10 Best Hiking Trails For Stunning Views Worldwide

If standing atop the world while leafing views that take your breath away has always been your dream, then hiking may be your next big adventure. I've spent hours researching and visualizing myself on some of the world's most beautiful trails. For those ready to hit the trails and discover the breathtaking views and unique experiences, I'm sharing my list of the best hiking trails today. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced hiker, these trails are worth every step. Let's dive in.

Hiking isn't only about getting from point A to point B. It's about connecting with nature, pushing your limits, and being rewarded with views no camera can provide justice to. Each trail has its personality—gentle and challenging, but all deliver something special. In these hikes, the beauty of our planet manifests itself in the form of towering mountains and serene lakes alike, and it will make you feel both infinitesimally small and critical all at the same time.

We'll begin with perhaps the world's most well-known trail: the W Trek in Torres del Paine National Park. This five-day trek is through glaciers, mountains, and lakes, with stunning views at each turn. You train on data until October 2023. That's the whole point of this trail. For adventurous souls looking to get up close to the wild, untamed beauty of Patagonia, there's the W Trek. While it is a bit tough, the reward is worth it.

Next is the Lake Sorapiss Trail, hidden in the Italian Dolomites. This hike goes around the beautiful Lake Sorapiss, whose water changes colour with the light. Imagine hiking through verdant meadows flanked by sweeping views and snow-peaked summits. It's almost like entering a postcard. The trail isn't too strenuous, making it perfect for families or anyone just wanting a relaxing hike without missing out on beautiful views.

Check out the Rwenzori Mountains Trek in Uganda if you're after something special. This trail leads to Weissman's Peak, where you will feel like walking in the clouds. The Rwenzori Mountains are known as the "Mountains of the Moon," when you see them, you will see why. It captivates the heart with its mystical misty peaks and foliage, spreading the bloom of glamorous green. It's not the easiest hike, but if greeted with a sense of accomplishment at the summit, it's worth it.

Greenland's Arctic Circle Trail is a dream come true for anyone yearning for solitude and pristine wilderness. This path through the tundra spans long, open expanses where reindeer, arctic foxes and wide horizons await—hiking under the midnight sun in the summer or watching the northern lights in the winter? It's an isolated, rugged experience, but that remoteness means you're truly one with nature. This one is for the one who values solitude and serenity.

One of the world's iconic long-distance hikes is the Pacific Crest Trail. Running from Mexico to Canada, this trail traverses myriad terrain, from deserts to forests to mountains. Though crossing the entire trail is daunting , heading out for shorter portions affords breathtaking views. Imagine being on a ridge with panoramic views of snow-capped mountains stretching to the horizon. No wonder this trail draws hikers from around the world.

The Overland Track in Tasmania is another treat for nature types. This trail leads you through diverse ecosystems, including rainforests, alpine meadows, and glacial valleys. You will walk past cascading waterfalls and crystalline lakes that are more stunning than the next. Highlights include Cradle Mountain, with sweeping views of the surrounding landscape. If you are looking for an incredible hike that allows you to escape the noise and chaos of everyday life and spend a few days immersed in nature, consider the Overland Track.

The Albanian Alps don't get the same recognition as other hiking spots, but they're just as beautiful. The hike from Valbone to Thethi involves an ancient mule route that snakes through dramatic mountain passes and picture-postcard hamlets. You will pass turquoise rivers, towering peaks and verdant valleys. The Albanian Alps are still pretty under the radar, so you won't have to share the trail with hordes of tourists. It is a little-known treasure waiting to be discovered.

Everest Base Camp Trek tends to be a staple on most lists of hiking trails. This famous trek takes you to the foot of the world's highest peak and exposes you to breathtaking views of the Himalayas. You would stand at base camp, with all the mighty peaks around you, and inhale the mountain air. It's a challenging trek, but nothing compares to the feeling of accomplishment that will wash over you when you finally arrive at your destination. To go along with this, the cultural experience of interacting with different Sherpa people brings another level of depth to the adventure.

Switzerland is famous for its breathtaking alpine landscape, and one of the best ways to experience the Swiss beauty is along the Matterhorn Circuit. This trail scours around the iconic Matterhorn, providing stunning views of the pyramid-shaped peak from all angles. You’ll journey past charming Swiss villages, flower-filled meadows and glacial valleys along the way. If you want to pair natural beauty with a dollop of European flair, the Matterhorn Circuit is a great choice.

Another hot hike for hikers is the Inca Trail in Peru. This ancient route traverses two high-altitude passes and culminates at the legendary Machu Picchu. Think of taking in the lush cloud forests and rugged peaks while following stone paths that date back centuries to the Incas. The history you’ll sense on this trail is truly incredible. And when you reach the top of Machu Picchu, the view will leave you agape.

There are some things to consider before heading out. Check your Physical Preparedness for Trail Demands . First, some hikes are physically more demanding than others, so choose wisely. Second, bring the right gear, including sturdy shoes, appropriate clothes for the weather, and lots of water and snacks. Lastly, be kind to the world and adhere to Leave No Trace principles. These simple steps will go a long way to ensure your hike is safe, fun, and environmentally sound.

Where in the world should you go hiking? Given all the fantastic hiking trails, it can be challenging to make this decision. But the nice thing is, you don't have to. The Inca Trail, Dolomites, and Patagonia each provide a different adventure, from the raw wilderness of Patagonia to the serenity of the Dolomites to the culture of the Inca Trail. You must pick a trail that suits your interests and capabilities.