If you’re looking to step up your adventure game, there’s no better way than hitting the trails. Hiking is a mix of physical challenge, mental focus, and natural beauty—perfect for anyone seeking an adventure that doesn’t require a passport (but can still feel like a world away). Whether you’re an experienced outdoorsman or just getting into the sport, these top 10 hikes are bound to push your limits and reward you with breathtaking views.
1. The Inca Trail, Peru
For those who want to combine hiking with history, the Inca Trail is one of the most iconic treks in the world. This ancient path takes you through cloud forests, across mountain passes, and up to Machu Picchu, one of the New Seven Wonders of the World. It’s a challenging hike (especially with altitude), but the payoff is beyond worth it. Make sure to book months in advance—permits for this trek sell out fast!
2. Mount Kilimanjaro, Tanzania
frank-van-hedel/shutterstock
If you’re looking for a summit challenge that doesn’t require technical climbing skills, Mount Kilimanjaro is the ultimate goal. At 19,341 feet, it’s the highest peak in Africa, but the trek to the summit is a straightforward hike. Expect to pass through multiple ecosystems, from tropical rainforests to arctic-like conditions at the top. The sense of accomplishment you’ll feel when standing on the “Roof of Africa” is like no other.
3. The John Muir Trail, California, USA
Stretching for 211 miles through the heart of the Sierra Nevada, the John Muir Trail offers some of the most stunning high-altitude hiking in the United States. With crystal-clear lakes, towering mountain peaks, and expansive forests, this trail is ideal for serious adventurers looking to tackle multiple days of backpacking. For most, the journey takes about three weeks—so pack light and be ready to embrace the wild.
4. The Dolomites, Italy
dan-breckwoldt/shutterstock
For those who like a little European flair with their adventure, the Dolomites offer dramatic peaks and rugged terrain. These jagged mountains, located in northern Italy, are perfect for a multi-day hike, with plenty of huts where you can sleep and refuel. The area offers a variety of routes, from beginner to expert, so there’s something for everyone. Plus, after a long day’s hike, you can enjoy some classic Italian cuisine.
5. The Appalachian Trail, USA
nickolay-khoroshkov/shutterstock
Stretching from Georgia to Maine, the Appalachian Trail is one of the longest continuous footpaths in the world—over 2,100 miles. While most hikers don’t attempt to thru-hike the entire trail, many adventurers take on sections. Whether you’re tackling a weekend trip or an extended hike, the AT offers everything from dense forests to scenic mountain ridges and serene lakes. Don’t forget to stop and enjoy the local wildlife—black bears, deer, and various bird species.
6. The Lost City Trek, Colombia
jenny-leonard/shutterstock
For the intrepid explorer, the Lost City Trek takes you deep into the Colombian jungle to the ruins of Ciudad Perdida, an ancient city older than Machu Picchu. This challenging hike (about five days) takes you through dense rainforests, river crossings, and steep terrain. It’s an unforgettable experience that blends history, physical challenge, and natural beauty into one epic adventure.
7. Torres del Paine Circuit, Chile
joshua-raif/shutterstock
Chile’s Torres del Paine National Park is famous for its dramatic granite peaks and turquoise lakes. The Torres del Paine Circuit is a challenging multi-day hike that will take you through glaciers, dense forests, and rugged terrain. The weather can be unpredictable (so pack accordingly), but the payoff is a truly wild, awe-inspiring adventure.
8. The High Coast Trail, Sweden
If you’re seeking a European adventure that’s not overly crowded, Sweden’s High Coast Trail offers spectacular coastal views and diverse scenery. The trail stretches for about 80 miles along the Gulf of Bothnia and offers a combination of forest, cliffs, and seaside views. It’s also known for its unique geology, with some of the oldest rocks in the world along the route.
9. The Rwenzori Mountains, Uganda
pichugin dmitry/shutterstock
The Rwenzori Mountains, also known as the “Mountains of the Moon,” offer one of the most remote and challenging hikes in Africa. With snow-capped peaks, glaciers, and rainforests, the Rwenzori range is a true adventure. Expect to hike through challenging terrain, with altitude playing a factor. It’s not for the faint-hearted, but the rugged beauty of the area makes every step worth it.
10. Mount Fuji, Japan
kanusommer/shutterstock
While not the longest or most technical hike, summiting Japan’s iconic Mount Fuji is an experience every adventurer should have at least once. The hike to the summit is relatively straightforward, and thousands of people ascend the mountain each year. The panoramic sunrise views from the top are unforgettable, and the sense of achievement when you reach the crater rim is incredible.
Final Thoughts
Whether you’re after the historical intrigue of the Inca Trail, the extreme altitude of Mount Kilimanjaro, or the serene beauty of the Dolomites, each of these hikes offers a unique blend of physical challenge and stunning landscapes. So grab your backpack, lace up your boots, and take on the adventure of a lifetime—nature is waiting to push you to your limits, and the rewards are beyond words.
What do you think? Ready to take on one of these hikes? Or maybe you’re already planning your next adventure!
