experienced hikers with a good level of fitness. The scrambles and rocky paths demand agility and strength, and the challenging sections can be daunting without prior experience.
Practical Information
- Best Time to Hike: The GR20 is usually accessible from late spring through early autumn (May to October). Summer provides the most stable weather, but it’s also the busiest season.
- Essential Gear: Ensure you have sturdy hiking boots, weather-appropriate clothing, and supplies for several days between major resupply points. Trekking poles can help with balance on uneven ground.
- Safety Considerations: While the GR20 is a well-marked trail, it’s essential to check weather conditions before setting out each day, as mountain weather can change rapidly.
The GR20 offers an unforgettable hiking experience for those ready to take on its challenges. The stunning Corsican landscape, ranging from alpine passes to forested valleys, rewards hikers with constantly changing scenery. But remember, this is a trail that demands respect—come prepared, and you’ll walk away with an achievement you won’t soon forget.
9. Cordillera Huayhuash – Peru

For many outdoor enthusiasts, the Cordillera Huayhuash circuit is one of the most stunning trekking experiences in the Andes. This remarkable 12-day trek covers the entire Cordillera Huayhuash range, taking hikers through high-altitude passes, glacial lakes, and remote villages nestled beneath snow-capped peaks. With each day, you’ll witness incredible landscapes and a rich tapestry of local culture, history, and biodiversity.
What Makes the Huayhuash Circuit Special?
The Cordillera Huayhuash trek stands out for its variety of unique experiences, including:
- High-Altitude Passes: This circuit crosses several mountain passes between 4,600 and 5,000 metres, offering unparalleled views of the Andes and an opportunity to test your endurance.
- Lakes and Snow-Covered Peaks: Campsites are often near glacial lakes, surrounded by towering, snow-covered peaks, creating serene and breathtaking backdrops to unwind after a day’s hike.
- Historical Significance: One highlight is the Siulá Grande base camp, known for Joe Simpson’s epic survival story, Touching the Void. This place has a mystique and significance for both trekkers and mountaineers.
Connecting with Local Life and Nature
The Huayhuash circuit not only offers natural beauty but also allows hikers to witness the daily life of the local communities who live in this remote mountain chain. You’ll encounter:
- Traditional Mountain Villages: Meet settlers who live in the high Andes, observe their traditional lifestyle, and perhaps exchange a friendly smile or greeting along the way.
- Flora and Fauna: The region is rich in biodiversity. Keep an eye out for Andean wildlife such as condors, llamas, and unique high-altitude plants that thrive in the challenging environment.
Key Information for Trekkers
If you’re considering the Huayhuash circuit, here are some practical tips to ensure a smooth and enjoyable journey:
- Altitude Considerations: With the entire circuit above 4,000 metres, it’s essential to allow time to acclimatise before starting the trek. Altitude sickness is a real risk, so go at a pace that feels comfortable.
- Physical Fitness: This trek is recommended for experienced hikers with a solid level of fitness, as the rugged terrain and daily ascents can be demanding.
- Essential Gear: Warm clothing, quality hiking boots, and a sturdy tent are essential for the often chilly and unpredictable mountain weather.
- Best Time to Trek: The dry season (May to September) offers the most reliable weather, with clear skies that make for beautiful views of the mountains and lakes.
The Cordillera Huayhuash is an unforgettable adventure for those ready to experience the grandeur of the Peruvian Andes. With its stunning landscapes, rich cultural encounters, and a touch of mountaineering history, this trek is a true journey into the heart of the Andean wilderness.
10. Laugavegur Trail – Iceland

Iceland’s Laugavegur Trail, stretching over 55 km (34 miles), is renowned as one of the country’s most captivating hiking routes. It offers an immersive experience through the island’s dramatic volcanic landscapes, providing a unique opportunity to witness nature’s raw power and beauty.
A Landscape Like No Other
This trail takes you through an ever-changing terrain, where you’ll encounter volcanic fissures, massive craters, and rushing rivers. The landscapes are otherworldly, shifting between barren fields of black ash, glistening obsidian shards, and vibrant, multicoloured mountains. The Laugavegur Trail is a powerful reminder of Iceland’s fiery geological past.
What to Expect on the Trail
- Challenging Terrain: With its mix of rocky paths, ash-covered ground, and river crossings, this trail isn’t for the faint of heart. It’s a demanding route, but the rewards are well worth the effort.
- Unpredictable Weather: Don’t expect predictable sunshine. Iceland’s weather can be quite temperamental, especially in the highlands. The ever-changing skies and occasional rain or snow only add to the adventure, making the trek feel even more dynamic.
- Stunning Views: Over six days of hiking, you’ll witness some of the most incredible scenery imaginable. The vibrant colours of the mountains, the stark beauty of the lava flows, and the sense of solitude in the wilderness will make every step feel like a part of something truly special.
A Memorable Experience
Camping under the stars in this remote part of Iceland is an experience unlike any other. You’ll spend your nights surrounded by nature’s quiet majesty, recharging for the next day’s adventure. Whether you’re gazing up at the stars or walking across cooled lava fields, every moment of the Laugavegur Trail is one to remember.
I’ve done a couple of these. Planning to complete the Walkers Haute Route in the Swiss Alps in 2024. That looks like an amazing adventure.
So far highlights have been the Overland Track and Three Capes in Tassie, and the Kumano Kodo in Japan.
Next up, Mardi Himal in Nepal.
Mandy Pitt oh I love Nepal. Have to get back there one day soon.
Mandy Pitt then SCT after that… 😉
Ali Ayers absolutely!
Te Araroa, AAWT, Heysen Trail, Bibbulmun Track, Overland Track, Kangaroo Island Wilderness Trail, Larapinta Trail, Great South West Walk, Great Ocean Walk, Wilsons Prom Southern Circuit, Grampians Peaks Trail, Inca Trail, Kilimanjaro, Everest Base Camp, and a few multi day pub crawls in Ireland and the UK.
Hoping there will be more, but waiting to see how the broken ankle heals.
Jacinta Helen No wonder you broke your ankle. That’s a lol of excellent hikes. Or maybe it was the pub crawls that did it?
Trev Ryan excellent. Something to look forward to.
Salkantay, Inca Trail, Kintyre Way, Ireland Way, wainwrights Coast to Coast, Camino de compostella, via de la Plata, Bibbulmun, Cape to Cape, Camino del Norte, Tour du Mont Blanc, The Overland Trail, Great South West Walk, Great Ocean Walk. My favourites would be Wainwrights Coast to Coast & The great South West Walk.
Anne Griffin I’ve got a lot of catching up to do. That’s an excellent list.
I have forgotten a few, but I’m old Darren. By the time you are my age , you would’ve doubled my walks.
Anne Griffin nice list Anne.
🥾🎒🥾
I loved doing them too Rosie.