Best Countries for Hiking
Hiking is one of the most popular outdoor activities around the world.
From exploring the rugged terrain of a mountain range to trekking through lush forests, there are countless amazing hiking trails that can be found in various countries across the globe. With so many incredible options, it can be difficult to decide which country is best for your next hike. To help you out, I've compiled a list of some of the top countries for hikers looking to explore new and exciting landscapes.
Whether you’re an experienced hiker or just starting out, these are some of the best places where you can enjoy nature at its finest!
Best Countries for Hiking
There are many countries around the world that offer excellent hiking opportunities, and the best ones for you will depend on your personal interests and preferences.
Some of the most popular countries for hiking include:
1. Switzerland — Best for Alpine Lanscapes and Scenic Mountain Trails
Switzerland is an outdoor enthusiast’s paradise, with its stunning mountain peaks and lush meadows. From leisurely walks to challenging hikes, there are plenty of trails for everyone in this majestic country. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced hiker, Switzerland has something for you — from breathtaking alpine passes to peaceful lakeside strolls.
Here are some of the best hiking regions in Switzerland:
1.1 The Oberland Region
Home to the stunning Jungfrau mountain range, the Oberland region is a popular destination for hikers and mountaineers alike. With its dramatic landscape, breathtaking views, and plenty of challenging trails, this area has something for everyone. From easy day hikes around beautiful lakes to multi-day adventures up some of the highest peaks in Switzerland, the Oberland region is a must-visit if you’re looking for an unforgettable hiking experience.
1.2 The Valais Region
Located in the south of Switzerland, the Valais region offers some of the most spectacular mountain scenery in the world. With its extensive network of trails, you can explore everything from alpine meadows full of wildflowers to rugged peaks that rise above the clouds. Whether you’re looking for a leisurely stroll or an adrenaline-filled adventure, the Valais region has something for everyone.
1.3 The Bernese Oberland Region
This area is known for its incredible range of activities for outdoor enthusiasts. From alpine ski resorts to the steep slopes of the Eiger, there’s something here for everyone. The trails in this region are suitable for all levels, from beginner hikers to experienced mountaineers. With its stunning views and diverse terrain, it’s no wonder that the Bernese Oberland is so popular among hikers.
2. New Zealand — Best for Diversity
New Zealand is a land of stunning natural beauty, and one of the best ways to experience it is by going on hikes. From lush green forests to majestic mountains, you’ll find plenty of breathtaking scenery that will make your hiking trips unforgettable. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced hiker, New Zealand has something for everyone. With its diverse terrain ranging from rugged coastal tracks to alpine trails and volcanoes, there are plenty of amazing experiences waiting for you in this beautiful country.
Take a journey through the scenic beauty of New Zealand and explore its vast terrain by hiking in some of these picturesque locations!
2.1 Fiordland National Park
This remote and rugged park is located in the southwest of the South Island and is known for its stunning fjords, waterfalls, and lush forests. Hiking trails here include the Milford Track and the Kepler Track.
2.2 Tongariro National Park
Located in the central North Island, this park is home to the Tongariro Alpine Crossing, one of New Zealand’s most famous and challenging hikes, with spectacular volcanic landscapes and panoramic views.
2.3 Abel Tasman National Park
Located on the north coast of the South Island, this park is known for its golden sand beaches, crystal-clear waters, and lush native forests. Hiking trails here include the Abel Tasman Coast Track and the Inland Track.
3. Nepal — Best for Budget Travelers
Hiking in Nepal is an unforgettable experience. From the spectacular Himalayan peaks to the lush forests, there are countless trails and routes that offer breathtaking views of nature. Whether you’re a beginner or experienced hiker, Nepal has something for everyone. The country is home to some of the world’s highest mountains including Mount Everest and Annapurna I. Trekking through these majestic landscapes will take you from low-lying valleys to high altitude passes with stunning views along the way. You can trek alone or join organised group treks depending on your preference and level of fitness.
Moreover, hiking in Nepal also gives you a chance to explore its rich culture and diverse wildlife up close. Furthermore, visiting Nepal won’t strain your bank account.
Here are some of the best hikes in Nepal:
3.1 Annapurna Circuit
The Annapurna Circuit trek in Nepal is an impressive and challenging journey through some of the most diverse and stunning landscapes in the world. The trek begins in the picturesque city of Kathmandu, from which travelers journey to Besisahar, the starting point of their circuit. From here, hikers traverse a variety of terrain on their way to the Thorung La Pass, at an altitude of 5,416m. Along the way, trekkers will encounter a plethora of unique and spectacular views — towering snow-covered peaks, lush rhododendron forests, terraced rice fields, traditional villages inhabited by diverse ethnic groups, and more.
3.2 Everest Base Camp
The Everest Base Camp trek in Nepal is a popular and iconic hiking adventure that takes adventurers up to the foothills of Mt. Everest — the highest mountain peak in the world. It’s a stunningly beautiful trek that brings hikers through lush forests, alpine meadows, and soaring snow-capped peaks, with the majestic Mt. Everest as the highlight of the trip. This trek is a great opportunity to explore and immerse yourself in the stunning Himalayan mountain range, as well as experience local culture and friendly sherpa people along the way.
3.3 Langtang Valley
Langtang Valley is a less crowded trekking destination that offers a unique blend of culture, nature, and adventure.
Langtang Valley in Nepal is an absolutely stunning region of Himalayan peaks, lush forests, vibrant cultures and ancient monasteries. Located just north of Kathmandu and east of Tibet, the valley lies within Langtang National Park and is home to the Tamang cultural heritage. It’s an area steeped in Tibetan-influenced culture, with a rugged beauty and a unique sense of spirituality.
4. Iceland — Best for Stunning Landscapes and Northern Lights
For the adventurous traveler, Iceland is an ideal destination.
With its vast landscapes and stunning scenery, it’s a paradise for hikers who are looking to explore and immerse themselves in nature. From rugged mountain trails to serene coastal paths, there’s something for everyone here. Whether you’re a beginner or experienced hiker, Iceland has plenty of incredible hikes that will take your breath away with their beauty. From short day trips to multi-day treks through remote areas, you can find whatever type of hike suits your style and fitness level.
Here are some of the best hikes in Iceland:
4.1 Laugavegur Trail
This is a popular multi-day trek that takes you through some of Iceland’s most stunning landscapes, including glaciers, hot springs, and high-altitude valleys. The trek can take anywhere from 3 to 5 days, depending on your pace.
4.2 Skaftafell National Park
Skaftafell National Park is located in the Vatnajökull glacier region and offers a range of hiking trails to explore. One of the most popular trails is the hike to Svartifoss waterfall, which takes you past a series of stunning waterfalls and glaciers.
4.3 Landmannalaugar
This is a scenic hike through a region of multicolored rhyolite mountains, hot springs, and glaciers. The hike can be completed in a day and offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape.
5. Norway — Best for Stunning Landscapes and Fjords
Norway is a paradise for hikers, with its vast array of spectacular mountain ranges and winding trails that traverse through lush forests and picturesque valleys. Whether you’re an experienced hiker or just getting started, Norway has something to offer everyone who loves the outdoors.
From gentle low-altitude hikes suitable for families to high-altitude adventures requiring mountaineering skills, there are plenty of opportunities to explore the breathtaking landscapes of Norway on foot.
With majestic mountains, deep fjords, cascading waterfalls and abundant wildlife, hiking in Norway provides some of the most rewarding experiences imaginable.
These are some of the most popular and best hikes in Norway:
5.1 Preikestolen (Pulpit Rock)
This is a popular hike that takes you to the top of the Preikestolen cliff, offering stunning views of the Lysefjord below. The hike can be completed in a day and is considered a moderate trek.
5.2 Trolltunga
This is a popular, but challenging hike.
Trolltunga, which means “Troll’s Tongue” in Norwegian, is a spectacular rock formation located in Odda municipality in Norway. It sits precariously atop a mountain cliff, jutting out of the side and extending beyond the edge of the mountain. The stunning rock formation looks like a huge tongue that has been stuck out of the mountain, making for an impressive sight.
The hike to Trolltunga is very popular among tourists and locals alike. It involves a strenuous 10-hour roundtrip that takes you up steep hills, along beautiful valleys and stunning lakes, with spectacular views of the majestic Norwegian landscape. The trail is quite difficult, and although it can be done in one day, it is advisable to plan for a two-day trek.
The views from the top of Trolltunga are absolutely breathtaking and make the strenuous journey worth every step. Many visitors come away with incredible memories that will last a lifetime.
5.3 Besseggen Ridge
This is a popular hike that takes you along the ridge of the Besseggen mountain, offering stunning views of the surrounding lakes and mountains. The hike can be completed in a day and is considered a challenging, but rewarding trek.
6. Canada — Best for Wilderness
Canada is a hiker’s paradise, offering some of the most breathtaking trails in the world. From rugged coastal paths on British Columbia’s west coast to misty mountain hikes in Alberta and Ontario, there are plenty of opportunities for outdoor exploration in Canada.
Whether you’re looking for an easy stroll or a challenging climb, Canada has something to offer every type of hiker. With its stunning landscapes and diverse terrain, hiking in Canada is sure to be both an enjoyable and memorable experience.
Here are some of the best hikes in Canada:
6.1 The West Coast Trail
This is a challenging, multi-day hike that takes you along the rugged coastline of British Columbia, offering stunning views of the Pacific Ocean and the surrounding forest. The trail can take anywhere from 5 to 7 days to complete, depending on your pace.
6.2 Banff National Park
Banff National Park is home to some of Canada’s most stunning scenery, and there are many hiking trails to explore. One of the most popular trails is the Lake Louise Trail, which takes you past the iconic turquoise waters of Lake Louise and into the surrounding mountains.
6.3 Jasper National Park
Jasper National Park is another stunning national park in Canada, offering a range of hiking trails to explore. One of the most popular trails is the Maligne Lake Trail, which takes you past the beautiful Maligne Lake and into the surrounding mountains.
7. Spain — Best for Pilgrimage
From the lush green hills of Galicia in the northwest to the soaring peaks of Sierra Nevada and Pyrenees in the south, Spain is a hiker’s paradise. With its varied terrain and stunning natural beauty, Spain offers something for everyone from novice hikers to experienced mountaineers.
Whether you’re looking for an easy day hike or a multi-day trek, there are plenty of options available all over this beautiful country. From exploring ancient Roman ruins to scaling rugged mountain trails, hiking in Spain will offer you a unique experience like no other!
Check out these 3 of the best hikes in Spain!
7.1 Camino de Santiago
This is a popular, multi-day hike that takes you along the historic pilgrimage route to the city of Santiago de Compostela. The trail passes through some of Spain’s most scenic landscapes, including rolling hills, forests, and historic villages.
There are several routes you can choose from. Undoubtedly, the most popular Camino de Santiago path is The French Way. A majority of pilgrims and travelers pick this route as it has been widely promoted in literature and movies, yet also for its ease of access.
7.2 Sierra Nevada
The Sierra Nevada is a range of mountains located in southern Spain, offering a range of hiking trails to explore. One of the most popular trails is the route to the summit of Mulhacén, which is the highest peak in mainland Spain.
7.3 The Pyrenees
The Pyrenees are a range of mountains that run along the border between France and Spain, offering a range of hiking trails to explore. Some of the most popular trails include the GR11, which takes you through the heart of the Pyrenees, and the GR10, which takes you along the French side of the range.
8. United States — Best for Long Distance Hiking and Wilderness
Hiking in the United States is a great way to explore the beauty and diversity of nature. From coast-to-coast, there are hundreds of trails that offer stunning views, challenging terrain, and unique wildlife encounters.
Whether you’re looking for a leisurely stroll through a park or an epic journey through rugged mountains, hiking in America has something for everyone. With so many options available, it can be hard to decide which trail is right for you.
Check out these bucket list hikes USA has to offer!
8.1 The Appalachian Trail
This is a well-known, multi-day trail that runs from Georgia to Maine, passing through the Appalachian Mountains and offering breathtaking views of the surrounding forests and hills. The trail is approximately 2,190 miles long and can take several months to complete.
8.2 The Pacific Crest Trail
This is another multi-day trail that runs from Mexico to Canada, passing through California, Oregon, and Washington and offering stunning views of the Pacific Ocean, the Cascade Range, and the Sierra Nevada. The trail is approximately 2,650 miles long and can take several months to complete.
8.3 Rocky Mountain National Park
Rocky Mountain National Park is located in Colorado and is known for its stunning mountain scenery, including towering peaks, alpine lakes, and meadows. Some of the most popular hikes in the park include the Keyhole Route, the Emerald Lake Trail, and the Chasm Lake Trail.
Make your outdoor adventure come to life by exploring the hiking guides at https://makeadventurehappen.com/!
