My top hiking trips around the world

Michael Kreisel
Jan 7, 2022
3 min read

Updated: Jan 11, 2023

It's a small world after all... With so many amazing places to explore it can be a challenge to narrow down where you want to go. Luckily for you, I've been dreaming of hiking every "foot" of this planet and have come up with a list of my top choices. Behold, The 7 Best Hikes in the World! P.S. I have already hiked two of the following trails; guess which ones.

1. Great Divide Trail, Canada

Starting at the same point as the famous Continental Divide Trail, traveling north for 700 miles to the terminus within Kakwa Provincial Park, this trail should be on every thrill-seekers list. Highlights are hard to choose but Banff and Jasper Provincial Park are hard to beat. Trail conditions are rugged and remote, containing some passages without signage, although as more people trample through these areas they're becoming more defined. Plan to take at least a month, if not two months to fully take in the amazing views and spend time in five of Canada's national parks.

2. Te Araroa Trail, New Zealand

Ahh New Zealand, home to the mythical landscapes seen in fantasy movies such as Lord of the Rings, this country is a mecca of the outdoors. Split into two sections traversing the North and South islands, each is unique and has distinct differences. The north island isn't known as much for it's mountain peaks, instead quaint villages make for a cultural excursion complete with overnight huts and daily distractions.

3. Great Himalaya Trail, Nepal

Traveling from east to west across the Himalayan range for 1,100 miles this is the trail for you if you like elevation. Known for containing the highest peaks in the world, the Himalayas, are the crux of alpine pursuits. A proposed 4,500 kilometer track spanning the Greater Himalayan range offers endless steps. Be sure to pack your own backpack and leave the Sherpa behind.

4. Paine Circuit Track, Patagonia, Chile

Patagonia is a truly unique place, the gem of South America. Buried deep in Los Andes mountains exists a world you must see with your eyes to believe. Consisting of nine national parks it can be exhausting just picking which sights to see. Although you can't go wrong, the Paine Circuit Track within Torres del Paine National Park offers some of the most scenic trails. An 80 mile track takes you through the heart of the park and it's most recognizable features, including the namesake Towers of Paine. Permits and flights can be difficult to obtain so plan ahead. Also don't forget your camera!

5. Tour du Mont Blanc, France and Italy

Mont Blanc, AKA White Mountain, is the highest peak in the European Alps. It is contained in a sub-range which covers land in France and Italy. Standing at 15,773 ft it's easy to see why this peak draws so much attention and the best way to witness a 360-degree view is by hiking the Tour du Mont Blanc. That is if you can walk 110 miles, including over 30,000 feet of total ascent/descent, but if you do manage to undergo such a challenge the rewards are as endless as the views.

6. Teton Crest Trail, Wyoming, USA

Who doesn't want to take time to explore a National Park. With just a little bit of time and willpower you will see most of this National Park. In only a short 40 miles the Tetons will embrace you with their majesty up close and personally. Expect to stop often to appreciate spectacular sights and gorgeous weather. This may be one of the shorter treks on this list but it isn't short on beauty.

7. John Muir Trail, California, USA

You most likely have already heard of this trail as it is considered as one of the premier hiking trails in the world. However, that doesn't mean that you should discredit it by any means. The Sierra Nevada are uniquely vast and wild, covering 25% of the total land in California while containing 26 wilderness areas. The climate also makes these mountains very accessible as the high peaks don't experience as drastic of temperatures as other alpine environments. Some iconic points along the trail include Mt. Whitney (the tallest peak in the continental United States), Yosemite, Kings Canyon, and Sequoia National Parks. You will meet people from all over the world who have come to experience these places. All of these details make it a perfect long trail to add to your bucket list.