10 Unmissable Hiking Trails for Every Outdoor Enthusiast

Covered in grime, drenched in sweat, with sore muscles and relentless bug bites, you might wonder why anyone would willingly choose hiking. Spending hours traversing rugged landscapes with a heavy load on your back doesn’t sound appealing, yet countless adventurers worldwide embrace it. Discover 10 legendary trails that every dedicated hiker should conquer, whether for a brief section or the ultimate thru-hiking challenge of a lifetime.

Trans Canada Trail // Canada

Stretching over 17,000 miles, the world's longest multi-use recreational trail connects Newfoundland's Atlantic coast to Vancouver Island's Pacific shores and extends to Tuktoyaktuk on the Arctic Ocean. This expansive network weaves together smaller trails across every province and territory, offering a transcontinental journey. It frequently merges with trails in national parks or routes through Canada's remote interior. Though the TCT may appear daunting, its interactive map provides detailed segment descriptions and planning advice.

Tour du Mont Blanc // Switzerland, Italy, France

Renowned as one of Europe's top long-distance treks, the 103-mile TMB traverses Switzerland, Italy, and France. Starting and finishing in Chamonix, France, this loop trail winds through breathtaking Alpine landscapes around the towering 15,777-foot Mont Blanc, the highest peak in Europe. Hikers can skip carrying heavy gear by staying in cozy mountain huts along the way, which provide comfortable lodging and hearty meals. Alternatively, they can opt for gear transport services to lighten their load. However, the TMB is no walk in the park—completing it takes roughly a week, with a total elevation change of 32,000 feet.

Appalachian Trail // Maine to Georgia

Stretching over 2190 miles from Maine's Mount Katahdin to Georgia's Springer Mountain, the iconic AT passes through 14 states. It traces the spine of the Appalachian Mountains, offering a mix of rugged peaks, verdant valleys, bubbling streams, and welcoming trail towns where hikers can rest in comfort. While many opt for shorter day hikes or multi-day excursions, determined adventurers embark on thru-hikes, tackling the entire trail in one go—a journey that can span six months or more. Begin your adventure planning with this interactive map of the full route.

Kalalau Trail // Hawaii

The Kalalau Trail on Kaua’i, while breathtakingly beautiful, is a challenging trek best suited for seasoned hikers [PDF]. This 11-mile wilderness path winds through five expansive valleys framed by dramatic volcanic cliffs and ridges, requiring hikers to navigate steep ascents and descents multiple times before reaching the Nāpali Coast at sea level. Adventurers must carry all their camping and cooking supplies, while also bracing for insects, scorching heat, and potential emergencies. Despite its challenges, the trail offers an unparalleled glimpse into Kaua’i's untamed beauty.

Haute Randonnée Pyrénéenne // France, Spain, Andorra

This 497-mile trail zigzags along the borders of Andorra, France, and Spain, stretching across the Pyrénées from the Mediterranean to the Atlantic Ocean. The route, ranging from moderate to challenging, takes hikers past azure lakes, rugged cliffs, and expansive boulder fields. Similar to the TMB, trekkers can stay in mountain huts or charming village inns, where they can resupply food and fuel. Camping is also an option for those seeking a more immersive experience.

Cotswold Way // England

The UK excels in crafting exceptional long-distance trails. With 17 national trails spanning England, Scotland, and Wales, hikers can explore stunning landscapes, charming villages, and historic landmarks such as Hadrian’s Wall and the River Thames. The Cotswold Way, a 102-mile route, meanders through one of southern England’s most scenic regions, starting in Chipping Campden, Gloucestershire, and ending in the beautiful city of Bath, Somerset. For planning assistance, the National Trails website offers valuable tips and suggestions.

Mount Kilimanjaro Summit Trail // Tanzania

Rising to 19,341 feet, Mount Kilimanjaro stands as Africa’s tallest peak and one of the legendary Seven Summits. Unlike Mount Everest, Mount Aconcagua, or Denali, reaching its summit doesn’t require advanced mountaineering skills or ice axes—just a challenging trek. However, it’s no easy feat: hikers must be physically and mentally prepared, acclimatize to the thin air at high altitudes, and brace for freezing temperatures and strong winds.

Laugavegur Trail // Iceland

Iceland’s Laugavegur Trail, a 50-mile route, is a favorite among hikers, linking two nature reserves and traversing mountains, glaciers, hot springs, lakes, and rivers. The first seven miles alone feature 20 waterfalls. Hikers can stay in trailside huts, and clear signage and fellow travelers minimize the risk of getting lost. However, adventurers must prepare for dense fog, unpredictable weather—including summer snowstorms—and crossing icy streams.

Copper Canyon Rim to Rim Trail // Mexico

Similar to the Grand Canyon, Mexico’s Copper Canyon in Chihuahua is a rugged, steep, and demanding hiking destination. This network of six vast canyons spans over 10,000 square miles, showcasing diverse ecosystems—hardwood forests on the rims and tropical vegetation at the base. The Rim to Rim Trail is a 38-mile loop from Divisadero to Pamachi and back, with a grueling 20,000 feet of elevation changes. Summer hikes are discouraged due to extreme heat, with October and November being the ideal months for this adventure.

Santa Cruz Trek // Peru

This 32-mile journey through Peru’s breathtaking Huascarán National Park is a favorite in the Cordillera Blanca range of the Andes, though it’s far from easy. The trail from Vaqueria to Cashapampa climbs to 15,584 feet at Punta Union Pass, navigating glacial landscapes with gradual climbs and sharp descents. Along the way, hikers are rewarded with views of turquoise lakes, snow-capped peaks, hummingbirds, and llamas.