The Best Hikes in the World
GettyWest Coast Trail
The 47-mile West Coast Trail was created in 1906 to save shipwreck survivors along the rocky west coast of Vancouver Island. Now, the trail, open for hiking May 1 through September 30, is so popular it even has its own reservation system.
GettyKalalau Trail
The Kalalau Trail is the only way to access this rugged section of Kauai's coastline. Those who make the 11-mile hike are rewarded with access to the secluded Kalalau Beach.
GettyTour du Mont Blanc
The Tour du Mont Blanc covers more than 100 miles and passes through three countries: Switzerland, Italy, and France. (The circuit is also home to the ultra-marathon event, Ultra-Trail du Mont-Blanc, where the winner usually finishes in about 20 hours.)
GettySentiero Azzuro
Everyone knows Cinque Terre for its stunning views and quaint seaside villages, but it's also home to the Sentiero Azzuro (or literally "Blue Trail") that connects the villages of Riomaggiore, Manarola, Corniglia, Vernazza, and Monterosso al Mare.
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GettyAppalachian Trail
The 2,200-mile Appalachian Trail stretches from Georgia all the way to Maine, crossing through 14 states. The Great Smoky Mountains National Park in Tennessee (pictured here) is home to 71 miles of trail.
GettyMount Kilimanjaro
Even though it's more than 19,000-feet tall, Mount Kilimanjaro is billed as the "world's tallest walkable mountain," and with good reason—the peak requires no technical mountaineering skills to summit.
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GettyTorres del Paine
Chile’s Torres del Paine might be one of the world's most popular trekking destinations, but it still earns a spot on our list for its icy glaciers, snow-covered mountains, crystalline lakes, and beautiful valleys. The ultra-ambitious can hike the Full Circuit—crossing the entire park—in nine days.
GettyBibbulmun Track
The Bibbulmun Track stretches for more than 600 miles along Western Australia's coast. The track, known for its mellow terrain, is particularly beautiful during autumn.
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GettyThe Narrows
The Narrows trail follows the Virgin River for 16 miles through southwestern Utah's breathtaking Zion Canyon. You'll get wet, sure, but we think you'll agree—it's worth it.
GettyEl Choro Inca Trail
While Machu Picchu Inca Trail gets most of the glory in South America, savvy travelers have started seeking out less-touristed routes. The four-day El Choro trek traverses a 15,000-foot pass.
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GettySanta Cruz Trek
The 30-mile Santa Cruz trek is one of the most popular routes in the Peruvian Andes. Beginning in the charming Peruvian town of Huaraz, the trek crosses the 15,580-foot Punta Union Pass.
GettyTongariro Northern Circuit
The Tongariro Northern Circuit encircles Mount Ngauruhoe, New Zealand's most active volcano. In addition to craters and lava pits, hikers can also take in the scenic Emerald Lakes.
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GettyIsrael National Trail
The Israel National Trail winds its way 600 miles across Israel, from the Lebanese border all the way to the Red Sea in the south, passing through ancient Roman ruins (pictured) and Judean Mountains in the process.