15 Epic Hiking Destinations You Won’t Believe Exist
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1. Patagonia, Argentina
Down in Patagonia, you’ll find yourself wrapped in a panorama of skies so wide, they seem to hug the horizon. With the Andes standing proudly in the background, it’s the perfect backdrop for your backpacking adventures.
Fancy a little adventure? Well, paths here take you through forests, by glacier-fed lakes, and up to viewpoints where your breath isn’t the only thing that’ll get snagged away.
While exploring this stunning slice of South America, don’t be stunned if a guanaco gives you the side-eye or a condor photo-bombs your epic selfie. Want to step up your hiking game? Trails like those offered in Tierra del Fuego National Park can turn any hiker into a nature-whispering trailblazer.
2. Lofoten Islands, Norway
Waves crash against jagged peaks that rise sharp and majestic from the emerald sea. Welcome to the Lofoten Islands, where Viking lore meets fishing village charm. Fancy a hike? Matmora will challenge those legs of yours, but the pay-off is stunning views from the top that will make you forget all about the climb.
Up for more adventure? You might want to lace up your best hiking boots for Munken, where the trails carve through some of Lofoten’s most dramatic landscapes. And for beach lovers, nothing beats the combination of a hike and a beach, right?
Ryten offers just that, with a scenic route leading to a cozy beach where the azure water can soothe your soul.
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3. Banff National Park, Canada
Ever laced up your hiking boots craving vivid blue lakes and majestic mountains? Then Banff National Park awaits your eager footsteps! It’s a spectacular outdoor arena where nature’s grandeur is always in season.
Wake up with the sun and hit the Sawback Trail, where each turn offers fresh views and each incline dares you to conquer it. Or wander to where the pines point to the sky along the Taylor Lake trail, your reward being a serene lakeside picnic spot. It’s high time your boots got a little dirt on them, don’t you think?
4. Huayhuash Circuit, Peru
If Peru’s on your radar, the Huayhuash Circuit will shock you with its raw mountain beauty. Think soaring peaks and astonishing blue lakes where the only sound is your footsteps on the trail.
High-altitude hiking paths carve through passes over 4,500 meters, treating you to views that’ll make your heart skip a beat. But pack wisely, because the crisp mountain air doesn’t mess around—you’ll want warm gear for those brisk nights.
Now, you need stamina for this adventure. Over 130 kilometers long with many a mountain to conquer. But hey, the sights and sounds of nature’s splendor are music enough for this high-altitude escapade.
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5. Torres del Paine, Chile
Get pumped, because the jewel of Patagonia, Torres del Paine, is no joke when it comes to out-of-this-world landscapes. With dramatic peaks that tear into the sky and serene blue lakes that sparkle like sapphires, this Chilean wonder is the poster child for natural beauty.
Your boots will love the W, O, and Q Treks that weave through the park, each offering its own special view of the vast, untamed wilderness. Picture vast open skies and air so fresh, you’ll never forget it.
6. Adam’s Peak, Sri Lanka
Get those legs ready for an awesome hike up Adam’s Peak in Sri Lanka! It’s a holy spot with a mix of charm for everyone, whether you’re into spiritual vibes or just love epic sunrise views. Climbing over 5,500 steps might sound like a leg day workout, but the satisfying views at the top are worth every step. Planning your hike during the pilgrimage season from December to May is smart if you want a lively vibe, but hey, it also means sharing the trail with more buddies!
Starting in the wee hours around 2:30 AM ensures you catch the sunrise. Don’t worry; you don’t need to be a mountain goat to conquer it! Just lace up, grab a water bottle, and enjoy the hike—you’ll be on top of the world, literally, before you know it!
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7. Te Araroa Trail, New Zealand
If you’ve got a pair of sturdy boots and a heart for adventure, you’ll surely find your stride on New Zealand’s Te Araroa Trail. This sprawling path runs the length of the country and is a hiker’s paradise, offering over 3,000 kilometers of natural beauty.
Picture rolling hills, crystal-clear streams, and skies so vast they seem to go on forever As you wander through ancient forests and along rugged coastlines, you’ll meet fellow travelers from all corners of the globe, each with tales as tall as the mountains you’re conquering together.
Every step on the Te Araroa is a chapter in your very own epic outdoor adventure! So why not lace up and see where the trails take you?
8. Mount Roraima, Venezuela
If you’re on the hunt for an epic adventure, lace up your boots for Mount Roraima. This majestic mountain is not just a climb; it’s a stroll into the clouds! Towering at roughly 2,800 meters, it’s like a scene from your favorite fantasy novel.
With jaw-dropping 400-meter cliffs, it’s a playground for your eyes. Climbing it is a challenge, but oh, the feeling when you gaze out from the top! The landscape is stunning, and it’s shared across three countries, so you’ll be stepping into a unique cross-border wonderland.
It’s a trek that will leave your friends in awe, and your photo album bursting with brag-worthy snaps!
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9. Annapurna Circuit, Nepal
Hey, are you ready to lace up your boots for an adventure in the heart of the Himalayas? Look no further than the Annapurna Circuit! This trek wraps you in a blanket of cultural warmth and natural beauty. You’ll be exploring cozy teahouses and swapping smiles with the friendly locals.
Every day brings a new canvas of jaw-dropping sceneries: from lush forests and whispering waterfalls to the majestic Thorong La Pass, this place has it all. So pack your positive vibes and zoom in on the map to Nepal’s pride, where every step rewards you with scenes so vibrant, they’ll make your heart sing!
10. Taman Negara, Malaysia
If you’re a fan of incredible nature scenes, Taman Negara is calling your name! Can you believe this is Asia’s oldest rainforest? It’s a whopping 130 million years old and home to some of Earth’s most stunning biodiversity.
There’s nothing like the sight of towering trees as high as skyscrapers to make you feel like you’ve stepped back in time! With miles of lush canopy, this Malaysian treasure fills those who wander its paths with a sense of wonder.
Don’t miss out on the giant Tualang tree; it’s so tall, you’ll be craning your neck to see the top!
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11. Dolomites, Italy
Ready to bask in the beauty of jagged peaks and lush valleys? The Dolomites in Italy are your perfect match! Hiking enthusiasts often rave about the scenic trails and the variety of routes available.
Imagine breathing in the crisp mountain air as you cycle through alpine meadows!In this slice of paradise, every turn reveals a new stunning vista. The famous Rifugio Puez is a must-visit for its breathtaking view.
And if you’re traveling without a car, fear not! A seven-day itinerary will guide you through this majestic landscape. Don’t miss Lake Braies, where the still water mirrors the sky, making for perfect photo moments.
With each step, the Dolomites will remind you why you fell in love with backpacking. It’s not just a place; it’s a masterpiece of nature waiting for you to explore.
12. Madeira, Portugal
If you’re on the hunt for an adventure that’s a bit off the beaten path, Madeira will surprise you with its rugged landscapes and lush greenery. Who knew hiking could feel like you’re discovering an enchanted island?
On trails like Vereda do Arieiro, you’re not just taking a walk; you’re roaming between majestic peaks with views that’ll have your eyes popping! Imagine dipping your toes in the natural lava pools of Porto Moniz, where the Atlantic Ocean winks at you with its shimmering blues.
These Porto Moniz Pools are nature’s swimming spots, crafted by volcanic wonders eons ago. And when you’re feeling peckish, the promise of fresh, affordable cuisine in Madeira is sure to get your mouth watering. So, lace up those hiking boots and let Madeira show you its magic!
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13. Great Ocean Walk, Australia
If you love the salty sea breeze and the sound of waves, the Great Ocean Walk in Australia is your ocean-side stroll come true. Picture sandy beaches that stretch for miles and a path that invites you to explore Australia’s rugged coastline. Your camera will thank you for the dramatic cliffs and overlooks.
Your adventure will lead you through the impressive Great Otway and Port Campbell national parks, wrapping up near the majestic Twelve Apostles.
If your boots are itching for a good hike, this walk mixes up terrains from forest trails to beach sands—a perfect match for your adventurous spirit. And hey, keep your eyes peeled for koalas perched in eucalyptus trees along the way!
14. Huchuy Qosqo Trek, Peru
High above the Sacred Valley and tucked away from bustling trails lies the Huchuy Qosqo Trek, a hidden gem that will have your heart racing—both from the elevation and the excitement!
You’ll want to spend a couple of days in Cusco getting used to the thin air before you lace up your hiking boots, as this adventure scales up to 4,300 meters.
As you ascend the Andean landscape, each step brings you closer to the fascinating ruins of Huchuy Qosqo. What’s fantastic about this trek is that it’s doable in just one day, without you needing to camp out.
And while this trail may be less traveled, it’s brimming with history, culture, and natural beauty, making each step a delightful discovery. Who knows, you might even have the ancient stones all to yourself to snap that perfect, brag-worthy photo!
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15. Mount Kilimanjaro, Tanzania
If you’re craving an adventure that’ll have your friends wide-eyed with envy, Mount Kilimanjaro is your golden ticket. Picture the sun rising over Africa as you conquer one of the world’s most famous peaks. Don’t worry if you’re not a seasoned mountaineer; with some grit and the help of skilled guides, you can reach its snow-capped summit.
On the climb, you’ll wander through lush rainforests and alpine deserts. Dress in layers, as the weather can change faster than you can say “pole-pole” (that’s Swahili for “slowly” – the Kilimanjaro way!).
Let’s not forget the sense of accomplishment waiting at 19,341 feet above sea level – it’s out of this world!
