Some hikes are beautiful. Others completely change the way you see the world.
Over the years, I’ve realized the trails I remember most are not always the easiest or the most popular.
They’re the ones that made me pause to take in an incredible view, pushed me outside my comfort zone, or left me standing at the summit wondering how a place could possibly be that beautiful.
From the towering peaks of Patagonia and the Himalayas to the dramatic coastlines of Hawaii and Scotland, the world is filled with hiking trails that offer unforgettable adventures.
Some lead to ancient ruins, others cross glaciers, mountain passes, and lush forests, but every one of them has earned a place on hikers’ bucket lists for a reason.
Whether you’re planning your first international hiking trip or searching for your next big adventure, these incredible trails deserve a spot on your travel wishlist.
Disclaimer
This post may contain affiliate links. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases at no additional cost to you. The information in this article is for educational and informational purposes only. I only recommend products that I believe are relevant to this topic. Hiking conditions, weather, and park regulations may change, so always plan ahead and follow local safety guidelines.
Amazon Shopping List
- Osprey Daylite Hiking Backpack
- Merrell Moab Hiking Boots
- Trekology Collapsible Trekking Poles
- LifeStraw Personal Water Filter
- Columbia Watertight II Waterproof Rain Jacket
- Garmin eTrex Handheld GPS Navigator
- Black Diamond Spot Headlamp
Before You Plan Your Next Hiking Adventure
One thing I’ve learned is that no two hiking trails are the same. A trail that feels comfortable in one country can be completely different somewhere else because of the weather, altitude, terrain, or remoteness.
Before booking your trip, spend a little time researching the trail, checking permit requirements, and making sure you have the right gear.
Some hikes require several days of trekking, while others can be completed in a single day, but all of them are far more enjoyable when you’re properly prepared.
I also recommend giving yourself time to slow down and enjoy the journey. Some of my favorite travel memories came from stopping to admire the scenery, talking with fellow hikers, or simply taking in the silence of the mountains.
Those moments often become just as memorable as reaching the final destination.
1. Torres del Paine Circuit, Chile
The Torres del Paine Circuit is one of those hikes that completely lives up to the hype.
Surrounded by towering granite peaks, turquoise lakes, glaciers, and endless valleys, every day on the trail feels like you’re walking through one of the most beautiful landscapes on Earth.
I had seen photos before visiting, but nothing compared to standing beneath the famous granite towers and watching the light change across the mountains.
It is easily one of the most unforgettable hiking experiences I’ve ever had.
Why This Hike Belongs on Your Bucket List
The Torres del Paine Circuit is considered one of the world’s greatest trekking routes. Its incredible scenery, diverse landscapes, and remote wilderness make it a dream destination for outdoor enthusiasts.
What to Expect
The full O Circuit is about 80 miles (130 km) and usually takes 7 to 10 days to complete. Along the way, you’ll hike through forests, mountain passes, glacier viewpoints, and some of Patagonia’s most spectacular scenery.
Difficulty Level
This is a strenuous multi day trek that requires good fitness, proper preparation, and experience with long distance hiking.
Best Time to Hike
The best time to visit is November through March, when Patagonia experiences its summer season and trails are generally more accessible.
What to Bring
- Waterproof hiking boots
- Warm layered clothing
- Waterproof jacket and pants
- Trekking poles
- Plenty of snacks
- A camera for the incredible scenery
Helpful Tips
Book campsites or refugios well in advance, as they often sell out months before the hiking season.
Patagonia’s weather changes quickly, so be prepared for strong winds, rain, and sunshine all in the same day.
Why You’ll Love It
Few hikes offer such an incredible variety of scenery in one journey. From glaciers and alpine lakes to dramatic mountain peaks and wide open valleys, the Torres del Paine Circuit is the kind of adventure that stays with you long after you’ve left Patagonia.
2. The Inca Trail, Peru
The Inca Trail is much more than a hike. It is a journey through history. Every day brings ancient stone pathways, cloud forests, mountain scenery, and fascinating Inca ruins that make the experience feel unlike anywhere else in the world.
The moment I walked through the Sun Gate and caught my first glimpse of Machu Picchu, I understood why this trek is considered one of the greatest bucket list hikes on the planet.
After several days on the trail, arriving at the Lost City of the Incas felt incredibly rewarding.
Why This Hike Belongs on Your Bucket List
The Inca Trail combines breathtaking mountain scenery with one of the world’s most famous archaeological sites. It is one of the few hikes where the journey is just as memorable as the destination.
What to Expect
The Classic Inca Trail is about 26 miles (42 km) and is typically completed over 4 days and 3 nights. Along the way, you’ll pass ancient ruins, mountain passes, lush cloud forests, and finally arrive at Machu Picchu through the famous Sun Gate.
Difficulty Level
This is a moderate to strenuous trek with steep climbs, high elevations, and long hiking days.
Best Time to Hike
The best time to visit is May through September, during Peru’s dry season, when trail conditions are generally at their best.
What to Bring
- Comfortable hiking boots
- Layered clothing
- Rain jacket
- Sunscreen and a hat
- Refillable water bottle
- Trekking poles if permitted
Helpful Tips
Permits sell out months in advance, so book your trek early through a licensed tour operator. Spend a day or two in Cusco before the hike to help your body adjust to the high altitude.
Why You’ll Love It
The Inca Trail offers the perfect combination of adventure, history, and unforgettable scenery. Walking the same paths once used by the Inca civilization before arriving at Machu Picchu is an experience that few hikes in the world can match.
3. Zion Narrows, Utah
The Zion Narrows is one of the most unique hikes I’ve ever experienced.
Instead of following a traditional trail, you’ll spend much of the journey walking through the Virgin River with towering canyon walls rising hundreds of feet above you. It feels more like an adventure than an ordinary hike.
The first time I stepped into the cool water, I knew this would be a hike I would never forget. Around every bend, the canyon seemed to become even more beautiful.
Why This Hike Belongs on Your Bucket List
The Zion Narrows offers a hiking experience unlike almost anywhere else.
Walking through the river beneath massive sandstone cliffs creates an unforgettable adventure and showcases some of Zion National Park’s most spectacular scenery.
What to Expect
Most hikers choose the Bottom Up route, which allows you to hike as far as you like before turning around. The full round trip is about 9.4 miles, but many visitors complete a shorter section while still enjoying the incredible scenery.
Difficulty Level
This is a moderate to strenuous hike. The flowing water, uneven riverbed, and slippery rocks make it more challenging than a typical trail.
Best Time to Hike
Late spring through early fall is usually the best time to visit. Always check river conditions before your hike, as flash floods can occur.
What to Bring
- Water shoes or sturdy hiking shoes
- Neoprene socks if the water is cold
- A walking stick for balance
- Plenty of water and snacks
- A waterproof bag for your phone and valuables
Helpful Tips
Always check the weather forecast and National Park Service alerts before entering the canyon. Never hike if there is a risk of flash flooding, and take your time navigating the rocky riverbed.
Why You’ll Love It
Few hikes are as memorable as walking through the heart of Zion Canyon. The towering cliffs, cool river, and constantly changing scenery make the Zion Narrows a true bucket list adventure that you’ll be talking about long after your trip.
4. Tour du Mont Blanc, Europe
The Tour du Mont Blanc is one of those hikes that completely changes how you see the Alps.
Winding through France, Italy, and Switzerland, the trail takes you past snow covered peaks, alpine meadows, charming mountain villages, and breathtaking glaciers. Every day feels different, which is part of what makes this trek so unforgettable.
I loved waking up each morning knowing another incredible mountain view was waiting just around the next pass. It is one of those adventures where the journey itself becomes the highlight.
Why This Hike Belongs on Your Bucket List
The Tour du Mont Blanc is one of the world’s most famous long distance hikes. Crossing three countries on foot while enjoying spectacular Alpine scenery makes it a truly once in a lifetime experience.
What to Expect
The full trail is about 105 miles (170 km) and is usually completed in 10 to 12 days. Along the way, you’ll hike through mountain passes, peaceful valleys, alpine forests, and picturesque villages with incredible views of Mont Blanc.
Difficulty Level
This is a strenuous multi day trek with long hiking days and significant elevation changes, making it best suited for hikers with good fitness.
Best Time to Hike
The best time to hike is late June through September, when most of the snow has melted and mountain huts are open for the season.
What to Bring
- Comfortable hiking boots
- Layered clothing
- Waterproof jacket
- Trekking poles
- Plenty of snacks
- A camera for the stunning Alpine scenery
Helpful Tips
Book mountain huts or accommodations well in advance if you’re hiking during peak season. Weather in the Alps can change quickly, so always carry waterproof layers and check the forecast before setting out each day.
Why You’ll Love It
The Tour du Mont Blanc offers an incredible mix of mountain scenery, charming villages, and unforgettable hiking.
Walking through three countries while surrounded by some of Europe’s most beautiful landscapes is an experience that belongs on every hiker’s bucket list.
5. Milford Track, New Zealand
The Milford Track is one of those hikes that feels like stepping into another world.
Surrounded by lush rainforests, towering mountains, crystal clear rivers, and spectacular waterfalls, every day on the trail offers something unforgettable.
It is easy to see why this hike is often called one of the finest walks in the world.
One of my favorite moments was reaching Mackinnon Pass and looking out across the surrounding valleys. The scenery was so breathtaking that I found myself stopping just to take it all in.
Why This Hike Belongs on Your Bucket List
The Milford Track is famous for its incredible natural beauty and peaceful wilderness. From ancient forests to dramatic mountain landscapes, it showcases some of New Zealand’s most spectacular scenery.
What to Expect
The trail is about 33.5 miles (53.5 km) and is usually completed in 4 days and 3 nights. Along the way, you’ll cross suspension bridges, hike through rainforest, pass alpine landscapes, and finish at the impressive Sutherland Falls, one of New Zealand’s tallest waterfalls.
Difficulty Level
This is a moderate to strenuous multi day hike. While the trail is well maintained, there are long hiking days and changing mountain conditions to prepare for.
Best Time to Hike
The best time to hike is during New Zealand’s Great Walks season, which runs from late October through April, when facilities and huts are fully open.
What to Bring
- Waterproof hiking boots
- Rain jacket and waterproof pants
- Warm layered clothing
- Trekking poles
- Insect repellent for sandflies
- A camera for the incredible scenery
Helpful Tips
Book your huts well in advance because permits and accommodations sell out quickly during peak season.
Be prepared for rain at any time, even if the forecast looks clear, as Fiordland is one of the wettest places in New Zealand.
Why You’ll Love It
The Milford Track combines peaceful forests, dramatic mountain scenery, and unforgettable waterfalls into one incredible adventure.
If you’ve ever dreamed of hiking through landscapes that feel untouched by time, this is one trail you’ll never forget.
6. Angels Landing, Utah
Angels Landing is one of those hikes that every adventure lover seems to dream about.
Perched high above Zion Canyon, it combines breathtaking scenery with one of the most thrilling summit climbs in the United States. The views alone make the hike unforgettable.
The first time I reached the summit, I spent several minutes simply taking in the landscape.
Looking across the towering red cliffs and the winding Virgin River far below made every challenging step feel worthwhile.
Why This Hike Belongs on Your Bucket List
Angels Landing is famous for its dramatic cliffside trail, incredible canyon views, and unforgettable summit. It is one of Zion National Park’s most iconic adventures.
What to Expect
The trail is about 5.4 miles round trip with roughly 1,500 feet of elevation gain. Most hikers complete it in 4 to 5 hours. The final section follows a narrow ridgeline with chains to help you safely reach the summit.
Difficulty Level
This is a strenuous hike with steep climbs and exposed sections, making it best suited for hikers who are comfortable with heights.
Best Time to Hike
Spring and fall provide the most comfortable temperatures. During summer, begin your hike early to avoid the midday heat and larger crowds.
What to Bring
- Plenty of water
- Energy snacks
- Hiking shoes with excellent grip
- Sunscreen and a hat
- A small first aid kit
- A camera for the spectacular views
Helpful Tips
A permit is required for the final chain section, so reserve yours before your visit. Check the weather forecast, avoid hiking during storms, and take your time along the exposed ridgeline.
Why You’ll Love It
Few hikes combine excitement and scenery quite like Angels Landing. The challenge, the unforgettable summit, and the panoramic views across Zion National Park make it a bucket list experience you’ll be talking about for years.
7. Kalalau Trail, Hawaii
The Kalalau Trail is one of the most breathtaking coastal hikes I’ve ever seen.
Winding along Kauai’s spectacular Nā Pali Coast, the trail treats you to dramatic sea cliffs, secluded beaches, lush valleys, and endless views of the Pacific Ocean.
It feels like a place that was made for adventure.
I still remember stopping countless times just to admire the coastline. Every turn seemed to reveal another incredible view, making it almost impossible not to reach for my camera.
Why This Hike Belongs on Your Bucket List
The Kalalau Trail is famous for its stunning coastal scenery and remote wilderness.
It offers one of the most unforgettable hiking experiences in Hawaii and is considered one of the world’s greatest coastal trails.
What to Expect
The full trail is about 22 miles round trip and is typically completed over 2 to 3 days. Many visitors choose to hike the first 2 miles to Hanakāpīʻai Beach as a rewarding day hike.
Difficulty Level
This is a strenuous hike with steep climbs, narrow sections, stream crossings, and uneven terrain. Good fitness and preparation are essential for the full trail.
Best Time to Hike
The best time to visit is April through October, when weather conditions are generally drier and the trail is easier to navigate.
What to Bring
- Sturdy hiking shoes
- Plenty of water
- High energy snacks
- Lightweight rain jacket
- Sunscreen and a hat
- A waterproof bag for valuables
Helpful Tips
Overnight hikers must obtain a permit before starting the trail. Check weather conditions carefully, as heavy rain can make stream crossings dangerous.
If you’re only looking for a day hike, the section to Hanakāpīʻai Beach is a fantastic option.
Why You’ll Love It
The Kalalau Trail combines dramatic cliffs, tropical forests, and breathtaking ocean views into one unforgettable adventure.
Whether you hike a short section or complete the full trail, it is an experience that showcases the natural beauty of Hawaii at its very best.
8. Everest Base Camp Trek, Nepal
The Everest Base Camp Trek is one of those adventures that many hikers dream about for years.
Walking through the Himalayas, passing colorful Sherpa villages, ancient monasteries, and snow covered peaks, every day brings scenery that feels more incredible than the last.
The first time I saw Mount Everest in the distance, I completely understood why this trek is considered one of the greatest hiking experiences in the world.
It is a journey that challenges you physically while rewarding you with unforgettable views at every stage.
Why This Hike Belongs on Your Bucket List
The Everest Base Camp Trek offers the chance to stand at the foot of the world’s highest mountain while experiencing the unique culture and breathtaking landscapes of Nepal’s Khumbu region.
What to Expect
The trek is about 80 miles (130 km) round trip and is usually completed in 12 to 14 days. Along the way, you’ll hike through mountain villages, suspension bridges, alpine valleys, and glaciers before reaching Everest Base Camp at an elevation of 17,598 feet (5,364 meters).
Difficulty Level
This is a strenuous trek. While no technical climbing is required, the long hiking days and high altitude make it physically demanding.
Best Time to Hike
The best time to visit is March through May and late September through November, when the weather is generally clear and mountain views are at their best.
What to Bring
- Broken in hiking boots
- Warm layered clothing
- Down jacket
- Trekking poles
- Sunglasses and sunscreen
- Reusable water bottles or a hydration system
Helpful Tips
Spend time acclimatizing to the altitude and avoid rushing the trek. Stay hydrated, listen to your guide, and learn the symptoms of altitude sickness before your trip.
Hiring an experienced guide or porter can make the journey safer and far more enjoyable.
Why You’ll Love It
The Everest Base Camp Trek is about much more than reaching the destination.
Between the incredible Himalayan scenery, welcoming Sherpa culture, and the unforgettable feeling of standing beneath Mount Everest, it is an adventure that belongs on every hiker’s bucket list.
9. The Wave, Arizona
The Wave is one of those places that almost doesn’t look real. The swirling sandstone formations, vibrant colors, and smooth rock patterns make it feel like you’re walking through a natural work of art.
After seeing photos for years, standing there in person was even more incredible than I imagined.
Because so few people are allowed to visit each day, the area feels peaceful and untouched, making the experience even more special.
Why This Hike Belongs on Your Bucket List
The Wave is one of the most photographed natural landmarks in the American Southwest. Its unique sandstone formations and remote desert setting make it one of the most extraordinary hikes in the world.
What to Expect
The hike is about 6.5 miles round trip with roughly 1,200 feet of elevation gain. There is no marked trail, so hikers navigate using maps, GPS, and landmarks across the desert.
Difficulty Level
This is a moderate to strenuous hike. While the distance is manageable, the lack of a marked trail, desert heat, and uneven terrain make it more challenging than many people expect.
Best Time to Hike
Spring and fall offer the most comfortable temperatures. Summer hikes can be extremely hot, so starting early is highly recommended.
What to Bring
- Plenty of water
- Sun protective clothing
- Hiking shoes with good grip
- Sunscreen and a wide brim hat
- GPS or offline navigation
- A camera for the incredible rock formations
Helpful Tips
A permit is required to visit The Wave, and only a limited number are issued each day through a lottery system.
Apply well in advance, download your route before arriving, and never underestimate the desert heat.
Why You’ll Love It
Walking through The Wave feels like stepping onto another planet. Between the colorful sandstone formations, peaceful surroundings, and unforgettable scenery, it is one of those rare places that truly lives up to every photo you’ve ever seen.
10. Skye Trail, Scotland
The Skye Trail is one of those hikes that feels wonderfully wild from beginning to end.
Stretching across the Isle of Skye, it takes you through dramatic mountain landscapes, rugged coastlines, rolling moorlands, and some of the most breathtaking scenery in Scotland.
Every day brings a completely different view, making the journey feel like a true adventure.
I still remember standing on a cliff overlooking the coastline with nothing but the sound of the wind and waves. Moments like that are what make the Skye Trail so unforgettable.
Why This Hike Belongs on Your Bucket List
The Skye Trail showcases the very best of the Scottish Highlands. Its dramatic landscapes, peaceful wilderness, and iconic landmarks make it one of the most rewarding long distance hikes in Europe.
What to Expect
The full trail is about 80 miles (128 km) and is usually completed in 6 to 8 days. The route passes through famous locations including the Old Man of Storr, the Quiraing, and the Cuillin Mountains.
Difficulty Level
This is a strenuous hike. Parts of the route are unmarked, with rough terrain and steep sections, making navigation skills and good fitness important.
Best Time to Hike
The best time to hike is May through September, when the weather is generally milder and daylight hours are longer.
What to Bring
- Waterproof hiking boots
- Rain jacket and waterproof pants
- Warm layered clothing
- Trekking poles
- Offline maps or a GPS device
- Insect repellent for midges
Helpful Tips
Be prepared for Scotland’s rapidly changing weather by carrying waterproof gear at all times. Plan your accommodations or campsites in advance, and download offline maps since phone signal can be unreliable in remote areas.
Why You’ll Love It
The Skye Trail is perfect for hikers who love dramatic landscapes and quiet wilderness.
Between the rugged mountains, breathtaking coastline, and constantly changing scenery, it offers an unforgettable adventure through one of Scotland’s most beautiful regions.
Essential Gear for Every Hiking Adventure
Every one of these trails taught me something about what actually belongs in a pack.
Here’s the gear I trust, along with a short honest introduction to what each item does for you on the trail.
Hiking Boots My feet have carried me through rivers and scree, and good boots made every mile bearable.
Moisture Wicking Base Layers Sweat soaked cotton ruined an early trip for me, so synthetic layers became non negotiable gear.
Trekking Poles Steep descents used to wreck my knees until poles took the pressure off my joints.
Water Filtration System Refilling from streams saved my back on multi day treks and kept me hydrated safely.
Layered Rain Jacket Mountain weather flipped on me more than once, and a packable shell kept me dry.
Headlamp With Spare Batteries An unexpected late finish taught me that darkness on a trail arrives faster than planned.
Navigation Tools and Offline Maps Cell signal disappeared on remote ridgelines, so paper maps and GPS became my quiet safety net.
High Energy Trail Snacks Long climbs drain you fast, and nuts and dried fruit kept my energy steady all day.
First Aid Kit A twisted ankle miles from camp reminded me that small kits prevent big problems fast.
Sun Protection Essentials High altitude sun burned me badly once, and now sunscreen and a hat travel everywhere with me.
A Simple Guide to Preparing for Your Hike
Standing at a trailhead unprepared is a feeling I never want to repeat, so here’s the process I follow before tackling any serious trek.
Step One: Research the Trail Thoroughly Read recent trip reports, check permit requirements, and understand elevation gain before committing to a route.
Step Two: Train Your Body Ahead of Time Start walking with a loaded pack weeks in advance so your body adjusts gradually to the demands.
Step Three: Break In Your Boots Early Never wear brand new boots on a long trek, blisters form fast when leather hasn’t softened yet.
Step Four: Plan Your Water and Food Strategy Map out water sources along the route and pack enough calories for the effort required each day.
Step Five: Check the Weather Forecast Repeatedly Mountain weather shifts quickly, so check forecasts the week before, the day before, and the morning of.
Step Six: Pack Smart and Pack Light Lay everything out, then remove anything that isn’t essential, your shoulders will thank you later.
Step Seven: Share Your Itinerary With Someone Tell a trusted person your route and expected return time before heading into remote areas.
Step Eight: Start Early and Pace Yourself Early starts give you daylight buffer and cooler temperatures, especially on longer summit pushes.
Step Nine: Listen to Your Body on the Trail Fatigue, dizziness, or pain are signals to slow down, rest, or turn back if needed.
Step Ten: Leave No Trace Behind Pack out everything you bring in and respect the wild places that made the hike unforgettable.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the most difficult hike on this list?
The Everest Base Camp Trek, Torres del Paine Circuit, and Tour du Mont Blanc are among the most challenging because they involve multiple days of hiking, changing weather, and significant elevation gain. Good fitness and preparation are essential for these adventures.
Which hike is best for first time international hikers?
The Zion Narrows and The Wave are great choices if you’re looking for a shorter adventure. If you want a multi day trek without extreme altitude, the Milford Track is often considered a fantastic introduction to long distance hiking.
Do I need permits for these hikes?
Some of these trails require permits or advance reservations. The Wave has a limited daily permit lottery, the Milford Track requires booking through New Zealand’s Great Walks system, and the Inca Trail requires permits that often sell out months in advance.
What is the best time of year to hike these trails?
The ideal time depends on the destination. Most hikers visit during each region’s dry or summer season, when trail conditions are safer and the weather is more predictable. Always check local conditions before planning your trip.
Final Thoughts
The world’s best hikes offer so much more than incredible views. They challenge you, inspire you, and create memories that stay with you long after you’ve returned home.
Every trail on this list has something unique to offer, whether it’s standing beneath Mount Everest, walking through the ancient paths of Peru, exploring Hawaii’s dramatic coastline, or watching the sunrise over Patagonia’s towering peaks.
You don’t have to complete every hike in one lifetime to appreciate what makes them special. Even choosing one of these adventures can become a trip you’ll remember forever.
Before you go, take time to prepare, pack the right gear, and respect the natural environments that make these places so remarkable. The better prepared you are, the more you’ll be able to enjoy every step of the journey.
I hope this guide inspires you to start planning your next hiking adventure. No matter which trail you choose first, you’ll come home with unforgettable stories, incredible photos, and a deeper appreciation for some of the most beautiful landscapes on Earth.
