Top 10 Breathtaking Hiking Trails to Explore This Year

Jingpen Adra
Feb 21
3 min read

Hiking offers a unique way to connect with nature, challenge your body, and discover stunning landscapes. Whether you are a seasoned trekker or a casual walker, exploring new trails can refresh your spirit and provide unforgettable experiences. This year, consider adding these ten hiking trails to your adventure list. Each trail offers distinct scenery, difficulty levels, and cultural highlights, making them perfect for a variety of hikers.

1. The Inca Trail, Peru

The Inca Trail leads you through the Andes to the ancient city of Machu Picchu. This 26-mile trek combines breathtaking mountain views, cloud forests, and archaeological sites. The trail usually takes four days and requires a permit, so plan ahead. Along the way, you’ll pass ruins like Wiñay Wayna and Intipata, which showcase Inca engineering and history.

Distance: 26 miles (42 km)
Duration: 4 days
Difficulty: Moderate to challenging

2. The Kalalau Trail, Hawaii

Located on the island of Kauai, the Kalalau Trail offers dramatic coastal views and lush tropical forests. The 11-mile trail ends at Kalalau Beach, a remote and beautiful spot accessible only by foot or boat. The path includes steep climbs and narrow ridges, so it’s best for experienced hikers.

Distance: 11 miles (18 km)
Duration: 2 days
Difficulty: Challenging

3. The West Highland Way, Scotland

This 96-mile trail stretches from Glasgow to Fort William, passing through the Scottish Highlands. Walkers experience rugged mountains, serene lochs, and historic villages. The trail is well-marked and offers a mix of easy and moderate sections, making it accessible for many hikers.

Distance: 96 miles (154 km)
Duration: 7-10 days
Difficulty: Moderate

4. The Tongariro Alpine Crossing, New Zealand

Known for its volcanic landscape, the Tongariro Alpine Crossing is a one-day hike through dramatic terrain. You’ll see emerald lakes, steaming vents, and volcanic craters. The trail is about 12 miles long and requires good weather conditions, so check forecasts before you go.

Distance: 12 miles (19.4 km)
Duration: 7-9 hours
Difficulty: Moderate to challenging

5. The John Muir Trail, USA

Stretching over 210 miles through California’s Sierra Nevada mountains, the John Muir Trail passes through Yosemite, Kings Canyon, and Sequoia National Parks. This trail is perfect for backpackers who want to experience alpine meadows, towering peaks, and pristine lakes.

Distance: 210 miles (338 km)
Duration: 2-3 weeks
Difficulty: Challenging

6. The Laugavegur Trail, Iceland

This 34-mile trail connects Landmannalaugar and Þórsmörk, two of Iceland’s most scenic areas. Hikers encounter colorful rhyolite mountains, hot springs, glaciers, and volcanic deserts. The trail is well-maintained but can be wet and muddy, so waterproof gear is essential.

Distance: 34 miles (55 km)
Duration: 4-6 days
Difficulty: Moderate

7. The Tour du Mont Blanc, Europe

This classic trek circles the Mont Blanc massif, crossing France, Italy, and Switzerland. The route covers about 105 miles and offers stunning alpine scenery, charming villages, and diverse cultures. It’s a popular trail with many accommodation options along the way.

Distance: 105 miles (170 km)
Duration: 10-12 days
Difficulty: Moderate to challenging

8. The Drakensberg Amphitheatre, South Africa

The Drakensberg Amphitheatre features dramatic cliffs and waterfalls in the Maloti-Drakensberg Park. The trail to the Tugela Falls viewpoint is a highlight, offering views of one of the world’s tallest waterfalls. The hike is steep but rewarding, with rich biodiversity and cultural sites.

Distance: Varies by route, Tugela Falls hike about 6 miles (10 km) round trip
Duration: Half to full day
Difficulty: Moderate to challenging

9. The Overland Track, Australia

Located in Tasmania, the Overland Track traverses diverse landscapes including rainforests, alpine meadows, and glacial lakes. The 40-mile trail takes about six days and passes through Cradle Mountain-Lake St Clair National Park, known for its wildlife and rugged beauty.

Distance: 40 miles (65 km)
Duration: 6 days
Difficulty: Moderate

10. The Haute Route, France and Switzerland

This high-level trek connects Chamonix in France to Zermatt in Switzerland. The route covers about 112 miles and crosses glaciers, mountain passes, and alpine villages. It’s a demanding hike best suited for experienced trekkers with good fitness.

Distance: 112 miles (180 km)
Duration: 12-14 days
Difficulty: Challenging

Exploring these hiking trails offers more than just physical exercise. Each path reveals unique landscapes, cultural stories, and moments of solitude. Preparing well for your chosen trail will enhance your experience—pack appropriate gear, check weather conditions, and respect local regulations. Whether you seek a day hike or a multi-week adventure, these trails provide some of the most breathtaking hiking experiences available today.