Lace up Your Hiking Boots and Set Out on 15 of the Best Hiking Trails in the World
Pacific Crest Trail, USA
Made famous by Cheryl Strayed and her autobiography “Wild,” this hike is up there with the Appalachian Trail in competition for the title of best long hike in the world. Spanning the USA from Mexico all the way up to Canada, it traverses seven national parks, countless wilderness areas, national forests and smaller state parks.
The terrain varies from mountainous to the arid expanse of the Mojave Desert. At 2,650 miles in length, you’ll need at least six months to spare to tackle this trek.
You can still get a taste of the wild beauty of the Sierra Nevada mountains and other features of the PCT even if you don’t have half a year free. You can choose one of the many trail sections for day hikes, or expeditions of just a few days.
The Routeburn Track, New Zealand
The Routeburn Track weaves through the Southern Alps in New Zealand’s South Island. The alpine scenery is fabulous, with endless views of deep valleys and jagged mountains. There are also plenty of rolling meadows and lakes that soften the scenery.
It crosses both Fiordland National Park and Mount Aspiring National Park — two of the most stunning wilderness areas in a country famous for its landscapes.
You can only walk the track between October and April — in winter snow makes it impassable. Between May and September there is also a considerable risk of avalanches. At 20 miles in length, the track takes two to four days to complete, depending on your chosen itinerary.
The whole track is clearly marked and the huts along the way are well-serviced, so it’s easy enough to walk the Routeburn Track without a guide.
If you spend time outside, knowing how to use a compass is an essential skill to ensure you don't get lost and stay safe.
Tasmania Overland Track, Australia
The Overland Track is the best way to experience Tasmania’s rugged beauty. It’s one of the best hikes in Australia and around 9,000 people set foot on the trail each year.
This hike connects Cradle Mountain and Lake Saint Clair with a 40-mile track. The terrain ranges from alpine plains to temperate rainforests, with plenty of mountains thrown in. It usually takes about five to six days to walk the entire track.
The Overland Track should only be attempted by fit, well-equipped and experienced hikers. The trail passes through remote areas and weather conditions can change quickly.
